KR20080015413A - Golf club with a unitized structure - Google Patents

Abstract

a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the head; and (b) a shaft fixed to the shaft connecting member. The shaft may be fixed to the shaft connecting member without a hosel element and/or in such a manner that a smooth or substantially smooth exterior junction and/or overall handle member is provided. The connection may be made by welding, soldering, brazing, other fusing techniques, adhesives, mechanical connectors, or and the like.

Description

GOLF CLUB WITH A UNITIZED STRUCTURE

The present invention generally relates to golf clubs including putters and iron type golf clubs (such as wedges). Golf clubs according to at least some embodiments of the present invention may be configured without a hosel element and / or to smoothly transition between these members at the joint between the shaft member and the club head.

Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players: players with different genders and players with very different ages and skill levels. Golf can play together at a golf event (e.g., using handicap scoring, different tee boxes, team methods, etc.), even if these different groups of players compete directly with each other, and also enjoy golf trips or competitions. It is somewhat unique in the sports world in that it is. These factors, at least in part, in the US and around the world, at least in part, with the increased availability of golf programs on television (eg, golf tournaments, golf news, golf history, and / or other golf programs) and the emergence of famous golf superstars. Increased the popularity of golf. The number of people attending competitions and the number of golf courses have steadily increased over the years.

Golfers at all skill levels try to improve their performance, ie lower their golf scores, to reach the next performance "level". Manufacturers of all types of golf equipment have met this need and, in recent years, have made dramatic changes and advances in golf equipment in the industry. For example, some balls are designed to complement a particular swing speed and / or other player's characteristics and preferences, some balls are designed to fly farther and / or more straightly, and some balls are designed to provide a higher or flatter trajectory. Designed and some balls are now available with a wide variety of golf ball models, such as being designed to provide more spin, control, and / or feel (especially around the green). It is also possible to purchase a number of swing aids and / or teaching aids that are expected to help lower a player's golf score.

As the only mechanism for moving golf balls during play, golf clubs have also been the subject of much technical research and progress in recent years. For example, recent market trends have shown improvements in putter design, golf club head design, shafts, and grips. In addition, other technical advances have been made (e.g., club fitting techniques, balls) to better match the golf ball's characteristics and / or golf club's characteristics and / or various elements to the swing characteristics or characteristics of a particular user. Launch angle measurement technology, ball spin speed characteristics, etc.).

Golfers tend to be sensitive to the “feel” of golf clubs, especially putters and wedges. The “feel” of a golf club includes a combination of various components of the club and various features associated with the club that produce the perception that the player experiences when the ball rotates and / or hits the ball. A club's "feel" is a very personal feature in that a club that gives a good "feel" to one user can give a characteristic of a "feel" that is not entirely desired for another user. Club weight, weight distribution, aerodynamics, swing speed, etc. can all affect the club's "feel" when swinging and hitting the ball. "Feel" has also been found in relation to the visual appearance of the club and the sound produced when the club head strikes the ball to move the ball.

Although technological advances have been made in the golf club structure, the structure of one golf club is not optimal for all players because the swing and feel aspects of hitting the golf ball are very personal characteristics. New structures that change the look and feel of the club are welcomed by at least some players.

The following provides a general summary of aspects of the invention in order to facilitate at least some rather basic understanding of the aspects of the invention. This summary is not intended as a comprehensive overview of the invention. The following summary merely presents some concepts of the invention in a general form as a prelude to the more detailed description provided below.

An aspect of the invention is a golf club comprising a putter and an iron type golf club (such as a wedge), comprising: (a) a golf club head having a ball striking head and a shaft connection member extending from the ball striking head; And (b) a shaft member fixed to the shaft connecting member. The shaft member can be secured to the shaft connecting member in a manner that does not have a hosel. Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface of the shaft member and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member are such that the joint of the shaft member and the shaft connecting member (and the area surrounding it) is smooth or substantially smooth (eg, the joint portion). Are visually smooth, constant, and / or continuous in appearance, etc., and are fixed together without sudden changes in external dimensions, sizes and / or shapes outside the shaft member and / or shaft connecting member. By way of example, the shaft connecting member may be connected with the shaft member through welding (eg, friction welding, spin welding, etc.), butt welding, soldering, brazing, adhesives, other welding techniques, mechanical connections, connectors, or the like. In at least some embodiments, the shaft connection member and the cross-sectional shape and / or dimensions (eg, at least their joints and / or adjacent peripheral areas) of the shaft connection member and the shaft member are the same (eg, within 5% of each other) and substantially the same. can do.

