U.S. patent application number 13/924219 was filed with the patent office on 2013-10-31 for golf clubs and golf club heads having a removable mass ring.
The applicant listed for this patent is NIKE, INC.. Invention is credited to John T. Stites.
Application Number | 20130288815 13/924219 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43413448 |
Filed Date | 2013-10-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130288815 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stites; John T. |
October 31, 2013 |
GOLF CLUBS AND GOLF CLUB HEADS HAVING A REMOVABLE MASS RING
Abstract
A golf club head includes a wood type golf club head body.
Further, the golf club head may include a mass ring that engages
with the golf club head body. The mass ring may increase a moment
of inertia of the golf club head body when the mass ring engages
the golf club head body. The mass ring includes an opening in the
center of the mass ring. Further, a portion of the exterior of club
head body may extend through the opening in the center of mass
ring. The mass ring may form a portion of the exterior of the golf
club head body when the mass ring is engaged with the golf club
head body. The mass ring may be engaged with the sole portion of
the golf club head body. The mass ring may be engaged with the rear
portion the golf club head body.
Inventors: |
Stites; John T.;
(Weatherford, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NIKE, INC. |
Beaverton |
OR |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
43413448 |
Appl. No.: |
13/924219 |
Filed: |
June 21, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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12571586 |
Oct 1, 2009 |
|
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13924219 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/291 ;
473/334 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2053/0491 20130101;
A63B 53/0466 20130101; A63B 53/0437 20200801; A63B 53/0416
20200801; A63B 53/04 20130101; A63B 53/0433 20200801; A63B 2225/01
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/291 ;
473/334 |
International
Class: |
A63B 53/06 20060101
A63B053/06; A63B 53/04 20060101 A63B053/04 |
Claims
1. A golf club head comprising: a wood type golf club head body
including a ball striking face portion, a rear portion opposite the
ball striking face, a crown portion and a sole portion; and a mass
ring configured to engage with the rear portion of the golf club
head body, wherein the mass ring is configured to encircle the rear
portion and is configured to engage both the crown portion and the
sole portion of the golf club head body, wherein the mass ring
increases a moment of inertia of the golf club head body, wherein
the mass ring includes an opening in a center of the mass ring,
wherein a portion of the rear portion of the golf club head body
extends through the opening in the center of mass ring, and wherein
the mass ring is engageable in at least a first orientation where a
center of gravity of the golf club head body is located at a first
position, and a second orientation where the center of gravity of
the golf club head body is located at a second position spaced from
the first position.
2. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the mass ring
forms a portion of the exterior of the golf club head body.
3. The golf club head according to claim 2, wherein the rear
portion of the golf club head body includes a groove that receives
the mass ring, wherein the shape of the groove corresponds to the
shape of the mass ring.
4. The golf club head according to claim 3, wherein the mass ring
is engaged with the groove wherein outer sides of the mass ring
contact and abut ridges formed in the sole portion and the crown
portion by the groove.
5. The golf club head according to claim 4, wherein a depth of the
groove is equal to or slightly greater than a thickness of the mass
ring such that the mass ring does not extend beyond an exterior of
a remainder of the rear portion.
6. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the mass ring
is interchangeable with a second mass ring with different weighting
characteristics.
7. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the mass ring
is point loaded such that at least a first section of the mass ring
has a different weighting characteristic than a second section of
the mass ring.
8. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein the mass ring
is engagable with the groove in at least a first orientation where
a center of gravity of the golf club head body is located at a
first position, and a second orientation where the center of
gravity of the golf club head body is located at a second position
spaced from the first position
9. A golf club head comprising: a wood type golf club head body
having a ball striking face portion and a rear portion opposite the
ball striking face portion; and a mass ring engaged with the golf
club head body, wherein the mass ring is configured to engage the
rear portion the golf club head body, wherein the mass ring is
configured to encircle the rear portion and is configured to engage
both a crown portion and a sole portion of the golf club head body,
wherein the rear portion of the club head body includes a groove
configured to receive the mass ring, wherein the shape of the
groove corresponds to the shape of the mass ring, and wherein the
mass ring is engageable with the groove in at least a first
orientation where a center of gravity of the golf club head body is
located at a first position, and a second orientation where the
center of gravity of the golf club head body is located at a second
position spaced from the first position.
10. The golf club head according to claim 9, wherein the mass ring
engages the groove wherein outer sides of the mass ring contact and
abut ridges formed in the crown portion and the sole portion by the
groove, and a portion of the rear portion of the golf club head
body extends through an opening in a center of the mass ring.
11. The golf club head according to claim 10, wherein a depth of
the groove is equal to or slightly greater than a thickness of the
mass ring such that the mass ring does not extend beyond an
exterior of a remainder of the rear portion when the mass ring is
engaged with the rear portion.
12. The golf club head according to claim 9, wherein the mass ring
is interchangeable with a second mass ring with different weighting
characteristics.
13. The golf club head according to claim 9, wherein the mass ring
is point loaded such that at least a first section of the mass ring
has a different weighting characteristic than a second section of
the mass ring.
14. A method of altering a center of gravity of the golf club head
that includes a golf club head body with a ball striking face
portion and a rear portion opposite the ball striking face portion,
and a point loaded removable mass ring engaged with an exterior of
the rear portion, the method comprising: disengaging the mass ring
from a first orientation which provides the center of gravity of
the golf club head at a first position; and reengaging the mass
ring with the golf club head body in a second orientation which
provides the center of gravity of the golf club head body at a
second position.
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the mass ring
includes at least a first section of the mass ring and a second
section of the mass ring wherein the first and second sections have
different weighting characteristics.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the rear portion of
the golf club head body includes a groove for receiving the mass
ring in different orientations and the groove and the mass ring are
configured to allow the mass ring to be disengaged from the first
orientation, rotated to the second orientation, and reengaged in
the second orientation.
17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the center of gravity
moves from a crown portion of the golf club head body to a sole
portion of the golf club head body or vice versa when rotating the
mass ring and reengaging the mass ring with the golf club head body
in the second orientation.
18. A kit comprising: a golf club head body having a ball striking
face portion and a rear portion opposite the ball striking face
portion; and an interchangeable mass ring configured to be engaged
with an exterior of the rear portion of the golf club head body,
wherein the mass ring is point loaded such that the mass ring has
increased weight in at least one location relative to other
locations on the mass ring; wherein the interchangeable mass ring
includes an opening in a center of the mass ring; wherein a portion
of the exterior of the rear portion of the club head body extends
through the opening in the center of mass ring when engaged with
the golf club head body; wherein the interchangeable mass ring
increases a moment of inertia of the golf club head body when
engaged with the golf club head body; wherein the interchangeable
mass ring is engageable in at least a first orientation where a
center of gravity of the golf club head body is located at a first
position, and a second orientation where the center of gravity of
the golf club head body is located at a second position spaced from
the first position.
19. The kit of claim 18, further comprising: a plurality of
interchangeable mass rings wherein at least two of the
interchangeable mass rings have different weighting
characteristics.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION DATA
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/571,586, filed Oct. 1, 2009, the disclosure
of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure relates to golf clubs and golf club
heads. Particular example aspects of this disclosure relate to golf
clubs and golf club heads having a removable mass ring.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players--players of
different genders and dramatically different ages and/or skill
levels. Golf is somewhat unique in the sporting world in that such
diverse collections of players can play together in golf events,
even in direct competition with one another (e.g., using
handicapped scoring, different tee boxes, in team formats, etc.),
and still enjoy the golf outing or competition. These factors,
together with the increased availability of golf programming on
television (e.g., golf tournaments, golf news, golf history, and/or
other golf programming) and the rise of well known golf superstars,
at least in part, have increased golf's popularity in recent years,
both in the United States and across the world.
