Golf club heads
8 claims: 1 independent, 7 dependent
- 1トウ区域からヒール区域まで延びるクラブフェース 部材 と;該クラブフェース 部材 に 隣接 する周囲を形成しかつ 該 トウ区域および該ヒール区域それぞれにおいて該クラブフェース 部材 からクラブヘッドの後部までの距離の40%未満に延びる第一のボディ部分であって、該ヒール区域と該トウ区域との間の該クラブフェース 部材 の中央クラウン部分において該クラブフェース 部材 から 該 クラブヘッドの 該 後部までの距離の少なくとも60%にさらに延び 、該ヒール区域と該トウ区域との間の該クラブフェース部材の中央ソール部分において該クラブフェース部材から該クラブヘッドの該後部までの距離の少なくとも60%にさらに延び る、第一のボディ部分と;該 クラブヘッドの該後部および 該 クラブヘッドの該中央クラウン部分に向かって延びる、 該 クラブヘッドの該トウ区域において該第一のボディ部分に 隣接 する第二のボディ部分であって、該第一のボディ部分より高い弾性率を有する、第二のボディ部分と;該クラブヘッドの該後部および該中央クラウン部分に向かって延びる、 該 クラブヘッドの該ヒール区域において該第一のボディ部分に 隣接 する第三のボディ部分であって、 該 第一のボディ部分よりも高い弾性率を有する、第三のボディ部分とを含む、ゴルフクラブヘッド。
- 2第一のボディ部分が第一のチタンコンポーネントを含む、請求項1記載のクラブヘッド。
- 3第一のチタンコンポーネントが、アルミニウム2.5~3.5重量%、クロム2.5~3.5%、スズ2.5~3.5重量%、バナジウム14~16重量%、任意で少量の水素、鉄、窒素、酸素または不純物、および残りはチタンを含有するチタン合金である、請求項2記載のクラブヘッド。
- 4第二のボディ部分が、第一のチタンコンポーネントとは異なる第二のチタンコンポーネントである、請求項3記載のクラブヘッド。
- 5第二のチタンコンポーネントが αタイプチタン を含む、請求項4記載のクラブヘッド。
- 6第二のボディ部分および第三のボディ部分が同じ弾性率を有する、請求項1記載のクラブヘッド。
- 7第二のボディ部分および第三のボディ部分が αタイプチタン でできている、請求項3記載のクラブヘッド。
- 8第二のボディ部分および第三のボディ部分と係合しかつゴルフクラブヘッドの後部に沿って位置する第四のボディ部分をさらに含 み、該第四のボディ部分が第一のボディ部分よりも高い弾性率を有する 、請求項1記載のクラブヘッド。
Independent claims8
53 paragraphs, as filed
Field of invention The present invention generally relates to golf clubs and golf club heads. More specifically, aspects of the invention relate to golf club heads (and related methods) that include components with lower modulus than other components. The low modulus component is more susceptible to deformation, thereby increasing the coefficient of restitution of the club head at a particular position on the hitting face.
background Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players-players of different genders and dramatically different ages and / or skill levels. A group of such diverse players play together in a golf event, competing directly with each other (eg, handicapped scores, using different tee boxes, in team format, etc.) and still in a round or competition of golf. Golf is somewhat unique in the sports world in that you can enjoy it. These factors, coupled with the increase in golf programs on television (eg golf tournaments, golf news, golf history and / or other golf programs) and the emergence of prominent golf superstars, at least in part, in the United States and the world in recent years. Increased the popularity of golf inside.
Golfers seek to improve performance, improve their golf score, and reach the next performance "level" at all skill levels. Manufacturers of all types of golf equipment have responded to these demands, and in recent years the industry has witnessed dramatic changes and improvements in golf equipment. For example, a wide range of different golf ball models are now available, the balls are designed to complement certain swing speeds and / or other player characteristics or preferences, for example, some balls Designed to fly farther and / or straighter, some balls are designed to provide a higher or flatter trajectory, some balls are more Designed to provide spin, control and / or feel (especially around the green), some balls are designed for faster or slower swing speeds, and so on. There are also a number of swing aids and / or aids on the market that promise to help improve your golf score.
Golf clubs have also been the subject of significant technical research and progress in recent years, as they are the only tool for moving a golf ball during play. For example, the market has seen dramatic changes and improvements in putter design, golf club head design, shafts and grips in recent years. In addition, other technological advances have been achieved in an attempt to better adapt the various elements and / or characteristics of the golf club as well as the characteristics of the golf ball to the swing characteristics or characteristics of a particular user (eg, club fitting techniques, etc.). Ball launch angle measurement technology, ball spin speed, etc.).
With recent advances, there are a myriad of golf club component parts available to golfers. For example, club heads are manufactured in a wide variety of different models by a wide variety of manufacturers. Moreover, individual club head models have numerous deformations, such as loft angle, lie angle, offset features, weighting features, etc. (eg, draw bias club heads, fade bias club heads, neutral weighted club heads, etc.) ) May be included. Also, a number of different shafts with different properties such as stiffness, flex, kick point position, etc. are available. These features provide golfers with many golf club characteristics and combinations of characteristics, from which they can choose the golf club structure that best suits their swing and / or play style.
To drive improved performance, club designers have also studied increasing the coefficient of restitution (COR) of club heads. The term "COR" is also referred to in the industry as providing a measure of the "trampoline effect" indicated by a golf club face when it comes into contact with a golf ball. In general, the COR value provides a measure of the energy transferred from the first object to the second object in the event of a collision. In golf, the COR value can be used to measure the amount of energy transferred from the club to the ball during a collision. The COR value is generally represented by a number between 0 and 1, where 0 indicates that all energy is lost in a collision and therefore no energy is transferred from the golf club to the ball. In contrast, a COR value of 1 indicates that 100% of the energy is transferred from the club to the ball during a collision. Other factors may play a role in the total distance the golf ball travels as a result of the stroke, but in general, the higher the COR value of the club face, the greater the amount of energy transferred to the ball ( The above), which in turn increases the launch speed of the ball, which can result in a greater flight distance. The Rules of Golf currently limit the maximum COR value for golf clubs to 0.83.
The "COR" of a golf club face depends on a variety of factors, such as the position on the face where contact with the ball occurs. In general, the COR of a golf club face is highest in the central portion of the club head face. The reason is that this part of the face tends to be the most deformable and thus the greatest "trampoline effect". The COR of the club head generally decreases as it moves away from the central area of the face, for example due to the additional stiffness provided by bending in the face structure, sidewalls and / or other structures located on the sides of the club face.
Although progress has been made to increase the coefficient of restitution of golf club heads, further improvements in this art will be welcome advances in the art.
Overview Hereinafter, in order to provide a basic understanding of the present invention and its various features, an outline of aspects of the present invention will be presented. This overview is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but merely provides an overview and background for the following detailed description.
Aspects of the invention include golf club heads (eg, hollow wood type golf club heads such as drivers, fairway woods, wood type hybrid clubs, etc.) that include multiple components, one of which exhibits a different elastic modulus than the other. ). In one embodiment, one or more of the components constituting the golf club head are titanium or titanium alloy components. In another aspect, at least the heel and toe areas of the club head structure in close proximity to the club face (eg, adjacent to the face component) are of other materials that make up the rest of the head and / or other materials that are adjacent to the face. Includes titanium components with a lower modulus than at least some. In one such embodiment, at least the toe and / or heel area in close proximity to the face contains a titanium 15-3-3-3 alloy, while at least some of the other materials in the club head are titanium 15-. Includes metals or metal alloys with a higher elastic modulus than 3-3-3. The use of materials with lower modulus makes these areas more susceptible to deformation, thereby at least the heel of the club head compared to similar club head structures that do not contain this lower modulus material. And the club head restitution coefficient in the toe area is increased (for example, increasing the COR response of the club head in the heel and toe directions of the club head face increases the total surface area of the face showing a high COR response).
