U.S. patent application number 12/432133 was filed with the patent office on 2010-11-04 for angle adjustment features for golf clubs.
Invention is credited to Michael E. Finn, Andrew G.V. Oldknow.
Application Number | 20100279785 12/432133 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42334472 |
Filed Date | 2010-11-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100279785 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Oldknow; Andrew G.V. ; et
al. |
November 4, 2010 |
Angle Adjustment Features for Golf Clubs
Abstract
A golf club having a golf club shaft and a golf club head is
provided. The shaft includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a
longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The golf club head, which
is attached to the distal end of the golf club shaft, extends from
a heel region to a toe region and from a front surface to a back
surface. The golf club head includes an angle adjustment void
structure that is located below the distal end of the golf club
shaft. The angle adjustment void structure may include a cavity
formed in the back surface, the depth dimension of the cavity
extending from the back surface toward the front surface. The
cavity, when viewed from the back surface, may be aligned with the
longitudinal axis.
Inventors: |
Oldknow; Andrew G.V.;
(Beaverton, OR) ; Finn; Michael E.; (Fort Worth,
TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BANNER & WITCOFF, LTD.
28 STATE STREET, SUITE 1800
BOSTON
MA
02109-1701
US
|
Family ID: |
42334472 |
Appl. No.: |
12/432133 |
Filed: |
April 29, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/282 ;
473/349 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 60/00 20151001;
A63B 53/023 20200801; A63B 53/02 20130101; A63B 60/50 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/282 ;
473/349 |
International
Class: |
A63B 53/06 20060101
A63B053/06 |
Claims
1. A golf club comprising: a golf club shaft having a proximal end,
a distal end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween; and a
golf club head attached to the distal end of the golf club shaft,
the head including a front surface having a ball-striking surface
and a back surface on the side opposite the front surface, the head
further including: an angle adjustment void structure located below
the distal end of the golf club shaft, the angle adjustment void
structure including a cavity formed in the back surface, a depth
dimension of the cavity extending from the back surface toward the
front surface, wherein the cavity, when viewed from the back
surface, is aligned with the longitudinal axis.
2. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cavity is
intersected by the longitudinal axis.
3. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the depth of the
cavity extends more than 50 percent through the thickness of the
head at the location of the cavity.
4. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the depth of the
cavity extends more than 75 percent through the thickness of the
head at the location of the cavity.
5. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the depth of the
cavity extends more than 85 percent through the thickness of the
head at the location of the cavity.
6. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cavity is
symmetric with respect to the longitudinal axis.
7. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cavity is
symmetric with respect to an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis.
8. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the head includes a
neck region and wherein the cavity is located at least partially in
the neck region.
9. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the head includes a
heel region and wherein the cavity is located at least partially in
the heel region.
10. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cross section
of the cavity extends more than 25 percent across the minimum
back-surface dimension of the head at the location of the
cavity.
11. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cross section
of the cavity extends more than 50 percent across the minimum
back-surface dimension of the head at the location of the
cavity.
12. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cross section
of the cavity extends more than 75 percent across the minimum
back-surface dimension of the head at the location of the
cavity.
13. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the cavity has a
cross section that is constant along the depth dimension.
14. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the angle
adjustment void structure includes a second cavity formed in the
back surface, the depth dimension of the second cavity extending
from the back surface toward the front surface.
15. A golf club comprising: a golf club shaft having an outer
diameter, a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis
defined therebetween; and a golf club head attached to the distal
end of the golf club shaft, the head including a front surface
having a ball-striking surface, a back surface on the side opposite
the front surface, and a longitudinal axis region defined by
projecting the outer diameter of the golf club shaft along an
extension of the longitudinal axis, the head further including: an
angle adjustment void structure located below the distal end of the
golf club shaft, the angle adjustment void structure including a
cavity formed in the back surface, the cavity located at least
partially in the longitudinal axis region.
16. The golf club according to claim 15, further including a second
cavity formed in the back surface and located at least partially in
the longitudinal axis region.
17. The golf club according to claim 15, wherein the cavity, when
viewed from the back surface, is aligned with the longitudinal
axis.
18. The golf club according to claim 15, wherein the depth of the
cavity extends more than 50 percent through the thickness of the
head at the location of the cavity.
19. The golf club according to claim 15, wherein the head includes
a neck region and the first cavity is located at least partially in
a neck region.
20. The golf club according to claim 15, wherein the angle
adjustment void structure is symmetric with respect to the
longitudinal axis.
21. A golf club head comprising: a main body extending from a heel
region to a toe region; a neck region extending from the heel
region to a connection region, the connection region configured for
attachment to a distal end of a golf club shaft and defining a
longitudinal axis; and an angle adjustment void structure located
below the connection region, the angle adjustment void structure
including a cavity formed in a back surface of the golf club head,
a depth dimension of the cavity extending from the back surface
toward a front surface of the golf club head, wherein the cavity is
at least partially located within a 10 mm radius of the
longitudinal axis.