[0004] Golfers at all skill levels seek to improve their
performance, lower their golf scores, and reach that next
performance "level." Manufacturers of all types of golf equipment
have responded to these demands, and in recent years, the industry
has witnessed dramatic changes and improvements in golf equipment.
For example, a wide range of different golf ball models now are
available, with balls designed to complement specific swing speeds
and/or other player characteristics or preferences, e.g., with some
balls designed to fly farther and/or straighter; some designed to
provide higher or flatter trajectories; some designed to provide
more spin, control, and/or feel (particularly around the greens);
some designed for faster or slower swing speeds; etc. A host of
swing and/or teaching aids also are available on the market that
promise to help lower one's golf scores.
[0005] Being the sole instrument that sets a golf ball in motion
during play, golf clubs also have been the subject of much
technological research and advancement in recent years. For
example, the market has seen dramatic changes and improvements in
putter designs, golf club head designs, shafts, and grips in recent
years. Additionally, other 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 features or characteristics (e.g.,
club fitting technology, ball launch angle measurement technology,
ball spin rates, etc.).
[0006] While the industry has witnessed dramatic changes and
improvements to golf equipment in recent years, there is room in
the art for further advances in golf club technology.
SUMMARY
[0007] The following presents a general summary of aspects of the
disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding and various
aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not intended to limit
the scope of the disclosure in any way, but it simply provides a
general overview and context for the more detailed description that
follows.
[0008] Aspects of this invention relate to golf club heads
comprising a wood type golf club head body. Further, the golf club
head may include a mass ring configured to be engaged with the golf
club head body. The mass ring may be configured to increase a
moment of inertia of the golf club head body when the mass ring
engages the golf club head body. The mass ring includes an opening
in the center of the mass ring. Further, a portion of the exterior
of club head body may extend through the opening in the center of
mass ring. The mass ring may be configured to form a portion of the
exterior of the golf club head body when the mass ring is engaged
with the golf club head body. The mass ring may be configured to be
engaged with the sole portion the golf club head body. The mass
ring may be configured to be engaged with the rear portion the golf
club head body.
[0009] Additional aspects of this disclosure relate to wood-type
golf club structures that include golf club heads, e.g., of the
types described above. Such golf club structures further may
include one or more of: a shaft member attached to the club head
(optionally via a separate hosel member or a hosel member provided
as an integral part of one or more of the club head or shaft); a
grip or handle member attached to the shaft member; weighting
members; etc.
[0010] Still additional aspects of this disclosure relate to
methods for producing golf club heads and golf club structures,
e.g., of the types described above. Such methods may include, for
example: (a) providing a golf club head of the various types
described above, e.g., by manufacturing or otherwise constructing
the golf club head body, by obtaining the golf club head body from
another source, etc.; and (b) engaging a shaft member with the golf
club head body at a separate hosel member or a hosel member
provided as an integral part of one or more of the club head or
shaft.
[0011] Methods according to examples of this disclosure may include
additional steps, such as engaging a grip member with the shaft
member; engaging a mass ring with the club head body; etc. Other
steps also may be included in these methods, such as club head body
finishing steps, etc.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and
not limited in the accompanying figures, in which like reference
numerals indicate similar elements throughout, and in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is an illustrative embodiment of a golf club
according to at least some aspects of this disclosure;
[0014] FIGS. 2A-2D generally illustrate features of golf club head
structures according to at least some examples of this
disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 3 is an illustrative embodiment of a mass ring
according to at least some aspects of this disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 4 is an illustrative embodiment of a mass ring
according to at least some aspects of this disclosure being engaged
with a golf club head body according to at least some aspects of
this disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 5 is an illustrative embodiment of a mass ring
according to at least some aspects of this disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 6 is an illustrative embodiment of a mass ring
according to at least some aspects of this disclosure being engaged
with a golf club head body according to at least some aspects of
this disclosure; and
[0019] FIGS. 7A-7C illustratively depict aspects of a method of
fitting a golf club and associated devices.
[0020] The reader is advised that the various parts shown in these
drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The following description and the accompanying figures
disclose features of golf club heads and golf clubs in accordance
with examples of the present disclosure.
General Description of Example Golf Club Heads, Golf Clubs, and
Methods in Accordance with this Invention
[0022] Even with all the improvements in golf club technology in
recent years golfers continue to lose valuable distance on golf
shots wherein the golf ball is struck off center of the ball
striking face. Therefore, aspects of the disclosure are directed to
golf club heads that include an interchangeable mass ring which can
aid a golfer in minimizing the distance lost when the golfer
strikes the golf ball with a portion of the ball striking face that
is off center.
[0023] Generally, a golfer attempts to strike a golf ball with the
center of the ball striking face of the golf club head. By striking
the golf ball with the center portion of the golf club head body,
the golf ball generally travels a maximum distance possible
relative to the velocity of the swing. However, if a golf ball is
struck with a portion of the golf club head body that is off
center, then the golf ball usually does not travel as far as if it
was struck in the center portion (provided, of course, that the
swing velocity is the same). This is because, when a mis-hit occurs
(e.g., when the golf ball is struck with the toe end or heel end of
the golf club head body), the golf ball head will twist and, as a
result, exhaust energy that would have been imparted to the golf
ball. In order to limit the loss of distance that occurs from a
mis-hit, the amount that the golf club head twists during a mis-hit
should be limited as much as possible.
[0024] Moment of Inertia (MOI) is a property of physics that refers
to the changing of an object's angular motion about an axis. As
applied to a golf club head, the MOI usually refers to the club
head's ability to resist twisting about a known axis (usually the
plane of the ball striking face). The higher the MOI the more
resistant the club head will be to twisting, while, conversely, the
lower the MOI the more readily the club head will succumb to
twisting. Therefore, during a mis-hit, a golf club head with a high
MOI will twist less and, therefore, less energy will be exhausted
as a result of the twist. Hence, that energy may be imparted to the
golf ball to cause the golf ball to travel farther. Essentially,
the higher the MOI of the golf club head, the less distance will be
lost on a mis-hit (i.e., the club head has more "forgiveness").
Therefore, it would be beneficial for a golf club head to have a
relatively high MOI, so that the golf club head would be more
"forgiving" on mis-hits.
[0025] One illustrative method of increasing the MOI of a golf club
head is to move as much of the mass of the golf club head as
possible to the perimeter of the golf club head. For a wood-type
golf club head, the interior of the golf club head is usually
hollow and the golf club head body comprises walls that are
generally extremely thin (e.g., in the range of a couple
millimeters). Therefore, in order to provide more mass at the
perimeter of the golf club head, masses or weights may be engaged
with the portions of the golf club head, such as the walls of the
golf club head. For example, according to aspects of this
disclosure, an interchangeable mass ring can be engaged with one or
more portions of the golf club head body. Engaging the
interchangeable mass ring with such portions of the club head
distributes more of the mass of the golf club head towards the edge
of the golf club head body which can increase the MOI of the golf
club head. As described above, this can provide a greater
resistance to twisting and, hence, provide greater forgiveness upon
a mis-hit.
