US20130344976A1 - Golf club head having a weight positioning system - Google Patents
Golf club head having a weight positioning system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130344976A1 US20130344976A1 US13/905,782 US201313905782A US2013344976A1 US 20130344976 A1 US20130344976 A1 US 20130344976A1 US 201313905782 A US201313905782 A US 201313905782A US 2013344976 A1 US2013344976 A1 US 2013344976A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- club head
- golf club
- canceled
- slot
- weight member
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- 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
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- 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
- A63B53/06—Heads adjustable
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- 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
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- 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
- A63B60/52—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like with slits
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- 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
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- 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
- A63B53/0458—Heads with non-uniform thickness of the impact face plate
Definitions
- the present invention relates to golf club heads. More particularly, the invention concerns an iron-type golf club head having a weight positioning system for modifying a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- a golf club head generally includes a substantially planar contact area for engaging a golf ball and propelling the golf ball in an intended direction.
- One factor that determines whether the golf ball is propelled in the intended direction relates to a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- the center of gravity When the center of gravity is positioned behind the point of engagement on the contact surface, the golf ball follows a generally straight route.
- the center of gravity When the center of gravity is positioned to a side of the point of engagement, however, the golf ball may follow a route that curves left or right, which is often referred to as a hook or a slice.
- the route of the golf ball may exhibit a boring or climbing trajectory.
- the above-mentioned need in the prior art is satisfied by the golf club head of the present invention.
- the golf club head of the present invention may include a weight positioning system where the center of gravity is adjustable.
- a golf club head may include a heel, a toe, and a body that extends between the toe and the heel.
- the golf club head body may further include a striking face, a slotted member and a gap therebetween.
- the striking face provides a contact area for engaging a golf ball.
- the slotted member provides a weight positioning system including a network of slots and one or more weight members. The weight positioning system is configured to vary the position of a center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
- a golf club head for an iron-type club includes a striking face, a slotted member and a first weight member.
- the striking face has a surface configured to engage a golf ball.
- the slotted member is positioned behind the striking face.
- the slotted member includes a slot network having at least two intersecting slots and at least three ends.
- the first weight member slidably engages the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
- the golf club head includes a striking face that provides a contact area for engaging a golf ball and a rear cavity opposite the striking face.
- a slotted member extends across and encloses the rear cavity.
- the slotted member has at least two slots intersecting at a first slot intersection.
- a weight member slidably engages the slotted member. The weight member is movable along a first slot to vary a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- a set of iron golf clubs includes a plurality of increasing numbered iron golf clubs.
- Each of the numbered iron golf clubs includes a golf club head as disclosed herein.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a golf club having a golf club head.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3A illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member in accordance with certain aspects.
- FIG. 3B illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member and a weight member in accordance with certain aspects.
- FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a weight member in a slot of a slotted member as taken through section IV-IV of FIG. 3B .
- FIG. 5A illustrates an additional rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member having a slot network configuration in accordance with certain aspects.
- FIG. 5B illustrates a further rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member having a slot network configuration in accordance with certain aspects.
- FIG. 5C illustrates a further rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member having a slot network configuration in accordance with certain aspects.
- FIG. 6A illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects.
- FIG. 6B illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects.
- FIG. 6C illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects.
- FIG. 6D illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects.
- FIG. 6E illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects.
- Each golf club includes a golf club head with a weight positioning system for varying a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- an embodiment of a golf club 10 includes a shaft 12 and a golf club head 14 .
- the golf club head 14 of FIG. 1 may be representative of an iron golf club head of the present invention.
- the shaft 12 of golf club 10 may be made of various materials such as steel, titanium, graphite, or a composite material.
- a grip 16 may be positioned on the shaft 12 to provide a golfer with a slip resistant surface on which to grasp golf club 10 .
- the golf club head 14 comprises a body 15 that includes a heel 21 and toe 23 , the body 15 extending between the heel 21 and the toe 23 .
- a hosel 22 is provided for connecting the shaft 12 of FIG. 1 to the golf club head 14 .
- the body 15 also includes a top portion 24 and a sole portion 25 .
- a striking face 26 extends between the top portion 24 and the sole portion 25 and between the toe 23 and the heel 21 .
- the striking face 26 provides a contact area for engaging and propelling a golf ball in an intended direction.
- the striking face 26 may include grooves 27 for the removal of water and grass from the striking face 26 and/or for gripping the golf ball. As shown in FIG.
- body 15 may include a frame 28 extending rearwardly from the striking face 26 and at least partially around the perimeter of striking face 26 .
- the body 15 of golf club head 14 may be constructed of various materials such as steel, titanium, aluminum, tungsten, graphite, polymers, plastics or composites.
- body 15 which extends between heel 21 and toe 23 , may be divided into three regions: a heel region 15 a, a central region 15 b and a toe region 15 c.
- the heel region 15 a, the central region 15 b and the toe region 15 c may each comprise one-third of a total length (L) of body 15 .
- these three regions 15 a, 15 b, 15 c may be further subdivided into upper, mid and lower regions.
- the club head 14 has a center of gravity (CG 0 ) located at a height (h CG ).
- CG-zone i.e., a region within ⁇ 20% of h CG , may be defined as a mid-region.
- golf club head 14 may include a slotted member 30 positioned behind the striking face 26 (see FIG. 2 ). Slotted member 30 may extend from the heel 21 to the toe 23 . Slotted member 30 may also extend from the top 24 to the sole 25 . Further, slotted member 30 may be positioned within the frame 28 .
- Slotted member 30 is provided with an outward (rearward) facing surface 31 .
- slotted member 30 may be formed as a plate, i.e., having length and height dimensions that are significantly greater than a thickness dimensions.
- Outward facing surface 31 of slotted member 30 may be substantially planar or it may have a slight concave or convex curvature.
- Slotted member 30 may have a perimeter 33 that complementarily matches the shape of frame 28 .
- perimeter 33 of slotted member 30 need not have the same shape as frame 28 .
- slotted member 30 may be made of various shapes such as rectangle, oval, triangle, trapezoid, square or other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes. Further, slotted member 30 may have a non-uniform thickness across its length and/or its width.
- Slotted member 30 may be integrally formed with the golf club head 14 .