The club structure according to at least some embodiments of the invention may further comprise, for example, a finishing material applied over the joining area at which the shaft member is fixed to the shaft connecting member. Examples of suitable finishing materials include chromium coating materials, anodizing coating materials, paints, other coatings, and the like. This type of finishing material can be used to visually hide the bonding area, and in at least some embodiments, in combination with the dimensions of the various parts, the finishing material is as if the shaft member and the shaft connecting member are at least continuous or integral elements in the bonding area. You can make it look like you're constructing In this way, a visually appealing, visually less diffuse surface can be provided as a club structure (eg, compared to traditional adhesive shaft / club head joints, hosel joints, etc.).

Additional aspects of the invention relate to methods of making golf clubs of the various types described above, for example. Such methods include, for example, (a) a golf club head (such as a putter head, iron type club head (including wedge head), etc.) comprising a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head (eg, By making or otherwise producing a golf club head, or by purchasing or otherwise obtaining a golf club head from a source of manufacturer or third party); And (b) securing the shaft member to the shaft connecting member, for example in a manner without a hosel and / or an outer surface of the shaft member and an outer surface of the connecting member of the shaft, the junction of the shaft member and the shaft connecting member. Visually smooth, constant, and / or continuous appearance, such as is smooth or substantially smooth (e.g., without sudden changes in external dimensions, sizes, and shapes of the shaft member and / or the exterior of the shaft connecting member at the joint) ), Securing in a size and shape and fixed together. In the method of this embodiment, the proper size and shape setting of the shaft member and the shaft connecting member at least in the joint and / or the area around the joint may be at least partially made after the two members are fixed together. The method according to at least some embodiments of the present invention may further comprise various fastening methods and finishing methods, including more specific fastening methods and finishing methods described above.

A more complete understanding of the invention and its specific advantages can be obtained by referring to the following description in view of the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicate like features.

1 illustrates a conventional putter structure that includes a conventional hosel element configuration for attaching a club shaft to a putter head.

2 illustrates an iron type golf club structure that includes a conventional hosel element configuration for attaching a club shaft to a club head.

3 shows one embodiment of a putter structure according to the present invention.

Figure 4 illustrates one embodiment of an iron type golf club structure according to the present invention.

5-7 illustrate embodiments of at least some process steps that may be used to manufacture golf clubs in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention.

8A and 8B show another example connection between a shaft member and a golf club head structure that may be used in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention (FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 8a-8a in FIG. 8B). .

9 illustrates another example connection between a shaft member and a golf club head structure that may be used in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following description of various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration the structures, systems, and steps of various embodiments in which aspects of the invention are practiced. have. It is to be understood that other specific configurations of parts, structures, exemplary apparatus, systems, and steps may be utilized and structural and functional changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, terms such as “up”, “down”, “front”, “back”, “side”, and the like may be used herein to describe features and elements of various examples of the invention, but such terms may, for example, be used in the drawings It is used here for convenience based on the orientation of the illustrated example. The specification should not be construed as requiring specific three-dimensional coordinates of the structure to be included within the scope of the present invention.

1 illustrates an example of a conventional putter structure 100. In the prior art, the putter 100 includes a putter head 102 having a ball striking surface 102a and a hosel element 104. The hosel element 104 is a socket type structure into which the free end 106a of the shaft element 106 is inserted. Typically, the shaft element 106 is applied to the free end 106a of the shaft member 106 and / or to the inner wall of the hosel element 104 that meshes with the side of the free end 106a of the shaft member 106. Adhesive is secured to the putter head 102 at the hosel element 104.

As shown in FIG. 1, the hosel element 104, where the shaft 106 engages the putter head 102, creates an enlarged bond region. This enlarged junction area can cause confusion, for example, when at least some players aim at a goal to putt or take another shot. In addition, an adhesive bond between the hosel element 104 and the shaft 106 may create an energy absorbing bond, which may cause an inconsistent feeling when taking a shot, for example depending on the strength of the shot, the swing speed, and the like.

The putter is not the only golf club that includes hosel elements and / or other connection joints that may be enlarged, confusing to the user, and / or may have energy absorbing bonds. 2 shows a conventional iron type golf club 200 (eg, wedges in this embodiment) comprising an iron club head 202 having a ball striking surface 202a and a hosel element 204. As in the structure shown in FIG. 1, the shaft element 206 is engaged with the hosel element 204 at the free end 106a of the shaft member 206 and / or with the side of the free end of the shaft member 206. It is fixed to the club head 202 at the hosel element 204 via an adhesive applied to the inner wall of the. In addition, this enlarged hosel element or the entire joint area can be confusing to the user when shooting. Additionally, an adhesive bond between the hosel element 204 and the shaft member 206 can create an energy absorbing bond, which can cause an inconsistent feeling when taking a shot, for example depending on the strength of the shot, the swing speed, and the like.