[0026] According to particular example aspects of this disclosure,
the interchangeable mass ring may be positioned on a sole portion
of the golf club head. This positioning redistributes the mass of
the golf club head body so that more mass is in the sole edge of
the golf club head and, therefore, the above described advantages
can be achieved. Further, such a configuration may help a golfer
achieve a higher trajectory. A common problem that many golfers
experience, especially those just learning to play, is not being
able to reliably get the ball in the air or achieving a desired
trajectory. Positioning the interchangeable mass ring towards the
sole of the golf club head can distribute more mass of the golf
club head towards the sole which keeps more of the weight of the
golf club head body low. This positioning can aid the golfer in
getting the ball airborne upon striking the ball with the club head
resulting in a higher trajectory.
[0027] According to further aspects of this disclosure, the
interchangeable mass ring may be positioned on a rear portion of
the golf club head. This positioning can redistribute the mass of
the golf club head body so that more mass is in the rear edge of
the golf club head and, therefore, the above described advantages
are achieved. Further, such a configuration may help a golfer
achieve a higher trajectory. Positioning the interchangeable mass
ring towards the rear of the golf club head can distribute more
mass of the golf club head towards the rear which keeps more of the
weight of the golf club head body rearward. This positioning can
aid the golfer in getting the ball airborne upon striking the ball
with the club head resulting in a higher trajectory.
[0028] Aspects of this disclosure relate to wood-type golf club
heads. Wood-type golf club heads according to at least some example
aspects of this disclosure may include: (a) a wood-type golf club
head body; (b) a ball striking face portion (including a ball
striking face plate integrally formed with the ball striking face
portion or attached to a frame member such that the face plate and
frame portion together constitute the overall ball striking face
portion); (c) a rear portion opposite the ball striking face; (d) a
toe end portion; (e) a heel end portion; (f) a sole portion; and
(g) a top or crown portion. The golf club head body may include an
interchangeable mass ring. The club head body itself also may be
constructed in any suitable or desired manner and/or from any
suitable or desired materials without departing from this
disclosure, including from conventional materials and/or in
conventional manners known and used in the art.
[0029] Wide varieties of overall club head constructions are
possible without departing from this disclosure. For example, if
desired, some or all of the various individual parts of the club
head body may be made from multiple pieces that are connected
together (e.g., by adhesives or cements; by welding, soldering,
brazing, or other fusing techniques; by mechanical connectors;
etc.). The various parts (e.g., crown portion, sole portion, ball
striking face portion, rear portion, toe portion, heel portion,
body ribbon members, etc.) may be made from any desired materials
and combinations of different materials, including materials that
are conventionally known and used in the art, such as metal
materials, including lightweight metal materials (e.g., titanium,
titanium alloys, aluminum, aluminum alloys, magnesium, magnesium
alloys, etc., composite materials, polymer materials, etc.). The
club head body and/or its various parts may be made by forging,
casting, molding, and/or using other techniques and processes,
including techniques and processes that are conventional and known
in the art.
[0030] For golf club structures according to this disclosure, the
overall wood-type golf club structure may include a hosel region, a
shaft member received in and/or inserted into and/or through the
hosel region, and a grip or handle member attached to the shaft
member. Optionally, if desired, the external hosel region may be
eliminated and the shaft member may be directly inserted into
and/or otherwise attached to the head member (e.g., through an
opening provided in the top of the club head, through an internal
hosel member (e.g., provided within an interior chamber defined by
the club head), etc.). The hosel member may be integrally formed as
part of the club head structure, or it may be separately formed and
engaged therewith (e.g., by adhesives or cements; by welding,
brazing, soldering, or other fusing techniques; by mechanical
connectors; etc.). Conventional hosels and their inclusion in a
wood-type club head structure may be used without departing from
this disclosure.
[0031] The shaft member may be received in, engaged with, and/or
attached to the club head in any suitable or desired manner,
including in conventional manners known and used in the art,
without departing from the disclosure. As more specific examples,
the shaft member may be engaged with the club head via a hosel
member and/or directly to the club head structure, e.g., via
adhesives, cements, welding, soldering, mechanical connectors (such
as threads, retaining elements, or the like), etc.; through a
shaft-receiving sleeve or element extending into the club head
body; etc. If desired, the shaft may be connected to the head in a
releasable manner using mechanical connectors to allow easy
interchange of one shaft for another.
[0032] The shaft member also may be made from any suitable or
desired materials, including conventional materials known and used
in the art, such as graphite based materials, composite or other
non-metal materials, steel materials (including stainless steel),
aluminum materials, other metal alloy materials, polymeric
materials, combinations of various materials, and the like. Also,
the grip or handle member may be attached to, engaged with, and/or
extend from the shaft member in any suitable or desired manner,
including in conventional manners known and used in the art, e.g.,
using adhesives or cements; via welding, soldering, brazing, or the
like; via mechanical connectors (such as threads, retaining
elements, etc.); etc. As another example, if desired, the grip or
handle member may be integrally formed as a unitary, one-piece
construction with the shaft member. Additionally, any desired grip
or handle member materials may be used without departing from this
disclosure, including, for example: rubber materials, leather
materials, rubber or other materials including cord or other fabric
material embedded therein, polymeric materials, cork materials, and
the like.
[0033] Still other additional aspects of this disclosure relate to
methods for producing wood-type golf club heads and wood-type golf
club structures in accordance with examples of this disclosure.
Such methods may include, for example, one or more of the following
steps in any desired order and/or combinations: (a) providing a
wood-type golf club head body and/or a golf club head of the
various types described above (including any or all of the various
structures, features, and/or arrangements described above), e.g.,
by manufacturing or otherwise constructing the golf club head body
or the golf club head, by obtaining it from a third party source,
etc.; (b) engaging a shaft member with the golf club head; (c)
engaging a grip member with the shaft member; etc.
[0034] Given the general description of various example aspects of
the disclosure provided above, more detailed descriptions of
various specific examples of golf clubs and golf club head
structures according to the disclosure are provided below.
Detailed Description of Example Golf Club Heads, Golf Club
Structures, and Methods
[0035] The following discussion and accompanying figures describe
various example golf clubs and golf club head structures in
accordance with the present disclosure. When the same reference
number appears in more than one drawing, that reference number is
used consistently in this specification and the drawings to refer
to the same or similar parts throughout.
[0036] An illustrative embodiment according to one or more aspects
of the disclosure is shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 shows a golf club 100
at the address position which includes a wood-type golf club head
body 102 in accordance with aspects of this disclosure and a shaft
106 and grip 107 engaged with the wood-type golf club head 102.
According to some aspects of the disclosure, the dimensions of the
club head body 102 may include a volume between 100-500 cubic
centimeters (e.g., 460 cubic centimeters) and a mass between 75 and
250 grams (e.g., 200 grams). Further, according to aspects of this
disclosure, the interior of the golf club head body 102 may be
substantially hollow.
[0037] FIG. 2A illustrates a top view of an example of a wood-type
golf club head body 102 according to aspects of this disclosure
which includes a ball striking face portion 108, a rear portion 110
opposite the ball striking face, a crown (or top) portion 112, a
sole portion 114, a toe end portion 116 and a heel end portion 118.