In yet a further embodiment, the first body portion having a relatively low modulus is closer to the club face and less than a predetermined distance (eg,) towards the tail end edge or point of the head in each of the toe and heel areas. , Less than 60% of this distance, and in some cases less than 40% of this distance, less than 25% of this distance or even less than 15% of this distance) may be arranged to form an extension. .. However, this same first body portion differs towards the trailing edge or point at the central crown portion of the club face and / or the central sole portion of the club face, and has a larger predetermined distance (eg, at least 40 of this distance). %, And in some cases at least 50% of this distance, at least 65% of this distance, at least 75% of this distance, or even at least 90% of this distance) may include a central portion.
A further aspect of the invention is that (a) a club face extending from the toe area to the heel area, (b) engaging in the heel area of the club face, at least 10% of the full width dimension of the club head in the anterior-posterior direction and the full width dimension of the club head. First body part with first modulus extending to less than 60% of, (c) engaging in the toe area of the club face, at least 10% of the club head full width dimension in the anterior-posterior direction and of the club head full width dimension A second body part with a second modulus that extends less than 60% and may be the same as or different from the first modulus, and (d) in the heel-toe direction approximately in the center of the club face. It relates to a golf club head having a third body portion that engages with the club face and extends away from the club face toward the rear of the club head and has a higher modulus of elasticity than the first and second body portions. In such a structure, the third body portion and club face may surround the first body portion and the second body portion.
Further aspects of the invention are (a) a club face extending from the toe area to the heel area, (b) a first body portion that engages with the perimeter of the club face and has a first modulus of elasticity. And (b1) at least 10% of the club head full width dimension in the anteroposterior direction and the toe side portion extending to less than 60% of the club head full width dimension, and (b2) at least 10% of the club head full width dimension in the anteroposterior direction and the club head A first body part, including a heel-side portion that extends less than 60% of the full width dimension, and (b3) a central crown portion that extends anterior-posteriorly to at least 40% of the club head full width dimension, and (c) a second body A golf club that is a portion that has a second body portion that engages with the first body portion and extends posteriorly from at least a portion of the first body portion and has a higher modulus of elasticity than the first body portion. Regarding the head. The first body portion of such a club head structure may further include a central sole portion extending in the anteroposterior direction to at least 40% of the full width dimension of the club head. If desired, the second body portion can engage and extend posteriorly from the toe-side portion of the first body portion, from which the golf club head structure is further on the heel side of the first body portion. It can include a third body part that engages with and extends posteriorly from the part, the second body part having a higher modulus than the first body part and the elasticity of the second body part. The modulus is the same as or different from the elastic modulus of the third body part. In such a structure, the central crown portion and the central sole portion of the first body portion can separate the second and third body portions from each other.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing an example golf club head of the invention. Such methods vary, for example, using multiple structural components of a golf club head to form a club head (eg, cement, adhesives, welds, soldering, brazing, mechanical connectors, etc.). Methods can be included (by connecting the club head parts integrally), and certain areas of the club head (eg, at least the heel and toe areas) are more deformed due to the presence of materials with relatively low modulus of restitution. It is more susceptible to susceptibility, which increases the overall size of the clubhead hitting surface, which exhibits high coefficient of restitution characteristics (compared to similar clubhead structures that do not include parts of lower modulus).<u style="single">The basic features and various aspects of the present invention are listed below.</u><u style="single">[1]</u><u style="single"> A club face that extends from the toe area to the heel area,</u><u style="single"> Two aths in close proximity to the club face, one located in the heel area and the other in the toe area, each extending at least about 10% of the distance from the club face to the rear of the club head. One body part and</u><u style="single"> It is located close to the club face in a substantially longitudinal center of the club face and extends away from the club face towards the rear of the club head and has a higher elastic modulus than the two first body portions. With the second body part</u><u style="single">Including golf club heads.</u><u style="single">[2]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [1], further comprising a third body portion having a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion.</u><u style="single">[3]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [2], wherein the third body portion is located along the rear of the golf club head.</u><u style="single">[4]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [1], wherein each of the first body parts contains a first titanium component.</u><u style="single">[5]</u><u style="single"> The first titanium component is aluminum 2.5-3.5% by weight, chromium 2.5-3.5% by weight, tin 2.5-3.5% by weight, aluminum 14-16% by weight, optionally a small amount of hydrogen, iron, nitrogen, oxygen or impurities, and The golf club head according to [4], wherein the rest is a titanium alloy containing titanium.</u><u style="single">[6]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head described in [5], wherein the second body part is the second titanium component.</u><u style="single">[7]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head described in [6], wherein the second titanium component contains the KS120.</u><u style="single">[8]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head described in [3], wherein the third body part is the third titanium component.</u><u style="single">[9]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [1], wherein the return portion of the club face extends rearward by a greater distance in the central crown portion than each of the heel and toe areas of the club face.</u><u style="single">[10]</u><u style="single"> A club face that extends from the toe area to the heel area,</u><u style="single"> It forms a perimeter close to the club face and extends to less than 40% of the distance from the club face to the rear of the head in each of the toe area and the heel area, and further between the heel area and the toe area. A first body portion extending at least 60% of the distance from the club face to the rear of the head at the central crown portion of the club face.</u><u style="single"> 2. Body part and</u><u style="single"> A third body portion that is close to the first body portion in the heel area of the club head, extends toward the rear portion and the central crown portion of the club head, and has a higher modulus of elasticity than the first body portion. When</u><u style="single">Including golf club heads.</u><u style="single">[11]</u><u style="single"> The club head described in [10], wherein the first body part contains the first component.</u><u style="single">[12]</u><u style="single"> The first titanium component is aluminum 2.5-3.5% by weight, chromium 2.5-3.5% by weight, tin 2.5-3.5% by weight, aluminum 14-16% by weight, optionally a small amount of hydrogen, iron, nitrogen, oxygen or impurities, and The club head according to [11], wherein the rest is a titanium alloy containing titanium.</u><u style="single">[13]</u><u style="single"> The club head according to [12], wherein the second body part is a second titanium component that is different from the first titanium component.</u><u style="single">[14]</u><u style="single"> The club head described in [13], wherein the second titanium component contains the KS120.</u><u style="single">[15]</u><u style="single"> [10] The club head according to [10], wherein the second body portion and the third body portion have the same elastic modulus.</u><u style="single">[16]</u><u style="single"> The club head described in [12], wherein the second and third body parts are made of KS120.</u><u style="single">[17]</u><u style="single"> [10] The golf club head according to [10], further comprising a fourth body portion having a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion.</u><u style="single">[18]</u><u style="single"> [10] The club head according to [10], further comprising a fourth body portion that engages with a second body portion and a third body portion and is located along the rear of the golf club head.</u><u style="single">[19]</u><u style="single"> The step of attaching a first body portion extending at least about 10% of the distance from the club face to the rear of the club head in the heel and toe areas to at least a portion of the club face extending from the heel area to the toe area. And</u><u style="single"> A step of attaching a second body portion to the first body portion that extends away from the club face toward the rear portion of the club head and has a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion.</u><u style="single">How to make a golf club head, including.</u><u style="single">[20]</u><u style="single"> The first body portion is close to the club face in each of the heel and toe areas and extends at least about 20% of the distance from the club face to the rear of the club head, and</u><u style="single"> [19] The second body portion is located close to the club face at a substantially longitudinal central crown portion of the club face and extends away from the club face towards the rear portion of the club head. Method.</u><u style="single">[21]</u><u style="single"> The first body portion forms a perimeter close to the club face and extends to less than 40% of the distance to the rear of the club head in each of the toe and heel areas, and further at the central crown portion of the club face. The method described [19], which extends to at least 60% of the distance to the rear.</u><u style="single">[22]</u><u style="single"> A club face that extends from the toe area to the heel area,</u><u style="single"> A first body portion that engages in the heel area of the club face and extends in the anterior-posterior direction to at least 10% of the full width dimension of the club head and less than 60% of the full width dimension of the club head and has a first elastic modulus.