US20060287126A1 - Sporting equipment manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials - Google Patents
Sporting equipment manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060287126A1 US20060287126A1 US11/496,098 US49609806A US2006287126A1 US 20060287126 A1 US20060287126 A1 US 20060287126A1 US 49609806 A US49609806 A US 49609806A US 2006287126 A1 US2006287126 A1 US 2006287126A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- resin
- based material
- micron
- fiber
- conductively doped
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 title claims abstract description 328
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 328
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 290
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 202
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 145
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 145
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 claims description 37
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 claims description 31
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 20
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 20
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 claims description 20
- 238000007747 plating Methods 0.000 claims description 19
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 17
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 claims description 17
- BQCADISMDOOEFD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silver Chemical compound [Ag] BQCADISMDOOEFD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 16
- 229910052755 nonmetal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 16
- 229910052709 silver Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 16
- 239000004332 silver Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 14
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 claims 5
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 33
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 26
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 26
- 230000005294 ferromagnetic effect Effects 0.000 description 23
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Nickel Chemical compound [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 22
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 20
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 17
- 238000011068 loading method Methods 0.000 description 17
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 16
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 15
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 14
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 13
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 13
- 230000005291 magnetic effect Effects 0.000 description 12
- 229920000049 Carbon (fiber) Polymers 0.000 description 11
- 239000004917 carbon fiber Substances 0.000 description 11
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 11
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 10
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 10
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 10
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 10
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 10
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 10
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 10
- 239000000975 dye Substances 0.000 description 9
- 229910052759 nickel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 9
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 9
- 238000004040 coloring Methods 0.000 description 8
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 8
- RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N Titanium Chemical compound [Ti] RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 7
- 229910002804 graphite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- 239000010439 graphite Substances 0.000 description 7
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 7
- 229910052719 titanium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- 239000010936 titanium Substances 0.000 description 7
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 6
- 239000007822 coupling agent Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 6
- 239000000976 ink Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000002952 polymeric resin Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229910000077 silane Inorganic materials 0.000 description 6
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 6
- BLRPTPMANUNPDV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silane Chemical group [SiH4] BLRPTPMANUNPDV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicon Chemical compound [Si] XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000011152 fibreglass Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229910001120 nichrome Inorganic materials 0.000 description 5
- 229910052710 silicon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 5
- 239000010703 silicon Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229920003002 synthetic resin Polymers 0.000 description 5
- 238000011282 treatment Methods 0.000 description 5
- RNFJDJUURJAICM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2,2,4,4,6,6-hexaphenoxy-1,3,5-triaza-2$l^{5},4$l^{5},6$l^{5}-triphosphacyclohexa-1,3,5-triene Chemical compound N=1P(OC=2C=CC=CC=2)(OC=2C=CC=CC=2)=NP(OC=2C=CC=CC=2)(OC=2C=CC=CC=2)=NP=1(OC=1C=CC=CC=1)OC1=CC=CC=C1 RNFJDJUURJAICM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- KDLHZDBZIXYQEI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Palladium Chemical compound [Pd] KDLHZDBZIXYQEI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- QCWXUUIWCKQGHC-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zirconium Chemical compound [Zr] QCWXUUIWCKQGHC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000009739 binding Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000027455 binding Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000002019 doping agent Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000005868 electrolysis reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000003063 flame retardant Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 4
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 4
- 239000010955 niobium Substances 0.000 description 4
- GUCVJGMIXFAOAE-UHFFFAOYSA-N niobium atom Chemical compound [Nb] GUCVJGMIXFAOAE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N platinum Chemical compound [Pt] BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000011230 binding agent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000003490 calendering Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000748 compression moulding Methods 0.000 description 3
- 235000009508 confectionery Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 238000001723 curing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N gold Chemical compound [Au] PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 229910052737 gold Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000010931 gold Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000001465 metallisation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010422 painting Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000009832 plasma treatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229910052761 rare earth metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910000859 α-Fe Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- PEZNEXFPRSOYPL-UHFFFAOYSA-N (bis(trifluoroacetoxy)iodo)benzene Chemical compound FC(F)(F)C(=O)OI(OC(=O)C(F)(F)F)C1=CC=CC=C1 PEZNEXFPRSOYPL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ammonia Chemical compound N QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Boron Chemical compound [B] ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910001257 Nb alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910052779 Neodymium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910000990 Ni alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- KJTLSVCANCCWHF-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ruthenium Chemical compound [Ru] KJTLSVCANCCWHF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910052772 Samarium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229910001069 Ti alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910001093 Zr alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- QJVKUMXDEUEQLH-UHFFFAOYSA-N [B].[Fe].[Nd] Chemical compound [B].[Fe].[Nd] QJVKUMXDEUEQLH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 basalt Chemical compound 0.000 description 2
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910052796 boron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000002775 capsule Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910017052 cobalt Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010941 cobalt Substances 0.000 description 2
- GUTLYIVDDKVIGB-UHFFFAOYSA-N cobalt atom Chemical compound [Co] GUTLYIVDDKVIGB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- KPLQYGBQNPPQGA-UHFFFAOYSA-N cobalt samarium Chemical compound [Co].[Sm] KPLQYGBQNPPQGA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000002265 electronic spectrum Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002657 fibrous material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000265 homogenisation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000000396 iron Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- WJZHMLNIAZSFDO-UHFFFAOYSA-N manganese zinc Chemical compound [Mn].[Zn] WJZHMLNIAZSFDO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000005404 monopole Effects 0.000 description 2
- QEFYFXOXNSNQGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N neodymium atom Chemical compound [Nd] QEFYFXOXNSNQGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910001172 neodymium magnet Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- QELJHCBNGDEXLD-UHFFFAOYSA-N nickel zinc Chemical compound [Ni].[Zn] QELJHCBNGDEXLD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910052758 niobium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000003973 paint Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052763 palladium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910052697 platinum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000004080 punching Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052703 rhodium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010948 rhodium Substances 0.000 description 2
- MHOVAHRLVXNVSD-UHFFFAOYSA-N rhodium atom Chemical compound [Rh] MHOVAHRLVXNVSD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910052707 ruthenium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- KZUNJOHGWZRPMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N samarium atom Chemical compound [Sm] KZUNJOHGWZRPMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910000938 samarium–cobalt magnet Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000004065 semiconductor Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910000679 solder Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052712 strontium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- CIOAGBVUUVVLOB-UHFFFAOYSA-N strontium atom Chemical compound [Sr] CIOAGBVUUVVLOB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000002887 superconductor Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010136 thermoset moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001187 thermosetting polymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000009736 wetting Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052726 zirconium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- SYJPAKDNFZLSMV-HYXAFXHYSA-N (Z)-2-methylpropanal oxime Chemical compound CC(C)\C=N/O SYJPAKDNFZLSMV-HYXAFXHYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- UPMXNNIRAGDFEH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxybenzonitrile Chemical compound OC1=C(Br)C=C(C#N)C=C1Br UPMXNNIRAGDFEH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910000619 316 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910000851 Alloy steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 241000723418 Carya Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000288673 Chiroptera Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004593 Epoxy Substances 0.000 description 1
- JOYRKODLDBILNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethyl urethane Chemical compound CCOC(N)=O JOYRKODLDBILNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- IAYPIBMASNFSPL-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethylene oxide Chemical group C1CO1 IAYPIBMASNFSPL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920000271 Kevlar® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000877 Melamine resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004642 Polyimide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 241000183024 Populus tremula Species 0.000 description 1
- PPBRXRYQALVLMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Styrene Chemical compound C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 PPBRXRYQALVLMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920004738 ULTEM® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid group Chemical group C(C=C)(=O)O NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000005275 alloying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000001412 amines Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229910021529 ammonia Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000007743 anodising Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000006480 benzoylation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002041 carbon nanotube Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910021393 carbon nanotube Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002800 charge carrier Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001311 chemical methods and process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007385 chemical modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000805 composite resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229920000547 conjugated polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001577 copolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004132 cross linking Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000013078 crystal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012938 design process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009792 diffusion process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007598 dipping method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000007772 electroless plating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009713 electroplating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003822 epoxy resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011121 hardwood Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012212 insulator Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000554 ionomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004761 kevlar Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010030 laminating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013035 low temperature curing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005389 magnetism Effects 0.000 description 1
- JDSHMPZPIAZGSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N melamine Chemical compound NC1=NC(N)=NC(N)=N1 JDSHMPZPIAZGSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005517 mercerization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910044991 metal oxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 150000004706 metal oxides Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000002923 metal particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000178 monomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000007591 painting process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005325 percolation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000002978 peroxides Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000000704 physical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000647 polyepoxide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001721 polyimide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000002861 polymer material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000123 polythiophene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 125000002924 primary amino group Chemical group [H]N([H])* 0.000 description 1
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000002910 rare earth metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000011514 reflex Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012552 review Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010079 rubber tapping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000005476 soldering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011343 solid material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001179 sorption measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004544 sputter deposition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006557 surface reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000004243 sweat Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007740 vapor deposition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 125000000391 vinyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])=C([H])[H] 0.000 description 1
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/27—Adaptation for use in or on movable bodies
- H01Q1/273—Adaptation for carrying or wearing by persons or animals
- H01Q1/276—Adaptation for carrying or wearing by persons or animals for mounting on helmets
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K87/00—Fishing rods
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B49/00—Stringed rackets, e.g. for tennis
- A63B49/02—Frames
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0466—Heads wood-type
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/10—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the head
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
- B29C70/58—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising fillers only, e.g. particles, powder, beads, flakes, spheres
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
- B29C70/88—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts characterised primarily by possessing specific properties, e.g. electrically conductive or locally reinforced
- B29C70/882—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts characterised primarily by possessing specific properties, e.g. electrically conductive or locally reinforced partly or totally electrically conductive, e.g. for EMI shielding
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C08—ORGANIC MACROMOLECULAR COMPOUNDS; THEIR PREPARATION OR CHEMICAL WORKING-UP; COMPOSITIONS BASED THEREON
- C08L—COMPOSITIONS OF MACROMOLECULAR COMPOUNDS
- C08L101/00—Compositions of unspecified macromolecular compounds
- C08L101/12—Compositions of unspecified macromolecular compounds characterised by physical features, e.g. anisotropy, viscosity or electrical conductivity
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F41B13/00—Thrusting-weapons; Cutting-weapons carried as side-arms
- F41B13/02—Sabres; Cutlasses; Swords; Epees
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B2053/0491—Heads with added weights, e.g. changeable, replaceable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/10—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the head
- A63B2071/105—Fencing mask
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/12—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
- A63B2071/1208—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the breast and the abdomen, e.g. breast plates
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/02—Tennis
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/06—Squash
- A63B2102/065—Racketball
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/18—Baseball, rounders or similar games
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/24—Ice hockey
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/02—Characteristics of used materials with reinforcing fibres, e.g. carbon, polyamide fibres
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/02—Characteristics of used materials with reinforcing fibres, e.g. carbon, polyamide fibres
- A63B2209/023—Long, oriented fibres, e.g. wound filaments, woven fabrics, mats
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/02—Characteristics of used materials with reinforcing fibres, e.g. carbon, polyamide fibres
- A63B2209/026—Ratio fibres-total material
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/50—Wireless data transmission, e.g. by radio transmitters or telemetry
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2243/00—Specific ball sports not provided for in A63B2102/00 - A63B2102/38
- A63B2243/0066—Rugby; American football
- A63B2243/007—American football
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B49/00—Stringed rackets, e.g. for tennis
- A63B49/02—Frames
- A63B49/08—Frames with special construction of the handle
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B49/00—Stringed rackets, e.g. for tennis
- A63B49/02—Frames
- A63B49/10—Frames made of non-metallic materials, other than wood
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0416—Heads having an impact surface provided by a face insert
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/047—Heads iron-type
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0487—Heads for putters
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/10—Non-metallic shafts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
- A63B59/50—Substantially rod-shaped bats for hitting a ball in the air, e.g. for baseball
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
- A63B59/70—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00 with bent or angled lower parts for hitting a ball on the ground, on an ice-covered surface, or in the air, e.g. for hockey or hurling
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/002—Resonance frequency related characteristics
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/08—Handles characterised by the material
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/10—Handles with means for indicating correct holding positions
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B67/00—Sporting games or accessories therefor, not provided for in groups A63B1/00 - A63B65/00
- A63B67/14—Curling stone; Shuffleboard; Similar sliding games
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/02—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for fencing, e.g. means for indicating hits
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/12—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/52—Sports equipment ; Games; Articles for amusement; Toys
- B29L2031/5227—Clubs
Definitions
- the molded conductor doped resin-based material exhibits excellent thermal dissipation characteristics. Therefore, articles manufactured from the molded conductor doped resin-based material can provide added thermal dissipation capabilities to the application. For example, heat can be dissipated from electrical devices physically and/or electrically connected to an article of the present invention.