In this specification, various features and aspects of the
invention are defined based on geometry and locations with respect
to a golf club head. As used in this specification and as
illustrated with respect to FIG. 2A, the location of the "geometric
center" 101 of a wood type golf club head 102 is determined in the
following manner, which is consistent with the manner in which
various club head dimensions are determined in Appendix II of The
2008-2009 Rules of Golf, as promulgated by the United States Golf
Association ("U.S.G.A."), which rules are entirely incorporated
herein by reference. First, with the golf club head 102 oriented at
its designed lie angle (the lie angle of its specifications, e.g.,
60.degree.), the outermost points P of the heel, toe, face, and
rear of the club head 102 are determined. If the outermost point of
the heel is not clearly defined (e.g., due to the club head's
hosel, etc.), then the outermost point of the heel is deemed to be
the location on the heel at 0.875 inches (22.23 mm) above the
horizontal plane on which the club head is lying, in the same
manner as the heel location is determined under The Rules of Golf
mentioned above. Vertical projections along the outermost points P
of the front, toe, rear, and heel (shown as "tangents" in the
overhead view of FIG. 2) enclose the club head 102 within a
rectangle or square structure, as shown in FIG. 2A (all angles
being right angles). Then, a first diagonal line is drawn from the
front heel corner to the rear toe corner of the rectangle or square
structure (labeled "Front Heel to Rear Toe Diagonal" in FIG. 2A),
and a second diagonal line is drawn from the front of the toe
corner to the rear heel corner of the rectangle or square structure
(labeled "Front Toe to Rear Heel Diagonal" in FIG. 2A). The
intersection of these two diagonals D is deemed to be the
"geometric center" 101 of the club head 102 as that term is used in
this specification.
[0038] If necessary to provide a frame of reference, the front
vertical projection or tangent line will be oriented square to the
club head target line or direction at the outermost point P of the
face surface, and then the heel and toe projections or tangents may
be provided (at their outermost points) perpendicular to the front
projection or tangent and the rear projection or tangent may be
provided (at its outermost point) parallel to the front projection
or tangent. An XY "coordinate axis" may be defined for the club
head 102 by drawing a first coordinate axis (the Y-axis) in the
front-to-rear direction perpendicular to the front and rear
tangents through the geometric center 101 of the club head 102 and
by drawing a second coordinate axis (the X-axis) in the heel-to-toe
direction perpendicular to the first coordinate axis (and
perpendicular to the heel and toe tangents) through the geometric
center 101 of the club head body 102.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 2B, the "heel side" of the club head, as
used in this specification, is defined as everything toward the
heel 118 from the front-to-back Y coordinate axis. The "toe side"
of the club head, as used in this specification, is defined as
everything toward the toe 116 from the front-to-back Y coordinate
axis. The "front side" of the club head, as used in this
specification, is defined as everything forward of the heel-to-toe
X coordinate axis. The "rear side" of the club head, as used in
this specification, is defined as everything rearward of the
heel-to-toe X coordinate axis.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2C, the "rear heel side" of the club head,
as used in this specification, is everything toward the rear side
and heel side from the front heel to rear toe diagonal. The "rear
toe side" of the club head, as used in this specification, is
everything toward the rear side and toe side from the front toe to
rear heel diagonal. The "front heel side" of the club head, as used
in this specification, is everything toward the front side and heel
side from the front toe to rear heel diagonal. The "front toe side"
of the club head, as used in this specification, is everything
toward the front side and toe side from the front heel to rear toe
diagonal. The "heel edge" of the club head body is the edge surface
along the heel side between the front heel to rear toe diagonal and
the front toe to rear heel diagonal. The "toe edge" of the club
head body is the edge surface along the toe side between the front
heel to rear toe diagonal and the front toe to rear heel diagonal.
The "rear edge" of the club head body is the edge surface along the
rear side between the front heel to rear toe diagonal and the front
toe to rear heel diagonal. The "front edge" of the club head body
is the edge surface along the front side between the front heel to
rear toe diagonal and the front toe to rear heel diagonal.
Something located "proximate to" one of these edges, as used in
this specification in this context, unless otherwise noted, means
within 0.75 inches of the relevant edge.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 2D, the "rear heel quadrant," "rear toe
quadrant," "front toe quadrant," and "front heel quadrant" are
defined using the geometric center 101 and the XY coordinate axes
as described above.
[0042] While illustrated in FIGS. 2A through 2D on a relatively
square shaped wood-type club head, these same definitions apply to
more traditionally shaped wood-type golf club heads (e.g., as seen
in FIGS. 1 and 3-7).
[0043] The "crown portion" of a golf club head is defined as that
portion of the golf club head top surface that is visible looking
directly downward on the club head when the golf club head body 102
oriented at its designed lie angle (the lie angle of its
specifications, e.g., 60.degree.). The "sole portion" of a golf
club head is defined as that portion of the golf club head bottom
surface that is visible looking directly upward on the club head
when the golf club head body 102 oriented at its designed lie angle
(the lie angle of its specifications, e.g., 60.degree.). The
topmost point of the club head crown portion and the bottommost
point of the club head sole portion can be found by locating
horizontal projections along the crown portion and the sole
portion, respectively, with the club oriented as described
above.
[0044] According to aspects of the disclosure, the golf club head
body 102 may include a removable and interchangeable mass ring 201
which is configured to be engaged with the golf club head body 102.
FIG. 3 is an illustrative embodiment of an interchangeable mass
ring 201. As seen in FIG. 3, the mass ring 201 may be generally
circular or oval shaped. However, the mass ring 201 could be formed
in various other geometric shapes as well (e.g., square,
rectangular, triangular, etc.). Of course, the ring shape of mass
ring 201 will provide an opening in the center of the mass ring
201.
[0045] According to aspects of the disclosure, the interchangeable
mass ring 201 may be configured to be engaged with the exterior of
the golf club head body 102. For example, the mass ring 201 may be
configured to form a portion of the exterior of the golf club head
body 102 when the mass ring 201 is engaged with the golf club head
body 102. According to one aspect of the disclosure, the
interchangeable mass ring 201 may be configured to be engaged with
the sole portion 114 the golf club head body 102 at an exterior of
the sole portion 114. Further, according to some aspects of the
disclosure, the exterior of the sole portion 114 may include a
groove 114a for receiving the mass ring 201. For example, FIG. 4 is
an illustrative embodiment of such a golf club head 102 and mass
ring 201 according to aspects of the disclosure. As seen in FIG. 4,
the golf club head body 102 has a sole portion 114 with a groove
114a according to aspects of this disclosure. As seen in FIG. 4,
the groove 114a may be a "cut-out" of the sole portion 114. In
other words, when the club 100 is at the address position (see
e.g., FIG. 1), the groove 114a may recede upwards from an outer
surface of the sole portion 114 such that the groove 114a is sunken
relative to the lowest portion of the sole portion 114.
[0046] According to aspects of the disclosure, the groove 114a will
correspond to, or match, the shape of the mass ring 201. For
example, as seen in FIG. 4, the groove 114a may be generally
circular or oval shaped. As seen in FIG. 4, the mass ring 201 is
configured to be engaged with the groove 114a wherein the outer
sides of the mass ring 201 (on both the inner circumference and the
outer circumference) may contact and abut the ridges formed in the
sole portion 114 by the groove 114a. Further, as seen in FIG. 4,
when the mass ring 201 is engaged with the groove 114a, a portion
of the sole portion 114 of the golf club head body 102 may extend
through the opening in the center of mass ring 201.
[0047] Further, according to some aspects of the disclosure the
mass ring 201 may, at least partially, extend around the perimeter
of the sole portion 114. For example, as seen in FIG. 4, the mass
ring 201 extends around the rear of the sole portion 114 and along
the heel and toe sides of the sole portion 114. Further, as seen in
FIG. 4, the section of the mass ring 201 which is opposite the
section engaged with the rear of the sole portion 114, extends from
the heel side to the toe side parallel to the ball striking face
108. Therefore, it can be seen that in this embodiment the mass
ring 201 does not extend completely around the perimeter of the
sole portion 114. However, in other embodiments, the mass ring 201
may extend completely around the perimeter of the sole portion 114.
