Releasable and interchangeable connections for golf club heads and shafts

Releasable and exchangeable connector for golf club head and handle

RELEASABLE AND INTERCHANGEABLE CONNECTIONS FOR GOLF CLUB HEADS AND SHAFTS

Related application

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/509,217, filed on Jul. 24, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference. These applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

New field

The present invention generally relates to golf clubs and golf club heads. More specifically, most aspects of the present invention relate to having a plurality of releasable connectors and head/handle position adjustment features between the golf club head and the handle for easy exchange of the handle And the head and the golf club for easily modifying the head/handle positioning properties. In addition, the features of the present invention are similar in structure and function, for example, as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/774,513, filed on Jan. 6, 2007, in the name of This application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

New background

Golf is popular with a wide range of players - players of different genders and great age differences and / or technical standards. The uniqueness of golf in the sporting world is that even when competing directly with each other (for example, using handicap, different teeing, teaming, etc.), these different players still love this golf or competition. These factors have been at least partially caused by the existence of many golf programs on television (eg, golf tournaments, golf news, golf history, and/or other golf programs) and famous golf superstars. The golf population has increased considerably in the United States and the world in recent years.

All technical level golfers will want to improve their performance, reduce their golf clubs and reach the next performance level. Manufacturers of various golf equipment have responded to these needs, and in recent years, the industry has witnessed significant changes and improvements in golf equipment. For example, a wide range of different golf models are now available, and the ball is designed to be available, for example, to some balls that are designed to fly farther and/or straighter; some are designed to provide higher or flatter Straight track ball; some balls designed to provide more rotation, control, and/or sensing (especially around the green); some are set to fit the ball at a faster or slower swing speed, Complement specific swing speeds and/or other player characteristics or preferences. In addition, many of the promises that help reduce the number of golf clubs and/or teaching aids are also available on the market.

As the only device that moves a golf ball while playing, golf clubs have also been the subject of many technological research and advancements in recent years. For example, in recent years in putter design, golf club head, handle and grip In the face, significant changes and improvements have been seen in the market. In addition, efforts have been made to achieve other techniques (such as club adjustment techniques, in order to better match the various components and/or characteristics of the golf club and/or the characteristics of a golf ball to the swing characteristics or characteristics of a particular user. The progress of the ball hitting angle measurement technique, the ball rotation speed, and the like.

If there is recent technological advancement, there will be multiple sets of golf club components for golfers to use. For example, most club heads are made in a variety of different models by various manufacturers. In addition, the independent club head models may include various changes, such as a loft angle, a lie angle, an offset feature, and a counterweight characteristic (a small left-handed club head, a small right) Changes in the head of the ball, the head of the neutral weight, etc.). In addition, the club heads may, for example, be combined with a variety of different handles by different manufacturers; have different stiffness, flex points, kick points, or other flexing characteristics; Wait. Between the handle and the changes available in the club head, there are literally hundreds of different head/handle combinations available for golfers.

Club adjusters and golf professionals can assist golfers in adjusting a golf club head/handle that suits their swing characteristics and needs. However, in the past, the golf club head was permanently attached to the handle using a cement or adhesive. Therefore, in order for a golfer to test a variety of head/handle combinations, the club adjuster or professional must carry a variety of permanently installed golf club heads/handles (which take up a significant amount of storage space and Inventory cost) or the club adjuster or professional must build a new club for the customer while the adjustment process continues (this costs a lot Time and inventory cost). The disadvantages associated with these conventional options are sufficient to limit the options available to the golfer during an adjustment session and/or to significantly increase the cost and length of a party.

New summary

A general summary of the various forms of the present invention is set forth below in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention and its various features. In any event, this summary is not intended to limit the scope of the novel, but rather to provide a general overview and context for a more detailed description.

Most of the modalities of the present invention relate to attaching a plurality of golf club heads and a plurality of handles in a releasable manner such that the club heads and handles can be easily exchanged and/or the handles are opposed to The system and method for the angle and/or position of the club head body (and its ball striking face) can be easily changed.

A golf club according to the present invention may include a handle; a golf club head having a neck region and an inner chamber defined in one of the bottoms of the club head; a handle joint, which is The handle is engaged; and a head joint. The handle joint can have a first end and a second end along a first axis. Additionally, the handle joint may further include an inner bore extending along a second axis, wherein one end of the handle extends into the inner bore on the second shaft, and wherein one of the outer surfaces of the handle joint At least a portion has a non-circular cross-sectional shape. Additionally, the second end can include a fixed structure. The head joint can have a first end and a second end along a first axis. The head joint may further include an inner hole, and the inner hole has a non-circular shape along a second axis The cross-sectional shape is shaped to receive and engage a portion of the outer surface of the shank joint having the non-circular cross-sectional shape in a non-rotating manner and in a plurality of different orientations.

Moreover, the golf clubs can include a securing member that extends into the second end of the shank joint and releasably engages the securing structure of the shank joint to thereby releasably engage the shank a joint and the head joint and the golf club head. Additionally, the outer surface of the handle joint can engage the hosel region while the inner chamber can provide an opening for receiving the head joint.

Other aspects of the present invention relate to a method of assembling a golf club. According to an exemplary method, a handle member is attached to the handle joint, and the handle joint has a first end and a second end along a first axis. The handle member can be inserted into an inner bore and the inner bore is defined in the handle joint along a second axis, wherein at least a portion of an outer surface of the handle joint has a non-circular shape A cross-sectional shape, and the second end includes a fixed structure. The method can further include inserting a head joint into an interior of a club head. The method may further include inserting the handle joint into an inner bore of one of the head joints, wherein the head joint includes a first end and a second end along a first axis and wherein the inner bore is along a first The two shafts have a non-circular cross-sectional shape and are shaped to receive and engage the portion of the outer surface of the shank joint having the non-circular cross-sectional shape in a non-rotating manner and in a plurality of different orientations. The method can further include placing a securing member into the second end of the handle joint. Moreover, the method may further include releasably engaging the fixing structure of the fixing member and the shank joint to thereby releasably engage the head joint and The handle joint and the club head.

<p>100 clubs</p><p>102 club head</p><p>104Connecting system; releasable connector</p><p>106handle member; handle</p><p>108Catch components</p><p>202 handle joint</p><p>204 first end</p><p>206 second end</p><p>208first axis</p><p>210 inside hole</p><p>212second axis</p><p>302 head joint</p><p>304 first end</p><p>306 second end</p><p>308first axis</p><p>310 hole</p><p>312second axis</p><p>400 golf clubs</p><p>402 club head</p><p>404 neck area</p><p>502, 504 indicators</p><p>600Table</p><p>602, 604, 606, 608 columns</p><p>610,612</p><p>702 handle joint</p><p>704 first end</p><p>706 second end</p><p>708 first axis</p><p>710 hole</p><p>712second axis</p><p>714Flange</p><p>716Bolt</p><p>802 head connector</p><p>804 first end</p><p>806 second end</p><p>808first axis</p><p>810 hole</p><p>812second axis</p><p>816 openings; top; slightly grooved</p><p>818Bolt</p><p>820Bolt</p><p>900 golf clubs</p><p>902 club head</p><p>904 neck area</p><p>906Bolt</p><p>908 nuts</p><p>910 thread</p><p>1002, 1004 indicators</p><p>1102 handle joint</p><p>1104 head joint</p><p>1106 handle joint</p><p>1108 head joint</p><p>1200 club head</p><p>1202 handle joint</p><p>1204Bolt</p><p>1206 first end</p><p>1208 middle part</p><p>1210 second end</p><p>1211 screw holes; fixed structure</p><p>1212Lip; lip area</p><p>1214Support area</p><p>1216 neck area</p><p>1218 inner hole; inner room</p><p>1220first axis</p><p>1222Central rod neck</p><p>1224 head connector</p><p>1226 first end</p><p>1228second end</p><p>1230,1232Bolt</p><p>1231 hole</p><p>1234second axis</p><p>1236 Insert interface</p><p>1238Bolt; fixing system</p><p>1240Washers</p><p>1241Bolt</p><p>1242 inside room</p><p>1243Installing the ridge</p><p>1244Flange</p><p>1300 club head</p><p>1302 handle joint</p><p>1304Bolt</p><p>1306 first end</p><p>1310 second end</p><p>1312Outwardly protruding area</p><p>1316 neck area</p><p>1318 hole</p><p>1320first axis</p><p>1322Central rod neck</p><p>1324 head joint</p><p>1326 first end</p><p>1328 second end</p><p>1330Bolt</p><p>1331 hole</p><p>1332Bolt</p><p>1334second axis</p><p>1336 Insert interface</p><p>1338Bolts</p><p>1340 Washer</p><p>1342 Space</p>

The present invention and certain advantages thereof will be more fully understood by consideration of the appended claims and the appended claims &lt;RTIgt; 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a handle joint example in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an example of a head joint joining a handle joint in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention; 4 is an exploded view of an example of a golf club having a shank joint and a head joint according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams showing a ball relative to a ball according to an embodiment of the present invention. Rotation of one of the shank joints of the head; FIGS. 5C and 5D are diagrams showing the rotation of one of the shank joints and an exemplary head joint with respect to one of the club heads according to an embodiment of the present invention; The figure shows a table containing exemplary information for adjusting the handle joint relative to the club head according to an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 7 is a handle joint according to another structural example of the present invention. Cross-sectional perspective view of example; Figure 8 Based on a cross-sectional perspective view of the joint of one embodiment of a further embodiment of the engagement structure of the handle portion of the present new connection head; FIG. 9 is another configuration according to the present embodiment of the novel handle portion having An exploded view of a golf club example of a joint and a head joint; FIGS. 10A and 10B show a rotation of a handle joint example with respect to a club head according to an example of the present invention; 10C and 10D shows According to another example of the present invention, one of the opposing club heads exemplifies the rotation of the shank joint and an exemplary head joint; and FIGS. 11A and 11B show one of the shank joints and a head joint according to other examples of the present invention. Example of interconnection; FIG. 12A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a handle joint/head joint assembly according to another structural example of the present invention; and FIG. 12B shows a structural example according to FIG. 12A. An exploded view of a golf club example of a joint and a head joint; FIG. 13A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a handle joint/head joint example according to another structural example of the present invention; FIG. 13B is based on FIG. 13A is an exploded view of a golf club example having a shank joint and a head joint; and FIGS. 14A to 14C are shank joints according to the structural examples shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. Detailed drawing; Figures 15A to 15C are based on 12A and 12 FIG. 16 is a detailed view of the head joint of the structural example shown in FIG. 16; and FIG. 16 is a perspective joint/head joint assembly installed in a club head according to the structural example shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. a top perspective view; and a 17th view of the shank joint/head joint assembly mounted on a club head according to the structural example shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B Figure.