- a wire can be attached to conductively doped resin-based articles via a screw that is fastened to the article.
- a simple sheet-metal type, self tapping screw can, when fastened to the material, can achieve excellent electrical connectivity via the conductive matrix of the conductively doped resin-based material.
- a boss may be molded as part of the conductively doped resin-based material to accommodate such a screw.
- a solderable screw material such as copper
- the golf club shaft 15 comprises the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention.
- Typical golf club shaft construction utilizes various metals or graphite. A mechanical advantage is gained by having a larger amount of flex in the shaft for a weaker player or a player with a slow swing due to the whipping action of the stick. When a player has a stronger faster swing however, the whipping action of the club is not as desirable due to the amount of precision and control that is lost.
- FIG. 20 illustrates one example of sporting equipment devices depicting one embodiment of the invention.
- Snow skis 220 and ski poles 230 are shown.
- the snow skis 220 includes a sheet 222 of conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host and having a top surface 225 and a bottom surface 227 .
- the top surface 22 is adapted to support an operator.
- the bottom surface 2207 is adapted for sliding.
- the top surface 225 may include bindings 224 adapted to couple to operator boots, not shown.
- the sheet 222 , or board platform, or the bindings 224 , or both, for the snow skis 220 are formed of the conductively doped resin-based material.
- the conductively doped resin-based material can be formed into fibers or textiles that are then woven or webbed into a conductive fabric.
- the conductively doped resin-based material is formed in strands that can be woven as shown.
- FIG. 5 a shows a conductive fabric 42 where the fibers are woven together in a two-dimensional weave 46 and 50 of fibers or textiles.
- FIG. 5 b shows a conductive fabric 42 ′ where the fibers are formed in a webbed arrangement. In the webbed arrangement, one or more continuous strands of the conductive fiber are nested in a random fashion.
- the resulting conductive fabrics or textiles 42 see FIG. 5 a , and 42 ′, see FIG. 5 b , can be made very thin, thick, rigid, flexible or in solid form(s).
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Composite Materials (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Environmental Sciences (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Polymers & Plastics (AREA)
- Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
- Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Marine Sciences & Fisheries (AREA)
- Animal Husbandry (AREA)
- Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
- Compositions Of Macromolecular Compounds (AREA)
Abstract
A sporting equipment device (10) includes an operator handle (15) and a striking surface (12) operatively coupled to the operator handle wherein the striking surface includes a conductively doped, resin-based material including micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. In addition, in one example, the operator handle (15) includes a conductively doped, resin-based material. In addition, in another example, a sporting equipment device (140) includes a structure (142) adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein the structure (142) includes conductively doped resin-based material. In addition, in another example, a sporting equipment device (180) includes a sheet (182) of conductively doped resin-based material having a top surface (185) and a bottom surface (187) wherein the top surface (185) is adapted to support an operator and wherein the bottom surface (187) is adapted for sliding.
Description
- This Patent Application claims priority to the U.S.
Provisional Patent Application 60/704,036, filed on Jul. 29, 2005, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. - This Patent Application is a Continuation-in-Part of INT01-002CIPC, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/877,092, filed on Jun. 25, 2004, which is a Continuation of INT01-002CIP, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/309,429, filed on Dec. 4, 2002, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,870,516, also incorporated by reference in its entirety, which is a Continuation-in-Part application of docket number INT01-002, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/075,778, filed on Feb. 14, 2002, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,741,221, which claimed priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Ser. No. 60/317,808, filed on Sep. 7, 2001, Ser. No. 60/269,414, filed on Feb. 16, 2001, and Ser. No. 60/268,822, filed on Feb. 15, 2001, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- This invention relates to articles for use in sporting and recreational activities and, more particularly, to sporting equipment articles molded of conductively doped resin-based materials comprising micron conductive powders, micron conductive fibers, or a combination thereof, substantially homogenized within a base resin when molded. This manufacturing process yields a conductive part or material usable within the EMF, thermal, acoustic, or electronic spectrum(s).
- By way of example, modern golf clubs are carefully designed to provide maximum performance. For example, when a golf club head comes in contact with a golf ball, the face of the club is designed to flex inward and spring back in what is known as a “trampoline effect”. The trampoline effect helps to propel the ball great distances. The club face may be manufactured from an expensive and exotic material, such as titanium, that exhibits the desired reflex action. Likewise, golf club shafts are designed to flex such that the golfer's swing speed is increased via whipping action. Shaft materials and dimensions are carefully chosen to achieve a whipping action that is predictable and controlled. Similarly, other sports striking equipment, such as baseball bats, hockey sticks, and tennis racquets, use selected materials to reduce weight and to improve impact response. However, it is difficult to tune optimum frequency response with materials typically used.
- Protection equipment, such as helmets, face masks, shields, and fencing lame, and is also carefully designed to provide player protection while minimizing weight. For example, typical protection equipment is manufactured from rigid plastics. While these plastic materials may provide protection, the materials typically do not provide a tunable response to impacts. As a result, the ability of the materials to protect against concussive injury may not be optimized. In addition, since most plastics exhibit high intrinsic resistivity, protection equipment is typically non-conductive. It is difficult, therefore, the integrated devices, such as antennas and sensors, in typical protection devices.
- Sporting boards, such as snow boards, surf boards, skate boards, and skis, are also designed to meet stringent performance requirements. For example, typical boards are manufactured from fiberglass composites. While fiberglass composites may provide high strength, these materials typically do not provide a tunable flexing response. As a result, the ability of the materials to provide optimum performance is limited.
- The present invention and the corresponding advantages and features provided thereby will be best understood and appreciated upon review of the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the following drawings, where like numerals represent like elements, in which:
-
FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a conductively doped resin-based material wherein the conductive materials comprise a micron conductive powder(s). -
FIG. 3 illustrates a conductively doped resin-based material wherein the conductive materials comprise micron conductive fiber(s). -
FIG. 4 illustrates a conductively doped resin-based material wherein the conductive materials comprise both micron conductive powder(s) and micron conductive fiber(s). -
FIGS. 5 a and 5 b illustrate conductive fabric-like materials formed from the conductively doped resin-based material using woven and webbed construction, respectively. -
FIGS. 6 a and 6 b illustrate, in simplified schematic form, an injection molding apparatus and an extrusion molding apparatus that may be used to mold circuit conductors of a conductively doped resin-based material. -
FIG. 7 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 9 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 10 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 11 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 12 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 14 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 15 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 16 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 17 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 18 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 19 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 20 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 21 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 22-24 illustrate one example of a part of a sporting equipment device and method of manufacture depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 25 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 26 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. - Briefly, a sporting equipment device includes an operator handle and a striking surface operatively coupled to the operator handle wherein the striking surface includes a conductively doped, resin-based material including micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. In addition, in one example, the operator handle includes a conductively doped, resin-based material. In addition, in another example, a sporting equipment device includes a structure adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein the structure includes conductively doped resin-based material. In addition, in another example, a sporting equipment device includes a sheet of conductively doped resin-based material having a top surface and a bottom surface wherein the top surface is adapted to support an operator and wherein the bottom surface is adapted for sliding. In addition, in another example, a sporting equipment device includes an operator handle wherein the operator handle comprises continuous strands of micron conductive fiber molded into a resin-based material and a striking surface operatively coupled to the operator handle.
- As such, a sporting equipment device is disclosed with excellent performance including tunable frequency response, low cost of manufacture, durability, and low weight. In addition, antenna devices or conductive sensing may be integrated into the device due to the conductivity of the conductively doped resin-based material. Other advantages will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.