For example, the embodiment show in FIG. 5 shows such an embodiment
wherein the mass ring 201 may extend completely around the
perimeter of the sole portion 114.
[0048] According to some aspects of the disclosure, mass ring 201
may be sized so that its diameter extends substantially across the
golf club head 102 from the toe end portion 116 to the heel end
portion 118. However, in other embodiments the diameter may be
smaller. For example, according to aspects of the disclosure, the
mass ring 201 may have a diameter of between: 2.5-12.5 cm, 5.0-10.0
cm, and 7.0-8.0 cm. Further, according to aspects of the
disclosure, the mass ring 201 may have a circular length between:
10-50 cm, 15.0-25.0 cm, 20.0-40.0 cm, and 30.0-35.0 cm.
Additionally, the mass ring 201 may have a thickness between
0.25-2.0 cm, 0.5-1.75 cm, 0.75-1.5 cm, and 1.0-1.25 cm. It is noted
that the thickness of the mass ring 201 is not necessarily uniform
throughout. Instead, in some embodiments, the thickness of the mass
ring may vary so that different sections of the mass ring 201 have
different thicknesses.
[0049] The depth of the groove 114a may be more than, equal to, or
slightly less than the thickness of the mass ring 201. For example,
the depth of the groove 114a may be more than, equal to or slightly
less than 0.25-2.0 cm, 0.5-1.75 cm, 0.75-1.5 cm, and 1.0-1.25 cm.
As described above, since the shape of the groove 114a may
correspond to the shape of the mass ring 201, the dimensions of the
groove 114a may be similar to those described above regarding the
mass ring 201. Hence, further specific discussion of the dimensions
of the groove 114a is omitted for the sake of brevity.
[0050] One advantage of configuring the sole portion 114 with a
groove 114a for receiving the mass ring 201 and, further,
configuring the depth of the groove such that it is equal to, or
slightly less than the thickness of the mass ring 201, is that when
the mass ring 201 is engaged in the groove 114a, the mass ring will
not extend beyond the exterior of the remainder of the sole
portion, so that the aerodynamics of the club head body 102 will
not be affected during the golfer's swing. For example, both the
thickness of the mass ring 201 and the depth of the groove 114a can
be configured so that when the mass ring 201 is engaged with the
groove 114a, the sole portion 114 is practically seamless and
smooth.
[0051] Another advantage is that the configuration does not detract
from the stability of the golf club at the address position (e.g.,
as shown in FIG. 1). In other words, with a practically seamless
fit, the golf club head body 102 would sit just as it would if it
were a conventional club head body without the interchangeable mass
ring 201.
[0052] However, the above discussion is not intended to suggest
that a groove 114a is required. In fact, according to other aspects
of the disclosure, the golf club head body 102 does not include a
groove in the sole portion 114 of the golf club head body 102. For
example, the mass ring 201 could be engaged with the sole portion
114 of a golf club head body 102 that does not include recesses or
grooves configured to receive the mass ring 201. In other words,
the mass ring 201 could be attached directly to the exterior of the
wall of the sole portion 114.
[0053] It is noted that the mass ring 201 may have differing widths
at different sections around the ring. For example, as seen in FIG.
5, according to aspects of the disclosure, a first section of the
mass ring 201 may be wider than a second section of the mass ring
201. Of course, in other embodiments, the width of the mass ring
201 may be uniform throughout the mass ring 201. According to some
aspects of the disclosure, a section of the mass ring 201 may have
a width between 0.5-7.0 cm, 1.0-5.0 cm, 1.5-3.0 cm, and 2.0-2.5
cm.
[0054] The ruling bodies in the game of golf, such as the United
States Golf Association (USGA) and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club
of St. Andrews (R & A), do not allow portions of the golf club
to be adjusted during the round of golf. See e.g., USGA Rules of
Golf, Rule 4-2a. Therefore, to ensure the golf club does not
violate such rules, regardless of how the interchangeable mass ring
201 is engaged with the sole portion 114, the interchangeable mass
ring 201 should be held stationary by being locked into a
particular position during a round of golf
[0055] According to aspects of this disclosure, the interchangeable
mass ring 201 may be secured to the sole portion 114 of the golf
club head body 102 in a variety of ways. For example, the sole
portion 114 (e.g., the groove 114a) and the mass ring 201 may
include corresponding holes for receiving threaded fasteners.
Therefore, threaded fasteners, such as screws, may be inserted
which would secure the interchangeable mass ring 201 to the sole
portion 114. Of course, other mechanical connectors such as
retaining elements, snap fit features, etc. may be used. In some
embodiments a tool may be used to attach and/or release the
interchangeable mass ring 201 from the sole portion 114 of the club
head body 102. For example, the above described configuration may
require a screwdriver to tighten the screw into the holes of the
sole portion 114 and interchangeable mass ring 201 to ensure the
interchangeable mass ring 201 is locked into position. It is
further noted that while some mechanical connectors have been
described above, this is not to imply that mechanical connectors
must be used. On the contrary, as long as the interchangeable mass
ring 201 and the golf club head 102 can be engaged securely to one
another and also easily releasable from one another, such means are
considered within the spirit of this disclosure.
[0056] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the mass ring
may have different weighting characteristics than the other parts
of the golf club head body 102. For example, the mass ring 201 may
have a large specific gravity, density and weight. For example, the
mass ring 201 may have a greater specific gravity and be denser and
heavier than other parts of the golf club head 102. For example,
the mass ring 201 may be partially, substantially or entirely made
from a high density and heavy material, such as various metals
(e.g., as lead, tungsten), alloys, etc. According to aspects of
this disclosure, the mass ring 201 may be partially, substantially
or entirely made from a polymer (e.g., a relatively flexible and
deformable polymer), plastic, elastomer, etc. According to aspects
of this disclosure, the mass ring 201 may have a mass between
5.0-70 grams, 20-60 grams, or 30-55 grams.
[0057] Further, according to some aspects of this disclosure, the
mass ring 201 may have at least a first section that has a
different weighting characteristic than a second section of the
mass ring 201. For example, the mass ring 201 may include more
mass/weight at particular sections throughout the mass ring 201
than in other sections of the mass ring 201. For example, the mass
ring 201 may include additional weights 202 at particular positions
throughout the mass ring 201. The weights 202 may have a greater
specific gravity and be denser and heavier than other parts of the
mass ring 201. Therefore, the weights 202 would further increase
the weight of the mass ring 201 in that section. In other words,
the mass ring 201 may be point loaded. FIG. 4 shows an illustrative
embodiment of a point loaded mass ring 201 according to aspects of
this invention. As seen in FIG. 4, the mass ring 201 may include
three weights 202 along one section of the mass ring 201.
[0058] According to some aspects of the disclosure, the mass ring
201 can be interchangeable. In other words, the mass ring 201 may
be configured to be disengaged and reengaged from the golf club
head body 102 (e.g., relatively easily disengaged and reengaged).
In some instances the mass ring 201 may be replaced with another
mass ring 201 which may have different weighting characteristics.
For example, as discussed above, mass ring 201 may be a point
loaded wherein more weight is provided at one section of the mass
ring 201 than the other sections. Therefore, by replacing a point
loaded mass ring 201 with a mass ring that is uniformly weighted
the center of gravity of the golf club head body 102 may be shifted
in a particular direction.