- slotted member 30 and body 15 may be formed in a single casting.
- slotted member 30 may be connected to the frame 28 via welding, brazing, interference fit, clamping, threaded fasteners, adhesives.
- Slotted member 30 may be attached to the body 15 of club head 14 in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.
- slotted member 30 may be detachably attached to body 15 , or alternatively, slotted member 30 may be permanently attached to body 15 .
- slotted member 30 includes one or more slots 32 .
- Slots 32 are typically formed as elongated, relatively narrow openings extending in the length and/or height directions of slotted member 30 . Slots 32 may extend through the thickness of slotted member 30 .
- a slot 32 is defined as a single option pathway, i.e., a slot provides only one option for moving “forward” (and, conversely, one option for moving “backward”). In other words, along a single option pathway, i.e., along a slot, one can move forward or backward only.
- a plurality of slots 32 may be interconnected, so as to form a slot network 34 .
- Slot network 34 may be formed by at least two intersecting slots 32 .
- an intersection of slots occurs where more than one option for moving “forward” is provided.
- moving “forward” at an intersection encompasses any direction of moving other than moving back along the portion of slot that brought one to the intersection.
- slot network 34 includes a first slot 32 a, a second slot 32 b and a third slot 32 c.
- First slot 32 a extends generally from the heel 21 toward the toe 23 in a straight line. In this particular embodiment, first slot 32 a extends substantially parallel to the ground (when the club is in a 60° address position). Further, in this particular embodiment, first slot 32 a is approximately positioned in the mid-region (i.e., within ⁇ 20% of the height (h CG ) of the center of gravity (CG 0 )).
- Second slot 32 b extends from a central portion of slotted member 30 (and from an interior portion of first slot 32 a ) to an upper toe region of club head 14 .
- Second slot 32 b extends from first slot 32 a at an angle to first slot 32 a.
- Third slot 32 c extends from a substantially central portion (slightly offset to the heel-side of club head 14 ) of slotted member 30 (and from an interior portion of a heel-side half of first slot 32 a ) to a lower heel region of club head 14 .
- Third slot 32 c also extends from first slot 32 a at an angle to first slot 32 a.
- second slot 32 b and third slot 32 c are not aligned with one another. Further, in this particular embodiment, second slot 32 b and third slot 32 c extend at differing angles from first slot 32 a.
- Slot network 34 is formed by intersecting slots 32 a, 32 b and 32 c. Further, slot network 34 is provided with a first intersection 34 a and a second intersection 34 b. First intersection 34 a occurs where slot 32 a and slot 32 c join one another. Second intersection 34 b occurs where slot 32 a and slot 32 b join one another.
- slot network 34 may be provided with four ends 36 . Specifically, a first end 36 a may be located in a lower heel region; a second end 36 b may be located in a heel region; a third end 36 c may be located in a toe region; and a fourth end 36 d may be located in an upper toe region. Even further, second end 36 b and third end 36 c may be located within the mid-region ( ⁇ h).
- FIGS. 5 A— 5 C illustrate three example embodiments.
- slot network 34 includes a first slot 32 a and a second slot 32 b.
- First slot 32 a extends generally from the heel 21 toward the toe 23 in a straight line.
- First slot 32 a is generally located with the mid-region ( ⁇ h).
- Second slot 32 b extends from a central portion of slotted member 30 and from a central portion of first slot 32 a to an upper toe region of club head 14 .
- Second slot 32 b extends from first slot 32 a at an angle to first slot 32 a.
- slot network 34 of the embodiment of FIG. 5A is formed by intersecting slots 32 a and 32 b. Further, slot network 34 of the embodiment of FIG. 5A is provided with a first intersection 34 a. First intersection 34 a occurs where slot 32 a and slot 32 b join one another. Alternatively, first intersection 34 a may be considered to be located where an item moving along slot 32 a is provided with two alternative pathways: continue along slot 32 a or turn onto slot 32 b. Even further, still referring to the embodiment of FIG. 5A , slot network 34 is provided with three ends 36 .
- FIG. 5A illustrates straight slots 32 .
- slot network 34 includes a first slot 32 a, a second slot 32 b and a third slot 32 c.
- First slot 32 a extends generally from the lower heel region toward the upper toe region in a straight line.
- Second slot 32 b extends from a central portion of slotted member 30 (and from an interior portion of first slot 32 a ) to an upper heel region of club head 14 .
- Second slot 32 b is curved.
- Third slot 32 c extends from a central region of slotted member (and from an interior portion of first slot 32 a ) to a lower toe region.
- Third slot 32 c is also curved.
- Slot network 34 of the embodiment of FIG. 5B is formed by intersecting slots 32 a, 32 b and 32 c.
- This slot network 34 includes first and second intersections 34 a, 34 b. Even further and still referring to the embodiment of FIG. 5A , slot network 34 is provided with four ends 36 . Specifically, a first end 36 a is located in a lower heel region; a second end 36 b is located in upper heel region; a third end 36 c is located in the lower toe region; and a fourth end 36 d is located in an upper toe region.
- FIG. 5C illustrates curved slots 32 a and 32 b.
- Slot 32 a extends from heel region to toe region with a concave downward curvature.
- slot 32 a extends from lower heel region to lower toe region.
- Slot 32 b extends from upper heel region to upper toe region with a concave upward curvature.
- Slots 32 a and 32 b tangentially converge and overlap in the central region of slotted member 30 .
- First and second intersections 34 a, 34 b are formed at this overlapped region.
- the slot network 34 of FIG. 5C is provided with four ends 36 .
- a first end 36 a is located in a lower heel region; a second end 36 b is located in upper heel region; a third end 36 c is located in the lower toe region; and a fourth end 36 d is located in an upper toe region.
- slot 32 includes a sliding surface 35 .
- Sliding surface 35 may be provided as a separate element (for example, an elastomeric edging) that is attached to slots 32 .
- sliding surface may be provided as a coating.
- Sliding surface 35 may be formed of the same or a different material from the rest of slotted member 30 .
- slotted member 30 may be constructed of various materials such as steel, titanium, aluminum, tungsten, graphite, polymers, plastics or composites, and sliding surface 35 may include a low friction polymer coating.