- The conductively doped resin-based materials can be molded, extruded or the like to provide almost any desired shape or size. The molded conductively doped resin-based materials can also be cut, stamped, or vacuumed formed from an injection molded or extruded sheet or bar stock, over-molded, laminated, milled or the like to provide the desired shape and size. The thermal, electrical, and acoustical continuity and /or conductivity characteristics of articles or parts fabricated using conductively doped resin-based materials depend on the composition of the conductively doped resin-based materials. The type of base resin, the type of doping material, and the relative percentage of doping material incorporated into the base resin can be adjusted to achieve the desired structural, electrical, or other physical characteristics of the molded material. The selected materials used to fabricate the articles or devices are substantially homogenized together using molding techniques and or methods such as injection molding, over-molding, insert molding, compression molding, thermo-set, protrusion, extrusion, calendaring, or the like. Characteristics related to 2D, 3D, 4D, and 5D designs, molding and electrical characteristics, include the physical and electrical advantages that can be achieved during the molding process of the actual parts and the molecular polymer physics associated within the conductive networks within the molded part(s) or formed material(s).
- In the conductively doped resin-based material, electrons travel from point to point, following the path of least resistance. Most resin-based materials are insulators and represent a high resistance to electron passage. The doping of the conductive loading into the resin-based material alters the inherent resistance of the polymers. At a threshold concentration of conductive loading, the resistance through the combined mass is lowered enough to allow electron movement. Speed of electron movement depends on conductive doping concentration and material makeup, that is, the separation between the conductive doping particles. Increasing conductive loading content reduces interparticle separation distance, and, at a critical distance known as the percolation point, resistance decreases dramatically and electrons move rapidly.
- Resistivity is a material property that depends on the atomic bonding and on the microstructure of the material. The atomic microstructure material properties within the conductively doped resin-based material are altered when molded into a structure. A substantially homogenized conductive microstructure of delocalized valance electrons is created within the valance and conduction bands of the molecules. This microstructure provides sufficient charge carriers within the molded matrix structure. As a result, a low density, low resistivity, lightweight, durable, resin based polymer microstructure material is achieved. This material exhibits conductivity comparable to that of highly conductive metals such as silver, copper or aluminum, while maintaining the superior structural characteristics found in many plastics and rubbers or other structural resin based materials.
- Conductively doped resin-based materials lower the cost of materials and of the design and manufacturing processes needed for fabrication of molded articles while maintaining close manufacturing tolerances. The molded articles can be manufactured into infinite shapes and sizes using conventional forming methods such as injection molding, over-molding, compression molding, thermoset molding, or extrusion, calendaring, or the like. The conductively doped resin-based materials, when molded, typically but not exclusively produce a desirable usable range of resistivity of less than about 5 to more than about 25 ohms per square, but other resistivity values can be achieved by varying the dopant(s), the doping parameters and/or the base resin selection(s).
- The conductively doped resin-based materials comprise micron conductive powders, micron conductive fibers, or any combination thereof, which are substantially homogenized together within the base resin, during the molding process, yielding an easy to produce low cost, electrical, thermal, and acoustical performing, close tolerance manufactured part or circuit. The resulting molded article comprises a three dimensional, continuous capillary network of conductive doping particles contained and or bonding within the polymer matrix. Exemplary micron conductive powders include carbons, graphites, amines, eeonomers, or the like, and/or of metal powders such as nickel, copper, silver, aluminum, nichrome, or plated or the like. The use of carbons or other forms of powders such as graphite(s) etc. can create additional low level electron exchange and, when used in combination with micron conductive fibers, creates a micron filler element within the micron conductive network of fiber(s) producing further electrical conductivity as well as acting as a lubricant for the molding equipment. Carbon nano-tubes may be added to the conductively doped resin-based material. The addition of conductive powder to the micron conductive fiber doping may improve the electrical continuity on the surface of the molded part to offset any skinning effect that occurs during molding.
- The micron conductive fibers may be metal fiber or metal plated fiber. Further, the metal plated fiber may be formed by plating metal onto a metal fiber or by plating metal onto a non-metal fiber. Exemplary metal fibers include, but are not limited to, stainless steel fiber, copper fiber, nickel fiber, silver fiber, aluminum fiber, nichrome fiber, or the like, or combinations thereof. Exemplary metal plating materials include, but are not limited to, copper, nickel, cobalt, silver, gold, palladium, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, and nichrome, and alloys of thereof. Any platable fiber may be used as the core for a non-metal fiber. Exemplary non-metal fibers include, but are not limited to, carbon, graphite, polyester, basalt, melamine, man-made and naturally-occurring materials, and the like. In addition, superconductor metals, such as titanium, nickel, niobium, and zirconium, and alloys of titanium, nickel, niobium, and zirconium may also be used as micron conductive fibers and/or as metal plating onto fibers in the present invention.
- Where micron fiber is combined with base resin, the micron fiber may be pretreated to improve performance. According to one embodiment of the present invention, conductive or non-conductive powders are leached into the fibers prior to extrusion. In other embodiments, the fibers are subjected to any or several chemical modifications in order to improve the fibers interfacial properties. Fiber modification processes include, but are not limited to: chemically inert coupling agents; gas plasma treatment; anodizing; mercerization; peroxide treatment; benzoylation; or other chemical or polymer treatments.
- Chemically inert coupling agents are materials that are molecularly bonded onto the surface of metal and or other fibers to provide surface coupling, mechanical interlocking, inter-diffusion and adsorption and surface reaction for later bonding and wetting within the resin-based material. This chemically inert coupling agent does not react with the resin-based material. An exemplary chemically inert coupling agent is silane. In a silane treatment, silicon-based molecules from the silane bond to the surface of metal fibers to form a silicon layer. The silicon layer bonds well with the subsequently extruded resin-based material yet does not react with the resin-based material. As an additional feature during a silane treatment, oxane bonds with any water molecules on the fiber surface to thereby eliminate water from the fiber strands. Silane, amino, and silane-amino are three exemplary pre-extrusion treatments for forming chemically inert coupling agents on the fiber.
- In a gas plasma treatment, the surfaces of the metal fibers are etched at atomic depths to re-engineer the surface. Cold temperature gas plasma sources, such as oxygen and ammonia, are useful for performing a surface etch prior to extrusion. In one embodiment of the present invention, gas plasma treatment is first performed to etch the surfaces of the fiber strands. A silane bath coating is then performed to form a chemically inert silicon-based film onto the fiber strands. In another embodiment, metal fiber is anodized to form a metal oxide over the fiber. The fiber modification processes described herein are useful for improving interfacial adhesion, improving wetting during homogenization, and/or reducing oxide growth (when compared to non-treated fiber). Pretreatment fiber modification also reduces levels of particle dust, fines, and fiber release during subsequent capsule sectioning, cutting or vacuum line feeding.
- The resin-based structural material may be any polymer resin or combination of compatible polymer resins. Non-conductive resins or inherently conductive resins may be used as the structural material. Conjugated polymer resins, one example being polythiophene, may be used as the structural material. Complex polymer resins, examples being polyimide and polyamide, may be used as the structural material. Inherently conductive resins may be used as the structural material. The dielectric properties of the resin-based material will have a direct effect upon the final electrical performance of the conductively doped resin-based material. Many different dielectric properties are possible depending on the chemical makeup and/or arrangement, such as linking, cross-linking or the like, of the polymer, co-polymer, monomer, ter-polymer, ionomer, or homo-polymer material. Structural material can be, here given as examples and not as an exhaustive list, polymer resins produced by GE PLASTICS, Pittsfield, Mass., a range of other plastics produced by GE PLASTICS, Pittsfield, Mass., a range of other plastics produced by other manufacturers, silicones produced by GE SILICONES, Waterford, N.Y., or other flexible resin-based rubber compounds produced by other manufacturers.
- The resin-based structural material doped with micron conductive powders, micron conductive fibers, or in combination thereof can be molded, using conventional molding methods such as injection molding or over-molding, or extrusion to create desired shapes and sizes. The molded conductively doped resin-based materials can also be stamped, cut or milled as desired to form create the desired shapes and form factor(s). The doping composition and directionality associated with the micron conductors within the doped base resins can affect the electrical and structural characteristics of the articles and can be precisely controlled by mold designs, gating and or protrusion design(s) and or during the molding process itself. In addition, the resin base can be selected to obtain the desired thermal characteristics such as very high melting point or specific thermal conductivity.
- A resin-based sandwich laminate could also be fabricated with random or continuous webbed micron stainless steel fibers or other conductive fibers, forming a cloth like material. The webbed conductive fiber can be laminated or the like to materials such as Teflon, Polyesters, or any resin-based flexible or solid material(s), which when discretely designed in fiber content(s), orientation(s) and shape(s), will produce a very highly conductive flexible cloth-like material. Such a cloth-like material could also be used in forming articles that could be embedded in a person's clothing as well as other resin materials such as rubber(s) or plastic(s). When using conductive fibers as a webbed conductor as part of a laminate or cloth-like material, the fibers may have diameters of between about 3 and 12 microns, typically between about 8 and 12 microns or in the range of about 10 microns, with length(s) that can be seamless or overlapping.
- The conductively doped resin-based material may also be formed into a prepreg laminate, cloth, or webbing. A laminate, cloth, or webbing of the conductively doped resin-based material is first homogenized with a resin-based material. In various embodiments, the conductively doped resin-based material is dipped, coated, sprayed, and/or extruded with resin-based material to cause the laminate, cloth, or webbing to adhere together in a prepreg grouping that is easy to handle. This prepreg is placed, or laid up, onto a form and is then heated to form a permanent bond. In another embodiment, the prepreg is laid up onto the impregnating resin while the resin is still wet and is then cured by heating or other means. In another embodiment, the wet lay-Lip is performed by laminating the conductively doped resin-based prepreg over a honeycomb structure. In another embodiment, the honeycomb structure is made from conductively doped, resin-based material. In yet another embodiment, a wet prepreg is formed by spraying, dipping, or coating the conductively doped resin-based material laminate, cloth, or webbing in high temperature capable paint.
- Prior art carbon fiber and resin-based composites are found to display unpredictable points of failure. In carbon fiber systems there is little if any elongation of the structure. By comparison, in the present invention, the conductively doped resin-based material, even if formed with carbon fiber or metal plated carbon fiber, displays greater strength of the mechanical structure due to the substantial homogenization of the fiber created by the moldable capsules. As a result a structure formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention will maintain structurally even if crushed while a comparable carbon fiber composite will break into pieces.
- The conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention can be made resistant to corrosion and/or metal electrolysis by selecting micron conductive fiber and/or micron conductive powder dopants and base resins that are resistant to corrosion and/or metal electrolysis. For example, if a corrosion/electrolysis resistant base resin is combined with fibers/powders or in combination of such as stainless steel fiber, inert chemical treated coupling agent warding against corrosive fibers such as copper, silver and gold and or carbon fibers/powders, then corrosion and/or metal electrolysis resistant conductively doped resin-based material is achieved. Another additional and important feature of the present invention is that the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention may be made flame retardant. Selection of a flame-retardant (FR) base resin material allows the resulting product to exhibit flame retardant capability. This is especially important in applications as described herein.