[0059] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, mass ring 201 is point
loaded with the weights 202 being positioned in the rear side of
the club head body 102. This configuration of the mass ring 201
causes more mass to be distributed toward the rear side of the golf
club head body 102. Such a configuration can help a golfer obtain a
higher trajectory or get the ball airborne. Therefore, a golfer who
has a tendency to "duff" (i.e., hit the ball so that it skims along
the ground rather than travel with an elevated loft through the
air) may engage a mass ring 201 with such a configuration in order
to compensate for and alleviate the effects of the "duff" For
example, in accordance with this disclosure, when the mass ring 201
is engaged in such a way, the center of gravity of the club head
may be shifted towards the rear side of the golf club head body 102
at least 0.5 cm from the geometric centerline running front to
back, and in some examples, at least 1.25 cm, at least 2.0 cm, or
even at least 2.5 cm. As a result of the shifted center of gravity,
the golf club head body 102 can provide a higher trajectory to a
golf ball struck by the golf club head.
[0060] Of course, the mass ring 201 may be configured with the
weights 202 in other sections as well. For example, the mass ring
201 could be configured so that when it is engaged with the sole
portion 114 of the golf club head body 102, the additional weights
202 are positioned in the heel side of the golf club head body 102.
This configuration of the mass ring 201 causes more mass to be
distributed toward the heel side of the golf club head body 102.
Such a configuration can help slow the heel during a swing as
compared with the toe of the golf club head which will allow a
golfer to better square the club head during the swing, which may
result in less "slice" (i.e., a straighter trajectory). Therefore,
a golfer who has a tendency to "slice" may engage a mass ring 201
with such a configuration in order to compensate for and alleviate
the effects of the slice. For example, in accordance with this
disclosure, when the mass ring 201 is engaged in such a way, the
center of gravity of the club head may be shifted towards the heel
side of the golf club head body 102 at least 0.5 cm from the
geometric centerline running front to back, and in some examples,
at least 1.25 cm, at least 2.0 cm, or even at least 2.5 cm. As a
result of the shifted center of gravity, the golf club head body
102 can provide a draw biased trajectory to a golf ball struck by
the golf club head.
[0061] Conversely, the mass ring 201 could be configured so that
when it is engaged with the sole portion 114 of the golf club head
body 102, the additional weights 202 are positioned in the toe side
of the golf club head body 102. This configuration of the mass ring
201 causes more mass to be distributed toward the toe side of the
golf club head body 102. As described above, such a configuration
can help slow the toe during a swing as compared with the heel of
the golf club head body 102 which will allow a golfer to better
square the golf club head during the swing, which may result in
less of a "hook" (i.e., a straighter trajectory). Therefore, a
golfer who has a tendency to "hook" may engage a mass ring 201 with
such a configuration in order to compensate for and alleviate the
effects of the hook. For example, in accordance with this
disclosure, when the mass ring 201 is engaged in such a way, the
center of gravity of the club head may be shifted towards the toe
side of the golf club head body 102 at least 0.5 cm from the
geometric centerline running front to back, and in some examples,
at least 1.25 cm, at least 2.0 cm, or even at least 2.5 cm. As a
result of the shifted center of gravity, the golf club head body
102 can provide a fade biased trajectory to a golf ball struck by
the golf club head.
[0062] Also, the mass ring 201 could be configured so that when it
is engaged with the sole portion 114 of the golf club head body
102, the additional weights 202 are positioned in or near the ball
striking face side of the golf club head body 102. Such a
configuration causes more mass to be distributed toward the ball
striking face side 111 of the golf club head body 102. Therefore,
such a configuration can provide a shot in which a golf ball will
"run" or roll. For example, in accordance with this disclosure,
when the mass ring 201 is engaged in such a way, the center of
gravity of the club head may be shifted towards the ball striking
face side of the golf club head body 102 at least 0.5 cm, and in
some examples, at least 1.25 cm, at least 2.0 cm, or even at least
2.5 cm. As a result of the shifted center of gravity, the golf club
head body 102 can provide a shot that will cause a golf ball to
"run" or roll when it is struck by the golf club head.
[0063] According to some aspects of the disclosure, the mass ring
201 (and optionally the groove 114a) is configured such that mass
ring 201 can be disengaged, rotated (e.g., in a clockwise or
counter clockwise direction) to a different orientation and
reengaged. In the case of a point loaded mass ring 201, the weight
could be shifted to the opposite side of the club head body 102 in
order to redistribute the mass and weight of the golf club head
body 102. For example, to modify a club head body with a point
loaded mass ring 201 wherein the weights 202 are in the heel side
(and, therefore, the golf club head body 102 has a draw bias) to a
club with a fade bias wherein the weights 202 are in the toe side
of the club head body, a golfer would merely have to disengage the
point loaded mass ring 201 and rotate the point loaded mass ring
201 (e.g., rotate the mass ring 180.degree.) and reengage it with
the club head body 102. In other words, the mass ring 201 could be
disengaged from a first orientation wherein the mass ring 201 is
engaged with the golf club head body 102 such that a first section
of the mass ring which includes the weights 202 is in the heel side
of the golf club head body 102. The mass ring 201 could then be
rotated from a first orientation to a second orientation, wherein
upon rotating the mass ring 201, the first section of the mass ring
201 that was in the heel side in the first orientation would now be
in the toe side once the mass ring 201 is reengaged with the golf
club head body 102 in the second orientation. The mass ring 201
would then be reengaged with the groove 114a in the second
orientation.
[0064] It is noted that, of course, the interchangeable mass ring
201 does not have to be point loaded and, instead, the weight could
be uniform around the mass ring 201. Therefore, the interchangeable
mass ring 201 could be replaced with another mass ring 201 that,
while still uniform, has different weighting characteristics (e.g.,
it is uniformly lighter or heavier).
[0065] The above features allow the mass and weight distribution of
the golf club head body 102 to be easily altered. Therefore, it is
understood that the interchangeable mass ring 201 can be used to
fine tune the mass and weighting characteristics of the golf club
head body 102 based on the particular tendencies of the golfer.
Hence, the club head body 102 could be easily customized and fitted
to the particular golfer and their particular swing tendencies.
[0066] Regardless of whether the mass ring 201 is point loaded or
uniformly weighted, when the mass ring 201 is engaged with the sole
portion 114 of the golf club head body 102, the center of gravity
of the golf club head body 102 is lowered. For example, in
accordance with this disclosure, when the mass ring 201 is
positioned on the sole portion 114 of the golf club head body 102,
the center of gravity of the golf club head body 102 may be shifted
towards the sole of the golf club head body 102 at least 0.5 cm
and, in some examples, at least 1.25 cm, at least 2.0 cm, or even
at least 2.5 cm. As a result of the shifted center of gravity, this
configuration of the golf club head body 102 can provide a higher
trajectory to a golf ball struck by the golf club head.
[0067] Further, as discussed above, this configuration of
positioning the mass ring 201 on the sole portion 114 of the golf
club head body 102, redistributes more mass of the golf club head
body 102 to the edge of the golf club head body 102. Therefore, the
MOI of the golf club head body 102 is increased. The increased MOI
provides a greater resistance to the golf club head body 102
twisting during an off center impact with the golf ball and, hence,
provides greater forgiveness upon a mis-hit.
[0068] Therefore, the above described configuration of engaging the
mass ring 201 on the sole portion 114 of the golf club head body
102 not only lowers the center of gravity of the golf club head
body 102 which provides a higher trajectory and aids the golfer in
getting the ball in the air, but also the above described
configuration redistributes the mass of the golf club head body 102
so that the MOI of the golf club head body 102 is increased and the
golf club head body 102 is more forgiving on mis-hits.