</u><u style="single"> Engage in the toe area of the club face and extend in the anterior-posterior direction to at least 10% of the full width dimension of the club head and less than 60% of the full width dimension of the club head, even if it is the same as the first elastic modulus. A second body part having a second elastic modulus, which may be</u><u style="single"> Approximately in the center of the club face, it engages with the club face in the heel-toe direction and extends away from the club face towards the rear of the club head and has a higher modulus than the first and second body portions. With a third body part</u><u style="single">Including golf club heads.</u><u style="single">[23]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [22], wherein a third body portion and a club face surround the first body portion and the second body portion.</u><u style="single">[24]</u><u style="single"> The golf according to [22], wherein the first body portion extends in the anteroposterior direction to at least 25% of the full width dimension of the club head, and the second body portion extends in the anteroposterior direction to at least 25% of the full width dimension of the club head. Club head.</u><u style="single">[25]</u><u style="single"> A club face that extends from the toe area to the heel area,</u><u style="single"> A first body portion that engages with the peripheral portion of the club face and has a first elastic modulus.</u><u style="single"> The toe side, which extends in the anterior-posterior direction to at least 10% of the club head width and less than 60% of the club head width.</u><u style="single"> A heel-side portion extending in the anterior-posterior direction to at least 10% of the club head full width dimension and less than 60% of the club head full width dimension, and</u><u style="single"> A central crown portion extending in the anteroposterior direction to at least 40% of the full width dimension of the club head.</u><u style="single"> Including the first body part,</u><u style="single"> With a second body portion that engages with the first body portion and extends posteriorly from at least a portion of the first body portion and has a higher modulus of elasticity than the first body portion.</u><u style="single">Including golf club heads.</u><u style="single">[26]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [25], wherein the first body portion further includes a central sole portion extending in the anteroposterior direction to at least 40% of the full width dimension of the club head.</u><u style="single">[27]</u><u style="single"> The second body part is a golf club head that engages with and extends rearward from the toe side portion of the first body part.</u><u style="single"> Further including a third body portion that engages with and extends posteriorly from the heel side portion of the first body portion.</u><u style="single"> The second body portion has a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion.</u><u style="single"> The elastic modulus of the second body portion is equal to or different from the elastic modulus of the third body portion.</u><u style="single">[26] The golf club head described.</u><u style="single">[28]</u><u style="single"> The golf club head according to [27], wherein the central crown portion and the central sole portion of the first body portion separate the second and third body portions from each other.</u><u style="single">[29]</u><u style="single"> A face component that includes a hitting face that extends between the toe and heel ends of the golf club head, and</u><u style="single"> A club head body that extends posteriorly from the face component.</u><u style="single"> A toe body portion having a first elastic modulus adjacent to the toe end of the face component,</u><u style="single"> A heel body portion adjacent to the heel end of the face component and having a second modulus,</u><u style="single"> A main body portion comprising the toe body portion and one or more portions extending posteriorly from the heel body portion and having a first elastic modulus and a third elastic modulus higher than the second elastic modulus.</u><u style="single"> Including, club head body</u><u style="single">Including</u><u style="single"> The COR response at a position 0.5 inches horizontally away from the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single"> Geometry of the face component of a golf club head of similar structure in which the toe body portion and the heel body portion are replaced with a corresponding body portion made of a material having the third or higher modulus of elasticity. COR response at a position 0.5 inches horizontally away from the center of the target</u><u style="single">Higher than these COR responses are measured under standard USGA test conditions,</u><u style="single">Golf club head.</u><u style="single">[30]</u><u style="single"> A face component that includes a hitting face that extends between the toe and heel ends of the golf club head, and</u><u style="single"> A club head body that extends posteriorly from the face component.</u><u style="single"> A toe body portion having a first elastic modulus adjacent to the toe end of the face component,</u><u style="single"> A heel body portion adjacent to the heel end of the face component and having a second modulus,</u><u style="single"> A main body portion comprising the toe body portion and one or more portions extending posteriorly from the heel body portion and having a first elastic modulus and a third elastic modulus higher than the second elastic modulus.</u><u style="single"> Including, club head body</u><u style="single">Including</u><u style="single"> The COR response at a position 1 inch horizontally away from the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single"> Geometry of the face component of a golf club head of similar structure in which the toe body portion and the heel body portion are replaced with a corresponding body portion made of a material having the third or higher modulus of elasticity. COR response at a position 1 inch horizontally away from the center of the target</u><u style="single">Higher than these COR responses are measured under standard USGA test conditions,</u><u style="single">Golf club head.</u><u style="single">[31]</u><u style="single"> A face component that includes a hitting face that extends between the toe and heel ends of the golf club head, and</u><u style="single"> A club head body that extends posteriorly from the face component.</u><u style="single"> A toe body portion having a first elastic modulus adjacent to the toe end of the face component,</u><u style="single"> A heel body portion adjacent to the heel end of the face component and having a second modulus,</u><u style="single"> A main body portion comprising the toe body portion and one or more portions extending posteriorly from the heel body portion and having a first elastic modulus and a third elastic modulus higher than the second elastic modulus.</u><u style="single"> Including, club head body</u><u style="single">Including</u><u style="single"> The COR response at a position 1.5 inches horizontally away from the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single"> Geometry of the face component of a golf club head of similar structure in which the toe body portion and the heel body portion are replaced with a corresponding body portion made of a material having the third or higher modulus of elasticity. COR response at a position 1.5 inches horizontally away from the center of the target</u><u style="single">Higher than these COR responses are measured under standard USGA test conditions,</u><u style="single">Golf club head.</u><u style="single">[32]</u><u style="single"> A face component that includes a hitting face that extends between the toe and heel ends of the golf club head, and</u><u style="single"> A club head body that extends posteriorly from the face component.</u><u style="single"> A toe body portion having a first elastic modulus adjacent to the toe end of the face component,</u><u style="single"> A heel body portion adjacent to the heel end of the face component and having a second modulus,</u><u style="single"> A crown body portion having a third elastic modulus that is adjacent to the upper portion of the face component and extends between the toe body portion and the heel body portion.</u><u style="single"> A fourth elastic modulus higher than the first elastic modulus, the second elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus, including the toe body portion and one or more portions extending rearward from the heel body portion. With the main body part to have</u><u style="single"> Including, club head body</u><u style="single">Including</u><u style="single"> The COR response at a position 0.5 inches vertically away from the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single"> A golf club head having a similar structure in which the toe body portion, the heel body portion and the crown body portion are replaced with a corresponding body portion made of a material having the fourth elastic modulus or higher. COR response at a vertical 0.5 inch distance from the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single">Higher than these COR responses are measured under standard USGA test conditions,</u><u style="single">Golf club head.</u><u style="single">[33]</u><u style="single"> A face component that includes a hitting face that extends between the toe and heel ends of the golf club head, and</u><u style="single"> A club head body that extends posteriorly from the face component.</u><u style="single"> A toe body portion having a first elastic modulus adjacent to the toe end of the face component,</u><u style="single"> A heel body portion adjacent to the heel end of the face component and having a second modulus,</u><u style="single"> A crown body portion having a third elastic modulus that is adjacent to the upper portion of the face component and extends between the toe body portion and the heel body portion.</u><u style="single"> A fourth elastic modulus higher than the first elastic modulus, the second elastic modulus and the third elastic modulus, including the toe body portion and one or more portions extending rearward from the heel body portion. With the main body part to have</u><u style="single"> Including, club head body</u><u style="single">Including</u><u style="single"> The COR response at a position 1 inch vertically away from the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single"> A golf club head having a similar structure in which the toe body portion, the heel body portion and the crown body portion are replaced with a corresponding body portion made of a material having the fourth elastic modulus or higher. COR response 1 inch perpendicular to the geometric center of the face component</u><u style="single">Higher than these COR responses are measured under standard USGA test conditions</u><u style="single">Golf club head.</u>
A more complete understanding of the present invention and its particular advantages can be obtained by reference to the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.