- sliding surface 35 is integrally formed with slot 32 .
- sliding surface 35 may be provided with a finer surface finish than the surrounding portions of slot 32 .
- a cavity or gap 29 may be formed between slotted member 30 and the back surface of striking face 26 .
- slotted member 30 may be offset from the back surface of striking face 26 .
- Gap 29 may be visible through slot 32 (see FIG. 3A ). Further, gap 29 may be completely enclosed, with the exception of the slot openings. In other words, in some embodiments, the only access to gap 29 may be via slot network 34 .
- slotted member 30 may accommodate a weight member 40 configured for movement along slot 32 .
- weight member 40 may include a shank 42 configured to slidingly engage slot 32 .
- a sliding axis 43 of weight member 40 may be coincident with a longitudinal axis of the shank 42 .
- Weight portions 44 may be located on either end (or both ends) of shank 42 and on either side (or both sides) (outward facing or inward facing) of slotted member 30 .
- weight member 40 has a majority of its mass located on the side of slotted member 30 that is opposite to an outward facing surface 31 .
- weight member 40 is securely positioned behind slotted member 30 and is less visually obvious.
- Other configurations of weight member 40 may be provided.
- weight member 40 may be provided as a multiple subcomponents (i.e., inner shank portion, outer shank portion, inner weight portion, outer weight portion, etc.) that are subsequently assembly to form weight member 40 .
- weight member 40 may include a locking or clamping feature 46 .
- Locking feature 46 fixes weight member 40 to slotted member 30 , such that weight member 40 no longer slides freely within slots 32 .
- a set screw within shank 42 may draw locking feature 46 and weight portions 44 positioned on opposite sides of slotted member 30 towards each other, such that slotted member 30 becomes clamped between the weight portions 44 and weight member 40 becomes immobile.
- Other configurations of locking feature 46 as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art given the benefits of this disclosure, may be provided.
- locking feature 46 may be a locking pin.
- weight member 40 may be made of various shapes such as rectangle, oval, triangle, trapezoid, square or other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes.
- Weight member 40 may be centered on its sliding axis 43 .
- weight member 40 need not be centered on its sliding axis.
- weight member 40 may be provided with an elliptical shape and the sliding axis extending through an end of the ellipse (as opposed to the center of the ellipse).
- Such an off-center, elliptical shaped weight member 40 may be rotated around its sliding axis 43 to vary the position of the center of gravity of golf club head 14 without having to slide the weight member 40 along slot 32 .
- This feature may be used to “fine tune” the mass properties of the club head 14 .
- rotating an off-center, elliptical shaped weight member 40 such that the bulk of the weight is above the sliding axis would raise the center of gravity of golf club head 14 .
- raising the center of gravity of golf club head 14 allows a golfer to propel a golf ball with a lower and more controlled trajectory.
- rotating and positioning the bulk of the off-center, elliptical shaped weight member 40 below the sliding axis lowers the center of gravity of golf club head 14 .
- Lowering the center of gravity of golf club head 14 generally allows a golfer to propel a golf ball with additional loft.
- Weight member 40 may also be made of various materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, titanium, aluminum, tungsten, graphite, polymers, plastics or composites. In addition, weight member 40 may be interchangeable with a plurality of alternative weights having different shapes and masses as compared to weight member 40 . Those skilled in the art will also realize that more than one weight member 40 may be attached to slotted member 30 .
- an individual holds grip 16 and swings golf club 10 such that golf club head 14 traverses a generally arcuate path and impacts a golf ball.
- a portion of the inertia of golf club 10 , and particularly the inertia of golf club head 14 is then transferred to the golf ball and propels the golf ball toward an intended target.
- the position of a center of gravity of head 14 has an influence upon whether the golf ball curves right, curves left, or follows a generally straight route. More specifically, the golf ball follows a generally straight route when the center of gravity is positioned behind the point of engagement on striking face 26 . When the center of gravity is positioned to one side of the point of engagement, however, the golf ball may follow a route that curves left or right.
- the position of the center of gravity of golf club head 14 also has an influence upon whether the golf ball exhibits a boring or climbing trajectory, depending upon whether the center of gravity is positioned above or below the point of engagement on striking face 26 .
- the golf ball may, for example, consistently curve right when, in fact, the individual intends to propel the golf ball along a straight route.
- Many conventional golf club heads have a center of gravity located at the striking face 26 .
- changing the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head 14 for different golf clubs may assist many golfers in squaring the club head face 14 upon impact with a golf ball.
- the positioning of the center of gravity off of the striking face 26 and towards the rear of the golf club head 14 may conform to the style and preferences of many golfers. Accordingly, these golfers may be able to correct or modify the route of the golf ball by using the golf club head 14 of the present invention as the center of gravity of golf club head 14 is repositioned with respect to striking face 26 as compared to other golf club heads.
- the center of gravity of golf club head 14 is defined as an equilibrium point.
- the center of gravity of golf club head 14 may be changed by altering the weight distribution of the golf club head 14 away from the striking face 26 . Altering the weight distribution of golf club head 14 may be accomplished with the use of slotted member 30 and weight member 40 of the present invention.
- Slotted member 30 and weight member 40 increase the weight of the back of the golf club head 14 relative to the striking face 26 of the golf club head 14 . This increase in weight towards the rear of golf club head 14 alters the center of gravity of golf club head 14 . By moving the center of gravity lower and towards the rear of the golf club head 14 , a golf shot will tend to have an increased loft upon impact. By moving the center of gravity higher and towards the rear of the golf club head 14 , a golf shot will tend to have a decreased loft upon impact.
- slotted member 30 and weight member 40 may also influence the location of the center of gravity of golf club head 14 .
- the center of gravity of golf club head 14 For example, on the longer iron clubs, two iron through five iron, it is desirable to have the center of gravity lower than on the shorter iron clubs. On the longer iron clubs, a lower center of gravity will assist a golfer with obtaining additional loft on their golf shot. Therefore, the slotted member 30 for longer iron clubs may be positioned lower on the rear of the golf club head body 14 as compared to a slotted member 30 on shorter iron clubs.
- Moving the center of gravity of golf club head 14 may be accomplished through the use of weight member 40 .