[0069] Of course, the mass ring 201 does not necessarily have to be
positioned at the sole portion 114 of the golf club head body 102.
In fact, according to aspects of this disclosure, the mass ring 201
may be positioned in other portions of the golf club head body 102.
For example, as seen in FIG. 6, a mass ring 201 may be engaged with
the exterior of the rear portion 110 of the golf club head body 102
wherein it encircles the rear portion 110 and engages both the
crown portion 112 and sole portion 114 of the golf club head body
102.
[0070] As seen in FIG. 6, the mass ring 201 may be generally
circular or oval shaped. However, the mass ring 201 could be formed
in various other geometric shapes as well depending on the
configuration of the golf club head (e.g., if the golf club head is
more curved or square, etc.). Of course, the ring shape of mass
ring 201 will provide an opening in the center of the mass ring
201.
[0071] According to some aspects of the disclosure, the exterior of
the rear portion 110 may include a groove 110a for receiving the
mass ring 201. For example, FIG. 6 is an illustrative embodiment of
such a golf club head body 102 and a mass ring 201 according to
aspects of the disclosure. As seen in FIG. 6, the golf club head
body 102 has a rear portion 110 with a groove 110a according to
aspects of this disclosure. As seen in FIG. 6, the groove 110a may
be a "cut-out" of the rear portion 110 along both the crown 112
portion and sole portion 114. In other words, the groove 110a may
recede from an outer surface of the rear portion 110 in a similar
fashion as described above with regard to groove 114a in FIG.
4.
[0072] According to aspects of the disclosure, the groove 110a will
match the shape of the mass ring 201. For example, as seen in FIG.
6, the groove 110a may be generally circular or oval shaped. As
seen in FIG. 6, the mass ring 201 engages with the groove 110a
wherein the outer sides of the mass ring 201 (on both the left and
right sides) may contact and abut the ridges formed in the crown
portion 112 and sole portion 114 by the groove 110a. Further, as
seen in FIG. 6, when the mass ring 201 is engaged with the groove
110a, the rear portion 110 of the golf club head body 102 may
extend through the opening in the center of mass ring 201.
[0073] Similarly to the above described embodiment, the depth of
the groove 110a may be more than, equal to, or slightly less than
the thickness of the mass ring 201. One advantage of configuring
the rear portion 110 with a groove 110a for receiving the mass ring
201 and, further, engaging the mass ring 201 in the groove 110a, is
that the aerodynamics of the golf club head body 102 will not be
affected during the golfer's swing. For example, both the thickness
of the mass ring 201 and the depth of the groove 110a can be
configured so that when the mass ring 201 is engaged with the
groove 110a, the rear portion 110 is practically seamless and
smooth.
[0074] However, as described above with regard to the above
embodiment a groove 110a is not required and, in fact, according to
other aspects of disclosure, the golf club head body 102 does not
include a groove 110a in the rear portion 110 of the golf club head
body 102. Instead, the mass ring 201 may be attached directly to
the exterior of the wall of the rear portion 110.
[0075] Also, it is noted that many of the features of the mass ring
201 and groove 110a of this embodiment are similar to the above
described embodiments (e.g., different thickness and widths of the
mass ring 201, point loading or uniform weighting characteristics
around the mass ring 201, means of attachment, interchangeability,
flipping or rotating of the mass ring to alter the weight
distribution and center of gravity, etc). Therefore, for the sake
of brevity such features will not be specifically reiterated
here.
[0076] However, it is noted, that in the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 6, mass ring 201 is positioned in the rear side 109 of the
golf club head body 102. This configuration of the mass ring 201
causes more mass to be distributed toward the rear side 109 of the
golf club head body 102. As described above, such a configuration
can help a golfer obtain a higher trajectory or get the ball
airborne. For example, in accordance with this disclosure, when the
mass ring 201 is engaged in such a way, the center of gravity of
the club head may be shifted towards the rear side 109 of the golf
club head body 102 at least 0.5 cm from the geometric centerline
running front to back, and in some examples, at least 1.25 cm, at
least 2.0 cm, or even at least 2.5 cm. As a result of the shifted
center of gravity, this configuration of the golf club head body
102 can provide a higher trajectory to a golf ball struck by the
golf club head.
[0077] Further, is noted that if the mass ring 201 is point loaded
and configured to be engaged with the golf club head body 102 such
that the additional weight 202 is positioned at the sole portion
114 of the golf club head body 102, the center of gravity will also
be lowered. For example, in such a configuration, the center of
gravity of the golf club head body 102 may be shifted towards the
sole of the golf club head body 102 at least 0.5 cm and, in some
examples, at least 1.25 cm, at least 2.0 cm, or even at least 2.5
cm. As a result of the shifted center of gravity, this
configuration of the golf club head body 102 can provide a higher
trajectory to a golf ball struck by the golf club head.
[0078] Further, this configuration of positioning the mass ring 201
on the rear portion 110 of the golf club head body 102,
redistributes more mass of the golf club head body 102 to the edge
of the golf club head body 102. Therefore, as discussed above, the
MOI of the golf club head body 102 is increased. This increased MOI
provides a greater resistance to the golf club head body 102
twisting during and off center impact with the golf ball and,
hence, provides greater forgiveness upon a mis-hit.
[0079] Therefore, the above described configuration of engaging the
mass ring 201 on the rear portion 110 of the golf club head body
102 not only moves the center of gravity of the golf club head body
102 towards the rear of the club head body which provides a higher
trajectory and aids the golfer in getting the ball in the air, but
also the above described configuration redistributes the mass of
the golf club head body 102 so that the MOI of the golf club head
is increased and the golf club head is more forgiving on
mis-hits.
[0080] Of course, as described above, the interchangeable mass ring
201 may be positioned in a location other than shown in the above
embodiments.
[0081] Golf professionals are known to work with golfers to assist
them in improving their golf game including their swing and
associated play by analyzing the golfer's tendencies, providing
instruction and recommendation regarding modifications to their
swing and also in recommending various equipment including
selection of clubs. Further, a golf professional for a certain golf
manufacturer may offer a selection of features for which the golfer
may select either alone, or with the assistance of the golf
professional. Among the features that vary from golf club to golf
club are various weighting characteristics of the golf club head.
Each golfer may have a swing tendency that varies from other
golfers. Accordingly, golfers may desire and benefit from an
individualized fitting of a golf club such that the golfer's swing
characteristics and swing tendencies may be noted and accounted
for. In a fitting process, a golfer may have his or her swing
analyzed by a professional either visually or by using any of
various measuring and analysis devices known in the art.
[0082] FIGS. 7A-7C illustratively depict one manner of fitting a
golf club 100 including the weighting characteristics of the golf
club head body 102. As is known, a golfer 10 may perform a number
of swings in front of one or more golf professionals or golf club
fitters. The movements including the golf swing may be viewed,
recorded, and/or measured by a measuring device including a
videographic device like a digital video camera. FIGS. 7A and 7B
illustrate top plan and rear views respectively of a golfer
swinging a golf club and hitting golf balls in an illustrative
fitting station 1000. The fitting station 1000 may have any of a
number of arrangements and features. The fitting station 1000 shown
in FIGS. 7A-7C is an indoor fitting station. However, fitting
station 1000 may be indoor or outdoor and may be located at a
driving range or other practice facilities, at a golf course
including in or near a pro shop and various other locations as are
known. The fitting station 1000 may include a hitting mat 1010,
especially when the fitting station is an indoor station or when
the station is part of a driving range. Here, the indoor fitting
station 1000 also includes a net 1030 that a golfer 10 may hit the
ball into in performing his or her shots, practice swings and
swings in front of a golf professional or golf club fitter. The net
1030 permits the fitting to be done in a more limited space such as
indoors, in a pro shop or in a driving range with limited land
available. Behind the net 1030 may be a background 1040 or other
structures that may make the golfer 10 feel as if he or she is on
the golf course. Also, while not specifically depicted, the
background may house or protect a further measuring device(s)
including velocity or force sensors, videographic devices and other
devices that may be utilized in the fitting of the golfer 10.