22. The golf club head according to claim 21, wherein the cavity,
when viewed from the back surface, is aligned with the longitudinal
axis.
23. A golf club comprising: a golf club shaft having a proximal
end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween;
and a golf club head attached to the distal end of the golf club
shaft, the head including a front surface having a ball-striking
surface and a back surface on the side opposite the front surface,
the head further including: a means for relieving strains located
below the distal end of the golf club shaft, the means for
relieving strains including a void formed in the back surface, a
depth dimension of the void extending from the back surface toward
the front surface, wherein the void, when viewed from the back
surface, is aligned with the longitudinal axis.
24. The golf club according to claim 23, wherein the depth of the
void extends more than 50 percent through the thickness of the head
at the location of the cavity.
25. The golf club according to claim 23, wherein the cross section
of the void extends more than 25 percent across the minimum
back-surface dimension of the head at the location of the
cavity.
26. The golf club according to claim 23, wherein the means for
relieving strain includes a second void formed in the back surface,
the depth dimension of the second void extending from the back
surface toward the front surface.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to golf clubs and golf club
heads. More particularly, aspects of this invention relate to golf
clubs having angle adjustment features.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players--players of
different genders and dramatically different ages and/or skill
levels. Golfers at all skill levels seek to improve their
performance, lower their golf scores, and reach that next
performance "level." One way to improve performance is to use more
technologically advanced equipment. A further way to improve
performance is to select equipment that matches an individual
golfer's style.
[0003] Golf clubs have been the subject of much technological
research and advancement in recent years. Certain technological
advancements have been made in an effort to better match the
various elements and/or characteristics of the golf club and
characteristics of a golf ball to a particular user's swing
characteristics (e.g., club fitting technology, ball launch angle
measurement technology, ball spin rates, etc.). There now exists a
vast array of golf club component parts available to the golfer.
For example, individual club head models may include variations in
the loft angle, lie angle, offset features, weighting
characteristics, etc. These various club heads may be combined with
a variety of shafts having, for example, any of various
stiffnesses, flex points, kick points or other flexion
characteristics. Between the available variations in shafts and
club heads, there are literally hundreds of different club
head/shaft combinations available to the golfer.
[0004] Club fitters and golf professionals can assist in fitting
golfers with a golf club head/shaft combination that suits their
swing characteristics and needs. Not only should the individual
golf head and shaft be selected based on the specific golfer's
swing characteristics, but the angle at which the shaft is fitted
to the head, i.e. the lie angle, should also be matched to the
individual golfer's physical characteristics.
[0005] The lie angle is the angle between the center line of the
hosel and the sole of the club head when the sole is touching the
ground at the center of the face scoring area. If the center of the
face scoring area of the club head is on the ground when a golfer
stands at address then the lie of the club is generally considered
perfect--this is termed a "standard" lie. If the toe of the club
head points in the air and the heel of the club head is on the
ground, then the golfer's lie is too "upright" and should be made
flatter. In contrast, if the heel of the club head is in the air
and the toe is on the ground, then the golfer's lie is too "flat"
and should be made more upright. Shorter players generally use a
flatter lie angle; taller players generally use a more upright lie
angle.
[0006] The lie of the club can have a significant impact on ball
flight. If the lie is too flat for a particular golfer, the toe of
the club head may impact the ground first and the ball flight may
tend to move from the inside outward. If the lie of the club is too
upright for the golfer, the ball flight may tend to move from the
outside inward. Conventionally, shafts are mounted to golf club
heads using hosels. In some instances, custom-fitting of golf clubs
to an individual golfer has involved bending the hosel to provide
the correct lie angle for that golfer/club combination. However,
the hosel, which is a structural connection between the shaft and
the club head, may have material properties that are not amenable
to bending. Thus, for example, wrinkles, bulges, stress
concentrations, cracks, or other defects may result from the
application of the bending forces. Further, bending may result in
an attendant loss of strength and/or stiffness.
[0007] The disadvantages associated with conventional structures
associated with adjusting a club's lie angle may limit the amount
of adjustment and/or reduce the technical performance of the golf
club.
SUMMARY
[0008] The following presents a general summary of aspects of the
disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of the
invention and various features of it. This summary is not intended
to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but it simply
provides a general overview and context for the more detailed
description that follows.
[0009] In accordance with illustrative aspects of the disclosure, a
golf club may include a golf club head having an angle adjustment
void structure that is located below a distal end of the golf club
shaft. The angle adjustment void structure may include a cavity
formed in the back surface. The depth dimension of the cavity may
extend from the back surface of the club head toward the front
surface of the club head. Further, the cavity, when viewed from the
back surface, may be aligned with the longitudinal axis.