- The substantially homogeneous mixing of micron conductive fiber and/or micron conductive powder and base resin described in the present invention may also be described as doping. That is, the substantially homogeneous mixing transforms a typically non-conductive base resin material into a conductive material. This process is analogous to the doping process whereby a semiconductor material, such as silicon, can be converted into a conductive material through the introduction of donor/acceptor ions as is well known in the art of semiconductor devices. Therefore, the present invention uses the term doping to mean converting a typically non-conductive base resin material into a conductive material through the substantially homogeneous mixing of micron conductive fiber and/or micron conductive powder within a base resin.
- As an additional and important feature of the present invention, the molded conductor doped resin-based material exhibits excellent thermal dissipation characteristics. Therefore, articles manufactured from the molded conductor doped resin-based material can provide added thermal dissipation capabilities to the application. For example, heat can be dissipated from electrical devices physically and/or electrically connected to an article of the present invention.
- As a significant advantage of the present invention, articles constructed of the conductively doped resin-based material can be easily interfaced to an electrical circuit or grounded. In one embodiment, a wire can be attached to conductively doped resin-based articles via a screw that is fastened to the article. For example, a simple sheet-metal type, self tapping screw can, when fastened to the material, can achieve excellent electrical connectivity via the conductive matrix of the conductively doped resin-based material. To facilitate this approach a boss may be molded as part of the conductively doped resin-based material to accommodate such a screw. Alternatively, if a solderable screw material, such as copper, is used, then a wire can be soldered to the screw is embedded into the conductively doped resin-based material. In another embodiment, the conductively doped resin-based material is partly or completely plated with a metal layer. The metal layer forms excellent electrical conductivity with the conductive matrix. A connection of this metal layer to another circuit or to ground is then made. For example, if the metal layer is solderable, then a soldered connection may be made between the article and a grounding wire.
- Where a metal layer is formed over the surface of the conductively doped resin-based material, any of several techniques may be used to form this metal layer. This metal layer may be used for visual enhancement of the molded conductively doped resin-based material article or to otherwise alter performance properties. Well-known techniques, such as electroless metal plating, electro plating, electrolytic metal plating, sputtering, metal vapor deposition, metallic painting, or the like, may be applied to the formation of this metal layer. If metal plating is used, then the resin-based structural material of the conductively doped, resin-based material is one that can be metal plated. There are many of the polymer resins that can be plated with metal layers. For example, GE Plastics, SUPEC, VALOX, ULTEM, CYCOLAC, UGIKRAL, STYRON, CYCOLOY are a few resin-based materials that can be metal plated. Electroless plating is typically a multiple-stage chemical process where, for example, a thin copper layer is first deposited to form a conductive layer. This conductive layer is then used as an electrode for the subsequent plating of a thicker metal layer.
- A typical metal deposition process for forming a metal layer onto the conductively doped resin-based material is vacuum metallization. Vacuum metallization is the process where a metal layer, such as aluminum, is deposited on the conductively doped resin-based material inside a vacuum chamber. In a metallic painting process, metal particles, such as silver, copper, or nickel, or the like, are dispersed in an acrylic, vinyl, epoxy, or urethane binder. Most resin-based materials accept and hold paint well, and automatic spraying systems apply coating with consistency. In addition, the excellent conductivity of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention facilitates the use of extremely efficient, electrostatic painting techniques.
- The conductively doped resin-based materials can be contacted in any of several ways. In one embodiment, a pin is embedded into the conductively doped resin-based material by insert molding, ultrasonic welding, pressing, or other means. A connection with a metal wire can easily be made to this pin and results in excellent contact to the conductively doped resin-based material conductive matrix. In another embodiment, a hole is formed in to the conductively doped resin-based material either during the molding process or by a subsequent process step such as drilling, punching, or the like. A pin is then placed into the hole and is then ultrasonically welded to form a permanent mechanical and electrical contact. In yet another embodiment, a pin or a wire is soldered to the conductively doped resin-based material. In this case, a hole is formed in the conductively doped resin-based material either during the molding operation or by drilling, stamping, punching, or the like. A solderable layer is then formed in the hole. The solderable layer is preferably formed by metal plating. A conductor is placed into the hole and then mechanically and electrically bonded by point, wave, or reflow soldered.
- Another method to provide connectivity to the conductively doped resin-based material is through the application of a solderable ink film to the surface. One exemplary solderable ink is a combination of copper and solder particles in an epoxy resin binder. The resulting mixture is an active, screen-printable and dispensable material. During curing, the solder reflows to coat and to connect the copper particles and to thereby form a cured surface that is directly solderable without the need for additional plating or other processing steps. Any solderable material may then be mechanically and/or electrically attached, via soldering, to the conductively doped resin-based material at the location of the applied solderable ink. Many other types of solderable inks can be used to provide this solderable surface onto the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Another exemplary embodiment of a solderable ink is a mixture of one or more metal powder systems with a reactive organic medium. This type of ink material is converted to solderable pure metal during a low temperature cure without any organic binders or alloying elements.
- A ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based material may be formed of the present invention to create a magnetic or magnetizable form of the material. Ferromagnetic micron conductive fibers and/or ferromagnetic conductive powders are substantially homogenized with the base resin. Ferrite materials and/or rare earth magnetic materials are added as a conductive doping to the base resin. With the substantially homogeneous mixing of the ferromagnetic micron conductive fibers and/or micron conductive powders, the ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based material is able to produce an excellent low cost, low weight, high aspect ratio magnetize-able item. The magnets and magnetic devices of the present invention can be magnetized during or after the molding process. Adjusting the doping levels and or dopants of ferromagnetic micron conductive fibers and/or ferromagnetic micron conductive powders that are homogenized within the base resin can control the magnetic strength of the magnets and magnetic devices. By increasing the aspect ratio of the ferromagnetic doping, the strength of the magnet or magnetic devices can be substantially increased. The substantially homogenous mixing of the conductive fibers/powders or in combinations there of allows for a substantial amount of dopants to be added to the base resin without causing the structural integrity of the item to decline mechanically. The ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based magnets display outstanding physical properties of the base resin, including flexibility, moldability, strength, and resistance to environmental corrosion, along with superior magnetic ability. In addition, the unique ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based material facilitates formation of items that exhibit superior thermal and electrical conductivity as well as magnetism.
- A high aspect ratio magnet is easily achieved through the use of ferromagnetic conductive micron fiber or through the combination of ferromagnetic micron powder with conductive micron fiber. The use of micron conductive fiber allows for molding articles with a high aspect ratio of conductive fibers/powders or combinations there of in a cross sectional area. If a ferromagnetic micron fiber is used, then this high aspect ratio translates into a high quality magnetic article. Alternatively, if a ferromagnetic micron powder is combined with micron conductive fiber, then the magnetic effect of the powder is effectively spread throughout the molded article via the network of conductive fiber such that an effective high aspect ratio molded magnetic article is achieved. The ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based material may be magnetized, after molding, by exposing the molded article to a strong magnetic field. Alternatively, a strong magnetic field may be used to magnetize the ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based material during the molding process.
