U.S. patent application number 14/841743 was filed with the patent office on 2016-02-18 for stabilizing insert for a golf club head.
The applicant listed for this patent is Cobra Golf Incorporated. Invention is credited to Karl A. Clausen, Andrew Curtis.
Application Number | 20160045795 14/841743 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55301402 |
Filed Date | 2016-02-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160045795 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Clausen; Karl A. ; et
al. |
February 18, 2016 |
STABILIZING INSERT FOR A GOLF CLUB HEAD
Abstract
The invention generally provides a removable stabilizing insert
releasably couplable to an adjustable golf club head. The removable
stabilizing insert is configured to be releasably coupled to
mounting portion on a sole of the club head and to further provide
a region for surface contact such that, when a club is given
different settings, if the club is held at address resting on a
surface, the club naturally comes to a rest position in which it
exhibits substantially the same face angle in any setting.
Accordingly, the removable stabilizing insert is configured to
optimize performance of the club head by balancing and maintaining
the club head.
Inventors: |
Clausen; Karl A.; (Carlsbad,
CA) ; Curtis; Andrew; (San Diego, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cobra Golf Incorporated |
Carlsbad |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55301402 |
Appl. No.: |
14/841743 |
Filed: |
September 1, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14830228 |
Aug 19, 2015 |
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14841743 |
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|
13407011 |
Feb 28, 2012 |
9114292 |
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14830228 |
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14160019 |
Jan 21, 2014 |
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13407011 |
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13946543 |
Jul 19, 2013 |
8870673 |
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14160019 |
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13711097 |
Dec 11, 2012 |
8517850 |
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13946543 |
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13565146 |
Aug 2, 2012 |
9114294 |
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13711097 |
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13407011 |
Feb 28, 2012 |
9114292 |
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13565146 |
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61755564 |
Jan 23, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/349 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 53/0408 20200801;
A63B 53/0462 20200801; A63B 53/047 20130101; A63B 53/0433 20200801;
A63B 53/06 20130101; A63B 53/045 20200801; A63B 2225/01 20130101;
A63B 53/0437 20200801; A63B 60/52 20151001; A63B 53/0466 20130101;
A63B 60/02 20151001 |
International
Class: |
A63B 53/04 20060101
A63B053/04; A63B 53/06 20060101 A63B053/06 |
Claims
1. A removable stabilizing insert for a golf club head, the
removable stabilizing insert comprising: a first portion couplable
to a mounting portion on a sole of a club head; and a second
portion extending from the first portion and protruding from the
sole of the club head when the first portion is coupled to the
mounting portion; wherein, when a golf club, that includes the club
head having the removable stabilizing insert coupled thereto, is
held at address, the removable stabilizing insert maintains a
spatial relationship between a contact point and a balance point of
the golf club head due to the stabilizing element protruding from
the sole.
2. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 1, wherein the club
head is adjustable between at least a first loft setting and a
second loft setting and, when a golf club, that includes the golf
club head, is held at address, the removable stabilizing insert
balances and maintains a heel-toe face angle in either one of the
first and second loft settings due to the stabilizing element
protruding from the sole.
3. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 1, wherein the
removable stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the
mounting portion by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit
means, and a press-fit means.
4. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 1, wherein the
removable stabilizing insert is selectively removable from the
mounting portion and interchangeable with one or more other
removable stabilizing inserts.
5. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 1, wherein the
stabilizing element protrudes from the sole by a height H, has a
maximum length L, has a maximum width W, and has a setback S from a
front-most point on the club face when a golf club including the
club head is held at address.
6. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 5, wherein: H is
between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm; L is between about 2.5 cm and
about 12 cm; W is between about 3 mm and about 20 mm; and S is
between about 1.5 cm and about 3.5 cm.
7. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 5, wherein H is
defined as the average distance from the ground of points on the
perimeter of the stabilizing element directly fore and aft of a
ground contact point when the club head is held at address resting
on flat ground.
8. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 1, wherein the
mounting portion comprises an aperture extending through the sole
of the club head from an exterior of the club head to an interior
cavity of the club head, and wherein, when the removable
stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the first portion
of the removable stabilizing insert is positioned within the
interior cavity of the club head and the second portion of the
removable stabilizing insert extends through the aperture to the
exterior of the club head.
9. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 8, wherein the first
portion comprises a flange member extending along a perimeter of
the removable stabilizing insert, the flange member is configured
to contact an interior surface of the sole along a perimeter of the
aperture when the removable stabilizing insert is coupled to the
aperture, and wherein the second portion comprises a protruding
member configured to be received within and extend through the
aperture to the exterior of the club head.
10. The removable stabilizing insert of claim 1, wherein the
mounting portion comprises a recess on an exterior surface of the
sole of the club head, and wherein, when the removable stabilizing
insert is coupled to the club head, the first portion of the
removable stabilizing insert is received within the recess and the
second portion of the removable stabilizing insert extends from the
recess.
11. A golf club head comprising: a club head body comprising a
heel, a toe, a sole having a mounting portion, a crown, and a face;
and a removable stabilizing insert releasably coupled to the
mounting portion and protruding from the sole, wherein, when a golf
club, that includes the club head, is held at address, the
removable stabilizing insert maintains a spatial relationship
between a contact point and a balance point of the golf club head
due to the removable stabilizing insert protruding from the
sole.
12. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the club head is
adjustable between at least a first loft setting and a second loft
setting.
13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein, when a golf club, that
includes the golf club head, is held at address, the removable
stabilizing insert balances and maintains a heel-toe face angle in
either one of the first and second loft settings due to the
removable stabilizing insert protruding from the sole.
14. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the sole is further
configured such that, when the club head is held at address in
either of a first or second configuration such that the face of the
club head has a first or second loft setting, respectively, the
club head makes contact with the ground only within the removable
stabilizing insert.
15. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the removable
stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to the mounting portion
by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a
press-fit means.
16. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the removable
stabilizing insert is selectively removable from the mounting
portion and interchangeable with one or more other removable
stabilizing inserts.
17. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the mounting portion
comprises an aperture extending through the sole of the club head
body.
18. The golf club head of claim 17, wherein, when the removable
stabilizing insert is coupled to the aperture, a first portion of
the removable stabilizing insert is positioned within an interior
cavity of the club head body and a second portion of the removable
stabilizing insert extends through the aperture to an exterior of
the club head body and protrudes from the sole.
19. The golf club head of claim 18, wherein the first portion
comprises a flange member extending along a perimeter of the
removable stabilizing insert, the flange member is configured to
contact an interior surface of the sole along a perimeter of the
aperture when the removable stabilizing insert is coupled to the
aperture.
20. The golf club head of claim 18, wherein the second portion
comprises a protruding member configured to be received within and
extend through the aperture to an exterior of the club head
body.
21. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the mounting portion
comprises a recess on an exterior surface of the sole of the club
head body.
22. The golf club head of claim 21, wherein, when the removable
stabilizing insert is coupled to the recess, a first portion of the
removable stabilizing insert is received within the recess and a
second portion of the removable stabilizing insert extends from the
recess.
23. The golf club head of claim 22, wherein the first portion
comprises a base member having at least bottom surface configured
to contact an interior surface of the recess when the removable
stabilizing insert is coupled to the recess and the second portion
comprises a protruding member extending from the base member and
protruding from the sole.
24. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the removable
stabilizing insert protrudes from the sole by a height H, has a
maximum length L, has a maximum width W, and has a setback S from a
front-most point on the club face when a golf club including the
club head is held at address.
25. The golf club head of claim 24, wherein: H is between about 0.3
mm and about 2 mm; L is between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm; W is
between about 3 mm and about 20 mm; and S is between about 1.5 cm
and about 3.5 cm.
26. The golf club head of claim 24, wherein H is defined as the
average distance from the ground of points on the perimeter of the
removable stabilizing insert directly fore and aft of a ground
contact point when the club head is held at address resting on flat
ground.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/830,228, filed Aug. 19, 2015, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/407,011, filed
Feb. 28, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,114,292), the contents of each
of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for
all purposes.
[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/160,019, filed Jan. 21, 2014, which claims
the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/755,564, filed Jan. 23, 2013, the contents of
each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety for all purposes.
[0003] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/160,019 is also
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/565,146, filed Aug. 2, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,114,294), which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/407,011, filed Feb. 28, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,114,292), the
contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in
their entirety for all purposes.
[0004] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/160,019 is also a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent Ser. No. 13/946,543, filed Jul.
19, 2013 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,870,673), which is a continuation of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/711,097, filed Dec. 11, 2012
(now U.S. Pat. No. 8,517,850), the contents of each of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all
purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The invention generally relates to interchangeable inserts
for golf club heads to optimize performance of adjustable golf
clubs.
BACKGROUND
[0006] Golfers make their best shots when provided with golf clubs
that fit their playing style. A golfer may want a driver with a
particular loft or face angle. For example, a closed face angle may
help a golfer who consistently slices to the right. Another golfer
with high speed, high accuracy drives may want a driver with a low
loft for maximum distance. Accordingly, manufacturers offer
adjustable clubs, such as drivers, fairways, and hybrids, with
multiple settings for face angle, loft, or both.
[0007] Although current golf club designs allow for adjustability
for various settings and playing characteristics, including loft
and face angle, there can be problematic interrelationships between
different settings of such designs. For example, in some clubs, if
loft is increased, then when the club is held at address resting on
a surface, the club tends to exhibit a closed face angle. If the
loft is decreased and the club is held at address resting on a
surface, that club will then exhibit an open face angle. A golfer's
shot may be influenced by how the club rests at address. Thus,
adjusting a setting on an adjustable club can cause the club to
launch the ball in unexpected ways, resulting in unpredictable and
inaccurate shots.
SUMMARY
[0008] The invention provides a stabilizing element (also referred
to herein as "stabilizing insert") that is couplable to a sole of a
golf club head and configured to minimize unintended changes that
may otherwise occur when the golf club is held at address in
different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is
adjusted. More specifically, the stabilizing element is configured
to mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance
point and ground contact point at address, that most often
manifests as a rotation to a "rest position" when adjustments are
made to the club head. When coupled to the club head, the
stabilizing element of the present invention is further configured
to provide a lowest region of the sole of the club head to contact
the ground in any effective club setting. For a club having the
stabilizing element coupled to the sole, the spatial relationship
between contact point and balance point is substantially the same
in different settings. Thus, a club head that includes the
stabilizing element of the present invention does not exhibit a
problematic interrelationship between different address positions
or adjustable loft and face angle settings, thereby overcoming the
drawbacks associated with current adjustable club head designs.