[0010] According to other aspects of this disclosure, a golf club
includes a golf club head attached to the distal end of a golf club
shaft. The golf club head includes a front surface, a back surface,
and a longitudinal axis region defined by projecting the outer
diameter of the golf club shaft along an extension of the
longitudinal axis. An angle adjustment void structure may be
located below the distal end of the golf club shaft. The angle
adjustment void structure may include a cavity formed in the back
surface and located at least partially in the longitudinal axis
region.
[0011] According to certain aspects of this disclosure, a golf club
head includes a connection region configured for attachment to a
distal end of a golf club shaft. The connection region defines a
longitudinal axis. The golf club head further includes a main body
extending from a heel region to a toe region and a neck region
extending from the heel region to a connection region. An angle
adjustment void structure may be located below the connection
region. The angle adjustment void structure may include a cavity
formed in a back surface of the club head and having a depth
dimension extending from the back surface toward the front surface
of the club head. The cavity may be at least partially located
within a 10 mm radius of the longitudinal axis.
[0012] In accordance with still other aspects of the disclosure, a
golf club may include a golf club head having a means for relieving
strain that is located below a distal end of the golf club shaft.
The means for relieving strain may include a void formed in the
back surface. The depth dimension of the void may extend from the
back surface of the club head toward the front surface of the club
head. Further, the void, when viewed from the back surface, may be
aligned with the longitudinal axis.
[0013] In accordance with additional illustrative aspects of the
disclosure, a golf club may include a golf club shaft attached to a
golf club head as provided above.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] A more complete understanding of the present invention and
certain advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the
following detailed description in consideration with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0015] FIG. 1 generally illustrates a front view of a portion of an
example golf club according to an aspect of this disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 2 generally illustrates a heel-side view of a portion
of an example golf club head according to an aspect of this
disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 3 generally illustrates a back view of a portion of an
example golf club head in accordance with this disclosure and the
aspect of FIG. 2;
[0018] FIG. 4A generally illustrates a enlarged view of a portion
of FIG. 3;
[0019] FIG. 4B generally illustrates an enlarged back view of a
portion of an example golf club head according to an aspect of
disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 4C generally illustrates an enlarged back view of a
portion of an example golf club head according to another aspect of
disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 4D generally illustrates an enlarged back view of a
portion of an example golf club head according to yet another
aspect of disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 4E generally illustrates an enlarged back view of a
portion of an example golf club head according to still another
aspect of disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 5A generally illustrates an enlarged back view of a
portion of an example golf club head according to a further aspect
of disclosure; and
[0024] FIG. 5B generally illustrates an enlarged back view of a
portion of an example golf club head according to still a further
aspect of disclosure.
[0025] The reader is advised that the attached drawings are not
necessarily drawn to scale and that certain features may have been
exaggerated in or removed from the drawings for purposes of
discussion.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] In the following description of various example structures
in accordance with the disclosure, reference is made to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are
shown by way of illustration various example connection assemblies,
golf club heads, and golf club structures in accordance with the
disclosure. Additionally, it is to be understood that other
specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized and
structural and functional modifications may be made without
departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, while the
terms "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "rear," "side,"
"underside," "overhead," and the like may be used in this
specification to describe various example features and elements of
the disclosure, these terms are used herein as a matter of
convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the
figures and/or the orientations in typical use. Nothing in this
specification should be construed as requiring a specific three
dimensional or spatial orientation of structures in order to fall
within the scope of this invention.
[0027] A. General Description of Golf Club Angle Adjustment
Features and Golf Clubs Including Such Features According to
Examples of the Disclosure
[0028] In general, as described above, aspects of this disclosure
relate to features for adjusting the lie and/or loft angles of golf
clubs so that the club heads and shafts can be oriented at various
angles with respect to one another. More detailed descriptions of
aspects of this disclosure follow.
[0029] Illustrative aspects of this disclosure relate to features
provided on golf club heads so that any of various lie and/or loft
angles of a golf club shaft with respect to the club head body (and
its ball striking face) can be readily achieved. The angle of a
golf club shaft may be adjusted with respect to a golf club head
body by deforming a portion of the club head. Generally, the
deformation occurs as a result of bending stresses experienced in a
bend region or at a bendline located between the distal end of the
golf club shaft and body of the golf club head. Aspects of this
disclosure relate to reducing stresses, strains and/or deformations
in the bend region, that arise due to the angle of a club shaft to
a club head being changed, by providing a means for relieving
strains and/or stresses. A means for relieving these strains may
include an angle adjustment void structure on the club head. An
angle adjustment void structure may include one or more void-like,
cavity-like or other hole-like or gap-forming elements wherein an
opening in the surface disrupts the material continuity of the golf
club head. The means for relieving strains may relieve or
ameliorate strains in the bend region in both the longitudinal and
the transverse directions. Further, the means for relieving strains
may relieve stress concentrations and reduce the likelihood that
wrinkles and or cracks may develop in the bend region.