The reader should be aware that the addition of figures is not necessarily drawn to scale.

Detailed description

In the following description of various structural examples according to the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form part of the present invention, and wherein the various connection assemblies according to the present invention, the golf club head and the golf club structure are shown by the drawings. example. In addition, it should be understood that the components and structures of other specific structures may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Meanwhile, although the terms "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "side", "bottom side", "upper", etc. are used in this specification to describe various features and elements of the present invention, these The terminology herein is in fact merely a matter of convenience, for example, depending on the orientation shown in the figures and/or the orientation in typical use. There is nothing in this specification that should be considered to require a particular dimensional or spatial orientation to fall within the scope of the present invention.

In general, as noted above, most aspects of the present invention relate to the attachment of a plurality of golf club heads and a plurality of handles in a releasable manner such that the club heads and handles can be easily exchanged and/or Systems and methods for repositioning relative to each other. Specific examples of the present invention will be described in more detail below. The reader should be aware that these specific examples are only intended to illustrate examples of the present invention, and they should not be considered as limiting the present invention.

A. Specific examples of this new model

1. Club structure example

Figure 1 generally shows at least some embodiments in accordance with the present invention. A golf club is 100 cases. The demonstration club 100 includes a club head 102 coupled to the club head 102 and a releasable club head/handle attachment system 104 (described in more detail below). Although FIG. 1 shows a kick-off wood/wood-type golf club head 102, most of the forms of the present invention can be applied to any club head including, for example, a fairway wood club head; For example, an iron-type golf club head from a 0 iron or 1 iron to any desired inclination of a wedge; a wood or iron-type hybrid golf club head; a putter head, and the like. The club heads may be suitably constructed, suitably constructed, as is conventional and used in the art, and selectively modified (if desired, for example, in size, shape, etc.) ) to accommodate the releasable club head/handle attachment members.

The various components of the club head/handle attachment system 104 can be made of any desired or suitable material without departing from the novel. For example, one or more of the various components may be made of a metallic material, including lightweight metals conventionally used in the connection of golf club heads, such as aluminum, titanium, magnesium, nickel, alloys of these materials, steel , stainless steel, etc., or annealed finishing materials. Alternatively, one or more of the various components of the attachment system 104 can be made of a rigid polymeric material, such as a polymeric material that is conventionally used and used in the golf club industry, if desired. The various components can be made of the same or different materials without departing from the novel. In a particular example, the various components of the various components will be fabricated from a 7075 aluminum alloy material having a hard anodized finish. Such components can be made in a suitable manner as is conventional and used in metalworking and/or polymer manufacturing techniques.

Any desired material may also be utilized for the handle member 106, including suitable materials known and used in the art, such as steel, graphite, polymers, composites, combinations of these materials, and the like. Alternatively, the handle (eg, in size, shape, etc.) can be modified to fit the releasable club head/handle connector 104, if necessary or desired. The grip member 108 can be engaged with the handle 106 in any suitable manner (e.g., via a cement or adhesive, through a mechanical connector, etc.) as is conventional and used in the art. Any desired material may be used for the grip member 108, including suitable materials known and used in the art, such as rubber, polymeric materials, cork, rubber or polymeric materials having wires or other fabric elements embedded therein. , cloth or fabric, tape, etc. Alternatively, the grip member 108 (or any suitable grip member) can be used to release the connector, such as one of the releasable connectors 104, as desired (examples of which will be described in more detail below).

The releasable connector 104 between the golf club head and the handle in accordance with the present invention will be described in greater detail below in conjunction with Figures 2-6.

2. Handle joint example

2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an example of a handle joint 202 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The handle joint 202 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and can comprise a different material than the material comprising the remainder of the golf club. For example, the handle joint 202 can include or include a surface tension that can be increased and/or reduced between the handle joint 202, the handle member 106, and/or the head joint (302 described below). Rubber or another compressible material. In other embodiments, rubber and/or other materials may be used to increase shock absorption and/or reduce noise during a shot. In addition In one embodiment, the handle joint 202 can be constructed from a lightweight metal, metal alloy, or polymeric material (eg, a rigid polymeric material).

As shown in FIG. 2, the handle joint 202 has a first end 204 and a second end 206, wherein the first end 204 is along the same axis 208 as the second end 206. The handle joint 202 further includes an inner bore 210 that is coupled along a second shaft 212 and that is affixed to one of the handle members 106 on the second shaft 212. Accordingly, the cylindrical outer portion of the shank joint 202 extends from the first end 204 to the second end 206 in an axial direction (along the shaft 208) while the cylindrical inner bore 210 receiving the shank member 106 is different. The axial direction (shaft 212) extends. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate various combinations of structural elements and/or procedures that can be used to implement the two shafts 208, 212 of the handle joint 202 after reviewing this disclosure. The angular difference between the first axis 208 and the second axis 212 can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees, at least 2.5. Degree, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the inner bore 210 has a circular cross-sectional shape, for example, to receive a conventionally shaped circular shank. However, if necessary, the cross-sectional shape of the inner hole 210 may be, for example, a polygon having any number of sides, for example, equal to or less than 12 sides, equal to or less than 10 sides, equal to or less than eight sides, equal to Or less than six sides, or even equal to or less than four sides. The cross-sectional shape of the inner bore 210 can be configured to have a size and shape suitable to prevent rotation of the handle member 106 relative to the handle joint 202. This may be because the inner bore 210 of the shank joint has substantially the same polygonal shape as the shank member 106. In other embodiments, only this One portion of the inner bore 210 engages or abuts the handle member 106, but the docking prevents the handle joint 202 from rotating within the handle member 106. In some more specific embodiments of the present invention, one portion of the handle member 106 will have a square or rectangular cross section and the inner bore 210 of the handle joint 202 will include a housing member 106. A polygonal polygonal opening (for example, having 4, 6, 8, 12, or 16 sides). Alternatively, if desired, particularly in the structural example in which the inner bore 210 and the handle member 106 have a circular cross section, the handle joint 202 can, for example, use a cement or adhesive, using a fusion technique ( For example, welding, brazing, soldering, etc., is permanently engaged with the handle member 106.

In some embodiments, at least one of the inner bore 210 and/or the handle member 106 can have a different number of "edges" or protrusions than the other, but the cross-sectional shape of the various configurations still allows the handle The member member 106 is fixedly inserted into the inner bore 210 and does not allow the handle member 106 to freely rotate within the inner bore 210. In one such embodiment, the number of "edges" of the inner bore 210 or the handle member 106 is a multiple of the number of sides on the other. Other such anti-rotation structures and configurations are possible without departing from the novel. For example, one or both of the handle joint 202 and/or the handle member 106 can include a plurality of mechanical structures, such as a plurality of spring loaded pins or other extensions that extend into a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots, or a plurality of ridges. (For example, similar to attaching a hydraulic hose to its hydraulic oil source connection element). The latching mechanism and other physical (and selective static) fixing structures embedded in a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots or a plurality of ridges can also be used as a releasable anti-rotation connection without departing from the present invention. Pieces.

Referring briefly to FIG. 4 (described in more detail below), the handle joint 202 is assembled to be fixedly attached to the handle member 106. The exemplary handle joint 202 can be hollow and sized to receive a free end of a golf club shaft, such as one of the handle members 106. In other embodiments, the exemplary handle joint 202 is sized to be received in a hollow portion of the free end of a golf club shaft, such as one of the handle members 106. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the handle joint 202 need not be hollow and may include, for example, a cement or adhesive; through welding, brazing, soldering, or other welding techniques; Mechanical connector; fixedly attached to a club shank by any suitable method and mechanism, such as by friction fit. In some embodiments, the connection of the handle joint 202 to a handle member 106 can be releasable to allow for easy and rapid transition of the majority of the handle. Again, in other embodiments, the handle joint 202 can be integral with the handle member 106 or otherwise permanently secured. As further shown in Figures 2 and 4, the outer surface of the handle joint 202 can be a cross-sectional shape of one of the regular polygons. The cross-sectional shape may be, for example, one having equal to or less than 16 sides, equal to or less than 12 sides, equal to or less than 10 sides, equal to or less than eight sides, equal to or less than six sides, or even equal to or Less than four polygons). In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the outer surface of the handle joint may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of the outer surface of the shank joint is assembled to have a size and shape suitable for embedding the head joint (described below) and preventing rotation of the head joint 302 relative to the shank joint 202.

In certain embodiments, the outer side of the handle joint 202, the handle member 106, and/or the head joint (described below) may be axially oriented The taper causes the diameter of the assembly to increase or decrease along the axis. This feature can assist in easily inserting and sliding the handle joint 202 out of the head joint and/or without having to maintain very tight tolerances in the manufacturing process.