Aspects of at least some embodiments of the present invention relate to methods of making golf clubs and golf clubs that avoid the use of hosel elements and / or avoid creating other enlarged areas around the junction of the shaft member and the ball striking head. . The general description of aspects of the invention follows a more detailed description of certain embodiments of the invention.

A. General Description of Golf Clubs and Methods According to Aspects of the Invention

In general, aspects of the present invention relate to golf clubs, including, for example, putters and iron type golf clubs. Such a club, according to at least some embodiments of the invention, includes: (a) a ball striking head and an iron type club head (including wedge club head) having a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head; Golf club heads; And (b) a shaft member fixed to the shaft connecting member in a manner not having a hosel. As an example, the free end of the shaft connection member may be welded (eg, any type of welding process such as friction welding, spin welding, welding, pressure welding, cold press welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.), butt welding, soldering, brazing, other welding. It may be connected to the free end of the shaft member in any suitable or desired manner, such as using technology, adhesives, mechanical connectors, and the like. In at least some embodiments of the invention, the shaft connection member and the cross-sectional shape and / or dimensions of the shaft member may be the same at least in their joining region or substantially the same (eg within 5% of each other). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the shaft member can be secured to the shaft connecting member in the joining region, and the outer size and / or shape of the shaft connecting member in and / or near the joining region is in the joining region and / or Or substantially the same as the outer size and shape of the shaft member (eg, within 5% of one another, the same general shape, etc.) near that area.

A club structure according to another embodiment of the present invention is (a) having a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head [such as a putter head, iron type club head (including wedge club head), etc.] Golf club heads; And (b) a shaft member fixed to the shaft connecting member at the junction of the shaft member / shaft connecting member located outside of the ball striking head. In such a structure, the outer surface of the shaft member and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member are such that the joint of the shaft member and the shaft connecting member is smooth or substantially smooth (eg, the outside of the shaft member and / or shaft connecting member at the joint). Without sharp edges, ridges, or shoulder portions, etc.), size and shape, and fixed together without abrupt changes in the external dimension, size and / or shape of the device.

In a more particular embodiment, the free end of the shaft connection member may be welded (eg, any type of welding process such as friction welding, spin welding, welding, pressure welding, cold press welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.), butt welding, soldering, brazing. The free end of the shaft member can be connected in any suitable or desired manner, such as using other welding techniques, mechanical connectors, or the like. In at least some embodiments of the club structure according to the invention (including the above club structure), it may further comprise a finishing material, for example applied over a joining area, at least where the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member. Examples of suitable finishing materials include chromium coating materials, anodizing coating materials, paint coating materials, electroplated coating materials, other coating materials, and the like. This type of finishing material may be used to visually hide the bonding area, and in at least some embodiments, the finishing material may make it appear as if the shaft member and the shaft connecting member constitute at least a continuous or integral element in the bonding area. have. These results are visually appealing, visually less diffuse surfaces and / or visually smooth, consistent, and / or continuous appearance (eg, compared to traditional adhesive shaft / club head joints, hosel joints, etc.). It can be used to provide an overall club handle member with a.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a golf club. This method includes, for example, a golf club head (such as a putter head, iron type club head (including wedge head), etc.) comprising a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head (eg, a golf club head). By making or otherwise producing it, or by purchasing or otherwise obtaining a golf club head from a source or supplier of manufacturers or third parties); And (b) securing the shaft member to the shaft connecting member in a manner that does not have a hosel.

In another embodiment, the method according to at least some embodiments of the present invention may include a ball striking head and an iron type club head (including wedge head), including a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head. Providing a golf club head (eg, in the manner of the above embodiment); And (b) securing the shaft member to the shaft connecting member at the junction of the shaft member / shaft connecting member located outside of the ball striking head. In the method of this embodiment, the outer surface of the shaft member and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member are such that the joint of the shaft member and the shaft connecting member is smooth or substantially smooth (eg, the shaft member and / or shaft connecting member at the joint). Visually smooth, constant, and / or continuous appearance, etc.), size and shape, and fixed together without abrupt changes in external external dimensions, sizes and / or shapes. Proper size and shape setting of the shaft member and / or shaft connecting member can occur at least partially after the two members are fixed together (at least in the junction and the surrounding area).