- Weight member 40 increases the weight of the back of the golf club head 14 relative to the striking face 26 .
- the increase in weight to the back of golf club head 14 relative to the striking face 26 alters the center of gravity of golf club head 14 .
- moving the center of gravity of golf club head 14 relative to the striking face 26 may help the golfer drive a golf ball to the left or right of the fairway.
- more than one weight member 40 may be provided with club head 14 for adjustable and slidable attachment to slotted member 30 .
- FIGS. 6 A— 6 E illustrate additional embodiments in which a plurality of weights 40 may be attached to a sliding member 30 in any number of configurations. Each of the plurality of weight members 40 may be independently moved to adjust the center of gravity of club head 14 . By moving weight members 40 to different locations on slot network 34 , as shown in FIGS. 6 A— 6 E, the position of the center of gravity of a golf club head with respect to the striking face is varied. Interestingly, any of the plurality of weight members 40 may be slidably positioned anywhere in slot network 34 without having to remove any of the other of the weight members 40 from the slot network. This is because, weight members that would otherwise be in the way, may be temporarily placed in a “side slot” such that the weight member of interest may be located where desired.
- FIG. 6A shows a first weight member 40 a located towards an upper toe region of golf club head 14 and a second weight member 40 b located towards a lower toe region of club head 14 .
- the location of weight members 40 a, 40 b towards the toe 23 will tend to drive a golf ball towards the right of a fairway.
- a first weight member 40 a is located towards an upper heel region of the golf club head 14 and a second weight member 40 b is located towards a lower heel region of club head 14 .
- the weight members 40 a, 40 b as depicted in FIG. 6B will tend to drive a golf ball toward the left of the fairway.
- a first weight member 40 a is fixed near upper toe region and a second weight member 40 b is fixed near the upper heel region of club head 14 .
- a first weight member 40 a is fixed near the center of club head 14 and a second weight member 40 b is fixed near the lower center portion of club head 14 .
- Such a weight distribution may tend to produce a balanced shot directing the golf ball along a straight route towards the middle of the fairway.
- a first weight member 40 a is fixed near the lower center portion of club head 14 and a second weight member 40 b is fixed near the lower heel region of club head 14 .
- weight members 40 may be positioned at set, incremental locations along slots 32 of slotted member 30 .
- weights members 40 may be continuously positionable along slots 32 .
- more than two weight members 40 may be moveably connected to slotted member 30 , thereby adding additional weight to back of the club head 14 and further shifting the position of the center of gravity of golf club head 14 .
- the first and second weight members 40 may have the same mass and the same shape. Alternatively, the first and second weight members 40 may have different masses and/or different shapes. A golfer utilizing the golf club head 14 may position the various weight members 40 in multiple various locations along slots 32 of slot network 34 . Weight members 40 may have individual masses ranging from 10 gm to 60 gm, from 10 gm to 50 gm, or even from 10 gm to 25 gm.
- Golf club heads 14 of the present invention may be incorporated into a set of iron golf clubs.
- the present invention may be used with a plurality of increasing numbered iron golf clubs such as a two iron, a three iron, a four iron, a five iron, a six iron, a seven iron, an eight iron, a nine iron, and a pitching wedge.
- a golfer may modify the position of center of gravity for each golf club to meet their unique requirements or playing style.
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Abstract
A golf club head for an iron-type club is provided. The club head includes a striking face, a slotted member and a first weight member. The striking face has a surface configured to engage a golf ball. The slotted member is positioned behind the striking face. The slotted member includes a slot network having at least two intersecting slots and at least three ends. The first weight member slidably engages the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/654,054, filed May 31, 2012, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention relates to golf club heads. More particularly, the invention concerns an iron-type golf club head having a weight positioning system for modifying a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- A golf club head generally includes a substantially planar contact area for engaging a golf ball and propelling the golf ball in an intended direction. One factor that determines whether the golf ball is propelled in the intended direction relates to a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head. When the center of gravity is positioned behind the point of engagement on the contact surface, the golf ball follows a generally straight route. When the center of gravity is positioned to a side of the point of engagement, however, the golf ball may follow a route that curves left or right, which is often referred to as a hook or a slice. Similarly, when the center of gravity is positioned above or below the point of engagement, the route of the golf ball may exhibit a boring or climbing trajectory.
- Most conventional golf club heads have a fixed center of gravity, which does not allow golfers to make adjustments to the center of gravity of a golf club head. However, a golfer may wish to make adjustments to the center of gravity of a particular golf club head in order to help square the golf club head face at impact with a golf ball. For example, a golfer may tend to misdirect the golf shot by hooking or slicing a golf shot. With this in mind, a number of systems have been developed to modify the weight distribution of a golf club head to help square the golf club head at impact with a golf ball. However, there still exists a need in the art for a simplified golf club head and weight positioning system that modifies a golf club head's center of gravity.
- The above-mentioned need in the prior art is satisfied by the golf club head of the present invention. The golf club head of the present invention may include a weight positioning system where the center of gravity is adjustable.
- In an embodiment of the invention, a golf club head may include a heel, a toe, and a body that extends between the toe and the heel. The golf club head body may further include a striking face, a slotted member and a gap therebetween. The striking face provides a contact area for engaging a golf ball. The slotted member provides a weight positioning system including a network of slots and one or more weight members. The weight positioning system is configured to vary the position of a center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
- Thus, according to certain aspects, a golf club head for an iron-type club is provided. The club head includes a striking face, a slotted member and a first weight member. The striking face has a surface configured to engage a golf ball. The slotted member is positioned behind the striking face. The slotted member includes a slot network having at least two intersecting slots and at least three ends. The first weight member slidably engages the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
- According to other aspects, the golf club head includes a striking face that provides a contact area for engaging a golf ball and a rear cavity opposite the striking face. A slotted member extends across and encloses the rear cavity. The slotted member has at least two slots intersecting at a first slot intersection. A weight member slidably engages the slotted member. The weight member is movable along a first slot to vary a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- In yet another embodiment of the invention, a set of iron golf clubs includes a plurality of increasing numbered iron golf clubs. Each of the numbered iron golf clubs includes a golf club head as disclosed herein.