- The ferromagnetic conductively doped is in the form of fiber, powder, or a combination of fiber and powder. The micron conductive powder may be metal fiber or metal plated fiber or powders. If metal plated fiber is used, then the core fiber is a platable material and may be metal or non-metal. Exemplary ferromagnetic conductive fiber materials include ferrite, or ceramic, materials as nickel zinc, manganese zinc, and combinations of iron, boron, and strontium, and the like. In addition, rare earth elements, such as neodymium and samarium, typified by neodymium-iron-boron, samarium-cobalt, and the like, are useful ferromagnetic conductive fiber materials. Exemplary ferromagnetic micron powder leached onto the conductive fibers include ferrite, or ceramic, materials as nickel zinc, manganese zinc, and combinations of iron, boron, and strontium, and the like. In addition, rare earth elements, such as neodymium and samarium, typified by neodymium-iron-boron, samarium-cobalt, and the like, are useful ferromagnetic conductive powder materials. A ferromagnetic conductive doping may be combined with a non-ferromagnetic conductive doping to form a conductively doped resin-based material that combines excellent conductive qualities with magnetic capabilities.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Agolf club driver 5 is shown. Thegolf club driver 5 includes anoperator handle 15 and astriking surface 10 attached to theoperator handle 15. Thestriking surface 10, or club head, may include several parts including aface 12, ahosel 14, a sole 18, and a back 16. In one example, the back 16 and sole 18 support theface 12 while thehosel 14 connects to theoperator handle 15, or shaft. In various embodiments, any, any combination, or all of theface 12,hosel 14, sole 18, and theback 16 of the golfclub driver head 10 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. For example, the entiregolf club head 10 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material by, for example, injection molding. - Typical golf club driver head construction utilizes a face formed of titanium or other specialty metal attached to a two-piece body comprising the sole and back. The hosel is typically formed along with the sole and back sections and allows the head to attach to a shaft. When the face of the club comes in contact with the golf ball it flexes inward and springs back in what is known as “the trampoline effect”. This effect helps to propel the ball greater distances than traditional wooden clubs. The grooves on the face of the club help to give the ball the desired backspin for aerodynamic stability in flight. In the past few years there has been a trend of increasing the size of the club heads. The larger sized heads give the average golfer a bigger striking face that tends to be more forgiving with misaligned or improperly struck golf balls.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, the
face 12 is molded of the conductively doped resin-based material and inserted into interior grooves, not shown, formed in the back 16 and sole 18 that are formed of metal. Theface 12 is attached to the grooves by gluing, ultrasonic welding, chemical solvent, or the like. In another embodiment, theface 12 may be metal plated and/or metal coated for appearance. The conductively doped resin-basedface 12 is preferably formed with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the “trampoline effect” of theface 12 matches the compression and subsequent expansion of the ball upon impact. By matching the compression and expansion of theface 12 with the compression and expansion of the ball, a greater energy potential is realized and more distance is achieved. In another embodiment, theface 12 is not metal plated and/or metal coated. - The use of the conductively doped, resin-based material of the present invention allows the creation of a
striking face 12 having an exceptionally large “sweet spot”. The resonant frequency response of the conductively doped, resin-based material can be easily tuned by adjusting the percentage doping of conductive material and/or type of base resin. For example, while the Rockwell hardness of a sheet grade type 316 stainless steel is in the range of about 95 HRB, micron conductive fiber grade stainless steel should exhibit a hardness of about 70 HRB or less. When combined with the resin-based host, the conductively doped, resin-based material is tuned to provide a resonant frequency “trampoline” response optimized to deliver maximum energy to the ball impact, excellent surface durability, and to minimize energy vibration in club shaft. - In another embodiment, the entire golf
club driver head 10 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. In this embodiment, the back 16 and the sole 18 are molded to allow weighted inserts into the hollow perimeter of theclub head 10. The weighted inserts are insertion molded or over-molded into the interior of theclub head 10. The conductively doped resin-basedface 12 is inserted into place and the sections are joined by gluing, ultrasonic welding, chemical solvent, or the like. The conductively doped resin-basedclub head 10 is then metal plated and/or metal coated. The inserts give the conductively doped resin-basedclub head 10 enough mass to effectively transfer the needed energy to the golf ball. In another embodiment, the conductively doped resin-basedclub head 10 is painted. The conductive characteristic of the conductively doped resin-based material is particularly useful for electrostatic painting. In yet another embodiment, the conductively doped resin-basedclub head 10 is formed with coloring agents or dyes in the resin matrix to allow for the desired appearance after manufacturing. - In another embodiment, the
golf club shaft 15 comprises the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Typical golf club shaft construction utilizes various metals or graphite. A mechanical advantage is gained by having a larger amount of flex in the shaft for a weaker player or a player with a slow swing due to the whipping action of the stick. When a player has a stronger faster swing however, the whipping action of the club is not as desirable due to the amount of precision and control that is lost. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the
shaft 15 may be molded entirely of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. In another embodiment, theshaft 15 may be molded with a hollow center core to allow a rod of metal or some other material to be inserted for added weight and/or added rigidity. Theshaft 15 may be formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the amount of flex in the handle corresponds to the intended players' strength and speed of swing. In one embodiment, thegolf club shaft 15 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention and then metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, thegolf club shaft 15 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention with a coloring or dye added to the resin matrix to achieve the desired appearance after the manufacturing process. -
FIG. 7 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. A golfclub iron head 100 is shown. In golf, “irons” are used for short to middle distance shots and are called irons because of the traditional material used in their manufacture. The iron head 20 comprises the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. In the embodiment, any component or several components, of theiron head 100 comprises the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. In various embodiments, the face, not shown,hosel 102, sole 104, and/or the back 103 of the golfclub iron head 100 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. - Typical golf club iron head construction utilizes a forged or molded metal design that allows most of the weight of the club to be dispersed around the edge. The weight along the perimeter helps to keep the club from twisting or turning when striking the ball slightly off center. The grooves on the face of the club help to give the ball the desired backspin for aerodynamic stability in flight.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, the golf
club iron head 100 may be formed by over-molding the conductively doped resin-based material onto a metal weight, not shown, that is encased within the perimeter of theclub head 100. The golf club iron head 20 may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, the golfclub iron head 100 may be formed in two sections where the back 103 and sole 104 are one piece and the face is the other. A metal weight may then be inserted before joining the sections together by gluing, ultrasonic welding, chemical solvent, or the like. The golf club iron head I 00 may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. - The use of the conductively doped, resin-based material of the present invention allows the creation of an
iron 100 having an exceptionally large “sweet spot”. The resonant frequency response of the conductively doped, resin-based material can be easily tuned by adjusting the percentage doping of conductive material and/or type of base resin. When combined with the resin-based host, the conductively doped, resin-based material is tuned to provide a resonant frequency “trampoline” response optimized to deliver maximum energy to the ball impact, excellent surface durability, and to minimize energy vibration in the club shaft. - In another embodiment of the present invention, a putter head is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. In one embodiment, the putter head is molded and then metal plated and/or metal coated for appearance. In another embodiment, the putter head is molded with a coloring or dye in the resin matrix to allow for the desired appearance after the manufacturing process.
-
FIG. 8 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Abaseball bat 105 is shown. Thebaseball bat 105 includes anoperator handle 106 attached astriking surface 108, or barrel. Typically a baseball bat is formed of hardwood such as hickory or a metal such as aluminum. The typical aluminum baseball bat utilizes the “trampoline effect” much like the golf club drivers mentioned earlier. In one embodiment, ahollow bat structure 105, including both operator handle 106 andstriking surface 108, is molded of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention in the desired length and diameter. The conductively doped resin-basedbaseball bat 105 is preferably formed to the desired thickness with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the “trampoline effect” of thebaseball bat 105 matches the compression and subsequent expansion of the baseball upon impact. The use of the conductively doped, resin-based material of the present invention allows the creation of abat 105 having an exceptionally large “sweet spot”. The resonant frequency response of the conductively doped, resin-based material can be easily tuned by adjusting the percentage doping of conductive material and/or type of base resin. When combined with the resin-based host, the conductively doped, resin-based material is tuned to provide a resonant frequency “trampoline” response optimized to deliver maximum energy to the ball impact, excellent surface durability, and to minimize energy vibration in bat handle. - The interior of a
hollow bat 105 may be filled with filler such as metal in order to simulate the approximate weight and feel of a wooden baseball bat and plugged at the end. In one embodiment, the conductively doped resin-basedbaseball bat 105 may be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, the conductively doped resin-basedbaseball bat 105 may be formed with a coloring or dye in the resin matrix in order to achieve the desired appearance after manufacturing. -
FIG. 9 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Ahockey stick 110 is shown. Thehockey stick 110 includes anoperator handle 18 attached to astriking surface 114, or blade. Typical hockey stick construction utilizes a wood, such as aspen, graphite, or a layered composite of wood and fiberglass. The size and construction of the hockey stick determines the amount of flex that it is capable of. A mechanical advantage is gained by having a large amount of flex in the handle for a younger weaker player due to the whipping action of the stick. When a player matures and is able to swing the hockey stick at greater speeds the whipping action is desired less due to the amount of precision and control that is lost. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the
hockey stick 110, including operator handle 118 andstriking surface 114, is molded of the conductively doped resin-based material as a one-piece unit. In another embodiment, the operator handle 118 andstriking surface 114 are molded separately of the conductively doped resin-based material to allow thestriking surface 114 to be changed when it starts to show signs of wear. The conductively doped resin-basedhockey stick 110 is preferably formed to the desired thickness with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the amount of flex in the operator handle 118 corresponds to the intended players' strength and speed of swing. In another embodiment, the operator handle 118 for the conductively doped resin-based hockey stick is designed with a hollow center channel to allow for different weights and/or materials to be inserted and control the feel and flex of thehockey stick 110. The use of the conductively doped, resin-based material of the present invention allows the creation of ahockey stick 110 having exceptional performance. The resonant frequency response of the conductively doped, resin-based material can be easily tuned by adjusting the percentage doping of conductive material and/or type of base resin. When combined with the resin-based host, the conductively doped, resin-based material is tuned to provide a resonant frequency “trampoline” response optimized to deliver maximum energy to the puck impact, excellent surface durability, and to minimize energy vibration inoperator handle 118. -
FIG. 10 illustrates one example of a sport equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Atennis racquet 120 is shown. Thetennis racquet 120 includes anoperator handle 128 attached to astriking surface striking surface head frame 124 attached to the operator handle 128 and astring grid 126 attached to thehead frame 124. Traditional tennis racquets were formed of wood and have been gradually replaced with steel, fiberglass, titanium, aluminum, or graphite. The evolution of the tennis racquet has been driven by the desire to keep the head frame and handle as light weight and stiff as possible. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the operator handle 128 and
head frame 124 of thetennis racquet 120 are molded of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. The molded racquet may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, thetennis racquet 120 is molded of the conductively doped resin-based material with a coloring or dye in the resin matrix to allow the desired appearance after the manufacturing process. The conductively doped resin-basedtennis racquet 120 is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the flex of the frame and handle is kept to a minimal amount. The choice of the base resin is selected from any number of resins capable of providing the tensile strength needed for thetennis racquet 120. In one embodiment, thestring grid 126 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material by, for example, extrusion of a continuous string that is strung into thehead frame 124. -
FIG. 11 illustrates one example of a sports equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Aracquetball racquet 130 is shown. Theracquetball racquet 130 includes an operator handle 1 38 attached to astriking surface striking surface head frame 134 attached to the operator handle 138 and astring grid 136 attached to thehead frame 134. Traditional racquetball racquets were formed of wood and have been gradually replaced with steel, fiberglass, titanium, aluminum, or graphite. The evolution of the racquetball racquet has been driven by the desire to keep the head frame and handle as light weight and stiff as possible. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the operator handle 138 and
head frame 134 of theracquetball racquet 130 are molded of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. The molded racquet may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, theracquetball racquet 120 is molded of the conductively doped resin-based material with a coloring or dye in the resin matrix to allow the desired appearance after the manufacturing process. The conductively doped resin-basedtennis racquet 130 is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the flex of the frame and handle is kept to a minimal amount. The choice of the base resin is selected from any number of resins capable of providing the tensile strength needed for thetennis racquet 130. In one embodiment, thestring grid 136 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material by, for example, extrusion of a continuous string that is strung into thehead frame 134. -
FIG. 12 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Anelectronic fencing foil 140 includes anoperator handle 147 attached to astriking surface electric fencing foil 140 may include a striking surface including atip 142 and ablade 144 and an operator handle including ahandle 147, abell guard 148, and anelectrical connector 146. In various embodiments, any, any combination, or all of these components may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. - In fencing competitions an electronic scoring system is utilized. For the electronic scoring system to work each fencer wears a metallic vest or (lame) that covers the target area and a mask made of a metal wire mesh. The foil has a tip with an integrated electronic button at the end. A set of wires runs down the center of the blade and terminates at the connectors on the underside of the bell guard. A wire electronically connects the foil and the lamè to a reel that retracts and expands with each fencer as they move. The reel is connected electronically to a scoring machine with a set of lights for scoring.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, the
tip 142 for theelectric fencing foil 140 is formed with electrical contact points molded of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Typical tips used in electric foils are manufactured with electrical contact points made of metal. However, in one embodiment of the present invention, thetip 142 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. Thetip 142 may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. - In one embodiment, the