[0083] The ball travel of a golfer's shot may be monitored by
watching an entire ball flight at a fitting station on a driving
range that possesses sufficient space for the ball to travel until
it comes to a natural stopping point/lie. Also, a golfer may also
hit in a confined spaced monitored by a digital video camera or
other computing devices that can determine the travel path based
upon initial characteristics of the shot including velocity,
trajectory, spin etc. Measuring devices may be used to further
understand the swing path and related tendencies of a golfer. In
one example configuration, a golfer's swing may be filmed using a
digital video camera device 1060. In particular the golfer's swing
may be filmed from a toe end view such that the golfer 10 has a
stance square to and facing the camera. In another configuration,
the golfer's swing may alternatively or additionally be filmed by a
measuring device positioned at a position such as the position
where measuring device 1061 is illustratively shown. By filming the
golfer's swing from square orientations such as the rear and toe
end, the video may be compared to images and swing paths performed
and recorded by a golfer having preferred mechanics as shown in
FIG. 7C.
[0084] Among the devices and tests that may be used to monitor the
swing path, contact orientation and related characteristics of a
golfer swing are video recording, radar tracking including Doppler
radar technology, motion detection devices, speed radar devices,
ball flight tracking devices and monitoring systems and similar
golf swing analysis devices as are known in the art. These
measuring devices may be positioned as illustrative measuring
devices 1060, 1061. These devices may also be positioned in front
of the golfer 10 such that the golfer is hitting at the measuring
device or on the heel end side of the golfer behind the golfer's
back. Even further, measuring devices 1060 and 1061 may be placed
overhead or practically anywhere such that the measuring devices
1060 and 1061 can record data such as video images of the golfer's
movements or track and record data or characteristics associated
with the portions of the golf club or ball movement such as
velocity, direction, orientation, and other characteristics as are
known. Other devices focused at determining the golf club's
orientation during the swing and in particular the orientation of
the golf club through the hitting zone when the golf club head
strikes the golf ball may be utilized. These devices may be the
same or similar devices as the videographic, radar or other motion
tracking devices or the devices may be as simple as lie board
devices which depict where a bottom surface of the golf club
contacts the ground and the direction of movement and orientation
of the club through the hitting zone. Also basic tape devices
placed over the hitting surface 1020 of a golf club head may be
used to provide data regarding the portion of the hitting surface
1020 where the golf ball is being hit to determine whether the ball
is being hit in a desired spot on the club face (e.g., center) or
off-center such that the swing or club may need adjustment to
optimize results.
[0085] After a sufficient number of swings and "practice" or
"sample" shots have been made to provide a desired sampling of
shots to provide for a reliable fitting, the golf and/or fitting
professionals can use the data collected to recommend particular
mass and weighting characteristics for a golf club head body 102
(including the positioning of the one or more moveable weight
members with the golf club head body 102) that will help the golfer
10 hit a golf ball in an intended and desired direction and/or with
an intended and desired flight path. Among the characteristics
collected or measured may include swing path data, trajectory,
orientation of the golf club on impact, ball spin, ball flight and
physical dimensions and ergonomic characteristics of the golfer, to
name just a few. The analysis of the swings including swing
patterns can be used to determine a desired swing path, tendencies
of the golfer's swing, and changes to the golfer's current swing
path such that the specific changes required may be more visibly
noticeable. The mass and weighting characteristics may be
determined and shown such that an analysis (e.g., computer
analysis) can be performed to determine whether a particular mass
ring 201 (and its particular weighting characteristics) and the way
it engages with the golf club head body 102 is appropriate as
maximizing the performance of a golfer with particular swing
tendencies.
[0086] FIG. 7C illustrates a display 1050 depicting two respective
swing characteristics outputs 1051, 1052 illustratively depicting
two swings of golfers in videographic form such as digital video.
In one arrangement the displayed swing 1051 may be a videographic
image of preferred swing of a professional golfer or other golfer
including a "virtual golfer" with preferred swing mechanics. On the
right, the golf swing 1052 may be an actual swing of a golfer 10
currently being analyzed in the fitting station 1000. Through the
split screen comparison on display 1050, a golfer 10 may be
analyzed and fitted for particular golf club features such as
visual swing indicators, shaft characteristics, and alignment aides
and other features to facilitate a golfer swinging in a preferred
manner to achieve preferred performance. For example, backswing
paths 1055A, 1055B of the golfers may be compared during the swings
1051, 1052. Likewise, the orientations of the golf club head 1056A,
1056B, the golfers' arm and hand positions 1057A, 1057B, and the
head positions 1058A, 1058B may be compared visual. Other
comparisons and analysis may be performed as is known. While the
display 1050 here illustrates videographic information relating to
the golfers' swings, the display 1050 may be utilized during other
aspects of the analysis including output of various other
characteristics utilized in fitting the golfer 10. Further, as
shown in FIG. 7B the display 1050 may also be used to enhance the
fitting experience and may be visible to the golfer 10 during the
fitting process. However, various configurations of outputs can be
used to perform a swing analysis and provide output data relating
to the golfer's swing to the golfer or the golf professional.
[0087] Therefore, using the above described fitting processes, the
determination of a particular mass ring 201 (and its particular
weighting characteristics) along with how the mass ring 201 is
engaged with the golf club head body 102 can be particularly
utilized to adjust and control mass and weighting characteristics
of the golf club head body 102 to customize the golf club head body
102 to fit particular swing types or a golfer's tendencies. For
example, the above described fitting processes could be used in
conjunction with a method for determining which mass ring 201 to
employ and how best to engage the mass ring 201 with a golf club
head body 102 in order to provide an intended and desired
trajectory for the golf ball. The method includes determining a
characteristic of a golfer's swing based upon a swing of the golf
club using a measuring device. The method further includes
determining a desired ball trajectory. The method further includes
selecting a particular mass ring 201 and how that mass ring 201
should be engaged with the golf club head body 102 based upon the
determined swing characteristic and the desired ball trajectory.
The method further includes engaging the mass ring with the golf
club head body 102 at a position that will provide the desired ball
trajectory.
Conclusion
[0088] Aspects of the present invention are described above and in
the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of example
structures, features, elements, and combinations of structures,
features, and elements. The purpose served by the disclosure,
however, is to provide examples of the various features and
concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the
invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that
numerous variations and modifications may be made to the
embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the
present invention, as defined by the appended claims.
[0089] For example, the dimensions and/or other characteristics of
a golf club head structure according to examples of this disclosure
may vary significantly without departing from the disclosure. For
example, any wood type club head may be provided including, for
example: wood type hybrid clubs, fairway woods, drivers, etc.
[0090] Additionally, the various features and concepts described
above in conjunction with FIGS. 1 through 7 may be used
individually and/or in any combination or subcombination without
departing from this disclosure.
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