- The advantages and features of novelty characterizing the present invention are pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. To gain an improved understanding of the advantages and features of novelty, however, reference may be made to the following descriptive matter and accompanying drawings that describe and illustrate various embodiments and concepts.
- Aspects of the present invention are illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a golf club having a golf club head. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the golf club head ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3A illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member in accordance with certain aspects. -
FIG. 3B illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member and a weight member in accordance with certain aspects. -
FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a weight member in a slot of a slotted member as taken through section IV-IV ofFIG. 3B . -
FIG. 5A illustrates an additional rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member having a slot network configuration in accordance with certain aspects. -
FIG. 5B illustrates a further rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member having a slot network configuration in accordance with certain aspects. -
FIG. 5C illustrates a further rear view of a golf club head with a slotted member having a slot network configuration in accordance with certain aspects. -
FIG. 6A illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects. -
FIG. 6B illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects. -
FIG. 6C illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects. -
FIG. 6D illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects. -
FIG. 6E illustrates a rear view of a golf club head with multiple weight members positioned on a weight member in accordance with other aspects. - The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various iron golf clubs in accordance with the present invention. Each golf club includes a golf club head with a weight positioning system for varying a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
- Referring to FIGS. 1—3, an embodiment of a
golf club 10 includes ashaft 12 and agolf club head 14. Thegolf club head 14 ofFIG. 1 may be representative of an iron golf club head of the present invention. Theshaft 12 ofgolf club 10 may be made of various materials such as steel, titanium, graphite, or a composite material. Agrip 16 may be positioned on theshaft 12 to provide a golfer with a slip resistant surface on which to graspgolf club 10. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , thegolf club head 14 comprises abody 15 that includes aheel 21 andtoe 23, thebody 15 extending between theheel 21 and thetoe 23. Ahosel 22 is provided for connecting theshaft 12 ofFIG. 1 to thegolf club head 14. Thebody 15 also includes atop portion 24 and asole portion 25. Astriking face 26 extends between thetop portion 24 and thesole portion 25 and between thetoe 23 and theheel 21. Thestriking face 26 provides a contact area for engaging and propelling a golf ball in an intended direction. Thestriking face 26 may includegrooves 27 for the removal of water and grass from thestriking face 26 and/or for gripping the golf ball. As shown inFIG. 3 ,body 15 may include aframe 28 extending rearwardly from thestriking face 26 and at least partially around the perimeter of strikingface 26. Thebody 15 ofgolf club head 14 may be constructed of various materials such as steel, titanium, aluminum, tungsten, graphite, polymers, plastics or composites. - For purposes of this disclosure and referring to
FIG. 2 ,body 15, which extends betweenheel 21 andtoe 23, may be divided into three regions: aheel region 15 a, acentral region 15 b and atoe region 15 c. Theheel region 15 a, thecentral region 15 b and thetoe region 15 c may each comprise one-third of a total length (L) ofbody 15. Additionally, these threeregions club head 14 has a center of gravity (CG0) located at a height (hCG). “Upper” and “lower” are determined relative to the center of gravity (CG0) of theclub head 14. Further, a CG-zone (Δh), i.e., a region within ±20% of hCG, may be defined as a mid-region. - According to certain aspects and as shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B ,golf club head 14 may include a slottedmember 30 positioned behind the striking face 26 (seeFIG. 2 ). Slottedmember 30 may extend from theheel 21 to thetoe 23. Slottedmember 30 may also extend from the top 24 to the sole 25. Further, slottedmember 30 may be positioned within theframe 28. - Slotted
member 30 is provided with an outward (rearward) facingsurface 31. According to some embodiments, slottedmember 30 may be formed as a plate, i.e., having length and height dimensions that are significantly greater than a thickness dimensions. Outward facingsurface 31 of slottedmember 30 may be substantially planar or it may have a slight concave or convex curvature. Slottedmember 30 may have aperimeter 33 that complementarily matches the shape offrame 28. Alternatively,perimeter 33 of slottedmember 30 need not have the same shape asframe 28. Thus, for example, slottedmember 30 may be made of various shapes such as rectangle, oval, triangle, trapezoid, square or other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes. Further, slottedmember 30 may have a non-uniform thickness across its length and/or its width. - Slotted
member 30 may be integrally formed with thegolf club head 14. For example, slottedmember 30 andbody 15 may be formed in a single casting. As an alternative, slottedmember 30 may be connected to theframe 28 via welding, brazing, interference fit, clamping, threaded fasteners, adhesives. Slottedmember 30 may be attached to thebody 15 ofclub head 14 in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure. For example, slottedmember 30 may be detachably attached tobody 15, or alternatively, slottedmember 30 may be permanently attached tobody 15. - According to certain other aspects, as shown in the embodiment of
FIGS. 3A and 3B , slottedmember 30 includes one ormore slots 32.Slots 32 are typically formed as elongated, relatively narrow openings extending in the length and/or height directions of slottedmember 30.Slots 32 may extend through the thickness of slottedmember 30. For purposes of this disclosure, aslot 32 is defined as a single option pathway, i.e., a slot provides only one option for moving “forward” (and, conversely, one option for moving “backward”). In other words, along a single option pathway, i.e., along a slot, one can move forward or backward only. A plurality ofslots 32 may be interconnected, so as to form aslot network 34.Slot network 34 may be formed by at least two intersectingslots 32. For the purposes of this disclosure, an intersection of slots occurs where more than one option for moving “forward” is provided. In other words, if there exists more than one option for moving “forward” (i.e., a fork in the road), an intersection exists. For purposed of this disclosure, moving “forward” at an intersection encompasses any direction of moving other than moving back along the portion of slot that brought one to the intersection. - As shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B ,slot network 34 includes afirst slot 32 a, asecond slot 32 b and athird slot 32 c. First slot 32 a extends generally from theheel 21 toward thetoe 23 in a straight line. In this particular embodiment,first slot 32 a extends substantially parallel to the ground (when the club is in a 60° address position). Further, in this particular embodiment,first slot 32 a is approximately positioned in the mid-region (i.e., within ±20% of the height (hCG) of the center of gravity (CG0)).Second slot 32 b extends from a central portion of slotted member 30 (and from an interior portion offirst slot 32 a) to an upper toe region ofclub head 14.Second slot 32 b extends fromfirst slot 32 a at an angle tofirst slot 32 a.Third slot 32 c extends from a substantially central portion (slightly offset to the heel-side of club head 14) of slotted member 30 (and from an interior portion of a heel-side half offirst slot 32 a) to a lower heel region ofclub head 14.Third slot 32 c also extends fromfirst slot 32 a at an angle tofirst slot 32 a. In this particular embodiment,second slot 32 b andthird slot 32 c are not aligned with one another. Further, in this particular embodiment,second slot 32 b andthird slot 32 c extend at differing angles fromfirst slot 32 a. -