blade 144 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Typical electric fencing foil construction utilizes a blade that is forged from special alloy steel that incorporates iron, nickel, and titanium. However, in the embodiment of the present invention, theblade 144 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material may be formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that the amount of flex is similar to the flex of a metal forged blade. In one embodiment, theblade 144 may be molded of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. The moldedblade 144 may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, theblade 144 may be molded of the conductively doped resin-based material with a coloring or dye in the resin matrix to give the desired appearance after the manufacturing process. - In one embodiment, the
electrical connector 146 may be molded from the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Typical electrical contact points for connectors are formed of metal. However, in one embodiment of the present invention, theconnector 146 may be molded from the conductively doped resin-based material. The moldedconnector 146 may then be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, theconnector 146 may be molded of the conductively doped resin-based material and not metal plated and/or metal coated. Thebell guard 148 and thehandle 147 may be formed of a non-conductive resin-based material. -
FIG. 13 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Afootball helmet 140 is shown. Thefootball helmet 150 includes astructure 152 adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein thestructure 152 comprises conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. Thefootball helmet 150 may include thestructure 152, or body, and aface mask 154. In various embodiments, thehelmet body 152 or theface guard 154 or both may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. - In one embodiment, the
helmet body 152 may be molded from the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Thehelmet body 152 may be formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, to allow high strength rigid protection to the players head. In another embodiment, the conductively doped resin-basedhelmet body 152 further includes anantenna 156 for an integrated wireless transmitter/receiver unit, not shown. A wide variety of antenna structures are easily formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Monopole, dipole, geometric shapes, 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, isotropic structures, planar, inverted F, PIFA, and the like, are all within the scope of the present invention. Theantenna 156 design can be molded by, for example, injection molding. The molded antenna shape determines the resonant frequency response of the antenna. -
FIG. 14 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Abaseball batting helmet 160 is shown. Thebaseball helmet 150 includes astructure 160 adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein thestructure 160 comprises conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. Thehelmet 160 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, to allow high strength rigid protection to the players head. -
FIG. 15 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention.Shoulder pads 170 are shown. Theshoulder pads 170 include astructure 160 adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein thestructure 160 comprises conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. Theshoulder pads 170 are of a type useful for playing American football or hockey. In the embodiment, any component or several components of theshoulder pads 170 comprise the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Theshoulder pads 170 may further include achest pad 172, acloth pad 178, alower pad 176, and/or atop pad 174. In various embodiments, thechest pad 172,cloth pad 178,lower pad 176, and/or thetop pad 174 for theshoulder pads 170 may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. -
FIG. 16 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Anelectronic fencing mask 180 is shown. Thefencing mask 180 includes astructure 160 adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein thestructure 160, or shroud, comprises conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. Theelectronic fencing mask 180 may further include amesh 182. - Typical electronic fencing mask construction utilizes stainless steel mesh capable of withstanding a 12 Kg punch test. The conductivity of the mesh is necessary as is the conductivity of the shroud that covers the front of the neck for electronic sabre fencing. When fencing with electronic foils, the shroud for the neck does not require it to be conductive since the only score-able hit is to the body area that is covered by the conductive lamè.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, the
mesh 182 is molded of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Themesh 182 for theelectronic fencing mask 230 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, such that themesh 182 is rigid enough to withstand the 12 Kg punch test. In another embodiment, themesh 182 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and then metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, themesh 182 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material with a coloring or dye in the resin matrix to allow for the desired appearance after the manufacturing process. - In one embodiment, the
fencing mask 180 further includes anelectrical connector 183 that may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and then may be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, theelectrical connector 183 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and not metal plated and/or metal coated. -
FIG. 17 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Anelectronic fencing lamè 190 is shown. Theelectronic fencing lamè 190 includes astructure 190 adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein thestructure 190 comprises conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host. - Typical electronic fencing lamè construction utilizes an outer conductive fabric layer that is woven from stainless steel fibers. The fencing lamè of this requires regular hand washing in order to clean the fabric of salt crystals left behind from dried sweat that can cause the break down of the metal fibers. However, in one embodiment of the present invention, the outer layer for the
electronic fencing lamè 190 is formed from a fabric comprising the conductively doped resin-based material. In this embodiment the conductively doped resin-based material is extruded into a fine thread and then woven into a cloth like fabric. In one embodiment, the outer layer for thelamè 190 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and then may be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, the outer layer for thelamè 190 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material with a coloring or dye in the resin to allow for the desired appearance after the manufacturing process. - In one embodiment, the lamè further includes an
electrical connector 192 that may be formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and then may be metal plated and/or metal coated. In another embodiment, theelectrical connector 192 is formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and not metal plated and/or metal coated. -
FIG. 18 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Asnowboard 200 is shown. Thesnowboard 200 includes asheet 202 of conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host and having atop surface 205 and abottom surface 207. Thetop surface 205 is adapted to support an operator. Thebottom surface 207 is adapted for sliding. Thetop surface 205 may includebindings 204 adapted to couple to operator boots, not shown. In various embodiments, thesheet 202, or board platform, or thebindings 204, or both, for thesnowboard 200 are formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. Thesnowboard 200 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, to allow the flexibility desired to maneuver down the hill. The choice of the base resin is selected from any number of resins capable of providing the tensile strength needed for thesnowboard 200. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the
board platform 202 is molded with an outer layer of a non-conductive resin-based material by for example co-extrusion. The outer layer resin-based material is chosen from any number of resins that will provide thebottom 207 of thesnowboard 200 with an extremely non-porous slippery surface. In another embodiment, theboard platform 202 is formed entirely of the conductively doped resin-based material without an additional outer layer. -
FIG. 19 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Askateboard 210 is shown. Theskateboard 210 includes asheet 212, or board platform, of conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host and having atop surface 215 and abottom surface 217. Thetop surface 215 is adapted to support an operator. Thebottom surface 217 includeswheels 218. In various embodiments, theboard platform 212 or thewheels 218, or both, for theskateboard 210 are formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. Theskateboard 210 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, to allow the flexibility desired to maneuver. The choice of the base resin is selected from any number of resins capable of providing the tensile strength needed for theskateboard 210. -
FIG. 20 illustrates one example of sporting equipment devices depicting one embodiment of the invention.Snow skis 220 andski poles 230 are shown. Thesnow skis 220 includes asheet 222 of conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host and having atop surface 225 and abottom surface 227. The top surface 22 is adapted to support an operator. The bottom surface 2207 is adapted for sliding. Thetop surface 225 may includebindings 224 adapted to couple to operator boots, not shown. In various embodiments, thesheet 222, or board platform, or thebindings 224, or both, for thesnow skis 220 are formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. Thesnowboard 220 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material is preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, to allow the flexibility desired to maneuver down the hill. The choice of the base resin is selected from any number of resins capable of providing the tensile strength needed for thesnow skis 220. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the
board platform 222 is molded with an outer layer of a non-conductive resin-based material by for example co-extrusion. The outer layer resin-based material is chosen from any number of resins that will provide thebottom 207 of thesnow skis 220 with an extremely non-porous slippery surface. In another embodiment, theboard platform 222 is formed entirely of the conductively doped resin-based material without an additional outer layer. - The
ski poles 230 includes anoperator handle 233 attached to astriking surface 235. Typical ski pole construction utilizes light weight carbon fiber or aluminum shafts. However, in one embodiment of the present invention, theski poles 230 are molded from the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention and then may be metal coated and/or metal plated. In another embodiment, theski poles 230 are molded from the conductively doped resin-based material and are not metal plated and/or metal coated. Theski poles 230 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material are preferably formed to the desired shape with a percent conductive loading, by weight, to give it the desired rigidity needed by the skier. -
FIG. 21 illustrates one example of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Ahockey puck 250 is shown. Thehockey puck 250 includes abody 252 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material. In addition, the hockey puck may include anantenna 254 formed of the conductively doped resin-based material and coupled to a wireless transmitter/receiver, not shown, to be placed in the core of thepuck 250. A wide variety of antenna structures are easily formed of the conductively doped resin-based material of the present invention. Monopole, dipole, geometric shapes, 2D, 3D, 4D, 5D, isotropic structures, planar, inverted F, PIFA, and the like, are all within the scope of the present invention. Theantenna 254 design can be molded by, for example, injection molding. The moldedantenna 254 shape determines the resonant frequency response of the antenna. The internal transmitting/receiving device in thepuck 250 sends a signal to a positioning receiving sensor inside a television camera and focuses the camera on thepuck 250 during play. -
FIGS. 22-24 illustrate one example of a part of a sporting equipment device and method of manufacture depicting one embodiment of the invention. An operator handle for a sporting equipment device, and a method of manufacture, are illustrated. In particular, inFIG. 22 shows anoperator handle 300 at a preliminary step in manufacture. A bundled 310 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber is shown. The micron conductive fiber is further illustrated inFIG. 23 which shown a cross section of thebundle 310 ofFIG. 22 taken along lines 23-23. Thebundle 310 may have a relatively circularcross-sectional shape 320, for example. Alternatively, thebundle 310cross-sectional shape 320 may be any shape, may have a hollow interior to the shape, or may be amorphous. Alternatively, the continuous strands of micronconductive fiber 310 may be woven or webbed together. The micronconductive fiber 310 may be metal, such as stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof. The micronconductive fiber 310 may be a non-metal fiber that is metal plated, such as metal plated carbon fiber. Referring now toFIG. 24 , the continuous strands of micron conductive fiber is molded with a resin-basedmaterial 330 to complete theoperator handle 300. Preferably, the resin-based material is molded underpressure 340 to force the resin-based material to thoroughly wet the strands of micronconductive fiber 310. Molding may be, for example, by injection molding resin-basedmaterial 330 on thebundle 310 of continuous micronconductive fiber 310 inserted into a mold. Alternatively, the resin-basedmaterial 330 may be extruded onto the continuous strands of micronconductive fiber 310. The resulting operator handle 300 may be used in any sporting equipment application including, but not limited to, golf clubs, racquets, hockey sticks, ski poles, and fishing poles. -
FIG. 25 illustrates one example one example of a part of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Another operator handle 350 for a sporting equipment device is shown. The operator handle 350 may included, for example, acore portion 352, abundle 354 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber surrounding thecore portion 352, and a resin-basedmaterial 356 molded onto thebundle 354. Thecore portion 352 may have a relatively circular cross-sectional shape, for example. Alternatively, thecore portion 352 cross-sectional shape may be any shape. Thecore portion 352 may be a resin-based material. Thebundle 354 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber may be woven or webbed together. The micron conductive fiber may be metal, such as stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof. The micron conductive fiber may be a non-metal fiber that is metal plated, such as metal plated carbon fiber. Thebundle 354 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber may be wrapped onto thecore 352 and further be twisted or radially turned about thecore 352. The resin-basedmaterial 356 may be molded under pressure to force the resin-basedmaterial 356 to thoroughly wet the strands of thebundle 354 of continuous micron conductive fiber. Molding may be, for example, by injection molding resin-basedmaterial 356 on a sub-assembly of thecore portion 352 and bundle 354 inserted into a mold. Alternatively, the resin-basedmaterial 356 may be extruded onto the sub-assembly of thecore portion 352 andbundle 354. The resulting operator handle 350 may be used in any sporting equipment application including, but not limited to, golf clubs, racquets, hockey sticks, ski poles, and fishing poles. -
FIG. 26 illustrates one example one example of a part of a sporting equipment device depicting one embodiment of the invention. Another operator handle 360 for a sporting equipment device is shown. The operator handle 360 may included, for example, a core portion including afirst bundle 366 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber molded with a resin-basedmaterial 362. Thecore portion core portion bundle 366 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber may be woven or webbed together. The micron conductive fiber may be metal, such as stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof. The micron conductive fiber may be a non-metal fiber that is metal plated, such as metal plated carbon fiber. Asecond bundle 364 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber may be wrapped onto thecore portion core portion second bundle 364 of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber may be woven or webbed together. The micron conductive fiber may be metal, such as stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof The micron conductive fiber may be a non-metal fiber that is metal plated, such as metal plated carbon fiber. A second resin-basedmaterial 368 may be molded under pressure to force the resin-basedmaterial 368 to thoroughly wet the strands of thesecond bundle 364 of continuous micron conductive fiber. Molding may be, for example, by injection molding resin-basedmaterial 368 onto thesecond bundle 364 inserted into a mold. Alternatively, the resin-basedmaterial 368 may be extruded onto thesecond bundle 364. The resulting operator handle 360 may be used in any sporting equipment application including, but not limited to, golf clubs, racquets, hockey sticks, ski poles, and fishing poles. - The conductively doped resin-based material typically comprises a micron powder(s) of conductor particles and/or in combination of micron fiber(s) substantially homogenized within a base resin host.