[0030] 1. Example Angle Adjustment Features and Golf Club
Structures
[0031] A golf club having a golf club shaft and a golf club head is
provided. The shaft includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a
longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The golf club head, which
is attached to the distal end of the golf club shaft, extends from
a heel region to a toe region. The golf club head may include an
angle adjustment void structure that is located below the distal
end of the golf club shaft. The angle adjustment void structure may
include a void or a cavity formed in the back surface. The depth
dimension of the void or cavity may extend from the back surface
toward the front surface. Further, the void or cavity, when viewed
from the back surface, may be aligned with the longitudinal
axis.
[0032] According to certain aspects, the angle adjustment void
structure may include a cavity extending over both transverse and
longitudinal directions, with respect to the longitudinal axis
defined by the golf club shaft. When the angle between the shaft
and the club head body is adjusted, bending occurs in a bend region
below the distal end of the shaft in the neck and/or heel region of
the club head. On one side of the bend region, the material of the
club head is stretched (or placed in tension) and on the other side
of the bend region, the material of the club head is squashed (or
place in compression). When a material is compressed in a first
direction, it tends to want to expand in a direction perpendicular
to the first direction. Similarly, when a material is stretched in
a first direction, it tends to want to shrink in a direction
perpendicular to the first direction. Thus, biaxial stresses and
strains are developed in the bend region when the lie and/or loft
angles are adjusted. By providing an angle adjustment void having a
cavity, these biaxial stresses and strains may be accommodated.
[0033] Because a cavity has a bottom surface that is coincident
with the front surface of the club head, a web of material is
available to provide stiffness and stability to the golf club head
in the region where stresses and deformations may be at their
maximum, i.e., in the bend region. Additionally, the cavity's
bottom surface web of material connects the two regions (or "legs")
on either side of the cavity, thereby forcing the legs to act in
concert, at least on the front surface of the club head. In some
aspects, the cavity's bottom surface might act as a shear web or as
an anti-buckling element.
[0034] The angle adjustment void structure may be provided at least
partially in a neck region of the club head. Optionally, the angle
adjustment void structure may be provided at least partially in a
heel region of the club head. In some aspects, the angle adjustment
void structure may be symmetric with respect to an axis parallel to
the longitudinal axis. In other aspects, the angle adjustment void
structure may be symmetric with respect to an axis perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis.
[0035] According to certain aspects of this disclosure, a golf club
includes a golf club shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and
a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The golf club further
includes a golf club head attached to the distal end of the golf
club shaft. The golf club head includes a front surface, a back
surface, and a longitudinal axis region defined by projecting the
outer diameter of the golf club shaft along an extension of the
longitudinal axis. An angle adjustment void structure may be
located below the distal end of the golf club shaft. The angle
adjustment void structure may include a cavity formed in the back
surface and located at least partially in the longitudinal axis
region.
[0036] According to other aspects of this disclosure, a golf club
head includes a connection region configured for attachment to a
distal end of a golf club shaft. The connection region defines a
longitudinal axis. The golf club head further includes a main body
extending from a heel region to a toe region and a neck region
extending from the heel region to a connection region. An angle
adjustment void structure may be located below the connection
region. The angle adjustment void structure may include a cavity
formed in a back surface of the club head and having a depth
dimension extending from the back surface toward the front surface
of the club head. The cavity may be at least partially located
within a 10 mm radius of the longitudinal axis.
[0037] Optionally, the angle adjustment void structure may include
multiple cavities. These cavities may have a synergistic effect.
For example, each cavity may relieve a portion of the biaxial
bending stresses and strains. Further, multiple cavities may
provide a more distributed relief feature. Even further, the
multiple cavities may better accommodate the combined adjustment of
the lie angle and adjustment of the loft angle. Unsightly wrinkles
or other undesirable deformations at the bend region may be
avoided.
[0038] A golf club having a golf club shaft and a golf club head is
provided. The shaft includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a
longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The golf club head, which
is attached to the distal end of the golf club shaft, extends from
a heel region to a toe region. The golf club head may include a
means for relieving strain that is located below the distal end of
the golf club shaft. The means for relieving strain may include a
void formed in the back surface. The depth dimension of the void
may extend from the back surface toward the front surface. Further,
the void, when viewed from the back surface, may be aligned with
the longitudinal axis.
[0039] The angle adjustment void structures described herein can
help keep the overall connection assembly relatively compact and
lightweight, while facilitating lie and loft angle adjustment and
maintaining rotational and bending stiffness.