Slot network 34 is formed by intersectingslots slot network 34 is provided with afirst intersection 34 a and asecond intersection 34 b.First intersection 34 a occurs whereslot 32 a andslot 32 c join one another.Second intersection 34 b occurs whereslot 32 a andslot 32 b join one another. - Additionally, referring to
FIG. 3A ,slot network 34 may be provided with four ends 36. Specifically, afirst end 36 a may be located in a lower heel region; asecond end 36 b may be located in a heel region; athird end 36 c may be located in a toe region; and afourth end 36 d may be located in an upper toe region. Even further,second end 36 b andthird end 36 c may be located within the mid-region (Δh). - As would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure, other configurations of
slot network 34 may be provided. FIGS. 5A—5C illustrate three example embodiments. As shown inFIG. 5A ,slot network 34 includes afirst slot 32 a and asecond slot 32 b. First slot 32 a extends generally from theheel 21 toward thetoe 23 in a straight line. First slot 32 a is generally located with the mid-region (Δh).Second slot 32 b extends from a central portion of slottedmember 30 and from a central portion offirst slot 32 a to an upper toe region ofclub head 14.Second slot 32 b extends fromfirst slot 32 a at an angle tofirst slot 32 a. Thus,slot network 34 of the embodiment ofFIG. 5A is formed by intersectingslots slot network 34 of the embodiment ofFIG. 5A is provided with afirst intersection 34 a.First intersection 34 a occurs whereslot 32 a andslot 32 b join one another. Alternatively,first intersection 34 a may be considered to be located where an item moving alongslot 32 a is provided with two alternative pathways: continue alongslot 32 a or turn ontoslot 32 b. Even further, still referring to the embodiment ofFIG. 5A ,slot network 34 is provided with three ends 36. Specifically, afirst end 36 a is located in the heel region within the mid-region (Δh); asecond end 36 b is located in the toe region within the mid-region (Δh); and athird end 36 c is located in an upper toe region.FIG. 5A illustratesstraight slots 32. - As shown in
FIG. 5B ,slot network 34 includes afirst slot 32 a, asecond slot 32 b and athird slot 32 c. First slot 32 a extends generally from the lower heel region toward the upper toe region in a straight line.Second slot 32 b extends from a central portion of slotted member 30 (and from an interior portion offirst slot 32 a) to an upper heel region ofclub head 14.Second slot 32 b is curved.Third slot 32 c extends from a central region of slotted member (and from an interior portion offirst slot 32 a) to a lower toe region.Third slot 32 c is also curved.Slot network 34 of the embodiment ofFIG. 5B is formed by intersectingslots slot network 34 includes first andsecond intersections FIG. 5A ,slot network 34 is provided with four ends 36. Specifically, afirst end 36 a is located in a lower heel region; asecond end 36 b is located in upper heel region; athird end 36 c is located in the lower toe region; and afourth end 36 d is located in an upper toe region. -
FIG. 5C illustratescurved slots Slot 32 a extends from heel region to toe region with a concave downward curvature. To be more specific, slot 32 a extends from lower heel region to lower toe region.Slot 32 b extends from upper heel region to upper toe region with a concave upward curvature.Slots member 30. First andsecond intersections slot network 34 ofFIG. 5C is provided with four ends 36. Specifically, afirst end 36 a is located in a lower heel region; asecond end 36 b is located in upper heel region; athird end 36 c is located in the lower toe region; and afourth end 36 d is located in an upper toe region. - According to certain embodiments and again referring to
FIG. 3A ,slot 32 includes a slidingsurface 35. Slidingsurface 35 may be provided as a separate element (for example, an elastomeric edging) that is attached toslots 32. Alternatively, sliding surface may be provided as a coating. Slidingsurface 35 may be formed of the same or a different material from the rest of slottedmember 30. For example, slottedmember 30 may be constructed of various materials such as steel, titanium, aluminum, tungsten, graphite, polymers, plastics or composites, and slidingsurface 35 may include a low friction polymer coating. According to some embodiments, slidingsurface 35 is integrally formed withslot 32. For example, slidingsurface 35 may be provided with a finer surface finish than the surrounding portions ofslot 32. - According to some aspects, a cavity or
gap 29 may be formed between slottedmember 30 and the back surface of strikingface 26. Thus, slottedmember 30 may be offset from the back surface of strikingface 26.Gap 29 may be visible through slot 32 (seeFIG. 3A ). Further,gap 29 may be completely enclosed, with the exception of the slot openings. In other words, in some embodiments, the only access togap 29 may be viaslot network 34. - According to further aspects, and as shown in
FIG. 3B , slottedmember 30 may accommodate aweight member 40 configured for movement alongslot 32. According to other aspects and referring toFIG. 4 ,weight member 40 may include ashank 42 configured to slidingly engageslot 32. A slidingaxis 43 ofweight member 40 may be coincident with a longitudinal axis of theshank 42.Weight portions 44 may be located on either end (or both ends) ofshank 42 and on either side (or both sides) (outward facing or inward facing) of slottedmember 30. According to some embodiments,weight member 40 has a majority of its mass located on the side of slottedmember 30 that is opposite to an outward facingsurface 31. In these embodiments, theweight member 40 is securely positioned behind slottedmember 30 and is less visually obvious. Other configurations ofweight member 40, as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art given the benefits of this disclosure, may be provided. For example,weight member 40 may be provided as a multiple subcomponents (i.e., inner shank portion, outer shank portion, inner weight portion, outer weight portion, etc.) that are subsequently assembly to formweight member 40. - According to other aspects,
weight member 40 may include a locking or clampingfeature 46. Lockingfeature 46 fixesweight member 40 to slottedmember 30, such thatweight member 40 no longer slides freely withinslots 32. For example, a set screw withinshank 42 may draw lockingfeature 46 andweight portions 44 positioned on opposite sides of slottedmember 30 towards each other, such that slottedmember 30 becomes clamped between theweight portions 44 andweight member 40 becomes immobile. Other configurations of lockingfeature 46, as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art given the benefits of this disclosure, may be provided. For example, lockingfeature 46 may be a locking pin. - Those skilled in the art will realize that