In the method of the above embodiment, the shaft member and the shaft connecting member are welded (for example, any type of welding process such as friction welding, spin welding, welding, pressure welding, cold press welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.), butt welding, soldering, brazing, It may be secured together in any suitable or desired manner, such as through other welding techniques, adhesives, mechanical connectors, and the like. The method according to at least some embodiments of the invention may further comprise applying a finishing material to the club shaft and / or the shaft connecting member, for example, over the joining region, at least where the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member. . Examples of suitable finish application processes include chromium coating processes, anodizing coating processes, paint coating processes, electroplating processes, other coating processes and / or materials, and the like. This type of finishing process can be used to visually hide the bonding area, and in at least some embodiments, the application of a suitable finishing process is as if the shaft member and the shaft connecting member constitute a continuous or integral element at least in the bonding area. Can make it look like The resulting club structure may have a visually appealing overall handle member with visually less diffuse surfaces (eg, as compared to traditional adhesive shaft / club head joints, hosel joints, etc.).

Particular embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below. The reader should understand that these specific embodiments are described only to illustrate embodiments of the present invention and they will not be construed as limiting the present invention.

B. Specific of the Invention Example

The various drawings in this specification illustrate embodiments of golf clubs, their components, and methods in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. When the same reference number appears in more than one figure, the reference number is used consistently throughout the specification and drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

3 illustrates an exemplary putter structure 300 including and / or made by various aspects in accordance with the present invention. The putter structure 300 includes a putter head 302 having a ball striking surface 302a. The shaft connecting member 304 extends from this putter head 302. The shaft connecting member 304 may be formed in any desired manner without departing from the present invention, including conventional methods known and used in the art. For example, shaft connection member 304 may be mechanically attached to putter head 302 (eg, via screws, adhesives, mechanical connectors, etc.). As another example, the shaft connection member 304 may be integrally formed as a unit structure with the remainder or at least a portion of the putter head 302, such as by casting, molding, forging, or the like. Additionally, although the shaft connecting member 304 is shown extending from the top surface of the putter head 302, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the shaft connecting member 304 may extend from any position on the putter head 302 without departing from the present invention. It will be appreciated that, while the size and shape may be set and extended in any desired manner or direction.

The putter head 302 and the shaft connecting member 304 can be made from any desired material without departing from the present invention, including, for example, conventional materials known and used for the putter head in the art. . Examples of such materials include metals (eg, aluminum, steel, copper, copper alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, etc.), polymers, mixtures of metals and / or polymers, composites, and the like.

This exemplary putter structure 300 further includes a shaft member 306 fixed to the shaft connecting member 304. As shown in FIG. 3 and will be described in more detail later herein, the shaft member 306 is coupled to the shaft connecting member 304 without a hosel. In this exemplary structure (and as shown in FIG. 3), the shaft member 306 is the shaft connecting member 304 at the junction 308 of the shaft member / shaft connecting member located outside of the putter head 302. Is fixed to. The external dimension, size, and / or shape of the shaft member 306 in the structure 300 of this embodiment is at least the external dimension, size, of the shaft connecting member 304 at the junction 308 of the shaft member / shaft connecting member. And / or the same or substantially the same as the shape. Although the putter structure 300 of this embodiment shows a slight change in the direction or slight bending of the overall handle member at the junction 308 of the shaft member / shaft connection member, those skilled in the art will, of course, have an overall shape of the handle member (eg, at least) of any shape. It will be appreciated that the combination of shaft member 306 and shaft connecting member 304 can be used without departing from the present invention. For example, if desired, the joint 308 (and / or the overall handle member) of the shaft member / shaft connecting member can be straight, curved, more prominently bent or angular, less prominent without departing from the invention. It can provide a forked appearance or an angular appearance.

If desired, as further shown in the embodiment structure of FIG. 3, at least the shaft member / shaft connecting member bond region 308 of the putter structure 300 may be treated such that the bond region is hidden from view in the final product. . For example, according to at least some embodiments of the present invention, a finishing material may be applied to the putter structure 300, for example, over the bonding area 308, at least where the shaft member 306 is secured to the shaft connecting member 304. And this finishing material can be used to hide the bonding area 308. In this way, the shaft member 306 and the shaft connecting member 304 (eg, the overall handle member) can be seen as a single continuous element at least in the bonding region 308. Examples of suitable finishing materials include chromium coating materials, oxide coating materials, paints and the like.