[0040] Aspects of this disclosure relating to the angle adjustment
features and to golf club structures that incorporate the angle
adjustment features will be described in more detail below.
[0041] Specific examples of the disclosure are described in more
detail below. The reader should understand that these specific
examples are set forth merely to illustrate examples of the
disclosure, and they should not be construed as limiting the
disclosure.
[0042] B. Specific Examples of the Disclosure
[0043] FIGS. 1-3 generally illustrate example golf clubs 100 in
accordance with at least certain aspects of this disclosure. FIGS.
4A through 4E and FIGS. 5A through 5B generally illustrate various
embodiments of angle adjustment void structures according to
aspects of this disclosure.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, the club 100 includes a club head 102
and a club shaft 106. The club shaft 106 has a proximal end where a
golfer grips the shaft (not shown), a distal end where the club
head 102 is attached to shaft 106, and a longitudinal axis (L)
extending along the length of the shaft from the proximal to the
distal end.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, the club head 102 includes a main body
120, a neck 130 and a club head-to-shaft connection region 140. The
club head 102 may be attached to the distal end of the club shaft
106 at the club head-to-shaft connection region 140. The club
head-to-shaft connection region 140 may be provided by a hosel 142.
The club head-to-shaft connection region 140 may be defined as the
region where the shaft 106 and the club head 102 overlap. In
certain embodiments, the club head-to-shaft connection region 140
is that region where the distal end of the club shaft 106 and the
hosel 142 overlap.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3, the club head 102 includes a
main body 120 that extends from a heel region 122 to a toe region
124 in first direction and from a front surface 121 to a back
surface 123 in a second direction. A ball-striking face member 126
may be provided on the front surface 121 of the main body 120. Neck
region 130 extends between the main body 120 and the
club-head-to-shaft connection region 140. The neck region 130
generally includes an elongated structure that extends generally in
the same direction as the longitudinal axis L of the club shaft
106. The main body 120 extends from the neck region 130 in a
direction that is generally transverse to the direction of
extension of the neck region 130.
[0047] It is recognized that the demarcation between the heel
region 122 of the main body 120 and the neck region 130 may not be
clearly defined. Thus, referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a transition
region 132 may be defined where the neck region 130 and the heel
region 122 merge. More specifically, referring to FIG. 3, the
transition region 132 may include that portion of the club head 102
that is bounded by an extension e.sub.1 of the upper edge of main
body 120 and an extension e.sub.2 of the club-side edge of the neck
region. For some club head configurations, the transition region
132 may include portions of the neck region 130 and/or the heel
region 122.
[0048] Additionally, referring to FIG. 2, a longitudinal axis
region 134 may be defined by projecting an outer diameter OD of the
golf club shaft 106 along an extension of the longitudinal axis L.
In other words, the longitudinal axis region 134 encompasses the
portion of the club head 102 that is aligned with a projection of
the golf club shaft 106. The longitudinal axis region 134 generally
may extend through the neck region 130 and the transition region
132 of the club head 102. At least portions of this longitudinal
axis region 134 may be expected to experience deformation upon
adjusting the angle of the shaft 106 relative to the main body
120.
[0049] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, a
means for relieving strains is provided on the club head 102.
Accordingly, an angle adjustment void structure 150 may be provided
on the club head 102. The angle adjustment void structure 150 is
located below the club head-to-shaft connection region 140. In
other words, the angle adjustment void structure 150 is located
distally beyond, i.e. distally below, the distal end of the golf
club shaft. In certain aspects, the angle adjustment void structure
150 may be located in the neck region 130. In other aspects, the
angle adjustment void structure 150 may be located in the
transition region 132. In even other aspects, the angle adjustment
void structure 150 may be located in the heel region 122. According
to aspects of the present disclosure, the angle adjustment void
structure 150 may be located on the back surface 123 of the club
head 102.
[0050] The angle adjustment void structure 150 facilitates the
adjustment of the angle (lie and/or loft) of the club shaft 106
relative to the club head 102. This angle of the club shaft 106
relative to the club head 102 may be adjusted by deforming (e.g.,
bending) the club head 102 at a bend region 125. The bend region
125 is located below the head-to-shaft connection region 140 and
may be located in the neck region 130, the heel region 122, or the
transition region 132. The angle adjustment void structure 150 may
reduce bending stresses and reduce or eliminate undesirable
deformations of the club head 102 when the angle of the club shaft
106 is changed. Further, the angle adjustment void structure 150
may assist in defining the location of the bend region 125.
[0051] A range of desired angle adjustments may be accommodated
without departing from this disclosure. By way of non-limiting
example, adjustments of at least 0.25 degrees, at least 0.5
degrees, at least 1 degree, at least 2 degrees, at least 4 degrees,
or even at least 8 degrees may be accommodated by the angle
adjustment void. In some example structures, the desired adjustment
will be between 0.25 and 25 degrees, between 0.5 and 15 degrees,
between 1 and 10 degrees, or even between 1 and 5 degrees.
[0052] The angle adjustment void structure 150 in accordance with
some aspects of this disclosure will now be described in more
detail with reference to FIGS. 2 through 5B.
[0053] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the angle adjustment void
structure 150 may include a cavity 152 formed on the back surface
123 and located partially in the neck region 130 and partially in
the transition region 132. The term "cavity," as used herein,
refers to a region having side surfaces and a bottom surface, such
that the region is at least partially enclosed by the mass of the
club head 102, wherein the material that forms the surrounding mass
of the club head 102 is absent from the region. Thus, for example,
a hole with a bottom surface, i.e., a hole that is not a through
hole, is a cavity. A cavity has a cross section (having length l
and width w dimensions) and a depth d. The dimensions of the cross
section may be constant or they may vary along the depth d.
Similarly, the depth d may be constant or it may vary along the
length l and/or the width w of the cross section. In general, a
cavity may have any length-to-width ratio, any length-to-depth
ratio, or any width-to-depth ratio.
[0054] In FIGS. 2 and 3, a cavity 152a having a circular cross
section is illustrated. Cavity 152a has a constant circular cross
section. The cross section opening extends over a transverse
distance and over a longitudinal distance. A transverse distance is
measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the club shaft
106. A longitudinal distance is measured in a direction that is
aligned with the longitudinal axis L of the club shaft 106. Thus,
according to certain aspects, the cross section of the cavity 152a
may be oriented substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis
L.
[0055] According to aspects of the present disclosure, FIGS. 4A
through 4E illustrate cavities 152 having any of various cross
section shapes. FIG. 4A shows a portion of FIG. 3, enlarged for
clarity. In FIG. 4A, cavity 152a has a generally circular cross
section. Each cavity 152 has a length l and a width w associated
with the cross section and a depth d (as shown in FIG. 2) extending
out of the plane of the cross section of the cavity 152. The length
l is the cavity's longest cross-section dimension, as measured at
the opening of the cavity 152 on the back surface 123; the width w
is the cavity's cross-section dimension at the opening that is
perpendicular to the length l dimension. In FIG. 4B, cavity 152b
has a generally elliptical cross section. In FIG. 4C, the cavity
152c has a somewhat bean-like shape, with the edges of the cavity
152c being substantially parallel to the edges of the transition
region 132. Thus, this cross sectional shape for the cavity 152c
is, in part, determined by the profile of the club body 102. In
FIG. 4D, cavity 152d has an irregular polygonal shape. In FIG. 4E,
cavity 152e has a square shape at the surface opening. Thus it can
be seen that the cross-sectional shape of the cavity 152 may be
substantially circular, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or any
other suitable shape, whether regular or irregular. The length l of
the cross-sectional opening of the cavity 152, as measured at the
back surface 123, may range from 5 mm to 30 mm. A length l of
greater than 10 mm, or greater than 15 mm, or even greater than 20
mm may be desirable. Similarly, the width w of the cross-sectional
opening of the cavity 152 as measured at the back surface 123 may
range from 2 mm to 20 mm. A width w of greater than 5 mm, or
greater than 10 mm, or even greater than 15 mm may be
desirable.
[0056] Further, according to certain aspects of the present
disclosure, the cross section of the cavity 152 may have a
length-to-width ratio of 1, e.g., the cross section may be a
circle, a square, etc. Optionally, a cavity 152 may have a
length-to-width ratio of 1.5 or more, 2 or more, 3 or more, or even
5 or more. Still further, according to other aspects, the cross
section of the cavity 152 may extend more than 25 percent across
the minimum back-surface dimension of the club head 102 at the
location of the cavity. The regions of the club head 102 that
extend on either side of the cavity 152 may be of equal thickness.
Alternatively, these "legs" may be of unequal thickness. It may be
desirable for the cross section of the cavity 152 to extend more
than 50 percent or even more than 75 percent across the minimum
back-surface dimension of the club head 102 at the location of the
cavity 152.
[0057] Referring back to FIG. 2, the cavity 152a has a depth d. The
depth d extends from the back surface 123 toward the front surface
121. Generally, the depth d may be determined as the maximum
dimension from the opening of the cavity 152 on the back surface
123 to the bottom surface of the cavity. The depth d need not lie
at any particular orientation to the back surface 123 or to the
front surface 121. According to some aspects, the depth d of the
cavity 152 may range from 2 mm to 15 mm. A depth d greater than 5
mm, or greater than 10 mm, or even greater than 12 mm may be
desirable. As the cavity 152 is not a through hole, depth d is less
than the front-to-back thickness of the club head 102 at the
location of the cavity 152. Thus, the cavity 152 has a
depth-to-club-head-thickness ratio of less than 1. According to
certain aspects of the present disclosure, the cavity 152 has a
depth-to-club-head-thickness ratio ranging from approximately 0.05
to approximately 0.9. Optionally, the cavity 152 may have a
depth-to-club-head-thickness ratio greater than 0.2, greater than
0.5, greater than 0.75, or even greater than 0.85.
[0058] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, a
cavity 152 may have a width-to-depth ratio ranging from
approximately 0.1 (i.e., a relatively narrow, deep cavity) to
approximately 20 (i.e. a relatively wide, shallow cavity). More
preferably, the width-to-depth ratio may range from approximately
0.3 to approximately 10, or from approximately 0.5 to approximately
5, or even from approximately 0.8 to approximately 3. The bean-like
shaped cavity 152c shown in FIG. 4C is an example of a relatively
wide, shallow cavity. The irregular polygonal-shaped cavity 152d
shown in FIG. 4D is an example of a relatively narrow, deep
cavity.
[0059] According to another aspect, the cross section of the cavity
152 need not be constant as the depth of the cavity 152 increases.
For example, as best shown in FIG. 4B, the cross-section area of
cavity 152b decreases as the depth of the cavity 152b increases. In
other words, the elliptical opening at the back surface 123 is
larger than the elliptical bottom surface of the cavity 152b.
According to other aspects, the shape of the cross section of the
cavity 152 may change as the depth of the cavity 152 increases. For
example, as shown in FIG. 4E, the cross section of the cavity 152e
changes from square at the back surface 123 to circular at the
bottom of the cavity 152e. FIG. 4E also illustrates that any change
to the cross section of the cavities 152 need not be accomplished
by a smooth transition, but may be accomplished in a step-wise
fashion.
[0060] According to additional aspects of the disclosure, when
viewed from the back surface 123, the cavity 152 may be aligned
with the longitudinal axis L. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4A-4E, a
trace or projection of the longitudinal axis L, parallel to the
longitudinal axis L, may lie within the cross section of the cavity
152. In other words, the trace of the longitudinal axis L may be
seen within the cross section of the cavity 152 when the cavity is
viewed from the back surface 123 along a line substantially
perpendicular to the cross section of the cavity 152. Although, the
trace of the longitudinal axis L may lie within the cross section
of the cavity 152, this does not necessarily mean that the cavity
152 is deep enough to actually have the longitudinal axis L extend
through the cavity.
[0061] Thus, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the
longitudinal axis L may actually extend through the cavity 152. For
example, as shown in FIG. 2, longitudinal axis L extends down
through the center of neck region 130 and into the void formed by
the cavity 152. This occurs because, when viewed from the back
surface 123, the cavity 123 is aligned with the longitudinal axis
L, and also because the depth d of the cavity 152 extends beyond
the location of the longitudinal axis L.
[0062] In general, when the angle of the longitudinal axis L of the
club shaft 106 is adjusted relative to the main body 120, the
material at the bend region 125 undergoes permanent deformation.
The cavity 152 may provide a strain relief feature, in that the
perimeter edges of the cavity may be deformed toward or away from
one another when the club shaft angle is adjusted. With a cavity
152 having dimensions in both a transverse and a longitudinal
direction, strain relief in both the transverse and the
longitudinal directions may be provided. The cavity 152 may be
formed by any conventional method, including for example by
casting, forging, molding, machining, etching, etc.
[0063] Cavities 152 may be symmetrically oriented and positioned
with respect to the longitudinal axis L. Referring back to FIG. 4B,
cavity 152b is shown symmetrically oriented and positioned with
respect to the longitudinal axis L. Even further, cavities 152 may
be symmetrically oriented with respect to a perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis L. Referring back to FIG. 4A, cavity 152a is
shown symmetrically oriented with respect to a perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis L. Similarly, in FIG. 4B, cavity 152a is also
shown symmetrically oriented with respect to a perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis L.
[0064] According to further aspects of the present disclosure, the
cavity 152 may be located at least partially in the neck region
130, at least partially in the heel region 122, and/or at least
partially in the transition region 132. Referring to FIG. 4A,
cavity 152a is shown located mostly in the transition region 132
and at least partially in the neck region 130 and the heel region
122. Referring to FIG. 4B (and FIG. 4E), cavity 152b (and cavity
152e) is shown located in the neck region 130. Referring to FIG.
4C, cavity 152c is shown located at least partially in the neck
region 130, in the transition region 132 and in the heel region
122.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 4D, cavity 152d is shown located at least
partially in the transition region 132 and in the heel region
122.