[0009] The stabilizing element of the present disclosure is
generally separate and discrete from the club head itself such that
the stabilizing element is removable (e.g., separable from and
recoupable to the club head). For example, the stabilizing element
may be releasably coupled to the club head by way of any known
releasable fastener or fastening means (e.g., adhesive, snap-fit,
press-fit, etc.). Accordingly, a player may selectively
attach/detach the stabilizing element as they see fit, as opposed
to some club designs which are limited to elements that are built,
or otherwise permanently fixed, to the club head. Therefore, in
some embodiments, a player may be able to select from a variety of
different interchangeable stabilizing elements (e.g., provided in a
kit) for use with an adjustable golf club head. While all of the
interchangeable stabilizing elements may generally minimize
unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is
held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle
of the club head is adjusted, each of the stabilizing elements may
have different mass properties, graphics, appearance, and the like.
Accordingly, the interchangeable nature of the stabilizing element
of the present disclosure provides a player with the ability to
customize their golf club to suit their preferences or playing
characteristics, all while minimizing unintended changes to the
club head as a result of club head adjustments.
[0010] The removable nature of the stabilizing element further
addresses potential drawbacks associated with the manufacturing of
club head designs incorporating fixed or built-in components or
features. For example, in certain club head designs, a feature may
be incorporated into the overall form of the club head, such as a
keel integrally formed on the sole of a club head. Manufacturing of
such club head designs can be difficult, particularly in instances
in which the built-in feature must have a relatively tight
tolerance and any variation outside of that tolerance is
unacceptable and may negatively impact or prevent the intended
function of the built-in feature. For example, certain steps in the
manufacturing process of club head may naturally result in a
certain amount of variation and inconsistency from club head to
club head, such as, for example, casting shrink, heat treatment
deformations, stamping spring back, as well as hand polishing.
[0011] By providing a separate and discrete stabilizing element,
the stabilizing element and golf club head can be manufactured
separately under separate conditions and by separate machines and
processes. Accordingly, specific manufacturing techniques that
provide a high degree of precision and detail, which may otherwise
be unavailable or impractical when manufacturing the club head, may
be used to manufacture the stabilizing element and yield the tight
tolerance that may be required. For example, specific dimensions of
the stabilizing element, including, but not limited to, length,
width, and height, must generally be within a certain range so as
to allow the stabilizing element to function as intended,
specifically to minimize unintended changes to the club head, such
as mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance
point and ground contact point at address, that most often
manifests as a rotation to a "rest position" when adjustments are
made to the club head.
[0012] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a removable
stabilizing insert for a golf club head. The removable stabilizing
element includes a first portion couplable to a mounting portion on
a sole of a club head and a second portion extending from the first
portion and protruding from the sole of the club head when the
first portion is coupled to the mounting portion. When a golf club,
that includes the club head having the stabilizing insert coupled
thereto, is held at address, the stabilizing insert maintains a
spatial relationship between a contact point a balance point of the
golf club head due to the stabilizing element protruding from the
sole.
[0013] In some embodiments, the club head is adjustable between at
least a first loft setting and a second loft setting. When a golf
club, that includes the golf club head, is held at address, the
stabilizing insert balances and maintains a heel-toe face angle in
either one of the first and second loft settings due to the
stabilizing element protruding from the sole.
[0014] In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert is releasably
couplable to the mounting portion by way of at least one of an
adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. Accordingly, the
stabilizing insert is selectively removable from the mounting
portion and interchangeable with one or more other stabilizing
inserts.
[0015] In some embodiments, the stabilizing element protrudes from
the sole by a height H, has a maximum length L, has a maximum width
W, and has a setback S from a front-most point on the club face
when a golf club including the club head is held at address. The
height H is generally defined as, when the club head is held at
address resting on flat ground, the average distance from the
ground of points on the perimeter of the stabilizing insert
directly fore and aft of a ground contact point. In some
embodiments, height H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the length L may be between
about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm, the width W may be between about 3 mm
and about 20 mm, and setback S may be between about 1.5 cm and
about 3.5 cm.
[0016] In some embodiments, the mounting portion on the sole of the
club head may include an aperture extending through the sole of the
club head from an exterior of the club head to an interior cavity
of the club head. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the
club head, the first portion of the stabilizing insert may be
positioned within the interior cavity of the club head and the
second portion of the stabilizing insert extends through the
aperture to the exterior of the club head. The first portion of the
stabilizing element may include a flange member extending along a
perimeter of the stabilizing insert. The flange member is
configured to contact an interior surface of the sole along a
perimeter of the aperture when the stabilizing insert is coupled to
the aperture. The second portion may include a protruding member
configured to be received within and extend through the aperture to
the exterior of the club head. The stabilizing insert is releasably
couplable to the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a
snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may
be placed between the flange member and the interior surface of the
sole. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the
stabilizing insert may be configured to interact with the aperture
in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. Accordingly, the stabilizing
insert may be "dropped in" the mounting portion from within the
interior cavity of the club head. Thus, the club head itself may
have an access portion, or other portion, for providing a player
with access into the interior cavity.
[0017] In another embodiment, the mounting portion on the sole of
the club head may include a recess on an exterior surface of the
sole. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the
first portion of the stabilizing insert is received within the
recess and the second portion of the stabilizing insert extends
from the recess. The stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to
the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit
means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may be
placed between the first portion of the stabilizing insert and an
interior surface of the recess. Additionally, or alternatively, one
or more portions of the stabilizing insert may be configured to
interact with the recess in a snap-fit or press-fit manner.
Accordingly, the stabilizing insert may be "dropped in" the recess
from the exterior of the club head.
[0018] In another aspect, a golf club head is provided. The golf
club head includes a club head body comprising a heel, a toe, a
sole having a mounting portion, a crown, and a face. The golf club
head further includes a removable stabilizing insert coupled to the
mounting portion and protruding from the sole. When a golf club,
that includes the club head having the stabilizing insert coupled
thereto, is held at address, the stabilizing insert maintains a
spatial relationship between a contact point a balance point of the
golf club head due to the stabilizing insert protruding from the
sole.
[0019] In some embodiments, the club head is adjustable between at
least a first loft setting and a second loft setting. When a golf
club, that includes the golf club head, is held at address, the
stabilizing insert balances and maintains a heel-toe face angle in
either one of the first and second loft settings due to the
stabilizing insert protruding from the sole. The sole may further
be configured such that, when the club head is held at address in
either of a first or second configuration such that the face of the
club head has the first or second loft setting, respectively, the
club head makes contact with the ground only within the removable
stabilizing insert.
[0020] The stabilizing insert is releasably coupled to the mounting
portion. In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert is releasably
coupled to the mounting portion by way of at least one of an
adhesive, a snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. Accordingly, the
stabilizing insert is selectively removable from the mounting
portion and interchangeable with one or more other stabilizing
inserts.
[0021] In some embodiments, the mounting portion on the sole of the
club head may include an aperture extending through the sole of the
club head from an exterior of the club head to an interior cavity
of the club head. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the
club head, the first portion of the stabilizing insert may be
positioned within the interior cavity of the club head and the
second portion of the stabilizing insert extends through the
aperture to the exterior of the club head. The first portion of the
stabilizing element may include a flange member extending along a
perimeter of the stabilizing insert. The flange member is
configured to contact an interior surface of the sole along a
perimeter of the aperture when the stabilizing insert is coupled to
the aperture. The second portion may include a protruding member
configured to be received within and extend through the aperture to
the exterior of the club head. The stabilizing insert is releasably
couplable to the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a
snap-fit means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may
be placed between the flange member and the interior surface of the
sole. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of the
stabilizing insert may be configured to interact with the aperture
in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. Accordingly, the stabilizing
insert may be "dropped in" the mounting portion from within the
interior cavity of the club head. Thus, the club head itself may
have an access portion, or other portion, for providing a player
with access into the interior cavity.
[0022] In another embodiment, the mounting portion on the sole of
the club head may include a recess on an exterior surface of the
sole. When the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the
first portion of the stabilizing insert is received within the
recess and the second portion of the stabilizing insert extends
from the recess. The stabilizing insert is releasably couplable to
the aperture by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit
means, and a press-fit means. For example, an adhesive may be
placed between the first portion of the stabilizing insert and an
interior surface of the recess. Additionally, or alternatively, one
or more portions of the stabilizing insert may be configured to
interact with the recess in a snap-fit or press-fit manner.
Accordingly, the stabilizing insert may be "dropped in" the recess
from the exterior of the club head.
[0023] In some embodiments, the stabilizing element protrudes from
the sole by a height H, has a maximum length L, has a maximum width
W, and has a setback S from a front-most point on the club face
when a golf club including the club head is held at address. The
height H is generally defined as, when the club head is held at
address resting on flat ground, the average distance from the
ground of points on the perimeter of the stabilizing insert
directly fore and aft of a ground contact point. In some
embodiments, height H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the length L may be between
about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm, the width W may be between about 3 mm
and about 20 mm, and setback S may be between about 1.5 cm and
about 3.5 cm.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] FIG. 1 shows a prior art golf club head.
[0025] FIG. 2 shows a prior art golf club head.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a front view of a golf club according to certain
embodiments of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 4 shows a prior art golf club head.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 6 shows the view of FIG. 5 with a prior art sole
superimposed (dashed line).
[0030] FIG. 7 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a bottom-rear perspective view of a golf club
head according to certain embodiments of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 11 is a top-rear perspective view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 12 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention showing boundaries of regions
of a sole.
[0036] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention showing boundaries of regions
of a sole.
[0037] FIG. 14 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention showing regions of a sole.
[0038] FIG. 15 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention, exaggerated in the vertical
direction and showing regions of a sole.
[0039] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention showing regions of a sole.
[0040] FIG. 17 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention, exaggerated in the vertical
direction and showing measurements of a feature of the
invention.
[0041] FIG. 18 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention showing measurements of a
feature of the invention.
[0042] FIG. 19 illustrates properties of features of the
invention.
[0043] FIG. 20 illustrates properties of features of the
invention.
[0044] FIG. 21 is a top view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0045] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0046] FIGS. 23A-C are each a cross-sectional view of a golf club
head according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along
a line corresponding to line A-A' in FIG. 21.
[0047] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0048] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0049] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0050] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0051] FIG. 28 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0052] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0053] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0054] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0055] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0056] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0057] FIG. 34 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0058] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0059] FIG. 36 is a bottom view of a golf club head with an
attachable feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention.
[0060] FIG. 37 is a bottom view of a golf club head with an
attached feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention.
[0061] FIG. 38 is a bottom view of a golf club head with an
attachable feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention.
[0062] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head with
an attached feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention, taken along a line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG.
21.
[0063] FIG. 40 is a bottom view of a golf club head with an
attached feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention.
[0064] FIG. 41 is a bottom view of a golf club head with an
attachable feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention.
[0065] FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head with
an attached feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention, taken along a line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG.
21.
[0066] FIG. 43 is a bottom view of a golf club head with an
attached feature according to certain embodiments of the
invention.
[0067] FIG. 44 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0068] FIG. 45 is a side view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0069] FIG. 46 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0070] FIG. 47 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0071] FIG. 48 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0072] FIG. 49 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0073] FIG. 50 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0074] FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0075] FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head
according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along a
line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0076] FIG. 53 is a bottom view of a golf club head illustrating a
removable stabilizing insert to be releasably coupled to the golf
club head according to certain embodiments of the invention.