4 illustrates an example iron type golf club structure 400 (eg, a wedge or other iron club) including and / or manufactured by various aspects in accordance with the present invention. Golf club structure 400 includes golf club head 402 having a ball striking surface 402a. The shaft connecting member 404 extends from the golf club head 402 (eg, in the heel region of the golf club head 402 in this exemplary configuration). The shaft connecting member 404 may be connected to the club head 402 and / or may be formed in any desired manner without departing from the present invention. For example, shaft connecting member 404 may be mechanically attached to golf club head 402 (eg, via screws, adhesives, mechanical connectors, etc.). As another example, the shaft connecting member 404 may be integrally formed as a unit structure with the remainder or at least a portion of the golf club head 402, such as by casting, molding, forging, or the like. Golf club head 402 and shaft connecting member 404 are, for example, conventional materials that are known and used for golf club heads in the art, such as metals (eg, aluminum, steel, copper, copper alloys, titanium, titanium, titanium). Alloys, etc.), polymers, mixtures of metals and / or polymers, composites, and the like] can be prepared from any desired material without departing from the present invention.

This exemplary golf club structure 400 further includes a shaft member 406 fixed to the shaft connecting member 404. As shown in FIG. 4 and described in more detail later herein, the shaft member 406 is connected to the shaft connecting member 404 without a hosel. In this exemplary structure 400 (and as shown in FIG. 4), the shaft member 406 is a shaft connecting member at the shaft member / shaft connecting member junction 408 located outside of the golf club head 402. 404 is fixed. The external dimension, size, and / or shape of the shaft member 406 in this exemplary structure 400 is at least the external dimension, size, of the shaft connecting member 404 at the junction 408 of the shaft member / shaft connecting member. And / or the same or substantially the same as the shape. The outer surface of the shaft member 406 and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member 404 are sized and shaped and fixed together so that the joint 408 of the shaft member / shaft connecting member is smooth or substantially smooth.

Although this exemplary golf club structure 400 exhibits a straight connection between the shaft member 406 and the shaft connecting member 404 at the junction 408 of the shaft member / shaft connecting member, those skilled in the art, of course, will appreciate It will be appreciated that the entire handle member can be used without departing from the present invention. For example, if desired, the junction 408 of the shaft member / shaft connecting member can provide a curved appearance, a curved or angular appearance, and the like, without departing from the present invention.

If desired, as further shown in the example structure 400 of FIG. 4, at least the shaft member / shaft connecting member bond region of the club head structure 400 may be treated such that the bond region is hidden from view in the final product. Can be. For example, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention, a finishing material may be applied to the club structure 400, for example, over a bond area where at least the shaft member 406 is secured to the shaft connecting member 404. Finishing material may be used to hide the bonding area 408. In this way, the shaft member 406 and the shaft connecting member 404 can be seen as a single continuous element at least in the bonding region 408. Examples of suitable finishing materials include chromium coating materials, oxide coating materials, paints, and the like.

5-7 illustrate embodiments of at least some process steps that may be used to manufacture golf clubs in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. While this figure illustrates the manufacture of a putter structure as shown in FIG. 3, those skilled in the art can use the same or similar manufacturing techniques to produce iron type golf club structures as shown in FIG. 4 without departing from the present invention. It is easy to understand that there is.

5 illustrates an initial step in an exemplary golf club manufacturing method, beginning after club head structure 500 is prepared and / or otherwise obtained. As shown in FIG. 5, club head structure 500 includes a ball striking head 302 and a shaft connecting member 304 extending from the ball striking head 302. The club head structure 500 may, for example, manufacture a club head structure (eg, using casting, molding, forging, or other suitable process), or from a third party seller, manufacturer, and / or other supplier, or the like. It can be obtained or purchased for use in the method according to the invention in any desired manner, such as by obtaining a head structure. Although the ball striking head 302 is shown in FIG. 5 as a blade type putter head, those skilled in the art will appreciate any type of golf club, including, for example, a mallet type putter head, any other type of putter head, iron type golf club head, and the like. It will be appreciated that the head can be used in the method according to the invention.