<figref num="1">A front view of an exemplary golf club of aspects of the present invention is generally shown.</figref><figref num="2A">A front perspective view of an exemplary golf club according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.</figref><figref num="2B">It is a top view of the exemplary club head shown in FIG. 2A.</figref><figref num="2C">It is a bottom view of the exemplary club head shown in FIG. 2A.</figref><figref num="2D">A front view of an exemplary golf club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.</figref><figref num="2E">A side perspective view of an exemplary golf club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, it is a side view of the club head showing the toe area in the foreground.</figref><figref num="2F">A side perspective view of an exemplary golf club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, it is a side view of the club head showing the heel area in the foreground.</figref><figref num="3A">A front perspective view of an exemplary golf club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.</figref><figref num="3B">It is a top view of the exemplary club head shown in FIG. 3A.</figref><figref num="3C">It is a bottom view of the exemplary club head shown in FIG. 3A.</figref><figref num="3D">A front view of an exemplary golf club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.</figref><figref num="3E">A side perspective view of an exemplary club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, it is a side view of the club head showing the toe area in the foreground.</figref><figref num="3F">A side perspective view of an exemplary club head according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, it is a side view of the club head showing the heel area in the foreground.</figref><figref num="4">It is an illustration explaining the measurement of the improvement of the coefficient of restitution response in the club head face of the example of this invention.</figref>
Readers should note that the attached drawings are not necessarily drawn in proportion to their actual size.
Detailed explanation In the following detailed description of the various exemplary structures of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a portion thereof and show various exemplary golf club heads and golf club structures of the present invention as examples. .. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that other specific arrangements of parts and structures can be utilized and structural and functional modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, in the present specification, "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "rear", "side", and "bottom surface" are used to explain various exemplary features and elements of the present invention. , "Overhead," etc. may be used, but these terms are used herein for convenience based on, for example, the exemplary directions shown in the figures and / or the directions in normal use. Nothing herein should be construed as requiring a particular three-dimensional or spatial orientation of the structure to fall within the scope of the invention.
As mentioned above, aspects of the invention generally relate to golf club heads and golf clubs made up of a large number of parts or components. Specific examples of the present invention will be described in more detail below. The reader should understand that these examples are provided only to give examples of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention.
A. Example of specific aspect 1. Illustrative club structure FIG. 1 generally shows an exemplary golf club 100 in at least some aspects of the invention. An exemplary club 100 includes a club head 102, a connection area 104 that connects the club head 102 to a shaft member 106 (which may be removable in certain embodiments), and a grip member 108 that engages the shaft member 106. Including. Although FIG. 1 shows a hollow driver / wood type golf club head 102, aspects of the invention apply to any wood type club head, including, for example, fairway wood club heads, wood type hybrid golf club heads, and the like. Can be done. Without departing from the present invention, cement, adhesives, welds, solders, brazes, mechanical connectors (optionally, including connecting systems and mechanisms conventionally known and used in the art). Any desired connection between the head 102 and the shaft 106 may be used, including removable mechanical connectors).
The shaft member 106 may use any desired material, including suitable materials known and used in the art, such as steel, graphite, polymers, composites, combinations of these materials, and the like. .. The grip member 108 is a shaft in any desired manner (eg, via cement or adhesive, via mechanical connection, etc.), including any suitable method known and used in the art. It may be engaged with the member 106. The grip member 108 is embedded in any desired material, including suitable materials known and used in the art, such as rubber, polymer materials, cork, cords or other fabric elements. Rubber or polymer material, cloth or cloth, tape, etc. may be used. Optionally, the grip member 108 (or suitable handle member) may be detachably connected to the shaft member 106 using a removable connection. Hereinafter, the club head 102 of some examples of the present invention will be described in more detail in relation to FIGS. 2A to 3F.
2. Illustrative club head FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of an exemplary hollow wood type club head 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. An exemplary club head 200 includes a club face 205 configured to be a striking surface upon contact with a golf ball. As can be seen in FIG. 2A, the club face 205 is located at the front edge (facing the viewer and tilted to the right in FIG. 2A) and generally extends from the heel area 210 of the club 200 to the toe area 215. Although the club face 205 is shown to be uniform in this figure, those skilled in the art may appreciate that the club face 205 is shaped or tilted along one or more axes (eg, bulge). And / or exhibiting roll properties), and it is easy to understand that other features such as grooves or scorelines may be further included on at least a portion of the surface, for example to increase ball spin in the event of a collision. There will be. The club head face 205 may be in the form of a "cup-shaped" face member, including a hitting surface 205a and a "return portion" 205b extending rearward from the periphery of the hitting face surface 205a. The return portion 205b may extend rearward at any desired distance, eg 0.1-2.5 inches, and in some exemplary structures 0.25-1.5 inches.
2B and 2C show a plan view and a bottom view of the exemplary club head 200 of FIG. 2A, respectively. The club head 200 includes a first body portion 220 located close to the club face 205 in each of the heel area 210 and the toe area 215 of the club 200. The first body portion 220 may constitute one or more independent parts or areas, or optionally one continuous region (eg, shown in FIGS. 3A-3F and described in more detail below). May be configured. Furthermore, the first body portion 220 is the distance rearward from the face 205 and from the club face 205 to the rearmost edge 225 or the rearmost position of the club head 200 in the heel area 210 and the toe area 215, respectively (FIG. 2B). It may extend to a distance of at least about 10% of the dimension "B" in FIG. 2B (dimension "A" in FIG. 2B). In some exemplary structures, the first body portion 220 is at a distance of at least 20% or at least 25%, 30% or 40% of the distance from the club face 205 to the trailing edge or position, posteriorly from the face 205. It may extend (but in at least some embodiments, these body parts 220 do not exceed 60% of this distance). In another aspect of the invention, the maximum dimension of the first body portion 220 in the anteroposterior direction (dimension "A" in FIG. 2B) is at least 10% of the maximum total anteroposterior dimension of the club (dimension "C" in FIG. 2B). Alternatively, it may constitute at least 20%, 25%, 30% or 40%, but in at least some embodiments, the maximum anterior-posterior dimension of the first body portion 220 is the maximum total anterior-posterior dimension of the club (dimensions in FIG. 2B, "Dimension". Does not exceed 60% of C "). These dimensions can be determined with the club oriented towards its intended ball address position (eg, as shown in Figure 2B).