[0077] FIG. 54 is a perspective bottom view of a golf club head
illustrating a removable stabilizing insert releasably coupled to
the sole of the golf club head.
[0078] FIG. 55 is a bottom view of a golf club head including the
removable stabilizing insert showing measurements of the
stabilizing insert.
[0079] FIG. 56 is a top view of a golf club head with a portion of
the crown removed so as to provide a view into an interior cavity
of the golf club head and further illustrate attachment of an
removable stabilizing insert to the sole of the club head.
[0080] FIG. 57 is sectional view of the golf club head taken along
line C-C of FIG. 56.
[0081] FIG. 58 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sole of
the golf club head illustrating the removable stabilizing inert
coupled to the aperture on the sole of the golf club head.
[0082] FIG. 59 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sole of
the golf club head illustrating the removable stabilizing insert
removed from engagement with the aperture on the sole of the golf
club head.
[0083] FIG. 60 is a perspective bottom view of a golf club head
illustrating a removable stabilizing insert to be releasably
coupled to a recess on the sole of the golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention.
[0084] FIG. 61 is a perspective bottom view of the golf club head
illustrating the removable stabilizing insert releasably coupled to
the recess.
[0085] FIG. 62 is a sectional view of the golf club head taken
along line E-E of FIG. 61.
[0086] FIG. 63 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sole of
the golf club head illustrating the removable stabilizing insert
coupled to the recess on the sole of the golf club head.
[0087] FIG. 64 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sole of
the golf club head illustrating the removable stabilizing insert
removed from engagement with the recess on the sole of the golf
club head.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0088] The invention generally relates to removable inserts for
golf club heads to optimize performance of golf clubs. In some
embodiments, the invention relates to a feature on the sole of a
club head that protrudes and stabilizes the club head in two or
more positions when a club is at address. In some embodiments
described herein, the present invention provides a stabilizing
element (also referred to herein as "stabilizing insert") that is
couplable to a sole of a golf club head and configured to minimize
unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is
held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle
of the club head is adjusted. The stabilizing insert includes a
first portion couplable to a mounting portion on a sole of a club
head and a second portion extending from the first portion. When
the stabilizing insert is coupled to the club head, the second
portion protrudes from the sole of the club head. When coupled to
the club head, the stabilizing element is configured to minimize
unintended changes when the golf club is held at address in
different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is
adjusted.
[0089] For example, in some embodiments, when a golf club, that
includes the club head having the stabilizing insert coupled
thereto, is held at address, the stabilizing insert at least
maintains a spatial relationship between a contact point a balance
point of the golf club head due to the stabilizing element
protruding from the sole. More specifically, the stabilizing
element is configured to mitigate the change in relationship
between the club balance point and ground contact point at address,
that most often manifests as a rotation to a "rest position" when
adjustments are made to the club head. When coupled to the club
head, the stabilizing element of the present invention is further
configured to provide a lowest region of the sole of the club head
to contact the ground in any effective club setting. For a club
having the stabilizing element coupled to the sole, the spatial
relationship between contact point and balance point is
substantially the same in different settings. Thus, a club head
that includes the stabilizing element of the present invention does
not exhibit a problematic interrelationship between different
address positions or adjustable loft and face angle settings,
thereby overcoming the drawbacks associated with current adjustable
club head designs.
[0090] The stabilizing element of the present disclosure is
generally separate and discrete from the club head itself, such
that the stabilizing element is removable (e.g., separable from and
recoupable to the club head). For example, the stabilizing element
may be releasably coupled to the club head by way of any known
releasable fastener or fastening means (e.g., adhesive, snap-fit,
press-fit, etc.). Accordingly, a player may selectively
attach/detach the stabilizing element as they see fit, as opposed
to some club designs which are limited to elements that are built,
or otherwise permanently fixed, to the club head. Therefore, in
some embodiments, a player may be able to select from variety of
different interchangeable stabilizing elements (e.g., provided in a
kit) for use with an adjustable golf club head. While all of the
interchangeable stabilizing elements may generally minimize
unintended changes that may otherwise occur when the golf club is
held at address in different positions or when loft or face angle
of the club head is adjusted, each of the stabilizing elements may
have different mass properties, graphics, appearance, and the like.
Accordingly, the interchangeable nature of the stabilizing element
of the present disclosure provides a player with the ability to
customize their golf club to suit their preferences or playing
characteristics, all while minimizing unintended changes to the
club head as a result of club head adjustments.
[0091] The removable nature of the stabilizing element further
addresses potential drawbacks associated with the manufacturing of
club head designs incorporating fixed or built-in components or
features. For example, in certain club head designs, a feature may
be incorporated into the overall form of the club head, such as a
keel integrally formed on the sole of a club head. Manufacturing of
such club head designs can be difficult, particularly in instances
in which the built-in feature must have a relatively tight
tolerance and any variation outside of that tolerance is
unacceptable and may negatively impact or prevent the intended
function of the built-in feature. For example, certain steps in the
manufacturing process of club head may naturally result in a
certain amount of variation and inconsistency from club head to
club head, such as, for example, casting shrink, heat treatment
deformations, stamping spring back, as well as hand polishing.
[0092] By providing a separate and discrete stabilizing element,
the stabilizing element and golf club head can be manufactured
separately under separate conditions and by separate machines and
processes. Accordingly, specific manufacturing techniques that
provide a high degree of precision and detail, which may otherwise
be unavailable or impractical when manufacturing the club head, may
be used to manufacture the stabilizing element and yield the tight
tolerance that may be required. For example, specific dimensions of
the stabilizing element, including, but not limited to, length,
width, and height, must generally be within a certain range so as
to allow the stabilizing element to function as intended,
specifically to minimize unintended changes to the club head, such
as mitigate the change in relationship between the club balance
point and ground contact point at address, that most often
manifests as a rotation to a "rest position" when adjustments are
made to the club head.
[0093] FIG. 1, panels D-F, show a prior art club head 11 positioned
to produce different loft angles. In particular, panels D and A
show prior art club head 11 having an 11.5.degree. loft angle;
panels E and B show prior art club head 11 having a 10.degree. loft
angle; and panels F and C show prior art club head 11 having an
8.5.degree. loft angle. The invention mitigates the positional
change of the sole relative to a club balance point 41 in different
loft angles when club head 11 has different face angles (e.g.,
closed in panel A, neutral in panel B, and open in panel C).
[0094] FIG. 2 shows prior art golf club head 11. FIG. 2 includes
high loft indicator 52 and low loft indicator 59 as well as high
loft contact indicator 47 and low loft contact indicator 49. FIG. 2
further shows high loft balance line 62 and low loft balance line
69 of prior art club head 11. As shown in FIG. 2, if prior art club
head 11 is set with a high loft setting, it has a balance line 62
substantially fore (e.g., between about 1 and about 5 cm) of
corresponding contact point 47. If prior art club head 11 is set
with a low loft setting, it has a balance line 69 substantially aft
of that corresponding contact point 49.
[0095] FIG. 3 is a front view of a golf club head at address
according to certain embodiments of the invention showing balance
line 161 passing through grip point 187 and club center of gravity
181. Shaft axis 183 passes through the center of a hosel of club
head 101.
[0096] When a club is at address resting on a surface, grip point
187 and contact point 42 together define an axis around which
motion of the golf club is relatively unrestrained. If balance line
161 intersects the sole behind the contact point, the club will
rock open. If balance line 161 intersects the sole in front of the
contact point, the club will rock closed.
[0097] Thus, the invention provides club head 101 having a sole
with a contour or feature such that, if the club is held at address
in a variety of orientations, then the contact point is within a
controlled, limited distance from the point at which the balance
line intersects the sole. Accordingly, the club can be held at
address, yet in two different orientations at different times. For
example, a first address position can be offset from a second
address position by a slight tilt (e.g., either in a heel-toe
direction, a fore-aft direction, or a combination thereof) and the
contact point will be within the contour or feature in each address
positions. In some embodiments, the sole is configured such that,
when a golf club including the club head is held at address in
either of a first or second position, the club head makes contact
with a surface only within a stabilizing element as described
herein.
[0098] Thus the invention allows a club to be held in different
address positions (e.g., as a player learns or experiments, due to
ground inconsistencies, as one club is used by players of different
height) and obtain a consistent, predictable club head orientation.
Due to the fact that the club head makes contact with the ground
within a controlled region below the club balance point, the club
will not "rock" into unintended orientations when held at address
resting on a surface.
[0099] In certain embodiments, the invention provides club head 101
having a sole with a contour or feature such that, if the club head
is set in a variety of loft settings, then the contact point is
within a controlled, limited distance from the point at which the
balance line intersects the sole. Club head 101 can have an
adjustable loft capable of being set in at least a first and second
position. With the loft set in either of the first or second
position, the club head can rest on the feature in one of at least
a first and second disposition allowing a player to grip the club
with a comfortable, relaxed grip in each position and with the face
angle maintained constant between each position.
[0100] The invention allows a player to adjust a loft setting, hold
the club at address resting on a surface, and obtain a consistent,
predictable face angle. This benefit gives a player a reliable
reference point when setting up a shot in that the player can rest
the club head on a surface and see the loft setting and the face
angle (while the player holds the club with a comfortable, relaxed
grip). The player can then grip the club and pick it up to make a
shot, thereby obtaining the same relative face angle for every
shot.
[0101] FIG. 4 shows a prior art golf club head and FIG. 5 is a side
view of a golf club head according to certain embodiments of the
invention. FIG. 6 shows the view of FIG. 5 with a prior art sole
superimposed (dashed line). As shown in FIG. 5, a golf club
according to the invention generally has an area of relief on the
sole providing a lower-most region 107 of the sole such that, if
the club head is set in any of a range of loft angle settings, the
contact point will be within region 107, and the region has a
limited width W in the fore-aft direction. In general, the width W
of the region in the fore-aft direction will be less than about 50
mm, for example, less than about 25 mm. In some embodiments, the
contact points associated with various loft settings will be within
less than about 20 or about 15 mm of each other in a fore-aft
direction.
[0102] FIGS. 7-11 show club heads of various embodiments of the
invention. As presented herein throughout, no figure is limited to
an embodiment illustrated by another figure. While a golf club head
according to the invention can exhibit all the views shown in FIGS.
7-11, a head having a sole as shown in FIG. 10 need not have a
crown as shown in FIG. 11, and so for any pair of figures herein.
Except where otherwise indicated, any disclosed measurement or
definition of a measurement may apply to any embodiment pictured or
discussed herein.
[0103] As shown in FIGS. 7-11, club head 101 has a region 107 that
is generally the lowest area of the sole when the club head is at
address. Region 107 can be discussed with reference to boundaries.