As one step in this exemplary process for manufacturing a golf club, the shaft member 306 is secured to the shaft connecting member 304 of the club head structure 500. According to at least some embodiments of the invention, the shaft member 306 will be secured to the shaft connecting member 304 without a hosel. In some more specific embodiments, the securing step includes connecting the free end 306a of the shaft member 306 and the free end 304a of the shaft connecting member 304. The two free ends may be removed from the present invention without departing from the present invention, for example, by welding (eg, friction welding, spin welding, etc.), butt welding, soldering, brazing, other welding techniques, and / or any other desired process. It can be fixed together in an appropriate or desired manner. FIG. 5 shows two free ends 304a and 306a of each of the shaft connecting member 304 and the shaft member 306 coupled together through a butt welding process. The approximate golf club structure obtained is indicated at 520 in FIG. 5. Obviously, at such a step in the exemplary club head manufacturing method, the butt weld joint or joint 510 may have an enlarged bead of weld connection material extending from the joint. Any desired welding conditions can be used, including conventional conditions known and used for the welding process.

A shaft member coupled to the shaft connecting member by welding (eg, friction welding, spin welding, etc.), butt welding, brazing, soldering, other welding techniques, threaded connections, or the like, in at least some embodiments, excludes adhesive bonding between these parts. This can be advantageous. In at least some embodiments, for at least some users, such fused or screwed joints may provide a more consistent feel and / or remove adhesive bonds that will absorb energy, thereby allowing clubs to be used during use. Produces a more consistent and / or consistent feel for the head.

As a next step in this exemplary process, as shown in FIG. 6, excess beads of connecting material may be removed from the approximate golf club structure 520 at the junction 510. This may be accomplished in any suitable or desired manner, for example by grinding, sanding, polishing, and / or other processes known and used in the art. The resulting smooth joint 532 provides a connection where no hosel is present in this exemplary golf club structure 530. Obviously, at this point, the external dimension, size, and / or shape of the shaft connecting member 304 in the bonding region 532 is the external dimension, size, and / or of the shaft member 306 in the bonding region 532. Or the same or substantially the same as the shape. If desired, the outer surface of the shaft member 306 and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member 304 at the junction, although not shown in the particular structure of FIG. 6, are slightly curved, angled, and / or angular as shown in FIG. 6. The entire shaft member 306 and the shaft connecting member 304 are designed, manufactured, and / or formed in such a way as to form a smooth or substantially smooth connection (eg, a straight or smoothly curved joint) unlike the connection. Or may be connected together. Optionally, if desired, unlike the bent or angular appearance of FIG. 6 (eg, by grinding, sanding, polishing, etc. in the bonding region 532), this step makes the bonding region 532 a smooth or curved appearance. It can be used to shape.

7 illustrates another example step in an example golf club manufacturing process. In particular, FIG. 7 illustrates applying a finishing material over the bonding area 532 at least where the shaft member 306 is secured to the shaft connecting member 304. Of course, any type of finishing process can be used without departing from the present invention, or alternatively, no additional finishing steps are required if desired. One example of a suitable finish application process that can be used when applying the finish includes conventional golf club finishing processes known and used in the art. More specific examples of finishing processes that may be used include chrome coating processes, anodizing coating processes, paint coating processes, electroplating processes and the like. This type of finishing process can be used to visually hide the bonding area, as shown in FIG. In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, in at least some cases, the finishing process may make it appear as if the shaft member 306 and the shaft connecting member 304 constitute a continuous or integral element at least in the joining region. This can result in a visually attractive, visually less diffuse surface (eg, compared to traditional adhesive shaft / club head couplings, hosel couplings, etc.). Optionally, if desired, a finishing process can be used to change the appearance of the joints from bent or angular to smoother or curved appearance.

If desired, the shaft connection member 304 can be secured to the shaft member 306 in a wide variety of other ways without departing from the invention. For example, rather than butt welding the free ends together, side edge welding techniques may be used (eg, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B). More specifically, as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the shaft connecting member 304 and the respective free ends 304a and 306a of the shaft member 306 may be disposed facing each other. A side edge surface may be provided and a weld joint 800 (or other suitable connecting material such as solder, brazing material, adhesive, etc.) may be provided to join the two members 304, 306 together. Certainly, in this illustrated exemplary connection, the free end 304a of the shaft connecting member 304 and the free end 306a of the shaft member 306 are constant or substantially constant when the joined product is obtained. External dimensions, sizes, and / or shapes are fitted together to provide across the bond area (ie, in this embodiment, the external dimensions of the overall handle member at the bond area 800 across the free ends 304a, 306a). , Size, and / or shape are the same as or substantially the same as the external dimension, size, and / or shape of shaft member 306 and shaft connecting member 304 adjacent their respective free end regions, and these two members Between 304 and 306 a smooth or substantially smooth joint is obtained along the shaft length). If desired, a finishing material as described above may be applied, for example, to visually hide the junction 800.