3. Head joint example

The exemplary connector 104 further includes a head joint 302. Referring to FIG. 3, the head joint 302 has a first end 304 and a second end 306. As shown, the first end 304 is along the same axis (not shown) as the second end 306. The head joint 302 further includes an inner hole 310, and the inner hole 310 is coupled along a second shaft 312 and assembled to receive the handle joint 202 on the second shaft 312 (the handle joint 202 is then received). Handle member 106). Thus, the outer portion of the head joint 302 can extend from the first end 304 to the second end 306 in an axial direction, and the inner bore 310 that receives the handle joint 202 extends in a different axial direction (shaft 312). Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, various combinations of structural elements and/or procedures that can be used to implement the two axes of the head joint 302 without departing from the novel. The angular difference between the first axis (not shown) and the second axis 312 can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees. At least 2.5 degrees, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the inner bore 310 of the head joint 302 has a cross-sectional shape of a regular polygon. The cross-sectional shape may be, for example, a polygon having equal to or less than 12 sides, equal to or less than 10 sides, equal to or less than eight sides, equal to or less than six sides, or even equal to or less than four sides. The cross-sectional shape of the inner hole 310 is assembled to have a suitable fit to prevent the handle from being connected The size and shape of the head 202 relative to the head joint 302. This may be because the inner hole 310 of the head joint has a polygonal shape substantially the same as the outer surface of the shank joint 202 as described above. In other embodiments, only a portion of the inner bore 310 engages or abuts the handle joint 202, but the docking prevents the handle joint 202 from rotating within the head joint 302. In certain more specific embodiments of the present invention, the handle joint 202 will have a square or rectangular cross section and the inner bore 310 of the head joint 302 will include a polygonal opening that receives the polygonal joint of the handle joint 202. (for example, with 4, 8, 12, or 16 sides).

Thus, at least one of the outer bore 310 and/or the outer surface of the handle joint 202 can have a different number of "edges" or protrusions than the other, but the cross-sectional shape of the various configurations still allows the handle The joint 202 is fixedly inserted into the inner bore 310 and does not allow the handle joint 202 to freely rotate within the inner bore 310. In one such embodiment, the number of "edges" of the inner bore 310 or the shank joint 202 is a multiple of the number of sides on the other. In other embodiments, the inner bore 310 of the head joint 302 can have a circular cross-sectional shape, i.e., shaped to receive a handle joint 202 having an outer surface having a circular cross-sectional shape. Other such anti-rotation structures and configurations are possible without departing from the novel. For example, one or both of the head joint 302 or the handle joint 202 can include a mechanical structure, such as a plurality of spring loaded pins or other extensions that extend into a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots, or a plurality of ridges (eg, It is similar to attaching a hydraulic pipe to its hydraulic oil source connection element). Cartridges and other entities (and selective static) fixed structures embedded in most openings, in many slots or in most ridges without departing from the novel It can also be used as a releasable anti-rotation connector.

As shown in FIG. 3, the handle joint 202 can be assembled to fit completely within the head joint 302. Also, in other embodiments, the shank joint 202 will extend less than 50% of the full axial length of the head joint 302 and it can extend less than 35% of the full axial length of the head joint 302. , less than 25%, or even at least 15%. This feature can help keep the entire connection assembly relatively short, tight or lightweight. Alternatively, if desired, a portion of the handle joint 202 can remain outside of the head joint 302 (and optionally, the outer shape of the handle joint 202 outside the head joint can be positioned The outer shape of the shank joint 202 in the head joint is different). As described below with respect to FIG. 6, the configuration of the handle joint 202 and its configuration relative to the club head body can be used to adjust various positions of the ball striking surface of the club head 102 and/or Angle (for example, elevation, inclination, face angle, etc.).

In other embodiments, the exemplary head joint 302 can be sized to be received within a hollow portion, such as the inner bore 210 of the handle joint 202, for example, as the handle member 106 is inserted into the handle joint. Some of the above embodiments are described in 202. Moreover, in other embodiments, the head joint 302 can be integral with or otherwise permanently secured to a club head 402, such as by the hosel region 404.

B. Method of assembly

Figure 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a golf club 400 in accordance with one of the present invention. The exploded view of golf club 400 also highlights one of several methods that may be used to construct a golf club in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention. According to an exemplary method, the handle member 106 is attached to the handle joint 202, and the handle joint 202 has a first end 204 and a second end 206 along a shaft 208, wherein the handle member 106 is inserted along a second shaft 212 (the shaft 212 is shown in FIG. 2). Inside one of the inner holes 210. The handle member 106 can be permanently affixed to the shank joint 202 (eg, through a cement or adhesive, through a fusion technique (eg, welding, soldering or brazing), etc.) or the components 106 and 202 can be mutually Releasably connected. The method may further include inserting the second end 206 of the handle joint 202 into an inner bore 310 of a head joint 302, wherein the head joint 302 is along a first axis (not shown, coupled to the handle member 106 The second shaft 212 includes a first end 304 and a second end 306 and wherein the inner bore 310 has a cross-sectional shape of a regular polygon along a second axis 312 and is shaped to receive the handle joint in a plurality of different orientations. The second end 206 of 202. The method may further include inserting the head joint 302 into a neck region 404 of a club head 402 (the neck region 404 may have a polygonal inner opening for receiving the second end of the head joint 302) The outer surface). In most alternative embodiments, the insertion of the head joint 302 into the hosel region 404 can be selected from a plurality of different orientations, for example, as described below with respect to Figures 5A-5D and Figure 6. Therefore, other methods may include removing the handle joint 202 from the head joint 302 and reinserting the second end 206 of the handle joint 202 into the inner bore 310 of the head joint 302 in a different orientation; and / Or the head joint 302 is removed from the neck region 404 of the club head 402 and the head joint 302 is reinserted into the hosel region 404 of the club head 402 in a different orientation.

The exemplary hosel region 404 can include an inner chamber or inner bore for receiving the head joint 302. The inner bore can be machined into the golf club head 402 when the head is manufactured. In an embodiment, the neck region 404 This is produced by drilling or otherwise drilling a portion of the golf club head 402. In this regard, at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the hosel region 404 includes the same material as the golf club head 402. The handle member 106 can be secured to the club head 402 (through the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302) in any desired manner including a releasable attachment system as is conventional in the art. For example, a nut disposed on the handle member 106 can engage a threaded portion disposed on the neck. In another example, a bolt can extend through one of the openings disposed in the club head (eg, in the bottom of the club head) and the bolt engages a handle member 106 disposed therein The threaded portion in the bottom, the handle joint 202, and/or the head joint 302. Other releasable connection systems as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,890,269 (Bruce D. Burrows) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 2004/0018886 (Bruce D. Burrows), may be used without departing from the present invention. .

C. adjusting the head joint and the handle joint

Because the axis of the inner bore 210 in the shank joint 202 is offset by the axis of the outer surface of the shank joint 202, and because the axis of the inner bore in the head joint 302 is from its outer surface The shaft is offset so that rotation of either of the joints relative to the club head 402 will change the position of the handle member 106 relative to the ball striking face of the club head. 5A-5D each show a top view of a portion of a golf club in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, wherein the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302 can be placed relative to the club head 402. One of several rotation orientations. In detail, referring to Figure 5A, the handle member 106 is fixedly held in the handle joint Within 202. As shown, the handle joint 202 has an outer shape that engages and abuts one of the octagonal shapes of the head joint 302, and the head joint 302 has an octagonal shape for receiving the handle joint 202. Peripheral holes inside. As described above, the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302 do not have to be the same shape, but only need to be opposite each other and/or relative to, for example, as described below, relative to the club head 402. One of the rotational orientations abuts each other.

The exemplary handle joint 202 of FIGS. 5A-5D includes an indicator 502 and the exemplary head joint 302 includes an indicator 504. An index 502 on the handle joint 202 indicates the rotational position of the handle joint 202 relative to the head joint 302, and then the club head 402. Index 504 on the head joint 302 indicates the rotational position of the head joint 302 relative to the club head 402 and the shank joint 202. The indicators 502, 504 facilitate allowing the user to better record the club head/handle orientation and/or allow rotation of one or more of the components relative to the handle member 106 to have occurred Return to a previous location reliably. Because the exemplary shank joint 202 and the head joint 302 are generally octagonal in this configuration, they can be releasably engaged and fixedly butted in 64 rotational orientations. Therefore, the following description will refer to the position of the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302 as being in a rotational position from 1 to 8, wherein position 1 indicates that the indicators 502, 504 are at 12 o'clock in FIG. 5A. The clock position and subsequent positions are numbered consecutively in a clockwise manner. In other embodiments, the club head 106 may be marked with a majority of indicators if desired.

According to the handle joint 202 and/or the head joint 302 For the "face" of the club head 102 to be positioned, the ball striking characteristics of the club can be modified. This feature, and the releasable connection system 104, allows the club adjuster (or other person) to freely and easily adjust various angles and/or positions of the handle member 106 relative to the club head 102 ( For example, different elevation, tilt and face angle combinations) while still using the same handle 106 and/or head 102, this helps the user to more easily determine the most appropriate club head/handle combination and configuration to match Their needs. Referring to Figure 5A, indicator 502 indicates that the handle joint 202 is in position 1, and indicator 504 indicates that the head joint 302 is also in position 1. As shown in FIG. 5B, the handle joint 202 (and thus the handle 106) has been rotated to position 2 while the head joint 302 remains in position 1.

Repositioning the handle joint 202 relative to the head joint 302 can facilitate adjusting the club head/handle orientation by a conventional factor. For example, information may be associated with the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302 and have an angle with respect to the offset axes of the inner bores 210, 310. This information may be provided to the connectors 202, 302, which may be printed, scored, or otherwise marked on the 202, 302 itself, or otherwise obtained.