FIG. 12 is a side view of a golf club head according to certain
embodiments of the invention showing boundaries of regions of a
sole.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 12, when club head 101 is at address on a
plane 251, the foremost point of club head 101 defines a vertical
plane at the front 201 of club head 101. Face-sole boundary 203 can
be used to mark the fore edge of the sole. Region 107 begins at
fore boundary 205. Region 107 is bounded in the aft direction by
aft boundary 211.
[0105] For the purposes of describing region 107 according to the
discussion below, a rear sole boundary 213 is defined as a plane a
distance E back from aft boundary 211 that is the same as a
distance E between fore boundary 205 and face-sole boundary 203.
The rear-most point of club head 101 defines a vertical plane at
the back 217 of the head, parallel to the plane at the front 201 of
the head, and both orthogonal to plane 251.
[0106] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a golf club head according to
certain embodiments of the invention showing boundary regions of a
sole. Fore boundary 205 and aft boundary 211 bound region 107 in
the fore-aft direction.
[0107] Generally a club head 101 may have a transition between a
face and a sole having length T (e.g., a rounded region, angled
region, stepped region, or sharp region). Face-sole boundary 203
marks an edge between that transition and the substantially
downward-facing sole. Rear sole boundary 213 is defined as the same
distance E from aft boundary 211 as the distance E between fore
boundary 205 and face-sole boundary 203. Fore-aft line 255,
perpendicular to front plane 201 and lying along ground plane 251
through a club contact point 42 can be used to measure these
distances.
[0108] FIGS. 14-16 illustrate regions of a sole defined by these
boundaries. Particular reference is made to fore sole 302, region
107, and aft sole 502. Fore sole 302 is the area between fore
boundary 205 and face-sole boundary 203. Region 107 is the area
between fore boundary 205 and aft boundary 211. Aft sole 502 is the
region between aft boundary 211 and rear boundary 213. By
definition, aft sole 502 has the same extent E in the fore-aft
direction as fore sole 302.
[0109] FIG. 15 shows a detail view of the sole illustrated in FIG.
14, greatly exaggerated in the vertical direction. As can be seen
in FIG. 15, region 107 presents the lowest area of the sole when
the club head is at address. Further as can be seen in FIG. 15,
club head 101 of the invention makes contact with ground plane 251
within region 107 when at address.
[0110] Turning now to FIG. 17, which presents the same detail view
as presented in FIG. 15, dimensions of region 107 can be
defined.
[0111] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, a distance between fore
boundary 205 and aft boundary 211 measured along fore-aft line 255
can define a width W of region 107. A distance between front 201
and fore boundary 205 measured along fore-aft line 255 can define a
setback S of region 107.
[0112] A length or extent E of fore sole 302 can be defined as a
setback S of region 107 minus a length T of the face-sole
transition. Alternatively, an extent E of fore sole 302 can be
defined as an arbitrary measurement forward from fore boundary 205.
Alternatively, in some embodiments, an extent E of fore sole 302 is
equal to a width W of region 107. An extent E of aft sole 502 is,
by definition, equal to an extent E of fore sole 302.
[0113] When club head 101 is at address, the average distance of
fore sole 302 and aft sole 502 along fore-aft line 255 from ground
plane 251 is shown by average sole height line 444. The vertical
distance between height line 444 and ground plane 251 can define a
height H of region 107.
[0114] Region 107 can be described with reference to a length L
measured in a heel-toe direction.
[0115] Thus, according to the foregoing discussion, club head 101
according to embodiments of the invention generally has a
protruding region 107 on the sole having a width W, a height H, and
a length L, and being spaced away from the face of the club by a
setback S. FIG. 18 shows region 107 having a generally rectangular
shape in plan-view (i.e., map view). Region 107 need not have a
rectangular shape in plan view and can be round, oblong, irregular,
oval, curved, or any other shape. Generally, region 107 can be
described with reference to width W, height H, and length L as
maximum width W, maximum height H, and maximum length L, and
setback S as minimum setback S.
[0116] Generally, S is greater than about 0.5 cm, L is more than
about 0.5 cm, W is more than about 0.5 mm, and H is more than about
0.1 mm. In certain embodiments, S is between about 2.5 cm and about
3.5 cm; L is between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm; W is between
about 3 mm and about 25 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about
2 mm. For example, S can be between about 2.8 cm and about 3.3 cm;
L can be greater than about 1 cm; W can be between about 9 mm and
about 20 mm; and H can be between about 0.1 mm and about 3 mm. Any
combination of measurements disclosed herein is within the scope of
the invention. For example, in certain embodiments, S is more than
about 2.5 cm; L is greater than about 1 cm; W is between about 9 mm
and about 20 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm.
[0117] Golf club head 101 having region 107 according to
embodiments of the invention exhibits desirable behaviors,
particularly an adjustable loft that does not affect the face angle
when the club is at address.
[0118] As shown in FIG. 19, whether club head 101 has an
11.5.degree. loft angle (panel D), a 10.degree. loft angle (panel
E), or an 8.5.degree. loft angle (panel F), club head 101 exhibits
a substantially neutral face angle. Further, this relationship
holds for any face angle. If club head 101 is set to have an open
face angle, for example, and the loft is adjusted, club head 101
will still exhibit an open face angle (and so for a closed face
angle).
[0119] Without being bound by any theory of operation, FIGS. 19 and
20 illustrate properties of club head 101. When set with high loft
152, contact point 87 is close to balance line 162. When set with
low loft 159, contact point 89 is relatively close to balance line
169. In each loft setting, club head 101 makes contact with the
ground through a portion of the material within region 107.
[0120] FIG. 21 is a top view of club head 101. FIG. 22 is a
cross-sectional view of a golf club head according to certain
embodiments of the invention, taken along a line corresponding to
line B-B' in FIG. 21. In some embodiments, club head 101 has a
shape illustrated in FIGS. 22-33, however, FIGS. 22-33 can
represent exaggerations of a shape of club head 101. In general,
these figures illustrate a general morphology, and dimensions may
be referred to independently of any figure.
[0121] FIGS. 23A-C are each a cross-sectional views of a golf club
head according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along
a line corresponding to line A-A' in FIG. 21. As shown in FIG. 23A,
region 107 may protrude down from club head 101 such that it has a
length L in the heel-toe direction between about 5 cm and about 9
cm. As shown in FIG. 23B, region 107 may smoothly span from the
heel to the toe of club head 101, such that it has a length L
between about 9 cm and about 13 cm. As shown in FIG. 23C, region
107 may have a length L between about 3 cm and about 5 cm.
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 23C, region 107 may be off-center in a
heel-toe dimension, in either direction or by any amount. In some
embodiments, region 107 is centered, biased towards a heel, or
biased towards a toe.
[0122] FIGS. 24-27 are cross-sectional views according to certain
embodiments of the invention, taken along a line corresponding to
line B-B' in FIG. 21. As shown in FIG. 24. a setback S can be
between about 3 cm and about 6 cm or a width W can be between about
0.5 cm and about 4 cm. As shown in FIG. 25, a setback S can be
between about 1 cm and about 3 cm, or a width W can be between
about 0.1 mm and about 9 mm. As shown in FIG. 26, a setback S can
be between about 1 cm and about 3 cm, or a width W can be between
about 0.5 cm and about 6 cm. As shown in FIG. 27, a setback S can
be between about 0.5 cm and about 4 cm or a width W can be between
about 0.5 cm and about 4 cm.
[0123] As shown in FIGS. 24-27, an extent E of fore sole 302 (by
definition, equal to an extent E of aft sole 502) can be between
about 0.3 cm and about 6 cm.
[0124] As discussed above, region 107 can be described with
reference to length, width, height, and setback. Independently or
additionally region 107 can be described according to other aspects
of club head 101. Club head 101 will generally exhibit certain
geometric properties as described herein.
[0125] FIG. 28 shows a side view of club head 101 according to
certain embodiments of the invention at address. As shown in FIG.
28, region 107 is generally disposed between fore boundary 205 and
aft boundary 211. As shown in FIG. 28, club head 101 has a loft
between about 10.degree. and about 11.degree..
[0126] Fore boundary 205 intersects ground plane 251 defining an
intersection line. A front plane 403 intersects this line at a
setback distance S from the front of the club, defining a fore
angle 703 of X degrees with the ground. Front plane 403 is tangent
to the sole.
[0127] Aft boundary 211 intersects ground plane 251 along a line. A
back plane 407 intersects this line and is tangent to the sole.
Back plane 407 defines a back angle 707 of Y degrees with ground
plane 251.
[0128] When club head 101 is at address and resting on a plane 251,
the sole makes contact with the surface within region 107 and X+Y
is greater than 0.degree.. In certain embodiments, X+Y is between
about 0.01.degree. and about 40.degree.. Setback S and width W can
each independently be any measurement. For example, setback S can
be between about 5 mm and about 80 mm. Width W can be between about
1 mm and about 60 mm. Preferably, S is between about 20 mm and
about 40 mm, e.g., between about 30 mm and about 35 mm, while W is
between about 5 mm and about 30 mm, e.g., between about 5 mm and
about 15 mm or between about 15 mm and about 25 mm. Preferably X+Y
is between about 3.degree. and about 23.degree. (e.g., between
about 5.degree. and about 12.degree.).
[0129] FIGS. 29-33 each show a cross-sectional view of a golf club
head according to certain embodiments of the invention, taken along
a line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21. As shown in FIGS.
29-33, a region 107 can be provided on a club head such that a
front plane 403 (tangent to the sole) meets ground plane 251 at
fore boundary 205 to define a fore angle 703 of X degrees with
ground plane 251. Front plane 403 is tangent to the sole.
Similarly, back plane 407 (tangent to the sole) meets ground plane
251 at aft boundary 211 to define a back angle 707 of Y degrees
with ground plane 251. When club head 101 is at address with a loft
between about 10.degree. and about 11.degree., each of X or Y may
independently be between about 0.5.degree. and about 8.degree.,
preferably between about 1.degree. and about 8.degree.. In certain
embodiments, either of X or Y is between about 0.5.degree. and
about 5.degree. (e.g., X between about 1.5.degree. and about
5.degree. and Y between about 0.5.degree. and about 5.degree.).
[0130] In a preferred embodiment, where club head 101 is part of a
club having a loft that is adjustable from a minimum loft P to a
maximum loft Q, the following will hold:
(X+Y)>(Q-P) (1)
[0131] As shown in equation 1, fore angle 703 and back angle 707
together preferably define a range equal to or greater than the
total range of adjustable loft for club head 101. Accordingly, in
certain embodiments, a golf club is provided in which the loft can
be set at two or more effective settings including a setting at
about 8.5.degree. loft and a setting at about 11.5.degree. (range
of adjustable loft is at least about 3.degree.), and a sole of the
club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front
plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating
angles with the ground that together are at least about
3.degree..
[0132] FIG. 29 shows a cross sectional view illustrating one
embodiment of the invention. As seen by comparing FIGS. 29-33, this
geometry is attainable with various combinations of setback S and
width W and morphologies of the sole of club head 101.