Another way of connecting the shaft member 306 to the shaft connecting member 304 may be used in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In at least some embodiments of such a connection, the external dimension, size, and / or shape of the shaft connecting member 304 in the joining region is determined by the external dimension, size, and, and the like of the shaft member 306 in the joining region when the final product is obtained. And / or will be identical or substantially identical in shape. Thus, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention, the free ends 304a, 306a of each of the shaft connecting member 304 and the shaft member 306, when joined together, may cause the connection of the shaft connecting member 304 in the joining region. A threaded element or other mechanical connector may be included such that the external dimension, size, and / or shape is the same or substantially the same as the external dimension, size, and / or shape of the shaft member 306 in the joining region. As shown in FIG. 9, as another embodiment, if desired, the free end 304a of the shaft connecting member 304 may include an open chamber that receives the free end 306a of the shaft member 306. . In this case, when the free end 306a of the shaft member 306 is fully inserted into the free end 304a of the shaft connecting member 304, the external dimension, size, and And / or the shape is the same or substantially the same as the outer dimension, size, and / or shape of the shaft member 306 in the joining region. The ends 304a, 306a may be held together in any desired manner without departing from the present invention, for example by adhesives, other welding techniques, screws, other mechanical connectors, and the like.

As also shown in FIG. 9, when configured in this manner, the outer surface of the shaft member 306 and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member 304 may have a smooth or substantially smooth shaft member / shaft connecting member joint. It is sized and shaped to make it smooth and is held together. Of course, if desired, a free end may be provided in shaft member 306 and an insert may be provided on shaft connecting member 304 without departing from the present invention. Also, if desired, a finishing material as described above may be applied after the shaft connecting member 304 and the shaft member 306 are connected together, for example to visually hide the joint.

conclusion

Of course, many modifications to the golf club structure and / or the method for manufacturing the golf club can be used without departing from the present invention. For example, with respect to structures, grips, aiming signs or signs, other signs or signs, various types of putter heads, various types of club heads, various shaft bends and / or shapes, various shaft connection member shapes, and / or other structural Elements may be provided or modified within the golf club structure without departing from the invention. For the above method, additional manufacturing steps may be added, various steps described above may be omitted, steps may be changed, and / or orders may be changed, without departing from the present invention. Thus, while the invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments, including the presently preferred forms of practicing the invention, those skilled in the art will understand that numerous variations and modifications of the structure and method exist. Accordingly, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (60)