weight member 40 may be made of various shapes such as rectangle, oval, triangle, trapezoid, square or other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes.Weight member 40 may be centered on its slidingaxis 43. In alternative embodiments,weight member 40 need not be centered on its sliding axis. For example,weight member 40 may be provided with an elliptical shape and the sliding axis extending through an end of the ellipse (as opposed to the center of the ellipse). Such an off-center, elliptical shapedweight member 40 may be rotated around its slidingaxis 43 to vary the position of the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 without having to slide theweight member 40 alongslot 32. This feature may be used to “fine tune” the mass properties of theclub head 14. For example, rotating an off-center, elliptical shapedweight member 40 such that the bulk of the weight is above the sliding axis would raise the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14. As noted above, raising the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 allows a golfer to propel a golf ball with a lower and more controlled trajectory. Conversely, rotating and positioning the bulk of the off-center, elliptical shapedweight member 40 below the sliding axis lowers the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14. Lowering the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 generally allows a golfer to propel a golf ball with additional loft. -
Weight member 40 may also be made of various materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, titanium, aluminum, tungsten, graphite, polymers, plastics or composites. In addition,weight member 40 may be interchangeable with a plurality of alternative weights having different shapes and masses as compared toweight member 40. Those skilled in the art will also realize that more than oneweight member 40 may be attached to slottedmember 30. - During the game of golf, an individual holds
grip 16 and swingsgolf club 10 such thatgolf club head 14 traverses a generally arcuate path and impacts a golf ball. A portion of the inertia ofgolf club 10, and particularly the inertia ofgolf club head 14, is then transferred to the golf ball and propels the golf ball toward an intended target. The position of a center of gravity ofhead 14 has an influence upon whether the golf ball curves right, curves left, or follows a generally straight route. More specifically, the golf ball follows a generally straight route when the center of gravity is positioned behind the point of engagement on strikingface 26. When the center of gravity is positioned to one side of the point of engagement, however, the golf ball may follow a route that curves left or right. The position of the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 also has an influence upon whether the golf ball exhibits a boring or climbing trajectory, depending upon whether the center of gravity is positioned above or below the point of engagement on strikingface 26. - Although the concepts behind utilizing a golf club to propel a golf ball toward an intended target appear simplistic, the actual practice of propelling the golf ball in an intended manner is exceedingly complex. The golf ball may, for example, consistently curve right when, in fact, the individual intends to propel the golf ball along a straight route. Many conventional golf club heads have a center of gravity located at the
striking face 26. However, changing the position of the center of gravity of thegolf club head 14 for different golf clubs may assist many golfers in squaring the club head face 14 upon impact with a golf ball. The positioning of the center of gravity off of thestriking face 26 and towards the rear of thegolf club head 14 may conform to the style and preferences of many golfers. Accordingly, these golfers may be able to correct or modify the route of the golf ball by using thegolf club head 14 of the present invention as the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 is repositioned with respect to strikingface 26 as compared to other golf club heads. - The center of gravity of
golf club head 14, otherwise referred to as the center of mass, is defined as an equilibrium point. The center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 may be changed by altering the weight distribution of thegolf club head 14 away from thestriking face 26. Altering the weight distribution ofgolf club head 14 may be accomplished with the use of slottedmember 30 andweight member 40 of the present invention. - Slotted
member 30 andweight member 40 increase the weight of the back of thegolf club head 14 relative to thestriking face 26 of thegolf club head 14. This increase in weight towards the rear ofgolf club head 14 alters the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14. By moving the center of gravity lower and towards the rear of thegolf club head 14, a golf shot will tend to have an increased loft upon impact. By moving the center of gravity higher and towards the rear of thegolf club head 14, a golf shot will tend to have a decreased loft upon impact. - In addition, the shape and location of slotted
member 30 andweight member 40 may also influence the location of the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14. For example, on the longer iron clubs, two iron through five iron, it is desirable to have the center of gravity lower than on the shorter iron clubs. On the longer iron clubs, a lower center of gravity will assist a golfer with obtaining additional loft on their golf shot. Therefore, the slottedmember 30 for longer iron clubs may be positioned lower on the rear of the golfclub head body 14 as compared to a slottedmember 30 on shorter iron clubs. - Moving the center of gravity of
golf club head 14 may be accomplished through the use ofweight member 40.Weight member 40 increases the weight of the back of thegolf club head 14 relative to thestriking face 26. The increase in weight to the back ofgolf club head 14 relative to thestriking face 26 alters the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14. In particular, moving the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14 relative to thestriking face 26 may help the golfer drive a golf ball to the left or right of the fairway. - According to certain aspects, more than one
weight member 40 may be provided withclub head 14 for adjustable and slidable attachment to slottedmember 30. FIGS. 6A—6E illustrate additional embodiments in which a plurality ofweights 40 may be attached to a slidingmember 30 in any number of configurations. Each of the plurality ofweight members 40 may be independently moved to adjust the center of gravity ofclub head 14. By movingweight members 40 to different locations onslot network 34, as shown in FIGS. 6A—6E, the position of the center of gravity of a golf club head with respect to the striking face is varied. Interestingly, any of the plurality ofweight members 40 may be slidably positioned anywhere inslot network 34 without having to remove any of the other of theweight members 40 from the slot network. This is because, weight members that would otherwise be in the way, may be temporarily placed in a “side slot” such that the weight member of interest may be located where desired. - For example,
FIG. 6A shows afirst weight member 40 a located towards an upper toe region ofgolf club head 14 and asecond weight member 40 b located towards a lower toe region ofclub head 14. The location ofweight members toe 23 will tend to drive a golf ball towards the right of a fairway. - In
FIG. 6B , afirst weight member 40 a is located towards an upper heel region of thegolf club head 14 and asecond weight member 40 b is located towards a lower heel region ofclub head 14. Theweight members FIG. 6B will tend to drive a golf ball toward the left of the fairway. - In
FIG. 6C , afirst weight member 40 a is fixed near upper toe region and asecond weight member 40 b is fixed near the upper heel region ofclub head 14. - In
FIG. 6D , afirst weight member 40 a is fixed near the center ofclub head 14 and asecond weight member 40 b is fixed near the lower center portion ofclub head 14. Such a weight distribution may tend to produce a balanced shot directing the golf ball along a straight route towards the middle of the fairway. - In
FIG. 6E , afirst weight member 40 a is fixed near the lower center portion ofclub head 14 and asecond weight member 40 b is fixed near the lower heel region ofclub head 14. - According to certain embodiments,