Figure 6 provides a table 600 showing exemplary information relating to adjusting the handle joint 202 relative to the club head 402 (while the head joint 302 is still in a fixed position relative to the club head 402). . The information is related to the embodiment shown in Figure 3, wherein the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302 are each substantially octagonal. In this particular embodiment, the inner bore 210 of the handle joint is offset from the center by about 2 degrees and the inner bore 310 of the head joint is offset from the center by about 1 degree, but the offset angle can be 0.25. In the range of 4 degrees, and in some examples, the offset is in the range of 0.5 to 2 degrees Angle. Table 600 shows that the face angle (column 604), elevation (column 606), the face angle (column 604), the elevation (bar 606) of the full rotation of the handle joint 202 in a clockwise direction relative to the head joint 302, And the change caused by the dip (column 608). As shown in the first row of column 602, the handle joint 202 is set at position 1 (hence the indicator 502 is at the 12 o'clock position as shown in Figure 5A). When the handle joint 202 and the head joint 302 are set at position 1 (as shown in FIG. 5A), the face angle and the tilt angle are not changed, but the elevation angle is at +3 degrees (see section 6). Figure 610).

However, when the handle joint 202 is set at position 2 (or rotated approximately 45 degrees in a clockwise direction) and the head joint 302 remains in position 1, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the face angle is Adjusted to -0.7 degrees, the elevation angle is changed to +2.4 degrees, and the angle of inclination is increased by 1.2 degrees (see line 612 of Figure 6). As shown in the remainder of the table 600, the face angle, elevation angle, and angle of inclination can be adjusted to a conventional amount by repositioning the handle joint 202 relative to the head joint 302. Moreover, as shown in Figures 5C-5D, the head joint 302 can also be adjusted independently or together with repositioning the handle joint.

In other embodiments, the "hand" of the handle joint 202 and/or the head joint 302 can include a plurality of protrusions on the periphery. For example, the components can have a generally circular shape; however, a plurality of protrusions can be placed or otherwise disposed about the periphery of the structure to produce substantially the same effect as the "walls." In fact, any structure, shape, extension, etc., whose characteristics emulate a conventional edge, are within the scope of the present invention and are included in the term "edge" as used herein. In certain more specific exemplary configurations in accordance with the present invention, the anti-rotation structure of the inner chamber will have a square or rectangular cross section. In other embodiments The inner chamber may have an irregular shape such that the "edges" are unequal. This is useful, for example, when a handle is required that is not inserted in a manner that will not provide good club characteristics. In one embodiment, the handle joint can be received in a plurality of possible configurations within the golf club head, wherein at least one configuration provides a different club characteristic than the other configuration.

D. Other forms of the novel

1. Introduction

The releasable connection assembly can be provided in any desired configuration and/or used in any desired manner without departing from the novel. A club having these connection assemblies can be designed for use by a golfer when hitting the ball (and optionally, the golfer can freely change the handle, head and/or relative to each other if desired Positioning). In another example, a club including a releasable connector in accordance with the present invention can be used as a club adjustment tool if desired and when the desired combination of head, handle and positioning is a particular golfer At the time of the decision, a club manufacturer may use the information of the decision to subsequently manufacture a final desired golf club product using appropriate (and permanent) mounting techniques (eg, cement or adhesive). Other variations in the club/handle assembly assembly components and process may be possible without departing from the novel.

2. Kit

As a further example of the present invention, one or more components or components of a golf club and/or its connecting assembly may be marketed, sold, or used as a kit. One such embodiment can include a kit including a golf club head having a set to accommodate one An inner chamber of one of the head joints 302 can be inserted. In other embodiments, the head joint 302 can be permanently affixed or otherwise formed as part of the golf club head. Additionally or alternatively, the kit may further include the handle joint 202 and/or a handle member 106.

The kit can be associated with a plurality of instructions for forming a selection between one of the golf clubs of the head and one or more of the handles, the shank joints, and/or other components used to form a golf club. In some embodiments, the instructions will illustrate a method for inserting a handle member 106 into the inner bore 210 at a first end 204 of the handle joint 202; the handle joint 202 The second end 206 is inserted into the bore 310 of the head joint 302 in one of a plurality of different orientations; and/or the head joint 302 is inserted into the neck region of a club head 402, wherein the head The joint 302 can be embedded in the neck region in a plurality of different orientations. In other embodiments, the kit can include an angle and elevation angle relative to the handle joint 202 and/or the head joint 302 of the club head 402 relative to the hosel region of the club head 402. And information about the dip.

A kit may include one or more handles, handle joints, heads, and/or instructions in accordance with various embodiments. The kit may further include information regarding the face angle, elevation and inclination of the head relative to one of the particular shank joints and/or head joints in the interior of a particular club head. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that such instructions need not be printed and physically left to coexist with other components of the kit, but that such instructions can be placed on a computer readable medium. These indications can be saved on one of the servers accessible to the user. According to some embodiments, the user can be provided Information, such as links to a web site on the Internet that also includes such instructions, falls within the scope of providing instructions. Thus, as used herein, the indication provided is not limited to a majority of the printed copies that can be supplied by one of the physical components of the golf club.

3. Axis direction change area

Other configurations of the golf club 100 can be used with the above described connection system 104 with respect to Figures 2 through 6 to further increase the benefits of the disclosed golf club. For example, the additional structure may further include an axial direction changing region. An exemplary shank having one or more directional change regions is disclosed and described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/774,522, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the above-described shank joints and/or head joints can be used in conjunction with other releasable golf club head/handle attachment configurations, such as U.S. Patent No. 6,890,269 (Bruce D., incorporated herein by reference). The disclosure of Burrows) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 2004/0018886 (Bruce D. Burrows). Moreover, the various aspects of the present invention described above can be used in conjunction with other patented, applied, and/or commercially available releasable golf club shaft assemblies.

The overall structure of the handle, club head, and club head/handle attachment assembly can vary widely without departing from the novel. Moreover, the various steps of the assembly process described above can be changed, sequentially changed, combined, and/or omitted. Additionally or alternatively, in these configurations, the club head can quickly and easily exchange a different club head on the handle (eg, a different dip, elevation, size, brand) The club head) and/or the handle can be quickly and easily exchanged on the club head (eg For example, different materials, different flexibility, different reentry point properties, etc., a different handle.

E. Other features and examples of the novel

The form of the present invention described herein can be further defined by the following other structural examples. The following structural examples are described with reference to the above-described exemplary club structure shown in Fig. 1. Exemplary elements of these configurations (described separately below) are shown together in Figure 9 of an exploded perspective view of an exemplary golf club (also described below).

1. Example handle joint

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an example of a handle joint 702 in accordance with this example of the present invention. The handle joint 702 is similar to the exemplary handle joint 202 described above, but the outer surface of the handle joint 702 may be fully or partially defined by a plurality of pin slots 716 (also shown in Figure 9) along the vertical axis 708. . The handle joint 702 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and can comprise a different material than the material comprising the remainder of the golf club. For example, the handle joint 702 can be constructed from a lightweight metal, metal alloy, or polymeric material (eg, a rigid polymeric material).

The shank joint 702 is generally cylindrical and has a first end 704 and a second end 706 along the same axis 708. The handle joint 702 further includes an inner bore 710 that is coupled along a second shaft 712 and that is affixed to one of the handle members 106 on the second shaft 712. Therefore, the outer portion of the shank joint 702 extends from the first end 704 to the second end 706 in an axial direction (along the shaft 708) while accommodating the cylindrical inner bore 710 of the shank member 106 in a different axial direction. (Axis 712) extends. The exterior of the handle joint 702 can be further defined by a flange 714. The flange 714 is configured to be received by an opening 816 of the head joint 802 and to interface with the opening 816 (as shown in FIG. 8). Alternatively, the bottom surface of the flange 714 can only be placed against the top surface of the head joint 802. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate various combinations of structural elements and/or procedures that can be used to implement the two shafts 708, 712 of the handle joint 702. Similar to the structural example 202 described above, the angular difference between the first shaft 708 and the second shaft 712 of the shank joint 702 can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees. At least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees, at least 2.5 degrees, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the inner bore 710 has a circular cross-sectional shape, for example, to receive a conventionally shaped circular shank. However, if desired, the cross-sectional shape of the inner bore 710 can be assembled to have a size and shape suitable to prevent rotation of the handle member 106 relative to the handle joint 702. For example, the shape of the inner bore itself can be defined by a plurality of vertical bolt slots, and the vertical bolt slots are configured to form a handle member that can receive and engage the outer portion having a portion of the bolt groove. As described above for the handle joint 202, the handle joint 702 can be assembled in a variety of ways such that the inner bore 710 engages or abuts the handle member 106, and such that the docking prevents the handle joint 702 from rotating within the handle member 106 . In other constructions, the handle joint 702 can be permanently engaged with the handle member 106 (eg, through a cement or adhesive; through welding, brazing, soldering, or other welding techniques; through a mechanical connector; through Friction fit, etc., particularly in the structural example in which the inner bore 710 and the handle member 106 have a circular cross section. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate a number of different ways in which the handle joint 702 and the handle member 106 can be combined.

Other such anti-rotation structures may also be possible without departing from the novel. For example, one or both of the head joint 702 and/or the handle member 106 can include a plurality of mechanical structures, such as a plurality of spring loaded pins or other extensions that extend into a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots, or a plurality of ridges. (For example, similar to attaching a hydraulic hose to its hydraulic oil source connection element). The latching mechanism and other physical (and selective static) fixing structures embedded in a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots or a plurality of ridges can also be used as a releasable anti-rotation connection without departing from the present invention. Pieces.

Referring briefly to FIG. 9 (described in more detail below), the handle joint 702 is assembled to be fixedly attached to the handle member 106. The exemplary handle joint 702 can be hollow and sized to receive a free end of a golf club shaft, such as one of the handle members 106. Thus, in some constructions, the connection of the handle joint 702 to a handle member 106 can be releasable to allow for easy and rapid transition of the majority of the handle. Again, in other constructions, the handle joint 702 can be integral with the handle member 106 or otherwise permanently secured.