As a golf club, A golf club head comprising a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head; And Shaft member fixed to shaft connecting member without hosel It is to include a golf club. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the first end of the shaft connecting member is connected with the first end of the shaft member. The golf club of claim 1, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member at a weld joint. The golf club of claim 1, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member at a butt weld joint. The golf club of claim 1, further comprising a finishing material over a joining region at least where the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member. 6. A golf club according to claim 5, wherein the finishing material hides the joining region such that the shaft member and the shaft connecting member appear as at least continuous elements in the joining region. 2. The shaft assembly of claim 1, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member in a joining region, wherein an outer dimension of the shaft connecting member in the joining region is the same as or substantially the same as an outer dimension of the shaft member in the joining region. Golf club. 2. The shaft member of claim 1, wherein the shaft member is fixed to the shaft connecting member at a joining region, and wherein the outer size and shape of the shaft connecting member at the joining region is the same as the outer size and shape of the shaft member at the joining region, or Golf clubs that are substantially the same. The golf club of claim 1, wherein the golf club head is a putter head. 10. A golf club according to claim 9, wherein the first end of the shaft connecting member is connected with the first end of the shaft member. 10. A golf club according to claim 9, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connection at the weld joint. 10. A golf club according to claim 9, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member at a butt weld joint. 10. A golf club according to claim 9, further comprising a finish material over the joining region at least where the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member. The golf club according to claim 13, wherein the finishing material hides the joining region such that the shaft member and the shaft connecting member appear as at least continuous elements in the joining region. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member in a joining region, wherein an outer dimension of the shaft connecting member in the joining region is the same as or substantially the same as an outer dimension of the shaft member in the joining region. Golf club. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member at the joining region, wherein the outer size and shape of the shaft connecting member at the joining region is the same as or substantially equal to the outer size and shape of the shaft member at the joining portion. As being the same golf club. The golf club of claim 1, wherein the golf club head is an iron club head. As a golf club, A golf club head comprising a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head; And A shaft member fixed to the shaft connecting member at a shaft member / shaft connecting member joint located outside the ball striking head Wherein the outer surface of the shaft member and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member are sized and shaped to be fixed together so that the shaft member / shaft connecting member joint is smooth or substantially smooth. club. 19. A golf club according to claim 18, wherein the first end of the shaft connecting member is connected to the first end of the shaft member. 19. A golf club according to claim 18, wherein the shaft member / shaft connecting member joint is a weld joint. 19. A golf club according to claim 18, wherein the shaft member / shaft connecting member joint is a butt weld joint. 19. A golf club according to claim 18, further comprising a finishing material over at least the shaft member / shaft connecting member junction. 23. A golf club according to claim 22, wherein the finishing material hides the shaft member / shaft connecting member intimately invisible. 19. A golf club according to claim 18, wherein the golf club head is a putter head. 25. A golf club according to claim 24, wherein the first end of the shaft connecting member is connected with the first end of the shaft member. 25. A golf club according to claim 24, wherein the shaft member / shaft connecting member joint is a weld joint. 25. A golf club according to claim 24, wherein the shaft member / shaft connecting member joint is a butt weld joint. 25. A golf club according to claim 24, further comprising a finish material over at least the shaft member / shaft connecting member junction. 29. A golf club according to claim 28, wherein the finishing material hides the shaft member / shaft connecting member junction invisibly. 19. A golf club according to claim 18, wherein the golf club head is an iron club head. As a method of manufacturing a golf club, Providing a golf club head comprising a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head; And Fixing step of fixing the shaft member to the shaft connecting member without a hosel Golf club manufacturing method comprising a. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the securing step includes connecting the first end of the shaft connecting member with the first end of the shaft member. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by welding. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by a butt welding process. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the finishing material is applied over a joining region at least where the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the finish material hides the bond area such that the shaft member and the shaft connection member appear as at least continuous elements in the bond area. 32. The shaft member of claim 31, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member in a joining region, wherein an outer dimension of the shaft connecting member in the joining region is the same as or substantially the same as an outer dimension of the shaft member in the joining region. Golf club manufacturing method. 32. The shaft member of claim 31, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member at the joining region, wherein the outer size and shape of the shaft connecting member at the joining region is the same as the outer size and shape of the shaft member at the joining region or A golf club manufacturing method that is substantially the same. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the golf club head is a putter head. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the securing step comprises connecting the first end of the shaft connecting member to the first end of the shaft member. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by welding. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by a butt welding process. 40. The method of claim 39, further comprising applying a finish material over a joining region at least where the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the finish material hides the joining region such that the shaft member and the shaft connecting member appear as at least continuous elements in the joining region. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member in a joining region, wherein an outer dimension of the shaft connecting member in the joining region is the same as or substantially the same as an outer dimension of the shaft member in the joining region. Golf club manufacturing method. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the shaft member is secured to the shaft connecting member at the joining region, wherein the outer size and shape of the shaft connecting member at the joining region is the same as the outer size and shape of the shaft member at the joining region or A golf club manufacturing method that is substantially the same. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the golf club head is an iron club head. As a method for manufacturing a golf club, Providing a golf club head comprising a ball striking head and a shaft connecting member extending from the ball striking head; And A fixing step of fixing the shaft member to the shaft connecting member at a shaft member / shaft connecting member joint located outside the ball striking head; Wherein the outer surface of the shaft member and the outer surface of the shaft connecting member are sized and shaped to be fixed together so that the shaft member / shaft connecting member joint is smooth or substantially smooth. How to make a club. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the securing step comprises connecting the first end of the shaft connecting member to the first end of the shaft member. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by welding. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein said securing step comprises connecting said shaft member to said shaft connecting member by a butt welding process. 49. The method of claim 48, further comprising applying a finish material over at least the shaft member / shaft connecting member abutment. 53. The method of claim 52, wherein the finish material hides the shaft member / shaft connecting member junction invisibly. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the golf club head is a putter head. 55. The method of claim 54, wherein the securing step includes connecting the first end of the shaft connecting member to the first end of the shaft member. 55. The method of claim 54, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by welding. 55. The method of claim 54, wherein the securing step includes connecting the shaft member to the shaft connecting member by a butt welding process. 55. The method of claim 54, further comprising applying a finish material over at least the shaft member / shaft connecting member abutment. 59. The method of claim 58, wherein the finish material hides the shaft member / shaft connecting member junction invisibly. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the golf club head is an iron club head.

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