As seen in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the distance the first body portion 220 extends towards the trailing edge 225 may vary along the heel-toe direction of the first body portion 220. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the distance the first body portion 220 extends toward the trailing edge 225 may decrease as it approaches the longitudinal center of the club face 205 (eg, FIGS. 2B and 2C). As indicated by the curved edge 222 of part 220 in 2C). Looking at the exemplary embodiments shown in these drawings, the distance that the first body portion 220 extends towards the trailing edge 225 is maximum in the terminal heel and toe areas 210, 215, and gradually decreases, It disappears before reaching the center of the club head 200 at both the top (see Figure 2B) and bottom (see Figure 2C) of the club head 200. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the slope or rate at which the distance the first body portion 220 extends toward the trailing edge 225 decreases (hereinafter, "decrease rate") will vary depending on the particular embodiment. Will. Furthermore, a further embodiment may utilize different reduction rates for the top and / or bottom of the club such that one curved edge 222 of the top or bottom of the club face has a different reduction rate than the other. In an even further embodiment, the reduction rate is such that the first body portion 220 extends less in the center towards the trailing edge 225 than in the toe and heel areas 210, 215. May be lower than shown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 2E-2F so that is in contact with the clubface 205 approximately in the center of the clubface 205. The tilt ratio need not be the same in the heel area 210 and the toe area 215 of a given club head structure (ie, the first body part 220 in the heel area 210 is the first body part 220 in the toe area 215. May have a different shape). Edge 222 is straight, curved, or of any desired shape You may. Also, if desired, the material of the first body portion 220 in the heel area 210 may be different from the material of the first body portion 220 in the toe area 215 (although, as will be described in more detail below). , Can have a lower modulus than the second body part 230).
The first body portion 220 comprises at least one material different from the material constituting the club face 205 such that the first body portion 220 has a different elastic modulus than the club face 205. In one embodiment, the first body portion 220 is a first titanium component. As used herein, the term "titanium component" is one or more suitable to be included within the structure of a club head disclosed herein, including at least a club head 200 and a club head 300. Includes titanium metals and / or alloys of (described in more detail below). Titanium components may be the same as titanium metal and titanium alloy materials as conventionally known and used in golf club head technology. In one embodiment in which the first body portion 220 is the first titanium component, the first titanium component may be a titanium 15-3-3-3 alloy (commercially available from ATI Allvac (Monroe, NC). ing). As used herein, "titanium 15-3-3-3" refers to a titanium alloy having the following general chemical formulations:<img id="000002" he="51" wi="128" file="JP5903112B2_D0001.tif" img-format="tif" img-content="drawing" />
Titanium 15-3-3-3 is about 13.5lbs-in<sup>2</sup>×10<sup>6</sup>It can have a modulus of elasticity (E). As used herein, the term "small amount" means less than 0.5% by weight.
Further, as seen in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the golf club head 200 further includes a second body portion 230. The second body portion 230 in this exemplary structure 200 is located close to the club face 205 at approximately the longitudinal (heel-toe) center of the club face crown, from the club face 205 to the trailing edge 225 of the club head 200. It extends toward. The second body portion 230 in this exemplary structure 200 includes a material that allows the second body portion 230 to have a higher elastic modulus than the elastic modulus of the first body portion 220. By constructing the second body portion 230 with a material that exhibits a higher modulus of restitution than the material that constitutes the first body portion 220, the first body portion 220 is compared to the second body portion 230. It is more susceptible to deformation, which increases the area of club head face 205 that exhibits an increased coefficient of restitution. In other words, making the club head toe area 215 and heel area 210 more deformable by the material 220 is the trampoline effect exhibited by the face when the ball hit point is off-center and close to the heel or toe. (The coefficient of restitution of the club head 200 will be described in more detail below). The higher modulus component 230 better resists deformation and provides a rigid base that supports the components 220 and those deformations. In one embodiment, the modulus of elasticity of the second body portion 230 may be at least about 5% greater than the modulus of elasticity of the first body portion 220, and in some examples at least about 10%, at least about 20. It may be% larger, and may be at least about 30% larger. In other embodiments, the elastic modulus difference between the first body portion 220 and the second body portion 230 can be in the range of about 5-30%, 7-25% and 8-20% (ie). The modulus of elasticity of the first body part 220 is 5-30% lower than that of the second body part 230, and in some cases 7-25% lower or 8-20% lower).
In one embodiment, the second body portion 230 comprises a second titanium component. In one such embodiment, the second body portion 230 comprises titanium KS120 (eg, an α-type titanium material commercially available from Kobe Steel (Tokyo)). In one exemplary structure 200, where the first body portion 220 comprises a titanium component, and the second body portion 230 further comprises a titanium component having a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion 220, the first. The body part 220 may contain titanium 15-3-3-3, and the second body part 230 may contain titanium KS120. In yet another embodiment, the second body portion 230 comprises steel or other material. Regardless of the specific composition of the first body portion 220 and the second body portion 230, the second body portion 230 of this exemplary structure 200 exhibits a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion 220. The exact thickness of the first body part 220 and the second body part 230 will vary depending on the material used according to various aspects. In one embodiment, the first body portion 220 and the second body portion 230 are about 0.4 mm to about 2.0 mm thick. Other thickness ranges may include from about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm and from about 0.5 to about 1.2 mm. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art when considering the present disclosure, other dimensions fall within the claims, and the above dimensions are merely examples for demonstrating various aspects of the invention. Furthermore, other parts of the club head structure may have a thickness within the above thickness range, including the crown, heel, toe and sole.
As shown in FIG. 2D, a similar club head in which the configuration, arrangement and interaction between the club face 205, the first body part 220 and the second body part 230 was made without the first body part 220. A club face 205 with a higher coefficient of restitution in areas closer to the toe area 215 and heel area 210 compared to the structure (eg, a similar club structure with a high modulus material 230 at the position of the first body portion 220). Provide club head 200 with. As can be seen in FIG. 2D, the axis 235 is located approximately vertically centered on the club face 205 in the heel-toe direction. A virtual arrow 240 extends along the axis 245 away from the axis 235 toward both the heel area 210 and the toe area 215 of the club head 200. The highest coefficient of restitution of this club head can be kept in the central area of the face 205 (eg near the intersection of axes 235 and 245), but due to the increased deformability in the heel and toe areas (due to the low modulus region 220). ) Expands the area of club face 205 that may exhibit a higher coefficient of restitution (ie, the coefficient of restitution shown near the heel and toe areas is such that the material 220 is replaced by a material with a higher modulus, such as material 230. May be somewhat higher than the coefficient of restitution of similar club heads. In other words, this structural aspect of the invention tends to expand the area of the "sweet spot" of the club head, at least in the heel-toe direction. Also, changing the thickness of the face 205 at various positions may be used to locally change and control the club face COR characteristics. Considering the present disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art can vary the configuration, placement and interaction between various club components to adjust the coefficient of restitution along one or more axes in addition to axis 245. You will easily understand what you can do. For example, in one aspect described in more detail below, the coefficient of restitution can be increased along axis 235.