As further shown in Figures 7 and 9, the outer surface of the shank joint 702 at the second end 706 can have a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of spigots extending along the shaft 708 of the shank joint. The spigots may have a plurality of ridges along the surface, the ridges being sized to abut and engage a plurality of pegs on the other surface of the interior of the head joint 802, such as shown in Fig. 8, in a fixed position. The spigots may be constructed from a plurality of ridges in the surface of the material comprising the shank joint 702 and may be machined according to various conventional techniques, for example, by extrusion, molding, casting, or in the art. Knowledgeable Any other known manufacturing techniques. According to the configuration shown in Fig. 7, the pin grooves can extend upward to the flange 714. Further, in the illustrated construction example, the flange 714 is adapted to be placed on the top 816 of the head joint 802 shown in Fig. 8 (the head joint 802 of Fig. 8 is explained in more detail below). Accordingly, the cross-sectional shape of the outer surface of the handle joint 702 is assembled to have a size suitable for insertion into the head joint 802 (as described below) and to prevent rotation of the handle joint 702 relative to the head joint 802. And shape.

In accordance with many aspects of the present invention as described herein, the latching grooves 716, 820, and 906 (each of which is described in detail below) may be formed of a plurality of staggered ridges and grooves of a triangular shape, a circular shape, a square shape, or a substantially trapezoidal shape. The pin grooves 716 (or polygonal cross-sectional areas) may be longitudinal to the outer surface of the handle joint 702 (or the inner end of the head joint 802 or the neck region 904) without departing from the present invention. Any part of the length extends. For example, the bolt slots 716 can extend from 10-100% of the full longitudinal length of the outer surface of the handle joint 702, and in some constructions, the bolt slots can be 15-80% of the full longitudinal length or Even extending from 20-60% of the full longitudinal length. Without departing from the novel, portions including the outer surface of the pin slots 716 may also be disposed at any desired location along the longitudinal length, such as upwardly from the second end 706, by the flange 714. Extending to the second end 706, etc. The pin slots 716 can also extend only partially around the outer surface of the handle joint 702. For example, the handle joint 702 can be defined by a plurality of peg slots 716 that are equally spaced around the outer surface and extend along the longitudinal length of the shank joint 702 or along the shaft 708.

In some structural examples, the handle joint 702, the handle member 106 and/or the outer surface of the head joint 802, at the location of the non-circular cross-sectional shape, may be tapered in the axial direction such that the diameter of the assembly is slightly reduced from the first end to the second end. This feature can assist in easily inserting and sliding the handle joint 702 out of the head joint 802 and/or without having to maintain very tight tolerances in the manufacturing process.

2. Head joint example

The exemplary connector of Figure 9 can further include a head connector 802 in accordance with other examples of the present invention. The head joint 802 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and can comprise a different material than the material comprising the remainder of the golf club. For example, the head joint 802 can be constructed from a lightweight metal, metal alloy, or polymeric material (eg, a rigid polymeric material). Referring to FIG. 8 , the head connector 802 has a first end 804 and a second end 806 . As shown, the first end 804 is along the same axis (not shown) as the second end 806. The head joint 802 further includes an inner hole 810, and the inner hole 810 is disposed along a second shaft 812 and is assembled to receive the handle joint 702 on the second shaft 812 (the handle joint 702 is then received) Handle member 106). Thus, the outer portion of the head joint 802 can extend from the first end 804 to the second end 806 in an axial direction, and the inner bore 810 that receives the handle joint 702 extends in a different axial direction (shaft 812). Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, various combinations of structural elements and/or procedures that can be used to implement the two axes of the head joint 802 without departing from the novel. The angular difference between the first axis (not shown) and the second axis 812 can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees. At least 2.5 degrees, at least 4 degrees, Or even at least 8 degrees.

The inner bore 810 of the head joint 802 can have a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of pin slots 820 extending along the vertical axis 812, and the pin slots 820 are shaped to receive and engage the handle joint 702 A plurality of pin slots 716 on the exterior are in a fixed position. The spigots may be constructed from a plurality of ridges in the surface of the material comprising the head joint 802 and may be machined in accordance with various conventional techniques, for example, by extrusion, molding, casting, or in the art. Any other known manufacturing technique familiar to the knowledge. Thus, the cross-sectional shape of the inner bore 810 can be configured to have a size and shape suitable to prevent rotation of the handle joint 702 relative to the head joint 802. In other constructions, only a portion of the inner bore 810 engages or abuts the handle joint 702, but the mating and other engagement prevents the handle joint 702 from rotating within the head joint 802. In the particular configuration illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the first end 804 of the head joint 802 can be defined by a slightly recess 816 that is shaped to be inserted into the head joint 702. The inner bore 810 of the joint 802 receives the flange 714 of the handle joint 702.

Other such anti-rotation structures may also be possible without departing from the novel. For example, one or both of the head joint 802 and/or the handle joint 702 can include a plurality of mechanical structures, such as a plurality of spring loaded pins or other extensions that extend into a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots, or a plurality of ridges. (For example, similar to attaching a hydraulic hose to its hydraulic oil source connection element). The latching mechanism and other physical (and selective static) fixing structures embedded in a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots or a plurality of ridges can also be used as a releasable anti-rotation connection without departing from the present invention. Pieces.

As shown in FIG. 8, the handle joint 702 can be assembled to be only partially embedded within the head joint 802. Also, in other constructions, the handle joint 702 can extend more or less than the axial length of the head joint 802. As further described below with respect to Figures 10A, 10B, 10C and 10D, the configuration of the handle joint 702 and its configuration relative to the club head body can be used to adjust the stroke of the club head 102. Various positions and/or angles of the ball surface (eg, elevation, inclination, face angle, etc.).

In other constructions in accordance with the present invention, the head joint 802 can be integral with or otherwise permanently secured to the club head 902, such as being received within the hosel region 904 or forming the hosel region 904. a part. In these configurations, the outer surface of the head joint 802 may be absent (but if an outer neck is present in the club head structure, the inner bore of the neck may be "off-axis" from the outer surface of the neck Way to extend).

3. Assembly method according to other structural examples of the present invention

Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the golf club 900 in accordance with one of the examples of the present invention as shown and described in the seventh and eighth embodiments above. The exploded view of golf club 900 also highlights one of several methods that may be used to construct a golf club in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention. According to an exemplary method, the handle member 106 is attached to the handle joint 702, and the handle joint 702 has a first end 704 and a second end 706 along a shaft 708, wherein the handle member 106 is inserted One of the inner bores 710 extends along a second axis 712 (the axis 712 is shown in Figure 7). The handle member 106 can be permanently affixed to the handle joint 702 (eg, through a cement or adhesive, through a fusion technique (eg, welding, soldering or brazing), etc.) or the components 106 and 702 can be mutually Releasable Ground connection. The method can further include inserting the second end 706 of the handle joint 702 into an inner bore 810 of a head joint 802, wherein the head joint 802 is along a first axis (not shown, attached to the handle member 106 The second shaft 712 is identically including a first end 804 and a second end 806 and wherein the inner bore 810 has a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of bolt slots 820 and is shaped to receive the handle joint 702 in a plurality of different orientations. The pin slot 716 of the second end 706. The method may further include inserting the head joint 802 into a neck region 904 of a club head 902. The neck region 904 can have an inner opening, and the inner opening has a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of pin slots 906, and the pin slots 906 are shaped to receive the second of the head connectors 802 in a plurality of different orientations. The pin 818 of the end 806. Depending on the majority of the configuration, the insertion of the head joint 802 into the neck region 904 can be selected from a plurality of different orientations, for example, as described below with respect to Figures 10A-10D. Thus, other methods in accordance with the present invention may include removing the handle joint 702 from the head joint 802 and re-arming the second end 706 of the handle joint 702 in a different orientation (eg, at a different rotational position) Inserting the inner bore 810 of the head joint 802; and/or removing the head joint 802 from the neck region 904 of the club head 902 and placing the head joint 802 in a different orientation (eg, differently The rotational position) is reinserted into the neck region 904 of the club head 902.

The exemplary neck region 904 can include an inner chamber or inner bore for receiving the head joint 802. The inner bore can be machined into the golf club head 902 in accordance with the machining techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art when manufacturing the head. In one configuration example, the hosel region 904 is drilled or otherwise partially cut into a portion of the golf club head 902. And produced. In this regard, at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the hosel region 904 includes the same material as the golf club head 902. Additionally, the shape of the inner bore can be defined by a plurality of pin slots to engageably engage the head joint 802 having an outer shape defined by a plurality of pin slots. The handle member 106 can be secured to the club head 902 (through the handle joint 702 and the head joint 802) in any desired manner including a releasable attachment system as is conventional in the art. As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 9, one of the outer regions of the neck region 904 can have a plurality of threads 910. By threading the nut 908 and the threads 910 on the outer surface of the neck region 904 on the first end 704 of the handle joint, the threads 910 can be used to secure the entire interconnect assembly. In another example, a bolt can extend through one of the openings disposed in the club head (eg, in the bottom of the club head) and the bolt engages a handle member 106 disposed therein The threaded portion in the bottom, the handle joint 702, and/or the head joint 802.