weight members 40 may be positioned at set, incremental locations alongslots 32 of slottedmember 30. Alternatively,weights members 40 may be continuously positionable alongslots 32. Furthermore, more than twoweight members 40 may be moveably connected to slottedmember 30, thereby adding additional weight to back of theclub head 14 and further shifting the position of the center of gravity ofgolf club head 14. Thus, given the benefit of this disclosure, a person of skill in the art would realize that various other combinations of slottedmembers 30 andweight members 40 are possible. - Further, according to certain embodiments, the first and
second weight members 40 may have the same mass and the same shape. Alternatively, the first andsecond weight members 40 may have different masses and/or different shapes. A golfer utilizing thegolf club head 14 may position thevarious weight members 40 in multiple various locations alongslots 32 ofslot network 34.Weight members 40 may have individual masses ranging from 10 gm to 60 gm, from 10 gm to 50 gm, or even from 10 gm to 25 gm. - Golf club heads 14 of the present invention may be incorporated into a set of iron golf clubs. For example, the present invention may be used with a plurality of increasing numbered iron golf clubs such as a two iron, a three iron, a four iron, a five iron, a six iron, a seven iron, an eight iron, a nine iron, and a pitching wedge. With the present invention, a golfer may modify the position of center of gravity for each golf club to meet their unique requirements or playing style.
- Various aspects of the present invention have been disclosed herein and various embodiments have been illustrated and referenced in the accompanying drawings. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the various embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (50)
1. A golf club head for an iron-type club, the club head comprising:
a striking face, the striking face having a surface configured to engage a golf ball;
a slotted member positioned behind the striking face, the slotted member including a slot network having at least two intersecting slots and at least three ends; and
a first weight member slidably engaging the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
2. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein a gap is defined between the striking face and the slotted member.
3. The golf club head of claim 2 , wherein the only access to the gap is via the slot network.
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the ends is located in a heel region and at least one of the ends is located in a toe region.
7. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the ends is located in a heel region, at least one of the ends is located in a mid-region of a toe region, and at least one of the ends is located in an upper toe region.
8. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the ends is located in a heel region, at least one of the ends is located in a toe region, and at least one of the ends is located in a center region.
9. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the ends is located in a lower center region.
10. (canceled)
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. (canceled)
17. (canceled)
18. (canceled)
19. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the first weight member includes a locking feature for fixing the weight member to a location in the slot network.
20. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the first weight member includes a sliding axis and wherein the mass of the weight member is not symmetrical with respect to the sliding axis.
21. The golf club head of claim 1 , further including a second weight member slidably engaging the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
22. The golf club head of claim 21 , wherein the first weight member can be slidably positioned anywhere in the slot network without having to remove the second weight member from the slot network.
23. (canceled)
24. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the slotted member is detachably joined to the remainder of the club head.
25. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the first weight member has a majority of its mass located on the side of the slotted member that is opposite to an outward facing surface.
26. A golf club head for an iron-type club, the club head comprising:
a striking face that provides a contact area for engaging a golf ball;
a rear cavity opposite the striking face;
a slotted member extending across and enclosing the rear cavity, the slotted member having at least two slots intersecting at a first slot intersection; and
a weight member slidably engaged to the slotted member, the weight member being movable along a first slot to vary a position of a center of gravity of the golf club head.
27. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein the slotted member further includes at least three slots.
28. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein the slotted member further includes at least two slot intersections.
29. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein a gap is defined between the striking face and the slotted member.
30. (canceled)
31. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein the slot network includes at least three ends and wherein at least one of the ends is located in a lower center region.
32. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein the slotted network includes at least four ends.
33. (canceled)
34. (canceled)
35. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein the first weight member includes a locking feature for fixing the weight member to a location in the slot network.
36. The golf club head of claim 26 , wherein the first weight member includes a sliding axis and wherein the mass of the weight member is not symmetrical with respect to the sliding axis.
37. The golf club head of claim 26 , further including a second weight member slidably engaging the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
38. (canceled)
39. A set of iron golf clubs, the set including a plurality of increasing numbered irons, one or more of the irons has a club head comprising:
a striking face, the striking face having a surface configured to engage a golf ball;
a slotted member positioned behind the striking face, the slotted member including a slot network having at least two intersecting slots and at least three ends; and
a first weight member slidably engaging the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
40. (canceled)
41. (canceled)
42. (canceled)
43. (canceled)
44. (canceled)
45. The set of clubs of claim 39 , wherein the first weight member is slidably movable to any of the ends.
46. (canceled)
47. (canceled)
48. The set of clubs of claim 39 , further including a second weight member slidably engaging the slot network to vary the position of the center of gravity of the golf club head with respect to the striking face.
49. (canceled)
50. (canceled)
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US13/905,782 US20130344976A1 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2013-05-30 | Golf club head having a weight positioning system |
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US201261654054P | 2012-05-31 | 2012-05-31 | |
US13/905,782 US20130344976A1 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2013-05-30 | Golf club head having a weight positioning system |
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US20130344976A1 true US20130344976A1 (en) | 2013-12-26 |
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US13/905,782 Abandoned US20130344976A1 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2013-05-30 | Golf club head having a weight positioning system |
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US20180290030A1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2018-10-11 | Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. | Golf club head |
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US20190091528A1 (en) * | 2006-12-19 | 2019-03-28 | Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. | Golf club head with repositionable weight |
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