In yet another embodiment, the dimensions of one or more components, such as the return portion 205b of the club face 205, may be different at different positions. 2E and 2F show a side perspective view of an exemplary club head 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 2E is a side view of the club head 200 showing the toe area in the foreground. FIG. 2F is a side view of the same club head 200 showing the heel area in the foreground. The return portion 205b of the club face 205 is not uniform, as seen in the circled area 250. For example, in the embodiment shown in area 250, the return portion 205b of club face 205 extends rearward by a greater distance in the center of the club face than in heel area 210 and / or toe area 215.
Also shown in FIGS. 2E and 2F, the return portion 205b along the sides of this exemplary club face 205 has a relatively low modulus material at portion 220 forward very close to the front surface of the hitting face 205a. It is curved to extend. This feature substantially replaces the relatively anti-deformable material portion of the return portion 205b of the hitting face 205 with the relatively deformable material of the portion 220 in both the heel and toe areas. This feature further enhances the deformability of the entire golf club face (and thus increases the area with improved COR response, as described above). As further shown in FIG. 2C, the portion 220 can extend very close to the hitting surface 205a (area 220a) in both the lower toe area and the lower heel area, which further increases the deformability. It has the effect of increasing the COR response of the club head away from the center.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the club head 200 may be made up of one or more first body parts 220 and a second body part 230 (also made up of one or more independent parts or pieces. ), A body part such as a third body part, a fourth body part, and the like may be included. For example, the exemplary club head 200 shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2E and 2F includes a third body portion 260 located along the trailing edge 225 along the top of the club head 200. In certain embodiments, one or more additional body parts, such as the third body part 260, may contain materials that exhibit a higher modulus of elasticity than the first body part 220. In one such embodiment, one or more additional body parts include one or more titanium components. In such an embodiment in which the third body portion 260 comprises a titanium component, the titanium component may differ from the titanium component of the second body portion 230. If desired, the third body portion 260 may be made of a higher density material, or additional weighting may be applied to the rear portion of the club head structure (optionally to the heel and / or toe side of the club head 200). It may be formed to include one or more weight members (optionally selectively removable or adjustable weight members) to be applied (outward towards). This third body portion 260 optionally heel-weights or toe-weights the club to control the final weighting characteristics of the club head, thereby drawing bias club, fade bias. It can be used by club designers to provide club or other club weighting features.
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an exemplary hollow wood type club head 300 of a further aspect of the present invention. An exemplary club head 300 includes a club face 305 that is similar to the club face 205 in some embodiments. As can be seen in FIG. 3A, the club face 305 is located at the front edge (facing right, facing the viewer) and extends approximately from the heel area 310 of the club head 300 to the toe area 315. Although the club face 305 is shown to be uniform, those skilled in the art may appreciate that the club face 305 is molded or tilted in one or more directions (eg, exhibiting roll or bulge properties). , And moreover, it will be readily appreciated that other features such as grooves or scorelines may be included on at least some portion of the surface, for example to increase ball spin in the event of a collision. The face member 305 may constitute a cup-shaped face member including a hitting surface 305a and a return portion 305b extending rearward from the hitting surface 305a.
The club head 300 is at least 10% and less than 60% of the distance from the club face 305 to the trailing edge 325 of the head in each of the heel area 310 and the toe area 315 (dimension "C" in FIG. 3B) (dimension "A" in FIG. 3B). ) Includes a first body portion 320 that extends close to the club face 305. The first body portion 320 (dimension "B" in FIG. 3B) in the center and crown of the club face 305, close to the club face 305, is further the distance to the trailing edge in the center of the club face 305 (dimension in FIG. 3B). It may extend to at least 40% of "C"). If desired, the central sole portion of the club head may include an elongated finger of the material of the first portion 320 (eg, looks the same as or similar to the extended finger of the central crown portion), as shown in FIG. 3C. In some examples, dimension A may constitute at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30% or at least 40% of dimension C, and dimension B is at least 60%, at least 75% of dimension C. , At least 85% or 100% may be configured. Dimension B is generally larger than Dimension A. In another aspect of the invention, the maximum anterior-posterior dimension of the first body portion 320 in the heel and toe area of the club head (dimension "A" in FIG. 3B) is the maximum total anteroposterior dimension of the club (dimension in FIG. 3B). It may constitute at least 20%, or even at least 25%, 30% or 40% of "D"), but in at least some embodiments, the maximum anterior-posterior dimension (dimensions) of the first body portion in the heel and toe area. "A") does not exceed 60% of the maximum total front-rear dimension of the club (dimension "D"). In some embodiments, the maximum dimension of the first body portion 320 in the anterior-posterior direction in the central area of the club head (dimension "B" in FIG. 3B) is the maximum total anteroposterior dimension of the club (dimension "D" in FIG. 3B). Can make up at least 60%, or even at least 75%, 85% or 95% of .. These dimensions can be determined with the club oriented towards its intended ball address position (eg, as shown in Figure 3B).
The first body portion 320 contains at least one material that is different from the material that constitutes the club face 305. As described below, the first body portion 320 is constructed of a material that is more susceptible to deformation when compared to at least some of the rest of the club, thereby exhibiting an increased coefficient of restitution. The area of the head increases (the coefficient of restitution of the club head 300 is described in more detail below in relation to Figure 3D). In one embodiment, the first body portion 320 is a first titanium component, eg titanium 15-3-3-3 as described above.
As best seen in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the club head 300 further extends toward the trailing edge 325 and center of the club head 300 and is close to the first body portion 320 in the toe area 315 of the club head 300. Includes the second body part 330. The composition of the second body portion 330 has a higher modulus of elasticity than the composition of the first body portion 320, thus making the second body portion 330 generally less susceptible to deformation than the first body portion 320. .. In one embodiment, the second body portion 330 comprises a second titanium component, such as the titanium KS120 as described above. In one embodiment, if the first body part 320 contains a titanium component and the second body part 330 further contains a titanium component, the first body component 320 may also contain titanium 15-3-3-3. Well, and the second body component 330 may include titanium KS120.
Further, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the club head 300 is further located close to the first body portion 320 in the heel area 310 of the club head 300 extending towards the trailing edge 325 and center of the club head 300. Includes a third body part 332. This third body portion 332 also has a higher elastic modulus than the first body portion 320. In one embodiment, the third body portion 332 comprises substantially the same structural material as the second body portion 330, such that the second and third body portions 330, 332 have the same elastic modulus. In certain embodiments, the second and third body components 330, 332 both include titanium components such as the titanium KS120 as described above. Regardless of the composition of the second or third body parts 330, 332, in at least some exemplary structures of the invention, the second and third body parts 330, 332 are both more than the first body part 320. Also shows a high elastic modulus.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 3D, the configuration, arrangement and interaction between the club face 305, the first body portion 320, the second body portion 330 and the third body portion 332 have a higher modulus of restitution. By a region along the longitudinal center of the club face 305, eg, along axis 335, compared to the coefficient of restitution of a club head of similar structure in which the material in the material, eg, portion 330 and / or 332, replaces portion 320. Provided is a club head 300 having a club face 305 with a high coefficient of restitution. However, the coefficient of restitution of the club face 305 along the axis 345 in this exemplary structure is at least due to the proximity of the first body portion 320 to the club face 305 in the heel and toe area 310, 315, the heel and toe area 310, Higher than a club head without a first body portion 320 along 315 (eg, as described above in connection with aspects of FIGS. 2A-2F). In particular, in this exemplary structure, the low modulus portion 320 constitutes a perimeter member that engages the entire perimeter of the face member 305 (provided that the portion 320 completely surrounds the face member 305, if desired). No need).
As described in connection with FIGS. 2E and 2F, the dimensions of one or more components of the club head structure may differ at different locations on the club head structure. For example, if desired, the anteroposterior dimensions of the return portion 305b of the club head face 305 may vary around the club face 305. Furthermore, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the club head 300 may include additional body parts in addition to the first, second and third body parts 320, 330, 332 described above. For example, the exemplary club head 300 shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3E and 3F includes a fourth body portion 360 located along the trailing edge 325 along the top of the club head 300. In certain embodiments, one or more additional body parts, such as the fourth body part 360, may comprise a material that exhibits a higher modulus of elasticity than the first body part 320. In one such embodiment, one or more additional body parts include one or more titanium components. Further, in a further aspect in which the fourth body portion 360 comprises a titanium component, the titanium component may be different from the titanium components of the second and third body portions 330, 332. In certain embodiments, the fourth body portion 360 comprises industrially pure titanium. As mentioned above in connection with the component 260 in FIG. 2A, the portion 360 also comprises a weight or weight bearing member, eg, a member that allows the club designer to modify and control the weighting characteristics of the club. Can be done.
3. Illustrative method Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a golf club head (eg, of the type described above) of an example of the invention. Such a method may include, for example, joining a plurality of structural components of a golf club head to form a club head. In one embodiment, the method places the first body portions 220, 320 of the club head on at least a portion of the club faces 205, 305 extending from the heel area to the toe area, eg, cup-type club faces shown in FIGS. 2A and 3A, respectively. Includes mounting on the return parts 205b, 305b of 205, 305. The method may further include attaching a second body portion, eg, elements 230, 330 and / or 332 of FIGS. 2B and 3B, to the first body portion 220, 320. This second body part engages with the first body part and / or club face and extends away from club faces 205, 305 towards the trailing edges or points 225, 325 of club heads 200, 300. It may be arranged. The second body parts 230, 330, 332 have a higher elastic modulus than the first body parts 220, 320. Any desired method of joining various clubhead components can be used without departing from the present invention, but in at least some examples the component parts are cemented, glued, welded, soldered, brazed. , Joined by a mechanical connector (optionally a removable mechanical connector), etc. The various component parts are common in the art and may be joined in a known manner.
In one exemplary method, the first body part can constitute a number of parts similar to, for example, element 220 in FIGS. 2A-2C, thus to club face 205 in heel area 210 and toe area 215, respectively. Can be installed in close proximity. These elements 220 may extend at least about 10% of the distance from the club face 205 of the club head 205 to the trailing edge 225. The second body portion 230 may be mounted so that it is located close to the club face 205 in the approximately longitudinal center of the club face 205 and extends away from the club face 205 of the club head 200 toward the trailing edge 225. You may.
In yet another method, the first body portion may constitute a part similar to, for example, element 320 in FIGS. 3A-3C. This part 320 is close to the club face 305 and is less than 60% of the distance to the trailing edge 325 of the club head 300 in each of the toe zone 315 and heel zone 310, and even up to the trailing edge 325 in the center of the club face 305. Form a perimeter of the material that extends at least 60% of the distance.
Given this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will make obvious changes, such as adjusting the amount, type, shape and / or combination of materials and attachments that may be used to manufacture golf club heads that fall within the scope of the present invention. You will understand that it can be incorporated into the above method.
Four. COR measurement FIG. 4 is an illustration useful to illustrate the improvement of COR on the club head face 400 in at least some examples of the present invention. As mentioned above, in general, at least for faces of uniform thickness, the highest COR on the golf club face 400 is at or near the geometric center of the club head face 400 (eg, in this illustrated example). Tends to be at or near the center point 402). The COR tends to decrease as it moves away from the center point 402 towards the edge of the club head face 400 (eg, additional support provided by the lateral structure of the club head, flexion provided to the club face (eg cup). Due to the stiffening properties provided as a result of the bending from the surface of the hitting face of the type club face to the return part). The COR profile and COR value of the face can also be affected by changing the thickness of the hitting face. According to the exemplary club head structure 200 shown in FIGS. 2A-2F, the distal lateral parts of the toe area 215 and heel area 210 are compared to the material of the face 205 and / or most of the material of the body part (eg, part 230). And it is made of a material (material 220) with a lower modulus. This lower modulus portion 220 is more susceptible to deformation, especially above a given club head / golf ball collision velocity (eg, above 90 mph). When the contact with the golf ball is located away from the geometric center 402 of the face and closer to the heel or toe area of the club head face (for example, in FIG. 4, the contact point is horizontal from the center 402 of the face). (When away), this deformation increases the COR response of the golf club head face. Substantially, the lower modulus portion has the effect of expanding the "sweet spot" of the club face in the heel and toe directions and providing an improved COR response on off-center hits.
According to the exemplary club head structure 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3F, the entire circumference of the club head face 305 is compared to the material of the face 305 and / or the material of most of the club head body (eg, portions 330 and / or 332). And it is made of a material with a lower modulus (material 320). This lower modulus portion 320 is more susceptible to deformation, especially above a given club head / golf ball collision velocity (eg, above 90 mph). As mentioned above with respect to the structure of FIGS. 2A-2F, when the contact with the golf ball is located away from the geometric center 402 of the face and closer to the heel or toe area of the club head face (eg, in FIG. 4). This deformation increases the COR response of the golf club head face (when the contact point is horizontally separated from the center 402 of the face). Furthermore, the presence of a relatively low modulus material 320 adjacent to the top and bottom of the club head face 305 keeps contact with the golf ball away from the geometric center 402 of the face and the club head face. This deformation increases the COR response of the golf club face when located closer to the crown or sole area of the golf club (eg, in FIG. 4, when the contact point is vertically away from the center 402 of the face). Substantially, the aspect of the present invention is that the low modulus material is a material with a higher modulus (eg, the material of the club head face and / or the other body part of the club head, eg, 230, 330 and / or 332 above. Increases the COR response of the golf club face on off-center hits compared to the COR response of golf love heads of similar construction that have been replaced with some material). In both aspects illustrated, the improvement in COR response is also away from the center of the club face and extends from this center position between the horizontal and vertical directions (eg, some quadrants of the club face shown in FIG. 4). It is also realized in 404 (a) to 404 (d)). COR response of the present invention
As mentioned above, according to the present invention, the COR response of a golf club head is measured and has the same structure, but with a low modulus material and / or a club head body portion (eg, portion 220) in the heel and toe areas. A low modulus material around the club face (eg part 320) is a material with a higher modulus (eg club head face material, other body parts (eg parts 230, 330 and / or 332)) Compared to the COR response of the replaced golf club head.
According to at least some examples of the present invention, points located 0.5 inches closer to the heel or toe of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) are comparative clubs. Compared to the head (above), the club head of the present invention has an improved COR value of at least 5%. As a further example, a point located 0.5 inches closer to the heel or toe of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) is a book compared to the comparative club head. In the case of the club head of the invention, it has a COR value improved by at least 10%, or further by at least 15%. According to at least some further examples of the present invention, points located one inch closer to the heel or toe of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) are compared. The club head of the present invention has an improved COR value of at least 5% compared to the club head, and as a further example, the heel or toe of the club head is only 1 inch from the geometric center of the club head face. Points located closer (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) have an improved COR value of at least 10%, or even at least 15%, in the case of the clubheads of the invention compared to the comparative clubheads. Has a COR value that has been determined. According to at least some further examples of the present invention, points located 1.5 inches closer to the heel or toe of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) are compared. The club head of the present invention has an improved COR value of at least 5% compared to the club head, and as a further example, from the geometric center of the club head face 1. Points located only 5 inches closer to the heel or toe of the club head (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) were improved by at least 10% in the case of the club head of the present invention compared to the comparative club head. It has a COR value, or an further improved COR value of at least 15% or at least 20%. According to some further examples of the present invention, points located 2 inches closer to the heel or toe of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) are compared. The club head of the present invention has an improved COR value of at least 5% compared to the club head, and as a further example, the club head is closer to the heel or toe by 2 inches from the geometric center of the club head face. Points located at (eg, along the horizon from the geometric center) have a COR value improved by at least 10% in the case of the clubheads of the invention, or even at least 15% or at least, compared to the comparison clubheads. Has a 20% improved COR value.
According to at least some further examples of the present invention, points located 0.5 inches closer to the crown or sole of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along a vertical line from the geometric center) , Has an improved COR value of at least 5% in the case of the club head of the present invention as compared to the comparative club head. As a further example, a point located 0.5 inches closer to the crown or sole of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along a vertical line from the geometric center) is compared to the comparison club head. The club heads of the present invention have a COR value improved by at least 10%, or even more by at least 15%. According to at least some further examples of the present invention, a point located one inch closer to the crown or sole of the club head from the geometric center of the club head face (eg, along a vertical line from the geometric center). Compared to the comparative club head, the club head of the present invention has an improved COR value of at least 5%, and as a further example, the crown or sole of the club head is only 1 inch from the geometric center of the club head face. Points located closer (eg, along a vertical line from the geometric center) have an improved COR value of at least 10%, or even at least 15%, in the case of the clubheads of the invention compared to the comparative clubheads. Has an improved COR value.
5. Further potential features Having described the invention with respect to specific examples, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that numerous modifications can be made to the structures and methods described herein without departing from the invention. .. For example, if desired, face members (eg, members 205 and 305) have varying face thicknesses, eg, more controllable face stiffness or flexibility (and more controllable face COR response). A raised or thickened back surface may be included, for example, in the central portion of the face. As another example, if desired, the low modulus region may be provided only on the toe portion of the club head or only on the heel portion of the club head. Also, while the club heads shown generally have a square shape or footprint, one of ordinary skill in the art will have a wood type having any desired shape, including any known or conventional shape used in the art. You will understand that aspects of the invention can be implemented in a club structure.
Given a particular dimension, property and / or range of dimensions and properties (eg, the range described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/02395776A1 published October 27, 2005). Although it can be used in club head structures, those skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and ranges are merely examples that can be used in at least some exemplary club head structures of the present invention. Let's do it. Many changes in range and specific dimensions and characteristics may be used without departing from the present invention, for example depending on the type of club, user preference, user swing characteristics, etc. It can be controlled depending on the characteristics of the body member attached to the face member. For example, depending on whether the golf club head is a driver, 2nd wood, 3rd wood, 4th wood, 5th wood, 7th wood, 9th wood, wood type hybrid club, etc., for example, various dimensions and / Or characteristics (eg various loft angles, face angles, head weights, lie angles, center of gravity angles, inset distances, lengths, widths, heights, face thicknesses, crown thicknesses, sole thicknesses, body member wall thicknesses. You can use hosel diameter, volume, bulge radius, roll radius, body density, etc.). It may also provide various dimensions and / or characteristics to suit the user's preferences and / or swing characteristics, such as to provide the desired launch angle, carry distance and / or other characteristics of the club. In addition, a variety of different shaft characteristics (eg stiffness, flexpoints, kickpoints, etc.) may be used to further allow modification and control of the feel and characteristics of the club and club head.
The golf club heads of the examples of the present invention may use club head designs and / or geometries to produce other desired club head characteristics. For example, in some club head structures of the present invention, the body of the club head is such that the club head is larger than the depth or width of the club head (eg, front-rear dimension "B" in FIG. 2B) and / or. It has a face length (eg, heel-toe dimension "L" in Figure 2B) as well as a "square" structure, resulting in a club head that is more torsionally stable (ie, more torsionally resistant), thereby producing a club head. Designed to produce a more consistent, reliable and / or straight golf ball flight. At least some golf club heads and golf clubs in these exemplary aspects of the invention have a club head overall length L of at least 4.5 inches, at least 4.6 inches, at least 4.7 inches, at least 4.8 inches or even at least 4.9 inches, and 0.9. Alternatively, the body member may include a body member having a size for providing a club head body having a ratio (B / L) of the club head overall width dimension to the club head overall width dimension of 1 or less than that. The club heads of at least some examples of the present invention may have a ratio of club head width to club head length of at least 0.94, at least 0.95, at least 0.96, at least 0.97, or even at least 0.98. The club heads of at least some examples of the present invention are also incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / filed in the name of John Thomas Stites et al. On June 22, 2006. It may have some or all of the features described in 0298903.
In the golf club heads of at least some examples of the present invention, the body member has a club head overall width dimension B of at least 4.2 inches, at least 4.3 inches, at least 4.4 inches, at least 4.5 inches, at least 4.6 inches, at least 4.7 inches, at least 4.8. It may have a size of inches, or even at least 4.9 inches. Similar to the above example, the club head body of at least some examples of this aspect of the invention has a club head total length L of at least 4.7 inches, at least 4.8 inches, or even at least 4.9 inches, and / or a club head. Overall body size is 500 cm<sup>3</sup>Or less, 470 cm<sup>3</sup>Or less, or even 460 cm<sup>3</sup>Or it may have dimensions such that it is less than that. In some examples, the replaceable body member has a size and shape such that the overall size or volume of the club head body is at least 350 cc, at least 400 cc, at least 420 cc, or even at least 450 cc.
Conclusion Having described the invention in detail with respect to specific examples of carrying out the invention, including presently preferred embodiments, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous modifications and substitutions of the systems and methods described above. Therefore, the intent and scope of the present invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.
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| Document | Relation | Office |
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| JP07007664U | Cites | Japan |
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122 members in 13 offices
Priority claims5
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Numbers
- Publication
- 5903112
- Publication, DOCDB
- 5903112
- Publication, EPODOC
- JP5903112B
- Application
- 9048
- Application, DOCDB
- 2014009048
- Application, EPODOC
- JP20140009048
Titles2
- Japanese
- マルチコンポーネントゴルフクラブヘッド
- English
- Multi-component golf club head
Classification
- CPC, 12
- A63B53/0487
- A63B53/0466
- A63B53/047
- A63B2053/0491
- A63B2209/00
- A63B60/54
- Y10T29/49993
- A63B53/0441
- A63B53/0416
- A63B53/0433
- A63B53/04
- A63B60/00
- IPC, 1
- A63B53 04