4. Adjust the head joint and the handle joint

Because the axis of the inner bore 710 in the shank joint 702 is offset by the axis of the outer surface of the shank joint 702, and because the axis of the inner bore in the head joint 802 can be the axis of its outer surface Offset, so rotation of either of these joints relative to the club head 902 will change the position of the handle member 106 relative to the ball striking face of the club head. The offsets can be an angle in the range of 0.25 to 4 degrees, and in some examples, the offset can be an angle in the range of 0.5 to 2 degrees. 10A-10D each show a top view of a portion of a golf club according to one of the other structural examples of the present invention, wherein the handle joint 702 and the head joint 802 are both relative to the club head Portion 902 is placed in a number of different rotational orientations. In contrast to the rotation of the structure shown in Figures 5A-5B where the rotation must be equal to at least one full side of the polygon, the other structures shown in Figures 7-9 allow for smaller, more incremental rotations. In detail, referring to FIG. 10A, the handle member 106 is fixedly held within the handle joint 702. As shown in Figures 10A-10D, the handle joint 702 has an outer shape defined by a pin slot extending along the axis 708 of the handle joint 702. The outer surface of the handle joint 702 is engaged and abutted with the head joint 802, and the head joint 802 has an inner peripheral hole defined by a plurality of bolt slots extending along the second shaft 812 of the head joint 802 for The handle joint 702 is housed. In the 10A-10D diagram, the outer surface of the handle joint 702 and the inner bore of the head joint 802 have a similar shape such that the pin slots of the head joint 802 are opposite each other in a plurality of different rotational orientations, but The pinch groove of the handle joint 702 can be accommodated and engaged in a manner that prevents rotation and movement.

The exemplary handle joint 702 of FIGS. 10A-10D can include an index 1002 and the exemplary head joint 802 can include an indicator 1004. An index 1002 on the handle joint 702 indicates the rotational position of the handle joint 702 relative to the head joint 802, and then the club head 902. An index 1004 on the head joint 802 indicates the rotational position of the head joint 802 relative to the club head 902 and the handle joint 702. The indicators 1002, 1004 facilitate allowing the user to better record the club head/handle orientation and/or allow rotation of one or more of the components relative to the handle member 106 to have occurred Return to a previous location reliably. Because the exemplary handle joint 702 and the head joint 802 are shaped as defined by the bolt slots 716, 818, and 820 in this configuration, they can be releasably engaged in a variety of rotational orientations. And fixedly docked. Therefore, the following description will refer to the position of the handle joint 702 and the head joint 802 as being in a plurality of incremental rotational positions. Position 1 indicates that the indicators 1002, 1004 are at the 12 o'clock position in Figure 10A and the subsequent positions are rotated in a clockwise manner. In other embodiments, the club head 902 can be marked with a majority of indicators if desired.

Depending on how the handle joint 702 and/or the head joint 802 are positioned relative to the "face" of the club head 102, the ball striking characteristics of the club can be modified. This feature, and the releasable connection system 104, allows the club adjuster (or other person) to freely and easily adjust various angles and/or positions of the handle member 106 relative to the club head 102 ( For example, different elevation, tilt and face angle combinations) while still using the same handle 106 and/or head 102, this helps the user to more easily determine the most appropriate club head/handle combination and configuration to match Their needs. Referring to Figure 10A, indicator 1002 indicates that the handle joint 702 is in position 1, and indicator 1004 indicates that the head joint 802 is also in position 1. As shown in FIG. 10B, the handle joint 702 (and thus the handle 106) has been incrementally rotated in a clockwise direction while the head joint 802 remains in position 1. On the other hand, in Fig. 10C, the head joint 802 (and thus the club head 102) has been incrementally rotated in a clockwise direction while the handle joint 702 remains in position 1. In FIG. 10D, the handle joint 702 and the head joint 802 have all been incrementally rotated in a clockwise direction to effectively rotate the handle member 106 and the club head 102 relative to one another.

Repositioning the handle joint 702 relative to the head joint 802 as described may facilitate adjusting the club head/handle orientation by a conventional factor. For example, information may be associated with the handle joint 702 and the head joint 802 There is also an angle with respect to the offset axes of the inner holes 710, 810. This information may be provided to the connectors 702 and 802, may be printed, scored, or otherwise marked on the 702 and 802 itself, or may be otherwise obtained. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the 10A-10D only shows the four configurations of the handle joint 702 and the head joint 802 that can be fixedly butted in a releasably fixed manner.

Figures 11A and 11B show top views of a portion of the club head in accordance with one of the other examples of the present invention described herein. 11A shows a head joint 1104 having an outer cross-sectional shape of one of the regular polygons and having an inner bore having a plurality of spigots extending along the vertical axis of the head joint 1104. A defined cross-sectional shape. The shank joint 1102 shown in Fig. 11A has an outer cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of spigots extending along the vertical axis of the shank joint 1102 and is shaped to be perpendicular to the inner bore of the head joint 1104. The pinch groove is received and engaged with the pin. Figure 11B shows a configuration similar to that of the 11A, but Figure 11B shows a head joint 1108 having one of the outer slots defined by the vertical axis extending along the vertical axis of the head joint 1108. A cross-sectional shape and an inner hole having a cross-sectional shape of a regular polygon. The handle joint 1106 shown in Fig. 11B has a cross-sectional shape outside the regular polygon and is shaped to be received by and engaged with the regular polygon of the inner bore of the head joint 1108. The other embodiments shown in the Figures 11A and 11B show only two of the many different combinations of embodiments that fall within the scope of the present invention and are thus known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In a more specific example, any desired polygonal cross-sectional shape can be used without departing from the novel, such as a 3 to 20 polygons.

F. Other structural examples of the novel

The form of the present invention described herein can be further defined by the following other structural examples. The following structural examples are described with reference to the above-described exemplary club structure shown in Fig. 1.

1. Exemplary shank joint/head joint assembly with bottom loaded head joint

Figures 12A, 12B and 14A through 17 show an adjustable handle joint/head joint assembly in accordance with another structural example of the present invention. Fig. 12A is an example of a handle joint 1202 and a head joint 1224 according to the present invention. Figure 12B is an exploded view of the handle joint/head joint assembly shown in Figure 12A. Figures 14A through 14C are detailed views of the handle joint 1202 in accordance with this example of the present invention. 15A to 15C are detailed views of the head joint 1224 according to this example of the present invention. Figure 16 is a top perspective view of the handle joint/head joint assembly mounted in a club head in accordance with this example of the present invention. Figure 17 is a bottom perspective view of the handle joint/head joint assembly mounted in a club head in accordance with this example of the present invention.

The handle joint 1202 is similar to the handle joint 702 described above in that the outer surface of the handle joint 1202 can be completely or partially defined by a plurality of bolt slots 1204 (shown in Figures 12B, 14B and 14C). The pin slots 1204 extend along a portion of the longitudinal axis of the shank joint 1202. The handle joint 1202 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and can comprise a different material than the material comprising the remainder of the golf club. For example, the handle joint 1202 can be a lightweight metal, metal alloy, or polymerized. Material material (for example, a rigid polymer material) is constructed.

The shank joint 1202 is generally cylindrical and has a first end 1206, a middle portion 1208 and a second end 1210 along the same axis. According to the structural example shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B and 14A to 14C, the first end 1206, the intermediate portion 1208 and the second end 1210 can exhibit a decreasing diameter. The first end 1206 can include a lip 1212 that is adapted to be placed over a support region 1214 of the hosel region 1216. The shank joint 1202 further includes an inner bore 1218 that is configured to be attachable to a shank member 106 along an offset shaft 1220. The offset axis 1220 can be offset by about 2 degrees from a central journal axis 1222, but the offset angle can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree. At least 2 degrees, at least 2.5 degrees, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

Additionally, the second end 1210 can include a fixed structure that facilitates securely engaging the handle joint 1202 to a club head body as will be described in greater detail below (eg, in one of the structural examples) Screw hole 1211). In this configuration example, as shown in FIGS. 12A, 14A and 14C, the inner hole 1218 does not open to the screw hole 1211, but if necessary, in some structures according to the present invention, the screw hole 1211 can be extended. And to the inner chamber 1218.

According to Figures 12A, 12B and 14A to 14C, the inner bore 1218 can have a circular cross-sectional shape, for example, to receive a conventionally shaped round shank. However, if desired, the cross-sectional shape of the inner bore 1218 can be configured to have a size and shape suitable to prevent rotation of the handle member 106 relative to the handle joint 1202. For example, the shape of the inner bore 1218 itself can be defined by a plurality of bolt slots, and the bolt slots are shaped to be receivable and engaged. A shank member and a plurality of ferrules are external. As described above for the handle joint 202, the handle joint 1202 can be assembled in a variety of ways such that the inner bore 1218 engages or abuts the handle member 106, and such that the docking prevents the handle joint 1202 from being in the handle member 106 Rotate inside. In other constructions, the handle joint 1202 can be permanently engaged with the handle member 106 (eg, through a cement or adhesive; through welding, brazing, soldering, or other welding techniques; through a mechanical connector; through Friction fit, etc., particularly in the structural example in which the inner bore 1218 and the handle member 106 have a circular cross section. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate a number of different ways in which the handle joint 1202 and the handle member 106 can be combined.

Other such anti-rotation structures and configurations are possible with respect to the shank 106 being received within the shank joint 1202 without departing from the novel. For example, one or both of the handle joint 1202 and/or the handle member 106 can include a plurality of mechanical structures, such as a plurality of spring loaded pins or other extensions that extend into a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots, or a plurality of ridges. (For example, similar to attaching a hydraulic hose to its hydraulic oil source connection element). The latching mechanism and other physical (and selective static) fixing structures embedded in a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots or a plurality of ridges can also be used as a releasable anti-rotation connection without departing from the present invention. Pieces. Thus, in some constructions, the connection of the handle joint 1202 to a handle member 106 can be releasable to allow for easy and rapid transition of the majority of the handle. Also, in other constructions, the handle joint 1202 can be integral with the handle member 106 or otherwise permanently secured.

As shown in Figures 12A, 12B and 14A to 14C, the handle joint The outer surface of 1202 can have a cross-sectional shape that is fully or partially defined by a plurality of pegs 1204 extending along the axis 1220 of the shank joint. The pin grooves 1204 can create a plurality of ridges along the surface, and the ridges are sized to abut and engage a plurality of pins in the interior of the head joint 1224 in a fixed position. The pin grooves 1204 can be constructed from a plurality of ridges in the surface of the material comprising the shank joint 1202 and can be machined according to various conventional techniques, for example, by extrusion, molding, casting, or in the art. Any other conventional manufacturing technique that is familiar to the person skilled in the art. According to the structural example shown in FIG. 12B, the bolt slots 1204 can extend along the second end 1210 of the handle joint 1202. Accordingly, the cross-sectional shape of the outer surface of the handle joint 1202 is assembled to have a suitable fit into the hosel region 1216 (as shown in FIG. 12B) and the head joint 1224 (shown below, the club is inserted) The bottom of the head 1200 is) and prevents the size and shape of the handle joint 1202 from rotating relative to the head joint 1224.

In accordance with the various aspects of the present invention described herein, the pegs 1204, the pegs 1241 in the inner chamber 1242, and the pegs 1230 and 1232 (each of which is further described below) may be triangular, circular, or square. Or a substantially trapezoidal staggered ridge and groove. The pin grooves 1204 (or polygonal cross-sectional areas) may be longitudinal to the outer surface of the shank joint 1202 (or the inner end of the head joint 1224 or the neck region 1216) without departing from the present invention. Any part of the length extends. For example, the pin slots 1204 can extend from 10-100% of the full longitudinal length of the outer surface of the handle joint 1202, and in some constructions, the pin slots can be 15-80% of the full longitudinal length or Even extending from 20-60% of the full longitudinal length. Without deviating from the new situation Formed, the portion including the outer surface of the pinch groove 1204 can also be disposed at any desired position along the longitudinal length, for example, extending upwardly from the second end 1210, from the lip region 1212 to the second end. 1210 extension and so on. The pin slots 1202 can also extend only partially around the outer surface of the handle joint 1202. For example, the handle joint 1202 can be defined by a plurality of peg slots that are equally spaced around the outer surface and extend along the longitudinal length of the shank joint 1202 or along the shaft 1220. Moreover, the split groove regions 1204, 1241, 1230, and 1232 can be replaced with a cross-sectional shape having a regular polygon without any deviation from the present invention, and the regular polygons optionally have from 3 to 20 sides.

In some embodiments, the handle joint 1202, the outer surface of the handle member 106 and/or the head joint 1224, may be tapered in the direction of the non-circular cross-sectional shape. The diameter of the assembly is slightly reduced through the first end 1206, through the intermediate portion 1208, and through the second end 1210. This feature can assist in easily inserting and sliding the handle joint 1202 out of the head joint 1224 and/or without having to maintain very tight tolerances in the manufacturing process.

The exemplary connector 104 can further include a head connector 1224 in accordance with other examples of Figures 12A, 12B and 15A-15C of the present invention. The head joint 1224 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and can comprise a different material than the material comprising the remainder of the golf club. For example, the head joint 1224 can be constructed from a lightweight metal, metal alloy, or polymeric material (eg, a rigid polymeric material). Referring to Figures 12A, 12B and 15A-15C, the exemplary head joint 1224 has a first end 1226 and a second end 1228. As shown, the first end 1226 is tied along the second end The same axis of 1228 (shown as axis 1220 in Figure 12A). The head joint 1224 further includes an inner hole 1231, and the inner hole 1231 is disposed along a second shaft 1234 and is assembled to receive the handle joint 1202 on the second shaft 1234 (the shank joint 1202 is then received). Handle member 106). Therefore, the outer portion of the head joint 1224 can extend from the first end 1226 to the second end 1228 in an axial direction, and the inner hole 1231 of the handle joint 1202 can extend in a different axial direction (axis 1234). Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, various combinations of structural elements and/or procedures that can be used to implement the two axes of the head joint 1224 without departing from the novel. The angular difference between the first axis 1220 and the second axis 1234 can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees, at least 2.5. Degree, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

The inner hole 1231 of the head joint 1224 may also have a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of bolt grooves 1232 extending longitudinally in the inner hole 1231, and the bolt grooves 1232 are shaped to be received and engaged on the handle portion. A plurality of pin slots 1204 on the exterior of the connector 1202 are in a fixed position. The spigots 1232 can be constructed from a plurality of ridges in the surface of the material comprising the head joint 1224 and can be machined according to various conventional techniques, for example, by extrusion, molding, casting, or in the art. Any other conventional manufacturing technique that is familiar to the person skilled in the art. Thus, the cross-sectional shape of the inner bore 1231 can be configured to have a size and shape suitable to prevent rotation of the handle joint 1202 relative to the head joint 1224. According to the cross-sectional view, in Fig. 12A, only a portion of the inner bore 1231 is engaged or abutted with the shank joint 1202. In other embodiments The head joint 1224 can be sized such that the handle joint is received within the full length of the head joint 1224.

In the specific configuration example shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the head joint 1200 can have an inner chamber 1242 defined in the bottom of the club head 1200, and the inner chamber 1242 is provided along the shaft 1220. The opening of the head joint 1224 is received. As shown in FIG. 12A, the head joint 1224 is adapted to be inserted into the inner chamber 1242 such that the second end 1228 of the head joint 1224 is received and engaged in a manner of preventing rotation in the neck region 1216 of the club head 1200. The second end 1210 of the handle connector 1202. The inner chamber 1242 can be defined by the insert interface 1236 as shown in Figure 12A. According to the structural example shown in FIG. 12A, the head joint 1224 further includes a flange 1244 that can be placed on the insert interface 1236. The outer surface of the flange 1244 can also be defined by a plurality of bolt slots 1230, and the bolt slots 1230 and 1232 can be assembled to be received and engaged with the pinning slots 1241 in the bottom of the inner chamber 1242 in a manner that prevents rotation.

The shank joint 1202/head joint 1224 assembly can be secured to the club head by washers 1240 and bolts 1238 as shown. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there are many ways to secure embodiments of Figures 12A and 12B. For example, the head joint 1224 can be permanently secured in the inner chamber 1242 of the hosel region by conventional techniques, rather than the bolts 1238.

Other anti-rotation structures and configurations may also be possible without departing from the novel. For example, one or both of the head joint 1224 or the handle joint 1202 can include a plurality of mechanical structures, such as a plurality of spring loaded pins or other extensions that extend into a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots, or a plurality of ridges (eg, Similar to attaching a hydraulic hose to its hydraulic oil source connection element). The latching mechanism and other physical (and selective static) fixing structures embedded in a plurality of openings, a plurality of slots or a plurality of ridges can also be used as a releasable anti-rotation connection without departing from the present invention. Pieces.

As shown in FIG. 12A, the handle joint 1202 can be assembled to be only partially embedded within the head joint 1224. Also, in other constructions, the handle joint 1202 can extend more or less than the axial length of the head joint 1224. In other configurations according to the present invention, the head joint 1224 can be integral with or otherwise permanently fixed to the club head 1200, such as being received within the neck region 1216 or forming the neck region. a part. In these configurations, the outer surface of the head joint 1224 may be absent (but if an outer neck is present in the club head structure, the inner bore of the neck may be "off-axis" from the outer surface of the neck Way to extend).

The perspective view of the handle joint 1202/head joint 1224 assembly of Fig. 12B further emphasizes one of several methods that may be used to construct a golf club in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention. In accordance with the exemplary method, the handle member 106 is attached to the handle joint 1202, wherein the handle member 106 is inserted into an inner bore 1218 extending along a second axis 1234. The method may further include inserting the second end 1210 of the handle joint 1202 into an inner bore 1231 of a head joint 1224, wherein the inner bore 1231 has a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of pin slots 1232 and is shaped to The pinch groove 1204 of the second end 1210 of the handle joint 1202 is received in a plurality of different orientations. The method may further include inserting the head joint 1224 into the bottom of a club head 1200 and in an area 1242 defined by the insert 1236. The bottom of the neck region 1216 or the bottom of the inner chamber 1242 can have an inner opening, and the inner opening has a plurality of pin slots 1241 One of the cross-sectional shapes is defined, and the pegs 1241 are shaped to receive the pegs 1230 of the second end 1228 of the head joint 1224 in a plurality of different orientations. According to the majority selection structure, the head joint 1224 can be inserted into the neck region defined on the bottom of the club head 1200 by a plurality of different orientations, for example, as shown in indicators 1-8 of 1236 of Figure 12B. . Thus, other methods in accordance with the present invention can include removing the handle joint 1202 from the head joint 1224 and repositioning the second end 1210 of the handle joint 1202 in a different orientation (eg, at a different rotational position) Inserting the inner hole 1231 of the head joint 1224; and/or removing the head joint 1224 from the bottom of the neck region 1216, and reinserting the head joint 1224 into the club head 1200 in a different orientation. The neck region 1216.

Once inserted, the securing system 1238 is inserted through the inner chamber 1242 into the bottom of the club head 1200 and engages the securing system 1238 and the securing structure 1211 disposed within the shank joint 1202, the shank joint 1202 And the head joint 1224 can be secured to the club head 1200. If desired, the head joint 1224 is coupled to the club head 1200 (eg, at the mounting ridge 1243 and/or the neck opening) and/or the securing system 1238 is coupled to the club head 1200. A flexible material (eg, a gasket, a gasket, an O-ring, a resilient gasket or coating, etc.) may be included to provide noise and/or vibration damping and the like. The connection system shown can be easily released, for example, by unscrewing the bolt member 1238. If desired, the bolt 1238 and the inner chamber 1242 can be configured to prevent the bolt 1238 from completely falling out of the inner chamber 1242 when the bolt 1238 is released from the handle joint 1202 (eg, by the free end of the bolt 1238) Provide an enlarged ring). The bolt 1238 can include a head And the head has a plurality of structures for engaging a screwdriver, a hex wrench, or another tool.