[0133] Region 107 of club head 101 will generally satisfy at least
one of the foregoing descriptions. A variety of embodiments are
provided by the invention. For example, FIG. 34 shows a bottom view
of club head 101 having a thin bar-like region 107 extending in a
heel-toe direction. FIG. 35 shows a cross section view of a thin
bar-like region 107. As shown in FIG. 34 or FIG. 35, region 107 can
have a setback S between about 30 mm and about 35 mm or a width W
between about 1 mm and about 9 mm.
[0134] In some embodiments, region 107 is provided by a separate
component. For example, FIG. 36 shows a separate component
providing region 107. The component has one or more fastening holes
911 positioned to correspond to anchor holes 913 on club head 101.
FIG. 37 shows club head 101 having the component installed.
[0135] In another example, FIG. 38 is a bottom view of a golf club
head with an attachable feature according to certain embodiments of
the invention. As shown in FIG. 38, the attachable component is
configured to fit with one or more braze-ons or ramps (which may be
welded, glued, riveted, molded, cast, or otherwise formed to club
head 101). FIG. 39 shows a cross sectional view through fastening
hole 911 and hardware element 917 (e.g., a screw or bolt) of club
head 101 with attachable region 107 attached. FIG. 40 shows a
bottom view of club head 101 with attachable region 107 attached.
As shown in FIG. 40, region 107 may be biased, e.g., in a heel
direction. For example, in the heel-toe direction, region 107 may
begin near the center of the sole, and have a length L between
about 1.5 cm and about 7.5 cm.
[0136] In another example, FIG. 41 is a bottom view of a golf club
head with an attachable feature according to certain embodiments of
the invention. As shown in FIG. 41, region 107 is provided by an
adhesive-backed element, here shown as a crack-and-peel accessory
803 (e.g., silicone polymer, rubber, molded or pliable plastic,
cell phone, etc.). The sole of club head 101 can optionally be
printed with registration marks 801 in any pattern, arrangement,
color, or appearance, to show a suggested installation position for
adhesive-backed accessory 803. FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view
showing installed accessory 803 to provide a region 107 meeting
aspects of the region discussed above. FIG. 43 is a bottom view of
club head 101 showing installed accessory 803.
[0137] FIGS. 44-46 show region 107 being provided by "irregular" or
non-rectangular areas of contours on the sole of club head 101. The
lines in FIG. 44 or FIG. 46 may represent contour lines and need
not be visible as lines on a sole. As shown in FIG. 44, region 107
may be provided as a somewhat oblong bi-lobed shape. Region 107
could be oval or teardrop shaped or any other shape. FIG. 46 shows
region 107 provided by about six substantially parallel tear-drop
shaped contours, for example, to provide smooth turf interaction
for club head 101.
[0138] FIGS. 47-50 show region 107 being provided by one or more
discrete areas of relief. In FIGS. 47-50, a discrete area of relief
is shown as a coin-shaped or button-like area, although any
specific geometry is included in the invention. FIGS. 47, 48, and
49 show three, two, and one, respectively, areas of relief to
provide region 107.
[0139] FIG. 50 shows region 107 provided by a single small area of
relief. Region 107 can have a length L between about 1 mm and about
5 mm, a width W between about 1 mm and about 5 mm, a height H
between about 0.1 mm and about 3 mm, and setback S between about 5
mm and about 6 cm. Region 107 may provide fore angle 703 of X
degrees and back angle 707 of Y degrees where each of X or Y may
independently be between about 0.1.degree. and about 8.degree.,
preferably between about 0.5.degree. and about 4.degree. (e.g.,
when club head is set at its centermost effective loft).
Preferably, X+Y is between about 0.5.degree. and about 7.degree. in
any loft setting. In some embodiments, region 107 is provided by a
dot or "point-point" projection, i.e., having any height H
described herein with an arbitrarily small length L and width W
(e.g., less than about 1 mm).
[0140] FIGS. 51 and 52 each present a cross-sectional view of a
golf club head according to certain embodiments of the invention,
taken along a line corresponding to line B-B' in FIG. 21.
[0141] FIGS. 53-64 illustrate various embodiments of a removable
stabilizing insert releasably couplable to a club head. As will be
described herein, region 107 may be provided by a separate
releasable component. For example, the following description refers
to various embodiments of a removable insert for golf club head and
configured to optimize performance of adjustable golf clubs. As
will be described in greater detail herein, the various embodiments
of the stabilizing element are generally separate and discrete from
the club head itself, such that the stabilizing element is
removable (e.g., separable from and recoupable to the club head).
Accordingly, a player may selectively attach/detach the stabilizing
element as they see fit, as opposed to some club designs which are
limited to elements that are built into, or otherwise permanently
fixed to, the club head. In some embodiments, each of the
stabilizing inserts described herein may have substantially similar
or identical dimensions (e.g., width W, length L, setback S, and
height H) as that of the region 107 previously described herein.
Accordingly, when coupled to the sole of a club head, the removable
stabilizing inserts are configured to minimize unintended changes
that may otherwise occur when the golf club is held at address in
different positions or when loft or face angle of the club head is
adjusted. While each of the stabilizing inserts may have the same
dimensions, the removable nature allows for customization of other
properties of individual inserts, such as varying the mass
properties so as to allow for adjusting mass characteristics of the
club head (e.g., switch out different inserts depending on desired
weight), different graphics and appearance, and the like.
Accordingly, the removable nature of the stabilizing inserts of the
present invention provides a player with the ability to customize
their golf club to suit their preferences or playing
characteristics, all while minimizing unintended changes to the
club head as a result of club head adjustments.
[0142] FIG. 53 is a bottom view of a golf club head 101
illustrating a removable stabilizing insert (also referred to
herein as "stabilizing element") to be releasably coupled to the
golf club head. As shown, the insert 921 is generally separate and
discrete from the club head 101, such that the stabilizing insert
921 is removable (e.g., separable from and recoupable to the club
head 102). Accordingly, a player may selectively attach/detach the
stabilizing element as they see fit, as opposed to some club
designs which are limited to elements that are built-into, or
otherwise permanently fixed to, the club head. The club head 101
may generally include one or more mounting portions 919 along one
or more areas of the club head 101 configured to receive and/or
retain the stabilizing insert 921. For example, as shown and
described herein, the club head 101 includes at least one mounting
portion 919 on the sole 102.
[0143] As will be described in greater detail herein, the mounting
portion 919 may include different embodiments. For example, in one
embodiment, the mounting portion 919 resembles a cavity or recess
defined on the exterior of the club head, shaped and/or sized to
receive a portion of the insert 921 within and retain the insert
921 by a releasable fastener or other fastening means (e.g.,
adhesive, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.). In other embodiments, the
mounting portion 919 may include an aperture formed on the sole
extending from an interior cavity to an exterior surface of the
club head. In this embodiment, the insert 921 is configured to be
mounted to the aperture 919 from within the interior cavity of the
club head, such that a portion of the insert 921 is positioned
within the interior cavity while another portion extends through
the aperture 919 and protrudes from the sole. The insert 921 may be
coupled to the aperture by a releasable fastener or other fastening
means (e.g., adhesive, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.). Accordingly, in
this embodiment, the stabilizing insert 921 may be "dropped in" the
mounting portion from within the interior cavity of the club head.
Thus, the club head itself may have an access portion, or other
portion, for providing a player with access into the interior
cavity.
[0144] As shown in FIG. 54, upon coupling the stabilizing insert
921 to the mounting portion 919, the stabilizing insert 921 is
mounted to the sole 102 of the club head and configured to minimize
unintended changes to the club head 101 that may otherwise occur
when a golf club, including the club head 101 and stabilizing
insert 921, is held at address in different positions or when loft
or face angle of the club head is adjusted. For example, the
stabilizing insert 921 functions similarly as region 107 previously
described herein. More specifically, the stabilizing insert is
configured to mitigate the change in relationship between the club
balance point and ground contact point at address, that most often
manifests as a rotation to a "rest position" when adjustments are
made to the club head. When coupled to the club head, the
stabilizing insert of the present invention is further configured
to provide a lowest region of the sole of the club head to contact
the ground in any effective club setting. For a club having the
stabilizing insert coupled to the sole, the spatial relationship
between contact point and balance point is substantially the same
in different settings. Thus, a club head that includes the
stabilizing insert of the present invention does not exhibit a
problematic interrelationship between different address positions
or adjustable loft and face angle settings, thereby overcoming the
drawbacks associated with current adjustable club head designs.
[0145] FIG. 55 is a bottom view of a golf club head including the
removable stabilizing insert 921 showing measurements of the
stabilizing insert 921. As previously described with reference to
FIG. 3, when a club is at address resting on a surface, grip point
187 and contact point 42 together define an axis around which
motion of the golf club is relatively unrestrained. If balance line
161 intersects the sole behind the contact point, the club will
rock open. If balance line 161 intersects the sole in front of the
contact point, the club will rock closed.
[0146] The stabilizing insert 921, similar to the region 107
described previously herein, has dimensions or contours such that,
if a golf club including the club head 101 is held at address in a
variety of orientations, then the contact point is within a
controlled, limited distance from the point at which the balance
line intersects the sole. Accordingly, the club can be held at
address, yet in two different orientations at different times. For
example, a first address position can be offset from a second
address position by a slight tilt (e.g., either in a heel-toe
direction, a fore-aft direction, or a combination thereof) and the
contact point will be within the contour or feature in each address
positions. In some embodiments, the stabilizing insert 921 is
configured such that, when a golf club including the club head 101
is held at address in either of a first or second position, the
club head 101 makes contact with a surface only within the
boundaries of the stabilizing insert 921.
[0147] Accordingly, the invention allows a club to be held in
different address positions (e.g., as a player learns or
experiments, due to ground inconsistencies, as one club is used by
players of different height) and obtain a consistent, predictable
club head orientation. Due to the fact that the club head 101 makes
contact with the ground within a controlled region below the club
balance point, the club will not "rock" into unintended
orientations when held at address resting on a surface.
[0148] In certain embodiments, the stabilizing element is
configured such that, if the club head 101 is set in a variety of
loft settings, then the contact point is within a controlled,
limited distance from the point at which the balance line
intersects the sole. Club head 101 can have an adjustable loft
capable of being set in at least a first and second position. With
the loft set in either of the first or second position, the club
head can rest on the feature in one of at least a first and second
disposition allowing a player to grip the club with a comfortable,
relaxed grip in each position and with the face angle maintained
constant between each position. Thus, due to the stabilizing
element 921, a player may adjust a loft setting, hold the club at
address resting on a surface, and obtain a consistent, predictable
face angle. This benefit gives a player a reliable reference point
when setting up a shot in that the player can rest the club head on
a surface and see the loft setting and the face angle (while the
player holds the club with a comfortable, relaxed grip). The player
can then grip the club and pick it up to make a shot, thereby
obtaining the same relative face angle for every shot.
[0149] As shown in FIG. 55, when coupled to the mounting portion
919, the stabilizing insert 921 has a set of dimensions, including,
but not limited to, a width W, a length L (measured in heel-toe
direction), and being spaced away from the face of the club by a
setback S. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 57, the stabilizing insert
921, when coupled to the mounting portion 919, further protrudes
from the sole 102 by a height H. It should be noted that, although
FIG. 55 shows the stabilizing insert 921 as having a generally
rectangular shape in plan-view (i.e., map view), the insert 921 may
need not have a rectangular shape in plan view and can be round,
oblong, irregular, oval, curved, or any other shape.
[0150] Generally, the stabilizing insert 921 can be described with
reference to width W, height H, and length L as maximum width W,
maximum height H, and maximum length L, and setback S as minimum
setback S. The height H is defined as, when the club head 101 is
held at address resting on flat ground, the average distance from
the ground of points on the perimeter of the stabilizing insert 921
directly fore and aft of a ground contact point (e.g., see FIGS.
24-27).
[0151] Generally, S is greater than about 0.5 cm, L is more than
about 0.5 cm, W is more than about 0.5 mm, and H is more than about
0.1 mm. In certain embodiments, S is between about 1.5 cm and about
3.5 cm; L is between about 2.5 cm and about 12 cm; W is between
about 3 mm and about 25 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about
2 mm. For example, S can be between about 2.8 cm and about 3.3 cm;
L can be greater than about 1 cm; W can be between about 9 mm and
about 20 mm; and H can be between about 0.1 mm and about 3 mm. Any
combination of measurements disclosed herein is within the scope of
the invention. For example, in certain embodiments, S is more than
about 2.5 cm; L is greater than about 1 cm; W is between about 9 mm
and about 20 mm; and H is between about 0.3 mm and about 2 mm.
[0152] A golf club head 101 having the stabilizing insert 921
according to embodiments of the invention exhibits desirable
behaviors, particularly an adjustable loft that does not affect the
face angle when the club is at address. For example, specific
dimensions of the stabilizing insert 921, including, but not
limited to, length L, width W, and height H, and setback S, must
generally be within a certain range so as to allow the stabilizing
insert 921 to function as intended, specifically to minimize
unintended changes to the club head, such as maintain a constant
face angle, regardless of changes to a loft setting of the club
head.
[0153] In addition to maintaining a club face angle despite
adjustments to the club head, the removable stabilizing inserts 921
of the present invention provide additional benefits. For example,
the removable nature of the stabilizing insert addresses potential
drawbacks associated the manufacturing of club head designs
incorporating fixed or built-in components or features.
[0154] As previously described, certain club head designs include
features that may be incorporated into the overall form of the club
head, such as a keel integrally formed on the sole of a club head.
The manufacturing of such club head designs can be difficult,
particularly in instances in which the built-in feature must have a
relatively tight tolerance and any variation outside of that
tolerance is unacceptable and may negatively impact or prevent the
intended function of built-in feature. By providing a separate and
discrete stabilizing insert, the stabilizing insert and golf club
head of the present invention can be manufactured separately under
separate conditions and by separate machines and processes.
Accordingly, specific manufacturing techniques that provide a high
degree of precision and detail, which may otherwise be unavailable
or impractical when manufacturing the club head, may be used to
manufacture the stabilizing insert and yield the tight tolerance
that may be required. For example, the stabilizing insert can be
manufactured by a variety of different machines and techniques,
including, but not limited to, CNC machined, forged, metal
injection molding, cast, injection molded, and the like.
Accordingly, the specific dimensions of the stabilizing insert,
including, but not limited to, length, width, height, and setback,
which must generally be within a certain range so as to allow the
stabilizing insert to function as intended, can be maintained.
[0155] Furthermore, because the stabilizing insert and club head
are separately manufactured, a plurality of interchangeable
stabilizing inserts can be manufactured (e.g., provided in a kit),
wherein a player may further customize and personalize their club
head to suit their preferences or playing characteristics based on
the interchangeability of the inserts. For example, while each
stabilizing element includes the same dimensions, the removable
nature allows for customization of other properties of individual
inserts, such as varying the mass properties between inserts so as
to allow for modification of mass characteristics of the club head
(e.g., a player switches out different inserts depending on desired
weight and resulting playing characteristic), different graphics
and appearance, and the like. Accordingly, the removable nature of
the stabilizing inserts of the present invention provides a player
with the ability to customize their golf club to suit their
preferences or playing characteristics, all while minimizing
unintended changes to the club head as a result of club head
adjustments.
[0156] The stabilizing insert 921 of the present invention may be
made of any suitable material, including metals, non-metallic
materials, composites, ceramics, polymers, and the like. In some
embodiments, the stabilizing insert may be formed of carbon steel,
stainless steel, carbon fiber, tungsten, tungsten loaded polymer,
combinations of one or more of these materials, and the like. In
some embodiments, at least a portion of the stabilizing insert may
be formed of a flexible material to allow some bending or flex. In
other embodiments, some portions of the stabilizing insert may be
formed of stiffer materials. In some embodiments, one or more
portions of the stabilizing element may be formed of a metal
material, such as aluminum or steel, and forged into the desired
shape. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the stabilizing
element may be formed using molding techniques, such as injection
molding.
[0157] FIG. 56 is a top view of a golf club head 101 with a portion
of the crown removed so as to provide a view into an interior
cavity of the golf club head and further illustrate attachment of a
removable stabilizing insert to a mounting portion on the sole of
the club head. FIG. 57 is sectional view of the golf club head 101
taken along lines C-C of FIG. 56. As shown, the mounting portion on
the sole 102 of the club head 101 may include an aperture 919a. The
aperture 919a extends through the sole 102 of the club head 101,
from an interior cavity 108 to an exterior 109 of the club head
101. The aperture 919a generally includes similar dimensions as
that of a portion of the stabilizing insert 921a to pass through
the aperture 919a and protrude from the sole 102. For example, the
aperture 919a generally has substantially the same length L and
width W (may be slightly larger for accommodation) as the portion
of the stabilizing insert 921a that is to protrude from the sole
102 and function as intended. Furthermore, the aperture 919a is
formed along a portion of the sole 102 and spaced away from the
face 106 of the club head 101 by a setback S distance.
[0158] As show in FIG. 57, when coupling the stabilizing insert
921a to the aperture 919a, the stabilizing insert 921a is
configured to be "dropped in" the aperture 919a from within the
interior cavity 108 of the club head 101. For example, when coupled
to the club head 101, the stabilizing insert 921a has a first
portion configured to remain positioned within the interior cavity
108 and a second portion that extends through the aperture 919a to
the exterior 109 of the club head 101. Thus, the club head 101 may
have an access portion, or other portion, for providing a player
with access into the interior cavity 108. Exemplary club heads
having accessible interiors are discussed in Golf Club Head with
Removable Component, U.S. Publication 2014/0187346, Golf Club Head
with Accessible Interior, U.S. Publication 2014/0228142, Golf Club
Head with Accessible Interior, U.S. Publication 2014/0349777, and
Releasable Threaded Component for a Golf Club Having a Mechanism
for Preventing Over Rotation, U.S. Publication 2015/0190687, the
contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in
their entirety.
[0159] FIG. 58 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sole 102
of the golf club head 101 illustrating the removable stabilizing
inert 921a coupled to the aperture 919a. FIG. 59 is an enlarged
cross-sectional view illustrating the removable stabilizing inert
921a removed from engagement with the aperture 919a. As shown, the
stabilizing insert 921a includes a first portion 923 including a
flange member 929 extending along a perimeter of the insert 921a
and a second portion including a protruding member 925 extending
from the flange member 923.
[0160] As shown in FIG. 58, the insert 921a is configured to be
releasably coupled to the aperture 919a, as indicated by arrow 927.
The stabilizing insert 921a may be releasably couplable to the
aperture 919a by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit
means, and a press-fit means. For example, when coupled to the
aperture 919a, the flange member 929 is configured to contact an
interior surface 931 of the sole 102 along a perimeter of the
aperture 919a, as indicated by arrow 933. Accordingly, in one
embodiment, a releasable adhesive may be placed between the flange
member 929 and the interior surface 931. Additionally, or
alternatively, one or more portions of the stabilizing insert 921a
may be configured to interact with the aperture 919a in a snap-fit
or press-fit manner. For example, a portion of the protruding
member 925 adjacent the flange member 929 may have a width and/or
length slightly greater than a width and/or length of the aperture
919a such that, upon applying sufficient pressure to the insert
921a, the protruding member 925 may engage the aperture 919a via a
press- or snap-fit manner. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a
portion of the protruding member 925 or aperture 919a may be
deformable so as to provide a press- or snap-fit between one
another.
[0161] Upon being coupled to the aperture 919a, the protruding
member 925 is configured to extend through the aperture 919a to the
exterior 109 of the club head 101. Accordingly, the protruding
member 925 is configured to protrude from the sole 102 by a height
H. Accordingly, at least the protruding member 925 has the specific
set of dimensions, including, but not limited to, height H that it
protrudes from the sole, a width W, a length L (measured in
heel-toe direction), and being spaced away from the face of the
club by a setback S.
[0162] FIGS. 60 and 61 are perspective bottom views of a golf club
head illustrating another embodiment of a stabilizing insert 921b
releasably couplable to another embodiment of a mounting portion
919b on the sole of the club head. As shown, the mounting portion
919b may include a cavity or recess 935 defined on the exterior of
the sole 102 club head 101 and configured to receive at least a
portion of a stabilizing insert 921b within.
[0163] FIG. 62 is a sectional view of the golf club head 101 taken
along line E-E of FIG. 61. FIGS. 63 and 64 are enlarged
cross-sectional views illustrating the removable stabilizing insert
921b coupled to and removed from the recess 919b, respectively. As
shown, the recess 935 is formed on the exterior of the club head
101. Thus, in order to couple the insert 921b to the mounting
portion 919a, a player need only releasably attach the insert 921b
to the recess 935, which has a corresponding shape and/or size and
is configured to receive at least a portion of the insert 921b
within. The insert 921b includes a first portion configured to be
received within the recess 935 and the second portion extending
from the first portion of the stabilizing insert 921b and further
extends from the recess. The first portion includes a base member
937 having at least bottom surface configured to contact an
interior surface of the recess 935 when the stabilizing insert 921b
is coupled to the recess 935. The second portion includes a
protruding member 939 extending from the base member 937 and
protruding from the sole by height H.
[0164] The recess 935 generally includes similar dimensions as that
of the base member 937 of the stabilizing insert 921b. For example,
the recess 935 generally has substantially the same length L and
width W (may be slightly larger for accommodation) as the base
member 937. Furthermore, the recess 935 is formed along a portion
of the sole 102 and spaced away from the face 106 of the club head
101 by a setback S distance. The recess 935 may have a depth
sufficient to allow the protruding member 939 to protrude from the
sole 102 within the specific range previously described herein
(e.g., 0.3 mm to 2 mm).
[0165] As shown in FIG. 64, the insert 921b is configured to be
releasably coupled to the recess 935, as indicated by arrow 941.
The stabilizing insert 921b may be releasably couplable to the
recess 935 by way of at least one of an adhesive, a snap-fit means,
and a press-fit means. For example, when coupled to the recess 935,
the bottom surface of the base member 937 is configured to contact
an interior surface of the recess 935. Accordingly, in one
embodiment, a releasable adhesive may be placed between the
interior surface of the recess 935 and at least the bottom surface
of the base member 937. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more
portions of the stabilizing insert 921b may be configured to
interact with the recess 935 in a snap-fit or press-fit manner. For
example, a portion of the base member 937 may have a width or
length slightly greater than a width or length of the recess 935,
such that, upon applying sufficient pressure to the insert 921b,
the base member 937 may engage the recess 935 via a press- or
snap-fit manner. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a portion of the
base member 937 or recess 935 may be deformable so as to provide a
press- or snap-fit between one another.
[0166] Upon being coupled to the recess 935, the protruding member
939 protrudes from the sole 102 by a height H. Accordingly, at
least the protruding member 929 has the specific set of dimensions,
including, but not limited to, height H that it protrudes from the
sole, a width W, a length L (measured in heel-toe direction), and
being spaced away from the face of the club by a setback S.
[0167] In various embodiments, region 107 (including the
stabilizing insert of FIGS. 53-64) is provided on drivers, hybrids,
woods, and irons. By providing a club head including a stabilizing
element of the invention, a club can be made to provide a golfer
with two or more reliable ranges for shot distances.
[0168] As generally understood, a set of golf clubs will typically
include 14 clubs, each intended for hitting the golf ball a certain
range. For example, a golfer may have a driver, a 2 wood, a 5 wood,
3-9 irons, 3 wedges, and a putter. The variations are as numerous
as the temperaments of the players. Some golfers will have a
driver, a wood, a hybrid, six irons, four wedges, and a putter.
[0169] Drivers are used for very long shots--drives--off the tee
whereas wedges are used for short shots. With a given club, a
golfer will be able to reliably make good shots over a certain
range of distances. While the precise numbers will vary from golfer
to golfer, Table 1 lists an exemplary set of golf clubs and, for
each, shows the distance range within which the club will perform
reliably for the golfer.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Distance range for reliable shots by club
for a hypothetical golfer Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance
range 1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 3 wood 205-225 9 iron
115-125 5 wood 185-205 Pitch wedge 105-115 3 iron 175-185 Gap wedge
95-105 4 iron 165-175 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge
75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0170] As can be seen from Table 1, club designers have engineered
clubs that, taken as a set, provide reliable performance over a
wide range of distances.
[0171] However, Table 1 lists 15 clubs and PGA rules allow 14 clubs
in a set. So choosing a set of golf clubs requires choosing a range
of distances for which your clubs provide poor coverage. For
example, many golfers will choose to have all the clubs listed in
Table 1 but the 5 wood. The hypothetical golfer of Table 1, leaving
behind their 5 wood, would have no club well-suited to 200 yard
shots.
[0172] Some golfers may try to fill their distance gap by using a
hybrid. Table 1 shows an exemplary club set including two hybrids,
and a set of ranges that a hypothetical golfer may be able to
reliably hit the ball using those clubs.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Distance range for reliable shots by club
for a hypothetical golfer Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance
range 1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 3 wood 205-225 9 iron
115-125 19.degree. hybrid 185-205 Pitch wedge 105-115 22.degree.
hybrid 175-185 Gap wedge 95-105 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob
wedge 75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0173] As can be seen in Table 2, this set has a problematic gap
for shots that must travel 165 to 180 yards. Table 3 shows another
exemplary set that a golfer may employ.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Distance range for reliable shots by club
for a hypothetical golfer Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance
range 1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 3 wood 205-225 9 iron
115-125 5 wood 185-205 Pitch wedge 105-115 Gap wedge 95-105
25.degree. hybrid 165-175 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge
75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0174] The set shown in Table 3 is plagued by a gap at 180 to 195
yards.
[0175] Thus, for many golfers, a set of clubs inherently defines a
gap in the distances that their shots can cover. This gap has been
described as the `distance gap`. The persistence of the distance
gap problem is evidenced by the tips that golfers exchange on the
course, "Choke up on the handle of your 5 wood to take 5 yards
off!" or, "Strengthen your grip on your 4 iron to add 5 yards."
[0176] In one embodiment, the invention generally provides a set of
golf clubs, each having a shaft with a club head and a grip on
opposing ends. At least one club of the set is an adjustable club
in that it has an adjustment mechanism operable to provide two or
more effective loft settings. The adjustable club may include a
stabilizing mechanism that gives the club the same face angle while
having any of the two or more effective loft settings. By these
means, the club can play (at least) "double duty" in a golfer's
set. This way, a golfer can get clubs suited for 15 different types
of shots out of 14 individual clubs. Table 4 lists an exemplary
club set made to include an adjustable hybrid.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Exemplary club set including adjustable
hybrid. Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance range 1 wood
(driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 3 wood/16 h 205-225 9 iron 115-125
19.degree.|22.degree. adj hybrid 175-185, 185-205 Pitch wedge
105-115 Gap wedge 95-105 25.degree. hybrid 165-175 Sand wedge 85-95
5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge 75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7
iron 135-145
[0177] While generally presented here in terms of the longer-range
clubs (e.g., woods, hybrids, and irons), any club can be made
adjustable. Further, the tables presented herein are illustrative
of ranges that some hypothetical golfer may get out of their
personal set of clubs, and it will be appreciated that the
invention provides the operative idea of a set of clubs for any
golfer, whatever range values obtain for that golfer for their
clubs personally. Thus, the specific ranges shown herein are not
limiting and merely illustrate the operation of the inventive
concept.
[0178] For example, some golfer out there may derive great
satisfaction from their 3 wood and their 5 wood. This golfer may
normally forgo the use of a 3 iron, and thus have a problematic
distance gap between their 4 iron and their 5 wood. Make use of an
adjustable club of the invention, this hypothetical golfer may
solve this problem by equipping themselves with an adjustable
hybrid having a 25.degree. loft angle and a 22.degree. loft angle,
and leaving behind both their 3 iron and their 4 iron. This
golfer's golf bag would then include the clubs listed in Table
5.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Contents of golf bag of golfer using
inventive club set with 3 wood and 5 wood. Distance range Club
(yards) Club Distance range 1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135
3 wood/16 h 205-225 9 iron 115-125 5 wood/19 h 185-205 Pitch wedge
105-115 Gap wedge 95-105 25.degree.|22.degree. adj hybrid 165-175,
175-185 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge 75-85 6 iron
145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0179] To contrast the example given with respect to Table 5, some
other golfer may personally prefer to not use hybrids. This other
golfer has traditionally gone to the course without a 5 wood,
instead just carrying a 3 wood, a 3 iron, a 4 iron, and so on. This
golfer may now obtain an adjustable wood according to the
invention, the adjustable wood providing the role of a 3 wood and a
5 wood. This golfer's set is represented as now listed in table
6.
[0180] The ability of a club head of the invention to provide two
or more reliable ranges for a given golfer relates to the provision
of a stabilizing element, generally protruding from the sole of a
club. The invention proceeds from the insight that prior art
adjustable clubs provided poor playability due to poor control over
face angle when a loft angle was adjusted.
[0181] To contrast the example given with respect to Table 5, some
other golfer may personally prefer to not use hybrids. This other
golfer has traditionally gone to the course without a 5 wood,
instead just carrying a 3 wood, a 3 iron, a 4 iron, and so on. This
golfer may now obtain an adjustable wood according to the
invention, the adjustable wood providing the role of a 3 wood and a
5 wood. This golfer's set is represented as now listed in table
6.
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 Golf club set of invention for golfer who
disfavors hybrids. Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance range
1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 3|5 adj wood 185-205,
205-225 9 iron 115-125 Pitch wedge 105-115 3 iron 175-185 Gap wedge
95-105 4 iron 165-175 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge
75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0182] The invention generally relates to a feature on the sole of
a club head that protrudes and stabilizes the club head in two or
more positions when a club is at address. In various embodiments,
region 107 is provided on drivers, hybrids, woods, and irons. By
providing a club head including a stabilizing element of the
invention, a club can be made to provide a golfer with two or more
reliable ranges for shot distances.
[0183] The ability of a club head of the invention to provide two
or more reliable ranges for a given golfer relates to the provision
of a stabilizing element, generally protruding from the sole of a
club. The invention proceeds from the insight that prior art
adjustable clubs provided poor playability due to poor control over
face angle when a loft angle was adjusted.
[0184] By providing a club head including a stabilizing element of
the invention, a club can be made to provide a golfer with two or
more reliable ranges for shot distances. To illustrate, a golfer
may include in their bag the fourteen clubs listed in Table 7 to
take advantage of the invention.
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Club set according to certain embodiments.
Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance range 1 wood (driver)
225-260 8 iron 125-135 3 wood 205-225 9 iron 115-125 19.degree.
hybrid 195-205 Pitch wedge 105-115 22.degree. hybrid 175-185 Gap
wedge 95-105 Sand wedge 85-95 29.degree.|25.degree. adj hybrid
155-165, 165-175 Lob wedge 75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green
7 iron 135-145
[0185] The set shown in Table 7 includes an adjustable hybrid
having at least two loft settings: 29.degree. and 25.degree..
[0186] Golf rules generally allow fourteen clubs in a bag. Many
golfers experience a distance-gapping problem only among or within
certain parts of their sets. In some embodiments, the invention
solves a golfer's distance-gapping problem by providing a set of
golf clubs including fewer than fourteen clubs (e.g., two clubs,
three clubs, four clubs, . . . ) for the golfer to use with other
of their clubs to fill their bag. One insight of the invention is
that the beneficial results of the set include the results provided
by replacing the club that is "adjacent" to the distance-gap in a
golfer's range list. Thus there is great value to many golfers in
providing a set of two or three clubs, at least one of which is an
adjustable club according to the invention.
[0187] For example, a golfer having the clubs listed in Table 1 may
purchase a set including an adjustable wood and two adjustable
hybrids. This golfer may then use this new set of adjustable clubs
instead of their 3 wood, 5 wood, 3 iron, and 4 iron, to arrive at
the clubs listed in Table 8.
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 14 clubs including 3 adjustable clubs of
invention. Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance range 1 wood
(driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 4|3 adj wood/16 h 190-210, 9 iron
115-125 205-225 19.degree.|16.degree. adj hybrid 185-205, 205-225
Pitch wedge 105-115 Gap wedge 95-105 25.degree.|22.degree. adj
hybrid 165-175, 175-185 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge
75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0188] That is to say, a set of clubs according to the invention
can be fewer than 14 or 14 clubs. Table 9 gives another exemplary
set of 14 clubs according to the invention.
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Exemplary set of 14 clubs. Golfer may
purchase only first 3 as set and may already own the other 11, or
the golfer may purchase all 14 as a set. Distance range Club
(yards) Club Distance range 1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135
3|5 adj wood 185-205, 205-225 9 iron 115-125 Pitch wedge 105-115
25.degree.|22.degree. adj hybrid 165-175, 175-185 Gap wedge 95-105
4 iron 165-175 Sand wedge 85-95 5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge 75-85 6
iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7 iron 135-145
[0189] In certain embodiments, a wood is provided in which the loft
can be set at two or more effective settings including a setting at
about 13.degree. loft and a setting at about 16.degree. (range of
adjustable loft is at least about 3.degree.), and a sole of the
club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front
plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating
angles with the ground that together are at least about 3.degree..
In certain embodiments, a hybrid is provided in which the loft can
be set at two or more effective settings including a setting at
about 16.degree. loft and a setting at about 25.degree. (range of
adjustable loft is at least about 9.degree.), and a sole of the
club head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front
plane 403 and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating
angles with the ground that together are at least about 9.degree..
In certain embodiments, an iron is provided in which the loft can
be set at two or more effective settings and a sole of the club
head has a region 107 with boundaries that define a front plane 403
and a back plane 407 (both tangent to the sole) creating angles
with the ground that together are at least the difference between
the two effective settings.
[0190] The inventive method of providing a set of golf clubs can be
employed to beneficially improve a golfer's game. The method
includes receiving information about a golfer and the hitting
ranges with the golfer's clubs. With this information, one
identifies a distance gap in the golfer's hitting ranges.
[0191] Then, one may select an adjustable club of the invention
that covers the golfer's distance gap. A set of clubs including the
selected club is provided to the golfer. Table 10 shows an
exemplary set that may be provided to a hypothetical golfer by
methods of the invention.
TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 Distance range for reliable shots by club
for a hypothetical golfer Distance range Club (yards) Club Distance
range 1 wood (driver) 225-260 8 iron 125-135 3 wood 205-225 9 iron
115-125 5 wood 185-205 Pitch wedge 105-115 Gap wedge 95-105
25.degree.|22.degree. adj hybrid 165-175, 175-185 Sand wedge 85-95
5 iron 155-165 Lob wedge 75-85 6 iron 145-155 Putter On the green 7
iron 135-145
[0192] The method may be implemented through the use of a computer,
either within a store or other facility or over the Internet. Thus
in some embodiments, the method includes saving the information to
a tangible, non-transitory memory operably coupled to a processor
in a computer apparatus and using the processor in the identifying,
determining, and selecting steps.
[0193] In certain aspects, the invention provides methods and
systems for making, shipping, stocking, and selling golf clubs
requiring only a single club head that satisfies consumer demand
for different lofts and aesthetic features. For each of a plurality
of customers, a golf club can be provided having a selected color,
graphical depiction, loft, and/or face angle.
[0194] Due to the fact that a single club head of the invention can
provide a club with a variety of features, such as color, graphics,
and settings for loft or face angle, a store can stock fewer
different club heads than would be required if only prior art club
heads were available. Thus the invention allows for a configurable
golf club to be provided that allows, for example, a store to sell
golf clubs having a large number of configurations while only
stocking a small number of club heads, shafts, and related
hardware.
[0195] Accordingly, a golf club head having a sole with region 107
according to embodiments of the invention is provided for use with
reconfigurable and interchangeable combinations of golf club parts
(e.g., shafts, heads, ferrules, etc.). Mechanisms and methods for
setting different club configurations are described in
Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pub. 2009/0197694;
Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pub. 2009/0264214;
Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pat. No. 7,699,717;
Interchangeable Shaft System, U.S. Pub. 2011/0143854;
Interchangeable Shaft and Club Head Connection System, U.S. Pat.
No. 7,878,921; Interchangeable Shaft and Club Head Connection
System, U.S. Pub. 2010/0261543; Interchangeable Shaft and Club head
Connection System, U.S. Pub. 2009/0247316; Quick Release Connection
System for Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2008/0125239; Two-Part Hosel
Connection System for Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2008/0254909; and
Interchangeable Shaft for a Golf Club, U.S. Pat. No. 7,476,160, the
contents of each of which are herein incorporated by reference in
their entirety.
[0196] Due to the fact that a club head of the invention prevents
unwanted deviations from an intended orientation when held at
address in different positions, a club head having a sole with
region 107 according to embodiments of the invention is provided
for use with any golf club (i.e., clubs that are not
interchangeable, adjustable, or reconfigurable, as well as those
that are). The invention provides a club head that can be
permanently affixed to a shaft as well as other non-adjustable
clubs.
[0197] Due to the fact that a club head of the invention enables a
supplier (e.g., a store, pro-shop, wholesaler, sales rep,
manufacturer, etc.) to offer a wider variety of clubs while
stocking fewer independent parts, the invention provides the
ability for a supplier to carry a greater variety of parts as
defined by some other property, such as color, model, or trim
level. For example, because a supplier can fit a customer with a
driver having any loft and face angle using a single club head, a
certain driver type can be provided for a large variety of
customers using only a single stock-keeping unit (SKU) in a
database or inventory system of the supplier. This means, relative
to a supplier not using a club head of the invention, a large
number of SKUs are "freed up" and can be used for other products.
Similarly, a large amount of display space and storage space in the
supply chain is likewise made available. Thus, these freed up
resources can be used to provide clubs having, for example, a
variety of colors.
[0198] Club heads of the invention enable suppliers to provide a
variety of different clubs (e.g., requiring different SKUs, for
example, one for each different color), where before, suppliers
were limited to using those resources (SKUs and space) to carry
enough versions of a single club head to satisfy the fitting
requirements of a number of different customers.
[0199] The invention results in unexpected efficiencies in the
manufacturing process because a club head can be brought to market
having a variety of fits with only one form factor, a single
manufacturing tool (e.g., mold) is required, thus lowering the cost
of bringing a product to market. The single manufacturing tool can
be used to produce club heads having a variety of colors, finishes,
or "trim levels." Generally, trim level includes a brand name,
decorative element, functional accessories, price, or combination
thereof. For example, a driver may be sold having a single club
head, but given both an SE and LE (e.g., "special edition" and
"luxury edition") trim level, including silver stripes and a rubber
grip on the SE model while having gold stripes, leather grip, and
electronic components on the LE model. Also, the single
manufacturing tool can be used to produce club heads having a
variety of colors.
[0200] Because club heads that fit a variety of golfers can be made
with a single tool, resources are freed to make club heads in a
variety of colors and, more specifically, color can be provided in
smaller runs, e.g., changed on a batch-by-batch basis. In some
embodiments, the invention provides a set of club heads having a
shared form factor and in a variety of colors. Club heads can be
primary and secondary colors, fluorescent colors, regular or
irregular patterns (e.g., plaid, speckled, tie-dyed, marbleized).
Club heads can be made in limited runs having a distinctive color
(e.g., the trademark color of a partnering luxury goods
manufacturer or the trademark stripes or plaid pattern of a
corporate partner).
[0201] Due to the fact that a manufacturer can offer a whole line
of a particular club (e.g., a particular driver) to fit a variety
of customers, by providing a single head, and that the color can be
varied easily among the heads, manufacturers can offer distributors
great flexibility and extensibility in the colors they offer to
their customers. Due to this flexibility and extensibility, in
certain embodiments, a retail store can offer clubs in small lots
having truly customized colors. For example, a golf team or group
can be provided with a set of clubs in which all of the club heads
match the official colors of the group.
[0202] The invention provides personalized or customized color
heads. Since all of a club head for a particular club can be
provided by a single tool, manufacturing resources are greatly
freed up by the invention. Thus, a manufacturer can repurpose its
available resources, for example, to provide personalized
customized color. In certain embodiments, a customer may choose a
color (e.g., from a book, through an HTML color picker, etc.) or
provide information about a color (e.g., provide a specimen,
Pantone number, etc.) and a manufacturer can produce one or more
club heads having the corresponding color.
[0203] A club head can be made having region 107 by any method
known in the art. Club head 101 can be molded, cast, forged, or
assembled from components by adhesives, welding, snap-fit,
press-fit, or any other method known, or combination of any of the
foregoing. Exemplary clubs and methods of making them are discussed
in Multi-Piece Golf Club head with Improved Inertia, U.S. Pub.
2010/0056297; Golf Club Head with Moveable Insert, U.S. Pub.
2010/0105499; Golf Club Head, U.S. Pat. No. 7,803,065; Metal Wood
Golf Club Head, U.S. Pub. 2008/0227564; Golf Club Head With
Multi-Component Construction, U.S. Pub. 2011/0152003; Golf Club
Heads, U.S. Pub. 2011/0151989; Method of Making Golf Clubs, U.S.
Pub. 2011/0277313; and Method of Making Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub.
2010/0298065, the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated
by reference in their entirety. Club head 101 can have any
combination of one or more rib, weight, or other structural element
beneficial to playability of the club.
[0204] A club head of the invention can include additional weights
or moveable (e.g., rotatable or sliding) or interchangeable weight
members, for example, to optimize a center of gravity or a moment
of inertia of club head 101. Any method known in the art can be
used to add adjustable weight or further functionalize club head
101. Rotatable members are described in Adjustable Golf Club, U.S.
Pat. No. 2,593,368; Club Head with Movable Weight, U.S. Pat. No.
3,589,731; Weight Adjusting Structure of Golf Club Head, U.S. Pub.
2009/0215551; and Golf Club Head with Moveable Insert, U.S. Pub.
2010/0105499 (see, e.g., FIGS. 22-24); and Adjustable Golf Club,
U.S. Pat. No. 4,735,414, the contents of each of which are herein
incorporated by reference in their entirety. Non-rotatable (e.g.,
sliding, interchangeable, repositionable, etc.) mechanisms are
described in Adjustable Weight Golf Clubs, U.S. Pub. 2008/0020861
and Golf Club Head with Alignment System, U.S. Pub. 2011/0190070
(see, e.g., FIG. 8), the contents of which are herein incorporated
by reference in their entirety. Replaceable or interchangeable
weight is described in Golf Club With Peripheral Weighting, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,860,818, the contents of which are incorporated by
reference herein in their entirety. Weight of club head 101 can be
minimized, allowing weight to be re-distributed to other areas,
through the use of lightweight inserts. Weight-saving inserts are
described in Golf Club With Concave Insert, U.S. Pub. 2011/0275455,
the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0205] References and citations to other documents, such as
patents, patent applications, patent publications, journals, books,
papers, web contents, have been made throughout this disclosure.
All such documents are hereby incorporated herein by reference in
their entirety for all purposes.
EQUIVALENTS
[0206] Various modifications of the invention and many further
embodiments thereof, in addition to those shown and described
herein, will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the
full contents of this document, including references to the
scientific and patent literature cited herein. The subject matter
herein contains important information, exemplification and guidance
that can be adapted to the practice of this invention in its
various embodiments and equivalents thereof.
* * * * *