FIG. 2 shows a cross section view of an example of conductively doped resin-basedmaterial 32 having powder ofconductor particles 34 in abase resin host 30. In this example the diameter D of theconductor particles 34 in the powder is between about 3 and 12 microns. -
FIG. 3 shows a cross section view of an example of conductively doped resin-basedmaterial 36 havingconductor fibers 38 in abase resin host 30. Theconductor fibers 38 have a diameter of between about 3 and 12 microns, typically in the range of 10 microns or between about 8 and 12 microns, and a length of between about 2 and 14 millimeters. The micronconductive fibers 38 may be metal fiber or metal plated fiber. Further, the metal plated fiber may be formed by plating metal onto a metal fiber or by plating metal onto a non-metal fiber. Exemplary metal fibers include, but are not limited to, stainless steel fiber, copper fiber, nickel fiber, silver fiber, aluminum fiber, nichrome fiber, or the like, or combinations thereof. Exemplary metal plating materials include, but are not limited to, copper, nickel, cobalt, silver, gold, palladium, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, and nichrome, and alloys of thereof. Any platable fiber may be used as the core for a non-metal fiber. Exemplary non-metal fibers include, but are not limited to, carbon, graphite, polyester, basalt, man-made and naturally-occurring materials, and the like. In addition, superconductor metals, such as titanium, nickel, niobium, and zirconium, and alloys of titanium, nickel, niobium, and zirconium may also be used as micron conductive fibers and/or as metal plating onto fibers in the present invention. - These conductor particles and/or fibers are substantially homogenized within a base resin. As previously mentioned, the conductively doped resin-based materials have a sheet resistance of less than about 5 to more than about 25 ohms per square, though other values can be achieved by varying the doping parameters and/or resin selection. To realize this sheet resistance the weight of the conductor material comprises between about 20% and about 50% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material. More preferably, the weight of the conductive material comprises between about 20% and about 40% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material. More preferably yet, the weight of the conductive material comprises between about 25% and about 35% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material. Still more preferably yet, the weight of the conductive material comprises about 30% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material. Stainless Steel Fiber of 6-12 micron in diameter and lengths of 4-6 mm and comprising, by weight, about 30% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material will produce a very highly conductive parameter, efficient within any EMF, thermal, acoustic, or electronic spectrum.
- In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the conductive doping is determined using a volume percentage. In a most preferred embodiment, the conductive doping comprises a volume of between about 4% and about 10% of the total volume of the conductively doped resin-based material. In a less preferred embodiment, the conductive doping comprises a volume of between about 1% and about 50% of the total volume of the conductively doped resin-based material though the properties of the base resin may be impacted by high percent volume doping.
- Referring now to
FIG. 4 , another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the conductive materials comprise a combination of bothconductive powders 34 and micronconductive fibers 38 substantially homogenized together within theresin base 30 during a molding process. - Referring now to
FIGS. 5 a and 5 b , a preferred composition of the conductively doped, resin-based material is illustrated. The conductively doped resin-based material can be formed into fibers or textiles that are then woven or webbed into a conductive fabric. The conductively doped resin-based material is formed in strands that can be woven as shown.FIG. 5 a shows aconductive fabric 42 where the fibers are woven together in a two-dimensional weave FIG. 5 b shows aconductive fabric 42′ where the fibers are formed in a webbed arrangement. In the webbed arrangement, one or more continuous strands of the conductive fiber are nested in a random fashion. The resulting conductive fabrics ortextiles 42, seeFIG. 5 a, and 42′, seeFIG. 5 b, can be made very thin, thick, rigid, flexible or in solid form(s). - Similarly, a conductive, but cloth-like, material can be formed using woven or webbed micron stainless steel fibers, or other micron conductive fibers. These woven or webbed conductive cloths could also be sandwich laminated to one or more layers of materials such as Polyester(s), Teflon(s), Kevlar(s) or any other desired resin-based material(s). This conductive fabric may then be cut into desired shapes and sizes.
- Articles formed from conductively doped resin-based materials can be formed or molded in a number of different ways including injection molding, extrusion, calendaring, compression molding, thermoset molding, or chemically induced molding or forming.
FIG. 6 a shows a simplified schematic diagram of an injection mold showing alower portion 54 andupper portion 58 of themold 50. Conductively doped resin-based material is injected into themold cavity 64 through aninjection opening 60 and then the substantially homogenized conductive material cures by thermal reaction. Theupper portion 58 andlower portion 54 of the mold are then separated or parted and the articles are removed. -
FIG. 6 b shows a simplified schematic diagram of anextruder 70 for forming articles using extrusion. Conductively doped resin-based material(s) is placed in thehopper 80 of theextrusion unit 74. A piston, screw, press orother means 78 is then used to force thermally molten, chemically-induced compression, or thermoset curing conductively doped resin-based material through anextrusion opening 82 which shapes the thermally molten curing or chemically induced cured conductively doped resin-based material to the desired shape. The conductively doped resin-based material is then fully cured by chemical reaction or thermal reaction to a hardened or pliable state and is ready for use. Thermoplastic or thermosetting resin-based materials and associated processes may be used in molding the conductively doped resin-based articles of the present invention. - Accordingly, many advantages of the above illustrated described structure will be recognized by those ordinary skilled in the art. As such, a sporting equipment device is disclosed with excellent performance including tunable frequency, trampoline response, low cost of manufacture, durability, and low weight. In addition, antenna devices or conductive sensing may be integrated into the device due to the conductivity of the conductively doped resin-based material.
- The above detailed description of the invention, and the examples described therein, has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. While the principles of the invention have been described above in connection with a specific device, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as a limitation on the scope of the invention.
Claims (38)
1. A sporting equipment device comprising:
an operator handle; and
a striking surface operatively coupled to the operator handle wherein the striking surface comprises a conductively doped, resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host.
2. The device according to claim 1 wherein the percent by weight of the micron conductive fiber is between about 20% and about 50% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material.
3. The device according to claim 1 wherein the conductively doped, resin-based material further comprises conductive powder.
4. The device according to claim 1 wherein the micron conductive fiber is metal.
5. The device according to claim 1 wherein the micron conductive fiber is a non-metal material with metal plating.
6. The device according to claim 1 wherein the micron conductive fiber is metal plated carbon micron fiber, stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof.
7. The device according to claim 1 further comprising a metal layer overlying the conductively doped resin-based material.
8. The device according to claim 1 wherein the operator handle comprises the conductively doped resin-based material.
9. A sporting equipment device comprising:
an operator handle wherein the operator handle comprises a conductively doped, resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host; and
a striking surface operatively coupled to the operator handle.
10. The device according to claim 9 wherein the percent by weight of the micron conductive fiber is between about 20% and about 50% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material.
11. The device according to claim 9 wherein the conductively doped, resin-based material further comprises conductive powder.
12. The device according to claim 9 wherein the micron conductive fiber is metal.
13. The device according to claim 9 wherein the micron conductive fiber is a non-metal material with metal plating.
14. The device according to claim 9 further comprising a metal layer overlying the conductively doped resin-based material.
15. The device according to claim 9 wherein the conductive materials are metal plated carbon micron fiber, stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof.
16. A sporting equipment device comprising a structure adapted to covering at least a part of a human body wherein the structure comprises conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host.
17. The device according to claim 16 wherein the percent by weight of the micron conductive fiber is between about 20% and about 50% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material.
18. The device according to claim 16 wherein the conductively doped, resin-based material further comprises conductive powder.
19. The device according to claim 16 wherein the micron conductive fiber is metal.
20. The device according to claim 16 wherein the micron conductive fiber is a non-metal material with metal plating.
21. The device according to claim 16 further comprising a metal layer overlying the conductively doped resin-based material.
22. The device according to claim 16 wherein the conductive materials are metal plated carbon micron fiber, stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof.
23. The device according to claim 16 wherein the part of the human body is the human head.
24. The device according to claim 16 further comprising an antenna comprising the conductively doped resin-based material and operatively coupled to the structure.
25. A sporting equipment device comprising a sheet of conductively doped resin-based material comprising micron conductive fiber in a base resin host and having a top surface and a bottom surface wherein the top surface is adapted to support an operator and wherein the bottom surface is adapted for sliding.