Because the axis of the inner bore 1218 in the shank joint 1202 is offset by the axis of the outer surface of the shank joint 1202, and because the axis of the inner bore 1231 in the head joint 1224 can be the outer surface thereof The shaft is offset so that rotation of either of the joints relative to the club head 1200 will change the position of the handle member 106 relative to the ball striking face of the club head. As explained in more detail above with respect to the prior structural examples, this feature, and the releasable connection system 104, allows the club adjuster (or other person) to freely and easily adjust the handle member 106 relative to the ball. The various angles and/or positions of the head portion 102 (e.g., different elevation, tilt, and face angle combinations) still use the same handle 106 and/or head 102, which helps the user to more easily determine the most appropriate. Club head/handle combinations and configurations to suit their needs.

2. Other exemplary handle joint / handle joint assembly

Figures 13A and 13B show an adjustable handle joint/head joint assembly in accordance with another structural example of the present invention. The shank joint/head joint assembly in the cross-sectional view of Fig. 13A and the exploded view of Fig. 13B is similar to the exemplary structure shown in Figs. 7-9 and 12A-12B. Therefore, the description will be made with reference to the exemplary structures of Figs. 7-9 and 12A-12B.

The handle joint 1302 is similar to the handle joints 702 and 1202 described above in that the outer surface of the handle joint 1302 can be completely or partially defined by a plurality of bolt slots 1304 (shown in FIG. 13B), and The pegs 1304 extend along the longitudinal axis of the shank joint 1302. The handle joint 1302 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and can include and contain the high The remainder of the golf club is made of different materials. For example, the handle joint 1302 can be constructed from a lightweight metal, metal alloy, or polymeric material (eg, a rigid polymeric material).

The shank joint 1302 is generally cylindrical and has a first end 1306 and a second end 1310 along the same axis. According to the structural example shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the diameter of the handle joint 1302 can be reduced from the first end 1306 to the second end 1310. Referring to FIG. 13B, the first end 1306 can include an outwardly projecting region 1312, and the outwardly projecting region 1312 is adapted to be placed and docked with a first end 1326 of a head joint 1324. The handle joint 1302 further includes an inner bore 1318, and the inner bore 1318 is assembled to be attachable to a handle member 106 along an offset shaft 1320. The offset axis 1320 can be offset by about 2 degrees from a central journal axis 1322, but the offset angle can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree. At least 2 degrees, at least 2.5 degrees, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

According to Figures 13A and 13B, the inner bore 1318 can have a circular cross-sectional shape, for example, to receive a conventionally shaped round shank. As described above for the shank joint 202 and the shank joint 1202, the shank joint 1302 can be assembled in a variety of ways such that the inner bore 1318 engages or abuts the handle member 106, and such that the docking prevents the shank joint 1302 from being in the handle The member 106 rotates inside. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate a number of different ways in which the handle joint 1302 and the handle member 106 can be combined.

As shown in Figures 13A and 13B, the outer surface of the handle joint 1302 can have a cross-sectional shape that is fully or partially defined by a plurality of pegs 1304 extending along the shaft 1320 of the shank joint. These bolt grooves can be produced along the surface A plurality of ridges are formed, and the ridges are sized to abut and engage a plurality of pins in the interior of the head joint 1324 in a fixed position. The pin grooves as described for Figures 13A and 13B can be sized, shaped and machined as previously described. According to the structural example shown in FIG. 13B, the bolt slots 1304 can extend along the second end 1310 of the handle joint 1302. Accordingly, the cross-sectional shape of the outer surface of the shank joint 1302 is assembled to have a size and shape suitable for embedding the head joint 1324 and preventing rotation of the shank joint 1302 relative to the head joint 1324. Without departing from the novel, such a pinch groove 1304 (or, alternatively, a polygonal cross-sectional area) may be along the handle joint as previously described for Figures 7-9 and 12A-12B. Any portion of the longitudinal extent of the outer surface of 1302 (or the inner joint of the head joint 1324 or the neck region 1316) extends. Moreover, the split groove regions 1304, 1330 and 1332 can be replaced with a cross-sectional shape having a regular polygon without any deviation from the present invention, and the regular polygon optionally has from 3 to 20 sides.

In some embodiments, the handle joint 1302, the outer surface of the handle member 106 and/or the head joint 1324 may be tapered in the direction of the non-circular cross-sectional shape such that The diameter of the assembly is reduced from each of the first ends to the second end. This feature can assist in easily inserting and sliding the handle joint 1302 out of the head joint 1324 and/or without having to maintain very tight tolerances in the manufacturing process.

The structural examples shown in Figs. 13A and 13B may further include a head joint 1324. The head joint 1324 can be made of one or more suitable materials as described above and, as previously described, can comprise a different material than the material comprising the remainder of the golf club. For example, the head joint 1324 can be lightened A metal, metal alloy, or polymeric material (eg, a rigid polymeric material) is constructed. Referring to Figures 13A and 13B, the exemplary head joint 1324 has a first end 1326 and a second end 1328. As shown, the first end 1326 is along the same axis as the second end 1328 (shown as axis 1320 in Figure 13A). The head joint 1324 further includes an inner hole 1331, and the inner hole 1331 is disposed along a second shaft 1334 and is assembled to receive the handle joint 1302 on the second shaft 1334 (the shank joint 1302 is then received). Handle member 106). Therefore, the outer portion of the head joint 1324 can extend from the first end 1326 to the second end 1328 (the shaft 1320) in an axial direction, and the inner hole 1331 of the handle joint 1302 can be accommodated in a different axial direction (axis 1334). )extend. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, various combinations of structural elements and/or procedures that can be used to implement the two axes of the head joint 1324 without departing from the novel. The angular difference between the first axis 1320 and the second axis 1334 can be any angle without departing from the novel, for example, at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5 degrees, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees, at least 2.5. Degree, at least 4 degrees, or even at least 8 degrees.

The inner hole 1331 of the head joint 1324 may also have a cross-sectional shape defined at least in part by a plurality of pin grooves 1332 extending longitudinally within the inner hole 1331, and the pin grooves 1332 are shaped to be storable and engageable. A plurality of pin slots 1304 on the exterior of the handle connector 1302 are in a fixed position. The pin slots 1332 can be sized, shaped, and machined as previously described. Thus, the cross-sectional shape of the inner bore 1331 can be assembled to have a size and shape suitable to prevent rotation of the handle joint 1302 relative to the head joint 1324. According to the cross-sectional view, in Fig. 13A, the handle joint 1302 can be inserted such that it is docked All of the inner holes 1331. In other embodiments, the head joint 1324 can be sized such that the handle joint is received within a portion of the length of the head joint 1324.

In the specific structural example shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the head joint 1300 can have a space 1342 defined in the bottom of the club head, and the space 1342 provides a head along the shaft 1320 for receiving the head. The opening of the joint 1324. As shown in FIG. 13A, the space 1342 can be defined by the insert interface 1336. According to the structural example shown in Fig. 13A, the handle joint 1302/head joint 1324 assembly can be fixed to the club head from the bottom of the club head 1300 by means of a washer 1340 and a bolt 1338 as shown. on. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there are many ways to secure embodiments of Figures 13A and 13B.

In other structural examples in accordance with the present invention, the head joint 1324 can be integral with or otherwise permanently secured to the club head 1300, such as within the neck region 1316 or forming the hosel region 1316. One part. In these configurations, the outer surface of the head joint 1324 may be absent (but if an outer neck is present in the club head structure, the inner bore of the neck may be "off-axis" from the outer surface of the neck Way to extend).

The perspective view of the shank joint 1302/head joint 1324 assembly of Figure 13B further emphasizes one of several methods that may be used to construct a golf club in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention. In accordance with the exemplary method, the handle member 106 is attached to the handle joint 1302, wherein the handle member 106 is inserted into an inner bore 1318 extending along a second axis 1320. The method can further include inserting the second end 1310 of the handle joint 1302 into a head joint 1324 An inner bore 1331 having a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of pin slots 1332 and shaped to receive a second slot 13304 of the handle end 1302 in a plurality of different orientations. The method may further include inserting the head joint 1324 into a neck region 1316 of a club head 1300. The neck region 1316 can have an inner opening, and the inner opening has a cross-sectional shape defined by a plurality of pin grooves, and the pin grooves are shaped to receive the second end 1328 of the head joint 1324 in a plurality of different orientations. The slot 1330. In accordance with most aspects described herein, the head joint 1324 can be rotated into the neck region 1316 in a plurality of different orientations, for example, by rotating the head joint 1324 clockwise or counterclockwise. Thus, other methods in accordance with the present invention can include removing the handle joint 1302 from the head joint 1324 and repositioning the second end 1310 of the handle joint 1302 in a different orientation (eg, at a different rotational position) The inner hole 1331 of the head joint 1324 is inserted.

Because the axis of the inner bore 1318 in the shank joint 1302 is offset by the axis of the outer surface of the shank joint 1302, and because the axis of the inner bore 1331 in the head joint 1324 can be the outer surface thereof The shaft is offset so that rotation of either of the joints relative to the club head 1300 will change the position of the handle member 106 relative to the ball striking face of the club head. As explained in more detail above with respect to the prior structural examples, this feature, and the releasable connection system 104, allows the club adjuster (or other person) to freely and easily adjust the handle member 106 relative to the ball. The various angles and/or positions of the head portion 102 (e.g., different elevation, tilt, and face angle combinations) still use the same handle 106 and/or head 102, which helps the user to more easily determine the most appropriate. Club head/handle combinations and configurations to suit their needs.

The other structural examples shown in Figures 12A-12B and 13A-13B show only two of the many different combinations of embodiments that are within the scope of the present invention and will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. In a more specific example, any surface shown and described by the pin grooves defined in Figures 12A-12B and 13A-13B may also have a polygonal cross-sectional shape, such as a 3 to 20-sided polygon. .

in conclusion

Although the present invention has been described in terms of a number of specific examples of the presently preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes and permutations of the above described systems and methods. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the present invention should be considered broadly as set forth in the following claims.