[0066] Optionally, the cavity 152 may be located within a
predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis L. This may be
desirable as the golf club head 102 may be expected to deform
along/or close to the longitudinal axis L due to the angle
adjustment. Thus, according to certain aspects, the cavity 152 may
be located at least partially within a radial zone of approximately
10 mm surrounding the longitudinal axis L. By way of non-limiting
examples, the cavity 152 may be located at least partially within a
radial zone of approximately 8 mm, or 6 mm, or even 4 mm,
surrounding the longitudinal axis L.
[0067] According to even other aspects of the present disclosure,
more than one cavity 152 may be provided by the angle adjustment
void structure 150. By way of non-limiting examples, FIGS. 5A
through 5B illustrate angle adjustment void structures 150 having a
plurality of cavities 152. In FIG. 5A, cavities 152f and 152g are
located within the longitudinal axis region 134. Further, even
though the individual cavities 152f and 152g are not aligned with
the longitudinal axis L, the angle adjustment void 150, which
encompasses the pair of cavities 152f and 152g, is aligned with the
longitudinal axis L.
[0068] The angle adjustment void structure 150 may be symmetrically
oriented and positioned with respect to the longitudinal axis L.
Referring to FIG. 5A, the angle adjustment void structure 150 is
shown symmetrically oriented and positioned with respect to the
longitudinal axis L. In other words, although each individual
cavity 152f and 152g is not symmetrically oriented with respect to
the longitudinal axis L, the pair of cavities 152f and 152g, when
taken together as the angle adjustment void structure 150, is
symmetric relative to the longitudinal axis L.
[0069] According to other aspects, the angle adjustment void
structure 150 may be symmetrically oriented with respect to a
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. Thus, referring back to
FIG. 5A, the pair of cavities 152f and 152g of the angle adjustment
void structure 150 is shown symmetrically oriented and positioned
with respect a perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 5B, each of the individual cavities 152h
and 152i of the angle adjustment void structure 150 may be
symmetrically oriented and positioned with respect to the
longitudinal axis L. Even further, as best shown in FIG. 5B, it can
be seen that the plurality of cavities 152 of the angle adjustment
void structure 150 need not have the same cross-sectional shape or
dimensions. By way of non-limiting example, the first cavity may
have a shape, length, width and/or depth that is different than the
shape, length, width and/or depth of the second cavity. Cavity 152h
has smaller length and width dimensions as compared to cavity 152i.
Further, the depth of cavity 152h is less than the depth of cavity
152i.
[0071] Club head 102 may be formed as a unitary piece (i.e., a
single piece) or assembled from multiple pieces. The various parts
of the club heads 102 may be made from conventional materials, in
conventional constructions, in conventional manners, as are known
and used in the art, optionally modified (if necessary, e.g., in
size, shape, etc.) to accommodate the angle adjustment features
described herein. For example, one or more of the various parts
comprising the club head 102 may be made from a metal material,
including lightweight metals conventionally used in golf club head
constructions, such as aluminum, titanium, magnesium, nickel,
alloys of these materials, steel, stainless steel, and the like,
optionally anodized finished materials. Alternatively, if desired,
one or more of the various parts of the club head 102 may be made
from rigid polymeric materials, such as polymeric materials
conventionally known and used in the golf club industry. The
various parts of the club head 102 may be made from the same or
different materials without departing from this disclosure. The
parts may be made in conventional manners as are known and used in
the metal working and/or polymer production arts. Further, any
desired materials also may be used for the shaft 106, including
conventional materials that are known and used in the art, such as
steel, graphite, polymers, composite materials, combinations of
these materials, etc. Even further, the club head 102 may be
attached to the club shaft 106 in any known manner using
conventional fittings and materials. For example, the club head 102
may be permanently attached to the club shaft 106, via bonding,
brazing, welding, cements, adhesives, etc., or the club head 102
may be releasably attached to the club shaft, via threads,
mechanical fasteners, etc. Optionally, a grip member (not shown)
may be provided at the proximal end of the shaft 106.
[0072] Many variations in the overall structure of the shaft, club
head, and club head/shaft connection assembly are possible without
departing from this disclosure. For example, the cavity may be
filled, partially filled, or blocked off with a material that
allows the cavity to deform under bending loads, but that keeps
dirt, debris or other objects from collecting in the cavity. For
example, a plastic cap may be snapped or plugged into the opening
of a cavity. As another example, the angle adjustment void
structure may include one or more voids. A void is an empty space
surrounded or partially surrounded by material. While an iron-type
golf club head is illustrated in these figures, aspects of this
disclosure may be applied to any type of club head, including, for
example: fairway wood club heads; driver/wood-type golf club heads;
hybrid golf club heads; putter heads; and the like.
Conclusion
[0073] While the disclosure has been described in detail in terms
of specific examples including presently preferred modes of
carrying out the disclosure, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of
the above described features and systems. Thus, the spirit and
scope of the disclosure should be construed broadly as set forth in
the appended claims.
* * * * *