26. The device according to claim 25 wherein the percent by weight of the micron conductive fiber is between about 20% and about 50% of the total weight of the conductively doped resin-based material.
27. The device according to claim 25 wherein the micron conductive fiber is metal.
28. The device according to claim 25 wherein the micron conductive fiber is a non-metal material with metal plating.
29. The device according to claim 25 further comprising a metal layer overlying the conductively doped resin-based material.
30. The device according to claim 25 wherein the conductive materials are metal plated carbon micron fiber, stainless steel micron fiber, copper micron fiber, silver micron fiber or combinations thereof.
31. The device according to claim 25 further comprising at least one wheel operatively coupled to the sheet.
32. A sporting equipment device comprising:
an operator handle wherein the operator handle comprises a plurality of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber molded into a resin-based material; and
a striking surface operatively coupled to the operator handle.
33. The device according to claim 34 wherein the micron conductive fiber is metal.
34. The device according to claim 34 wherein the micron conductive fiber is a non-metal material with metal plating.
35. The device according to claim 34 wherein the plurality of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber are webbed or woven together.
36. The device according to claim 34 wherein the plurality of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber are oriented in the longitudinal direction of the operator handle.
37. The device according to claim 34 wherein the operator handle further comprises a core portion wherein the plurality of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber surround the core portion.
38. The device according to claim 34 wherein the operator handle further comprises a second plurality of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber surrounding the plurality of continuous strands of micron conductive fiber molded into a resin-based material.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/496,098 US20060287126A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2006-07-29 | Sporting equipment manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials |
Applications Claiming Priority (8)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US26882201P | 2001-02-15 | 2001-02-15 | |
US26941401P | 2001-02-16 | 2001-02-16 | |
US31780801P | 2001-09-07 | 2001-09-07 | |
US10/075,778 US6741221B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2002-02-14 | Low cost antennas using conductive plastics or conductive composites |
US10/309,429 US6870516B2 (en) | 2001-02-16 | 2002-12-04 | Low cost antennas using conductive plastics or conductive composites |
US10/877,092 US20040233112A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2004-06-25 | Low cost antennas using conductive plastics or conductive composites |
US70403605P | 2005-07-29 | 2005-07-29 | |
US11/496,098 US20060287126A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2006-07-29 | Sporting equipment manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/877,092 Continuation-In-Part US20040233112A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2004-06-25 | Low cost antennas using conductive plastics or conductive composites |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060287126A1 true US20060287126A1 (en) | 2006-12-21 |
Family
ID=37574126
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/496,098 Abandoned US20060287126A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2006-07-29 | Sporting equipment manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20060287126A1 (en) |
Cited By (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070270237A1 (en) * | 2006-05-22 | 2007-11-22 | Nike, Inc. | Golf clubs prepared with basalt fiber |
FR2932392A1 (en) * | 2008-06-13 | 2009-12-18 | Jean Remy Bouvier | Table tennis racket, has handle integrally formed by piece forming stick blade, where piece is made of composite material constituted of carbon fibers impregnated with curable synthetic resin i.e. epoxy resin |
US20110036724A1 (en) * | 2007-03-20 | 2011-02-17 | Dhananjay Bhatt | Baseball and softball bats with fused nano-structured metals and alloys |
US20120046119A1 (en) * | 2008-10-09 | 2012-02-23 | Golf Impact Llc | Golf Swing Measurement and Analysis System |
US20120278048A1 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2012-11-01 | Seiji Hayase | Method for predicting modal damping ratio of composite head |
US8348770B2 (en) | 2010-07-07 | 2013-01-08 | Jeffrey Shawn Hart | Scoring machine |
US8430765B1 (en) * | 2008-12-16 | 2013-04-30 | Callaway Golf Company | Reduced turf drag golf club head |
US20130267394A1 (en) * | 2012-04-06 | 2013-10-10 | Bart Duke | Flexible Exercise Device |
US20160144601A1 (en) * | 2013-07-09 | 2016-05-26 | United Technologies Corporation | Reinforced plated polymers |
US20160175684A1 (en) * | 2014-12-22 | 2016-06-23 | Jamidon Ltd | Face protection grill including at least one wire |
US9604118B2 (en) | 2008-10-09 | 2017-03-28 | Golf Impact, Llc | Golf club distributed impact sensor system for detecting impact of a golf ball with a club face |
US20170259154A1 (en) * | 2016-03-08 | 2017-09-14 | Jerome Glasser | Electrically conductive mask-lame connector for sport fencing |
US10143262B2 (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2018-12-04 | Markus HARML | Anti-static sports equipment, sports system having an anti-static function and sports clothing system for a sports system |
US10702753B2 (en) * | 2018-11-08 | 2020-07-07 | Easton Diamond Sports, Llc | Strengthening ball bats and other composite structures with nano-additives |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4754975A (en) * | 1986-06-20 | 1988-07-05 | Daiwa Golf Co., Ltd. | Iron club head |
US5154425A (en) * | 1990-10-19 | 1992-10-13 | Lanxide Technology Company, Lp | Composite golf club head |
US5242168A (en) * | 1991-07-09 | 1993-09-07 | Daiwa Golf Co., Ltd. | Golf club head |
US5425538A (en) * | 1991-07-11 | 1995-06-20 | Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. | Golf club head having a fiber-based composite impact wall |
US5472201A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1995-12-05 | Daiwa Golf Co., Ltd. | Golf club head and striking face |
US6354963B1 (en) * | 1998-04-10 | 2002-03-12 | Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd. | Golf club head |
-
2006
- 2006-07-29 US US11/496,098 patent/US20060287126A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4754975A (en) * | 1986-06-20 | 1988-07-05 | Daiwa Golf Co., Ltd. | Iron club head |
US5154425A (en) * | 1990-10-19 | 1992-10-13 | Lanxide Technology Company, Lp | Composite golf club head |
US5242168A (en) * | 1991-07-09 | 1993-09-07 | Daiwa Golf Co., Ltd. | Golf club head |
US5425538A (en) * | 1991-07-11 | 1995-06-20 | Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. | Golf club head having a fiber-based composite impact wall |
US5472201A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1995-12-05 | Daiwa Golf Co., Ltd. | Golf club head and striking face |
US6354963B1 (en) * | 1998-04-10 | 2002-03-12 | Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd. | Golf club head |
Cited By (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
AU2007268213B2 (en) * | 2006-05-22 | 2011-05-12 | Nike Innovate C.V. | Golf clubs prepared with basalt fiber |
US20070270237A1 (en) * | 2006-05-22 | 2007-11-22 | Nike, Inc. | Golf clubs prepared with basalt fiber |
US20110036724A1 (en) * | 2007-03-20 | 2011-02-17 | Dhananjay Bhatt | Baseball and softball bats with fused nano-structured metals and alloys |
FR2932392A1 (en) * | 2008-06-13 | 2009-12-18 | Jean Remy Bouvier | Table tennis racket, has handle integrally formed by piece forming stick blade, where piece is made of composite material constituted of carbon fibers impregnated with curable synthetic resin i.e. epoxy resin |
US9604118B2 (en) | 2008-10-09 | 2017-03-28 | Golf Impact, Llc | Golf club distributed impact sensor system for detecting impact of a golf ball with a club face |
US20120046119A1 (en) * | 2008-10-09 | 2012-02-23 | Golf Impact Llc | Golf Swing Measurement and Analysis System |
US20140148261A1 (en) * | 2008-10-09 | 2014-05-29 | Golf Impact, Llc | Golf Swing Measurement and Analysis System |
US9968839B2 (en) | 2008-10-09 | 2018-05-15 | Golf Impact, Llc | Golf swing measurement and analysis system |
US8430765B1 (en) * | 2008-12-16 | 2013-04-30 | Callaway Golf Company | Reduced turf drag golf club head |
US8348770B2 (en) | 2010-07-07 | 2013-01-08 | Jeffrey Shawn Hart | Scoring machine |
US20120278048A1 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2012-11-01 | Seiji Hayase | Method for predicting modal damping ratio of composite head |
US8849635B2 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2014-09-30 | Sri Sports Limited | Method for predicting modal damping ratio of composite head |
US20130267394A1 (en) * | 2012-04-06 | 2013-10-10 | Bart Duke | Flexible Exercise Device |
US20160144601A1 (en) * | 2013-07-09 | 2016-05-26 | United Technologies Corporation | Reinforced plated polymers |
US10143262B2 (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2018-12-04 | Markus HARML | Anti-static sports equipment, sports system having an anti-static function and sports clothing system for a sports system |
US20160175684A1 (en) * | 2014-12-22 | 2016-06-23 | Jamidon Ltd | Face protection grill including at least one wire |
US20170259154A1 (en) * | 2016-03-08 | 2017-09-14 | Jerome Glasser | Electrically conductive mask-lame connector for sport fencing |
US10702753B2 (en) * | 2018-11-08 | 2020-07-07 | Easton Diamond Sports, Llc | Strengthening ball bats and other composite structures with nano-additives |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20060287126A1 (en) | Sporting equipment manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials | |
EP2322254B1 (en) | Golf club head or other ball striking device with discrete regions of different density | |
US7771289B2 (en) | Sports articles formed using nanostructured materials | |
US9616600B2 (en) | Hockey stick | |
US7658663B2 (en) | Low cost electronic toys and toy components manufactured from conductive loaded resin-based materials | |
US6849003B2 (en) | Golf club head | |
US20060208383A1 (en) | Low cost magnets and magnetic devices manufactured from ferromagnetic conductively doped resin-based materials | |
AU2007268213B2 (en) | Golf clubs prepared with basalt fiber | |
US20060174753A1 (en) | Musical instruments and components manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials | |
US8133134B2 (en) | Golf club face having encapsulated tuned structure | |
US6273827B1 (en) | Golf putter head | |
CA2861583A1 (en) | Article with protective sheath | |
US20060137688A1 (en) | Medical devices manufactured from conductively doped resin-based materials | |
KR101668926B1 (en) | Golf clubs and golf club heads having adjustable characteristics | |
DE69025588T3 (en) | SPORTING GOODS AND SHOCK ABSORBING MATERIAL IN IT | |
JPH11285550A (en) | Shaft set | |
JPWO2007080912A1 (en) | Exercise equipment and method for manufacturing exercise equipment | |
US8075418B2 (en) | Energy absorbing device for sporting equipment |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |