GOLF CLUB HEAD
20250229145 ยท 2025-07-17
Inventors
- Paul M. Demkowski (Cardiff, CA, US)
- Jonathan Dreitlein (Carlsbad, CA, US)
- Bill Price (Santa Ana, CA, US)
- Gustavo Eduardo Alisio (San Diego, CA, US)
Cpc classification
International classification
Abstract
A putter golf club head having one or more repositionable weight assemblies, such as a heel weight assembly and a toc weight assembly.
Claims
1. A putter-type golf club head, comprising: a body, comprising a toe, a heel, a top, a sole, a rear, and a front, wherein the toe is opposite the heel, the top is opposite the sole, the rear is opposite the front, and the front comprises a strike face; and a hosel, coupled to the top of the body, wherein the hosel comprises: a beam, comprising a heelward end and a toeward end, and coupled directly to and extending along the top of the body in a heel-to-toe direction from the heelward end to the toeward end; a first strut, at a first oblique angle relative to the beam, comprising a first-strut lower end coupled directly to the heelward end of the beam, and comprising a first-strut upper end; a second strut, at a second oblique angle relative to the beam, comprising a second-strut lower end coupled directly to the toeward end of the beam, and comprising a second-strut upper end coupled directly to the first-strut upper end; a forward recess and a rearward recess defined between the beam, the first strut, and the second strut; and a socket, coupled directly to the first-strut upper end and to the second-strut upper end, and configured to mate with a golf club shaft.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate similar elements.
[0007]
[0008]
[0009]
[0010]
[0011]
[0012]
[0013]
[0014]
[0015]
[0016]
[0017]
[0018]
[0019]
[0020]
[0021]
[0022]
[0023]
[0024]
[0025]
[0026]
[0027]
[0028]
[0029]
[0030]
[0031]
[0032]
[0033]
[0034]
[0035]
[0036]
[0037]
[0038]
[0039]
[0040]
[0041]
[0042]
[0043]
[0044]
[0045]
[0046]
[0047]
[0048]
[0049]
[0050]
[0051]
[0052]
[0053]
[0054]
[0055]
[0056]
[0057]
[0058]
[0059]
[0060]
[0061]
[0062]
[0063]
[0064]
[0065]
[0066]
[0067]
[0068]
[0069]
[0070]
[0071]
[0072]
[0073]
[0074]
[0075]
[0076]
[0077]
[0078]
[0079]
[0080]
[0081]
[0082]
[0083]
[0084]
[0085]
[0086]
[0087]
[0088]
[0089]
[0090]
[0091]
[0092]
[0093]
[0094]
[0095]
[0096]
[0097]
[0098]
[0099]
[0100]
[0101]
[0102]
[0103]
[0104]
[0105]
[0106]
[0107]
[0108]
[0109]
[0110]
[0111]
[0112]
[0113]
[0114]
[0115]
[0116]
[0117]
[0118]
[0119]
[0120]
[0121]
[0122]
[0123]
[0124]
[0125]
[0126]
[0127]
[0128]
[0129]
[0130]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0131] For purposes of this description, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the embodiments of this disclosure are described herein. The described methods, systems, and apparatus should not be construed as limiting in any way. Instead, the present disclosure is directed toward all novel and non-obvious features and aspects of the various disclosed embodiments, alone and in various combinations and sub-combinations with one another. The disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus are not limited to any specific aspect, feature, or combination thereof, nor do the disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus require that any one or more specific advantages be present, or problems be solved.
[0132] Features, properties, characteristics, materials, values, ranges, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the disclosure are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The disclosure is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The disclosure extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.
[0133] Although the operations of some of the disclosed methods are described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, this manner of description encompasses rearrangement, unless a particular ordering is required by specific language set forth below. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways in which the disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus can be used in conjunction with other systems, methods, and apparatus.
[0134] As used herein, the terms a, an, and at least one encompass one or more of the specified element. That is, if two of a particular element are present, one of these elements is also present and thus an element is present. The terms a plurality of and plural mean two or more of the specified element. As used herein, the term and/or used between the last two of a list of elements means any one or more of the listed elements. For example, the phrase A, B, and/or C means A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B, and C. As used herein, the term coupled generally means physically coupled or linked and does not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the coupled items absent specific contrary language. The inventive features include all novel and non-obvious features disclosed herein both alone and in novel and non-obvious combinations with other elements. As used herein, the phrase and/or means and, or and both and and or. As used herein, the singular forms a, an, and the refer to one or more than one, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the term includes means comprises. Any use of terminology such as at least one of A and B shall be interpreted to mean at least one of A or B, and is not meant to exclude having both A and B, unless noted otherwise.
[0135] Directions and other relative references (e.g., inner, outer, upper, lower, etc.) may be used to facilitate discussion of the drawings and principles herein, but are not intended to be limiting. For example, certain terms may be used such as inside, outside,, top, down, interior, exterior, and the like. Such terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships, particularly with respect to the illustrated embodiments. Such terms are not, however, intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an upper part can become a lower part simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same part and the object remains the same. As used herein, and/or means and or or, as well as and and or.
[0136]
[0137] As shown, the putter head 100 includes a body 102.
[0138] The hosel 122 may join the body 102 at a hosel interface 200, seen in
[0139] The striking face 116 can have a geometric center defining an origin 128 of a club head origin coordinate system when the putter head 100 is at a normal address position. For example, the club head coordinate system can include a club head X-axis being tangent to the striking face 116 at the origin 128 and parallel to a ground plane GP. The club head X-axis can extend in a positive direction from the origin 128 to the heel portion 120 of the putter head. The club head coordinate system can include a club head Y-axis intersecting the origin 128, being parallel to the ground plane GP and orthogonal to the club head X-axis. The club head Y-axis can extend in a positive direction from the origin 128 to the rearward portion 118 of the putter head. The club head coordinate system can include a club head Z-axis intersecting the origin 128, and being orthogonal to both the club head X-axis and the Y-axis. The club head Z-axis can extend in a positive direction from the origin 128 vertically toward the top portion 112 of the putter head. The heel portion 120 can extend towards, and may include a portion having the hosel 122. The heel portion 120 can extend from a club head Y-Z plane passing through the origin 128 and including the heel portion 120. The toe half of the club head can be defined as the portion of the club head extending from the club head Y-Z plane in a direction opposite the heel portion 120 and including the toe portion 124; and the heel half of the club head can be defined as the portion of the club head extending from the club head Y-Z plane in a direction opposite the toe half and including the heel 120.
[0140] The putter head 100 has a center of gravity CG, also referred to as the putter head CG, club head CG, and/or just CG, which includes the influence and location of all of the individual components of the putter head 100. The club head origin coordinate system can used to define the location of various features of the club head (including a club head center-of-gravity CG. The head origin coordinate system is defined with respect to the origin 128 and includes three axes just described, namely the club head X-axis, club head Y-axis, and club head Z-axis. Any golf club head features disclosed and/or claimed herein are defined with reference to the club head origin coordinate system, unless specifically stated otherwise. The center of gravity (CG) of a golf club head is the average location of the weight of the golf club head or the point at which the entire weight of the golf club head may be considered as concentrated so that if supported at this point the head would remain in equilibrium in any position.
[0141] The putter head CG is shown as a point whose location can also be defined with reference to the club head origin coordinate system. For example, and using millimeters as the unit of measure, a CG that is located 3.2 mm from the head origin 128 toward the toe of the club head along the club head X-axis, 36.7 mm from the head origin 128 toward the rear of the club head along the club head Y-axis, and 4.1 mm from the head origin 128 toward the sole of the club head along the club head Z-axis can be defined as having a CGx of 3.2 mm, a CGy of 36.7 mm, and a CGz of 4.1 mm. Additionally, a Zup dimension is the elevation of the putter head CG vertically above the ground plane GP, as seen in
[0142] The club head CG may be used to define a CG coordinate system having a CG X-axis passing through the club head CG and parallel to the club head X-axis, a CG Y-axis passing through the club head CG and parallel to the club head Y-axis, and a CG Z-axis passing through the club head CG and parallel to the club head Z-axis, as seen in
[0143] The body 102 can comprise a relatively rigid material, such as stainless steel alloy, carbon steel alloy, aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, other metals/alloys, and/or nonmetallic materials as disclosed herein. The striking face 116 can be a front surface of the body 102 or can be a separate piece that is coupled to the front of the body 102 (e.g., the striking face 116 can be made of a different material than the body 102, such as a polymeric material or any of the materials disclosed herein). The putter head 100 can also include one or more weight members 130 coupled to the body 102, such as those illustrated in
[0144] The location of each distinct component or assembly of the club head may be identified in a manner similar to that of the club head CG. For example, the heel weight assembly 1300 has a heel weight assembly CG, labeled CGh in the figures, and the CGh may be used to define a CGh coordinate system having a CGh X-axis passing through the heel weight assembly CG and parallel to the club head X-axis, a CGh Y-axis passing through the heel weight assembly CG and parallel to the club head Y-axis, and a CGh Z-axis passing through the heel weight assembly CG and parallel to the club head Z-axis, as seen best in
[0145] Likewise, the toe weight assembly 1400 has a toe weight assembly CG, labeled CGt in the figures, and the CGt may be used to define a CGt coordinate system having a CGt X-axis passing through the toe weight assembly CG and parallel to the club head X-axis, a CGt Y-axis passing through the toe weight assembly CG and parallel to the club head Y-axis, and a CGt Z-axis passing through the toe weight assembly CG and parallel to the club head Z-axis, as seen best in
[0146] Thus, the heel weight assembly CGh is shown as a point whose location can also be defined with reference to the club head origin coordinate system. The heel weight assembly CGh is the center of gravity associated with all the components that move with the heel weight assembly 1300. For example, and using millimeters as the unit of measure, a CGh that is located 15 mm from the head origin 128 toward the heel of the club head along the club head X-axis, 20 mm from the head origin 128 toward the rear of the club head along the club head Y-axis, and 5 mm from the head origin 128 toward the sole of the club head along the club head Z-axis can be defined as having a CGhx of 15 mm, a CGhy of 20 mm, and a CGhz of 5 mm. Additionally, the heel weight assembly CG is located a Zup-h dimension vertically above the ground plane GP, as seen in
[0147] Similarly, the toe weight assembly CGt is shown as a point whose location can also be defined with reference to the club head origin coordinate system. The toe weight assembly CGt is the center of gravity associated with all the components that move with the toe weight assembly 1400. For example, and using millimeters as the unit of measure, a CGt that is located 15 mm from the head origin 128 toward the toe of the club head along the club head X-axis, 20 mm from the head origin 128 toward the rear of the club head along the club head Y-axis, and 5 mm from the head origin 128 toward the sole of the club head along the club head Z-axis can be defined as having a CGtx of 15 mm, a CGty of 20 mm, and a CGtz of 5 mm. Additionally, the toe weight assembly CG is located a Zup-t dimension vertically above the ground plane GP, as seen in
[0148] The location and mass of the repositionable weight assembly 1000, in this example the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400, impacts the location of the club head CG. For example when the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 are located in a rear position, such as that illustrated in
[0149] Similarly, when the heel weight assembly 1300 is located in a rear position and the toe weight assembly 1400 is located in a forward position, such as that illustrated in
[0150] Further, the location and mass of the repositionable weight assembly 1000, in this example the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400, impacts the moment of inertias of the putter head 100. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, a putter head 100 has a moment of inertia about the vertical CG Z-axis (Izz), a moment of inertia about the heel/toe CG X-axis (Ixx), and a moment of inertia about the front/back CG Y-axis (Iyy). A moment of inertia about the golf club head CG X-axis (Ixx) is calculated by the following equation:
where y is the distance from a golf club head CG xz-plane to an infinitesimal mass dm and z is the distance from a golf club head CG xy-plane to the infinitesimal mass dm. The golf club head CG xz-plane is a plane defined by the golf club head CG x-axis and the golf club head CG z-axis. The CG xy-plane is a plane defined by the golf club head CG X-axis and the golf club head CG Y-axis. Similarly, a moment of inertia about the golf club head CG Z-axis (Izz) is calculated by the following equation:
where x is the distance from a golf club head CG yz-plane to an infinitesimal mass dm and y is the distance from the golf club head CG xz-plane to the infinitesimal mass dm. The golf club head CG yz-plane is a plane defined by the golf club head CG Y-axis and the golf club head CG Z-axis. Similarly, a moment of inertia about the golf club head CG Y-axis (Iyy) is calculated by the following equation:
where x is the distance from a golf club head CG yz-plane to an infinitesimal mass dm and z is the distance from the golf club head CG xy-plane to the infinitesimal mass dm. The golf club head CG xy-plane is a plane defined by the golf club head CG X-axis and the golf club head CG Y-axis. A further description of the coordinate systems for determining CG positions and MOI can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,358,430, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
[0151]
[0152] The bottom plan view of
[0153] As seen in
[0154] Thus, in some embodiments the heel weight assembly 1300 may be secured to the putter head 100 at any location along the heel track 1100, while in other embodiments the heel weight assembly 1300 may be secured to the putter head 100 at only discrete locations along the heel track 1100. References to the heel weight portion 1310 and/or the heel washer portion 1320 are for convenience only and only refer to the relative mass of one another with the heel weight portion 1310 having a mass greater than that of the heel washer portion 1320, however in one embodiment they have the same mass. Further, while some embodiments, such as those seen in
[0155] The heel weight portion 1310 is formed of a heel weight portion material having a heel weight portion density and has a heel weight portion mass, and the heel washer portion 1320 is formed of a heel washer portion material having a heel washer portion density and has a heel washer portion mass. In one embodiment the heel weight portion material is different than the heel washer portion material, while in a further embodiment the heel weight portion density is at least 50% greater than the heel washer portion density, and in further embodiments at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100% greater. In another embodiment the heel weight portion mass is at least 100% greater than the heel washer portion mass, and in further embodiments at least 200%, 400%, 600%, 800%, 1000%, 1200%, 1400%, or 1600% greater. While in another embodiment the heel weight portion mass is no more than 4000% greater than the heel washer portion mass, and in further embodiments no more than 3800%, 3600%, 3400%, 3200%, 3000%, 2800%, 2600%, or 2400% greater. In another embodiment the heel washer portion mass is no more than 20 grams, and in further embodiments no more than 16 grams, 12 grams, 8 grams, 4 grams, or 2 grams. The heel weight portion density is at least 7 g/cc in one embodiment, and at least 9 g/cc, 11 g/cc, 13 g/cc, or 15 g/cc in further embodiments. The heel weight portion mass is at least 20 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 24 grams, 28 grams, 32 grams, 36 grams, 40 grams, 44 grams, 48 grams, 52 grams, 56 grams, 60 grams, 64 grams, 68 grams, 72 grams, 76 grams, 80 grams, 84 grams, 88 grams, 92 grams, 96 grams, or 100 grams. In another embodiment the heel weight portion mass is no more than 150 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments no more than 140 grams, 130 grams, 120 grams, or 110 grams. In another embodiment the heel weight portion mass is 20-90 grams, and in further embodiments 30-85 grams, 35-80 grams, 40-75 grams, 45-70 grams, or 50-65 grams. The heel weight fastener 1330 is formed of a heel weight fastener material having a heel weight fastener density and has a heel weight fastener mass. In one embodiment the heel weight fastener material is the same as at least one of the heel weight portion material and/or the heel washer portion material. The heel weight fastener mass is less than the heel washer portion mass in one embodiment, while in a further embodiment the heel weight fastener mass is less than 4 grams, and in further embodiments less than 3 grams, 2 grams, or 1 gram. The heel washer portion mass is at least 50% greater than the heel weight fastener mass in one embodiment, and in further embodiments is at least 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, or 100% greater. In one embodiment the heel washer portion density or the heel weight fastener density is less than 8 g/cc, and in further embodiments less than 5 g/cc, 4 g/cc, or 3 g/cc. Further, the heel weight assembly 1300 has a total heel weight assembly mass of at least 20 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 24 grams, 28 grams, 32 grams, 36 grams, 40 grams, 44 grams, 48 grams, 52 grams, 56 grams, 60 grams, 64 grams, 68 grams, 72 grams, 76 grams, 80 grams, 84 grams, 88 grams, 92 grams, 96 grams, or 100 grams. In another embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 mass is no more than 150 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments no more than 140 grams, 130 grams, 120 grams, or 110 grams. In another embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 mass is 20-90 grams, and in further embodiments 30-85 grams, 35-80 grams, 40-75 grams, 45-70 grams, or 50-65 grams. The heel weight assembly 1300 has a total heel weight assembly mass of less than 35% of a total putter head mass in one embodiment, and in further embodiments no more than 32.5%, 30%, 27.5%, 25%, 22.5%, 20%, or 17.5%. The heel weight assembly 1300 has a total heel weight assembly mass of at least 5% of a total putter head mass in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, or 12%. The components of the heel weight assembly 1300 and their associated locations, size, mass, density, and associated relationships significantly impact the heel weight assembly CGh location and corresponding moments of inertia of the putter head 100.
[0156] Similarly, as seen in
[0157] Thus, in some embodiments the toc weight assembly 1400 may be secured to the putter head 100 at any location along the toe track 1200, while in other embodiments the toe weight assembly 1400 may be secured to the putter head 100 at only discrete locations along the toc track 1200. References to the toc weight portion 1410 and/or the toe washer portion 1420 are for convenience only and only refer to the relative mass of one another with the toe weight portion 1410 having a mass greater than that of the toe washer portion 1420, however in one embodiment they have the same mass. Further, while some embodiments, such as those seen in
[0158] The toe weight portion 1410 is formed of a toe weight portion material having a toc weight portion density and has a toe weight portion mass, and the toe washer portion 1420 is formed of a toe washer portion material having a toc washer portion density and has a toe washer portion mass. In one embodiment the toe weight portion material is different than the toe washer portion material, while in a further embodiment the toe weight portion density is at least 50% greater than the toe washer portion density, and in further embodiments at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100% greater. In another embodiment the toe weight portion mass is at least 100% greater than the toe washer portion mass, and in further embodiments at least 200%, 400%, 600%, 800%, 1000%, 1200%, 1400%, or 1600% greater. While in another embodiment the toc weight portion mass is no more than 4000% greater than the toe washer portion mass, and in further embodiments no more than 3800%, 3600%, 3400%, 3200%, 3000%, 2800%, 2600%, or 2400% greater. In another embodiment the toe washer portion mass is no more than 20 grams, and in further embodiments no more than 16 grams, 12 grams, 8 grams, 4 grams, or 2 grams. The toc weight portion density is at least 7 g/cc in one embodiment, and at least 9 g/cc, 11 g/cc, 13 g/cc, or 15 g/cc in further embodiments. The toe weight portion mass is at least 20 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 24 grams, 28 grams, 32 grams, 36 grams, 40 grams, 44 grams, 48 grams, 52 grams, 56 grams, 60 grams, 64 grams, 68 grams, 72 grams, 76 grams, 80 grams, 84 grams, 88 grams, 92 grams, 96 grams, or 100 grams. In another embodiment the toe weight portion mass is no more than 150 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments no more than 140 grams, 130 grams, 120 grams, or 110 grams. In another embodiment the toe weight portion mass is 20-90 grams, and in further embodiments 30-85 grams, 35-80 grams, 40-75 grams, 45-70 grams, or 50-65 grams. The toe weight fastener 1430 is formed of a toe weight fastener material having a toe weight fastener density and has a toe weight fastener mass. In one embodiment the toe weight fastener material is the same as at least one of the toe weight portion material and/or the toe washer portion material. The toe weight fastener mass is less than the toe washer portion mass in one embodiment, while in a further embodiment the toe weight fastener mass is less than 4 grams, and in further embodiments less than 3 grams, 2 grams, or 1 gram. The toe washer portion mass is at least 50% greater than the toe weight fastener mass in one embodiment, and in further embodiments is at least 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, or 100% greater. In one embodiment the toe washer portion density or the toe weight fastener density is less than 8 g/cc, and in further embodiments less than 5 g/cc, 4 g/cc, or 3 g/cc. Further, the toe weight assembly 1400 has a total toe weight assembly mass of at least 20 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 24 grams, 28 grams, 32 grams, 36 grams, 40 grams, 44 grams, 48 grams, 52 grams, 56 grams, 60 grams, 64 grams, 68 grams, 72 grams, 76 grams, 80 grams, 84 grams, 88 grams, 92 grams, 96 grams, or 100 grams. In another embodiment the toe weight assembly 1400 mass is no more than 150 grams in one embodiment, and in further embodiments no more than 140 grams, 130 grams, 120 grams, or 110 grams. In another embodiment the toe weight assembly 1400 mass is 20-90 grams, and in further embodiments 30-85 grams, 35-80 grams, 40-75 grams, 45-70 grams, or 50-65 grams. The toc weight assembly 1400 has a total heel weight assembly mass of less than 35% of a total putter head mass in one embodiment, and in further embodiments no more than 32.5%, 30%, 27.5%, 25%, 22.5%, 20%, or 17.5%. The toe weight assembly 1400 has a total toe weight assembly mass of at least 5% of a total putter head mass in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, or 12%. The components of the toe weight assembly 1400 and their associated locations, size, mass, density, and associated relationships significantly impact the toe weight assembly CGt location and corresponding moments of inertia of the putter head 100.
[0159] In further embodiments the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 may be multi-material construction. For example in one embodiment the heel weight portion 1310 and/or the toe weight portion 1410 may be primarily constructed of non-metallic material with high-density material attached to, embedded in, or mixed with the non-metallic material.
[0160] The putter head 100 has an overall club head mass that is at least 330 grams in one embodiment, and at least 340 grams, 350 grams, and 360 grams in additional embodiments. In another series of embodiments the overall club head mass is no more than 435 grams, and in further embodiments no more than 425 grams, 415 grams, 405 grams, 395 grams, or 385 grams. The putter head 100 is attached to a putter shaft having a golf grip, thereby creating a putter having a putter length as defined by The Equipment Rules by The R&A and USGA, First Edition, Effective Jan. 1, 2019. In one embodiment the putter length is at least 32, and in further embodiments at least 33, 34, or 35. In a further embodiment the putter length is no more than 37, and in further embodiments no more than 36.5, 36, or 35.5. In a further embodiment the putter is counter balanced with a grip weight, shaft weight, weighted grip, and/or weighted shaft, adding a counter balance mass to the putter, and in such embodiments an additional 50-70 grams may be added to the disclosed overall club head masses. In one embodiment the counter balance mass is at least 25 grams, and in further embodiments at least 40 grams, 55 grams, or 70 grams. In another embodiment the counter balance mass is no more than 150 grams, and in further embodiments no more than 130 grams, 110 grams, or 80 grams.
[0161] The one or more repositionable weight assemblies 1000, whether it includes a heel weight assembly 1300 and/or a toe weight assembly 1400, as seen in
[0162] As seen in
[0163] The heel weight portion 1310 has a heel weight portion thickness 1311, seen in
[0164] As seen in
[0165] The toe weight portion 1410 has a toe weight portion thickness 1411, seen in
[0166] The sole sidewall 111, seen in
[0167] The one or more repositionable weight assemblies 1000, whether it includes a heel weight assembly 1300 and/or a toe weight assembly 1400, and/or the heel track 1100 or toe track 1200, and variations thereof, may be implemented in any other type of golf club, such as a driver, fairway wood, hybrid, rescue, iron (cavity back, muscle back, hollow iron), wedge, or other golf club type, to provide the adjustability and performance benefits disclosed herein. Thus, references to putter head herein may be interchanged with the term club head, driver club head, fairway wood club head, hybrid or rescue club head, iron club head, cavity back iron club head, muscle back iron club head, hollow iron club head, and/or wedge club head. For example, any of the disclosed features may be incorporated into the club heads disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/864,171, filed Jul. 13, 2022, Ser. No. 17/881,339, filed Aug. 4, 2022, Ser. No. 17/505,511, filed Oct. 19, 2021, Ser. No. 18/137,065, filed Apr. 20, 2023, Ser. No. 17/565,580, filed Dec. 30, 2021, Ser. No. 17/696,664, filed Mar. 16, 2022, Ser. No. 17/564,077, filed Dec. 28, 2021, Ser. No. 17/974,279, filed Oct. 26, 2022, Ser. No. 18/122,487, filed Mar. 16, 2023, and Ser. No. 17/722,632, filed Apr. 18, 2022, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
[0168] In
[0169] All embodiments referencing visible surface area of a weight assembly are determined when viewed straight down in a top plan view with the putter head 100 in the normal address position, unless noted otherwise as in the embodiments specifically mentioning bottom view visible surface area, which is determined when viewed straight down at a bottom plan view with the putter head 100 in the normal address position. For example in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 has a maximum visible surface area and a minimum visible surface area depending upon the location. In one embodiment the minimum visible surface area is at least 20% less than the maximum visible surface area, and in further embodiments at least 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80%. In one embodiment at least one position of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 results in a visible surface area of zero, meaning no portion of it is exposed to view when viewed straight down in a top plan view with the putter head 100 in the normal address position. In another embodiment the maximum visible surface area of either the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toc weight assembly 1400 is at least 1 cm{circumflex over ()}2, and in further embodiments at least 1 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 1.25 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 1.5 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 1.75 cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 2 cm{circumflex over ()}2. In a further embodiment the maximum visible surface area of either the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is no more than 20 cm{circumflex over ()}2, and in further embodiments no more than 18 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 16 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 14 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 12 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 10 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 8 cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 6 cm{circumflex over ()}2. In one embodiment the bottom view visible surface area is always greater than the visible surface area, aka top visible surface area, regardless of the position of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400.
[0170] All embodiments referencing visible perimeter length of a weight assembly are determined when viewed straight down in a top plan view with the putter head 100 in the normal address position, and likewise for the visible perimeter length of the overall putter head 100. For example in one embodiment, in at least one location the heel weight assembly 1300 or the toc weight assembly 1400 has a weight assembly visible perimeter length that is at least 5% of the maximum length L and/or the maximum width W of the putter head 100, and in further embodiments at least 10%, 15%, 20%, or 25%. In a further embodiment a maximum weight assembly visible perimeter length the heel weight assembly 1300 or the toe weight assembly 1400 is no more than 75% of the maximum length L and/or the maximum width W of the putter head 100, and in further embodiments no more than 65%, 55%, 45%, or 35%.
[0171] Another embodiment recognizes that some golfers prefer not to see any unusual changes to the perimeter of the putter head 100 near the point that they are focusing on while addressing a golf ball and during the stroke, namely the striking face 116, but are less distracted by perimeter changes when they are further from the striking face 116. Thus, in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 create no portion of the visible perimeter length of the overall putter head 100 within a visual clearance distance behind the striking face 116 and measured in the club head Y-axis direction. In a further embodiment there is no visible surface area of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 within the visual clearance distance behind the striking face 116. Further the desired visual clearance distance is impacted by the maximum length L and/or the maximum width W. In one embodiment the visual clearance distance is at least 10% of the maximum length L and/or the maximum width W, and in further embodiments at least 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30%. In a further embodiment the visual clearance distance is no more than 70% of the maximum length L and/or the maximum width W, and in further embodiments no more than 60%, 50%, 45%, or 40%. The embodiment of
[0172] Additionally, the visual asymmetry created by the position of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is confidence inspiring for certain known tendencies. For example, a golfer that tends to leave the face open at impact, in other words-struggles to return the face to square, would find the confidence in the visual characteristics of the positions illustrated in
[0173] In another embodiment the maximum visible surface area of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 occurs at the location furthest from the striking face 116, while in a further embodiment the visible surface area decreases as the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is moved toward the striking face 116. In the illustrated embodiment and positions of
[0174] In one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is hidden from view regardless of the position, again as determined when viewed straight down in a top plan view with the putter head 100 in the normal address position, as some golfers prefer not to see a change in the shape of the perimeter of the club head as the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is repositioned. In fact, an embodiment includes at least one faux weight assembly to provide the appearance of a weight assembly, but does not move as the real heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is repositioned. For instance either, or both, of the illustrated heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 may be a one faux weight assembly
[0175] For example in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 has a maximum visible surface area and a minimum visible surface area depending upon the location. In one embodiment the minimum visible surface area is at least 20% less than the maximum visible surface area, and in further embodiments at least 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80%. In one embodiment at least one position of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 results in a visible surface area of zero, meaning no portion of it is exposed to view when viewed straight down in a top plan view with the putter head 100 in the normal address position. In another embodiment the maximum visible surface area of either the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is at least 1 cm{circumflex over ()}2, and in further embodiments at least 1 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 1.25 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 1.5 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 1.75 cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 2 cm{circumflex over ()}2. In a further embodiment the maximum visible surface area of either the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is no more than 20 cm{circumflex over ()}2, and in further embodiments no more than 18 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 16 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 14 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 12 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 10 cm{circumflex over ()}2, 8 cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 6 cm{circumflex over ()}2. In one embodiment the bottom view visible surface area is always greater than the visible surface area, aka top visible surface area, regardless of the position of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400.
[0176] The HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 are measured as illustrated in
[0177] In one embodiment both the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 are either obtuse or acute. In another embodiment one of the angles is obtuse or acute and the other angle is ninety degrees. In a further embodiment one of the angles is obtuse while the other angle is acute. In a further embodiment the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 are equal, while in another embodiment the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 are not equal. In particular embodiment the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 are not equal and differ by a predetermined x-axis angle differential, which in one embodiment is at least 0.5 degrees, and in further embodiments is at least 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, or 7.5 degrees. Another series of embodiments caps the predetermined x-axis angle differential to no more than 90 degrees, and in further embodiments no more than 80, 70, 60, 50, 40, 30, 20, or 10 degrees.
[0178] Further, in an embodiment of
[0179] In
[0180] Thus, similar to the previously disclosed CGhx differential and the CGtx differential, in one embodiment movement of the heel weight assembly 1300 changes the Zup-h value from a minimum Zup-h to a maximum Zup-h, with the difference between them defining a Zup-h differential, and likewise movement of the toe weight assembly 1400 changes the Zup-t from a minimum Zup-t to a maximum Zup-t, with the difference between them defining a Zup-t differential. In one embodiment the Zup-h differential and/or the Zup-t differential is at least 4% of the maximum height H, and in further embodiments at least 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, or 10%. In another embodiment the Zup-h differential and/or the Zup-t differential is no more than 80% of the maximum height H, and in further embodiments no more than 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, or 30%. In one embodiment the Zup-h differential and/or the Zup-t differential is at least 1 mm, and in further embodiments at least 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm. In another embodiment the Zup-h differential and/or the Zup-t differential is no more than 14 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 12 mm, 10 mm, 8 mm, or 6 mm. The Zup-h differential is equal to the Zup-t differential in some embodiments, however in a further embodiment the Zup-h differential is greater than the Zup-t differential, and in another embodiment the Zup-h differential is less than the Zup-t differential. The CGhx differential is greater than the Zup-h differential in one embodiment, the CGhx differential is less than the Zup-h differential in another embodiment, and the CGhx differential is equal to the Zup-h differential yet a further embodiment. Similarly, the CGtx differential is greater than the Zup-t differential in one embodiment, the CGtx differential is less than the Zup-t differential in another embodiment, and the CGtx differential is equal to the Zup-t differential yet a further embodiment.
[0181] A heel x-z delta is an absolute value of a difference between the CGhx differential and the Zup-h differential, and in one embodiment the heel x-z delta is at least 1 mm, and in further embodiments at least 1.5 mm, 2 mm, or 2.5 mm. In a further series of embodiments the heel x-z delta is no more than 14 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 12 mm, 10 mm, 8 mm, 6 mm, or 4 mm. Similarly, a toe x-z delta is an absolute value of a difference between the CGtx differential and the Zup-t differential, and in one embodiment the toe x-z delta is at least 1 mm, and in further embodiments at least 1.5 mm, 2 mm, or 2.5 mm. In a further series of embodiments the toe x-z delta is no more than 14 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 12 mm, 10 mm, 8 mm, 6 mm, or 4 mm. For example if the CGhx differential is 8 mm and the Zup-h differential is 2 mm, the heel x-z delta is 6 mm; and if the CGhx differential is 2 mm and the Zup-h differential is 8 mm, the heel x-z delta is also 6 mm.
[0182] The location, size, and orientation of the heel track 1100 or toe track 1200 significantly influence the performance of the putter head 100, and so to do the attributes of the one or more repositionable weight assemblies 1000. Referring again to the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 of
[0183] In one embodiment the heel weight assembly CGh is offset from the HT longitudinal axis 1130 in at least one direction. Stated another way, at least one of the CGh X-axis, the CGh Y-axis, and the CGh Z-axis do not intersect the HT longitudinal axis 1130. For example in one embodiment, in
[0184] In one embodiment the TTLVP separation distance and/or the HTLVP separation distance is constant through the range of motion of the toe weight assembly 1400 and/or the heel weight assembly 1300. However, in a further embodiment the TTLVP separation distance and/or the HTLVP separation distance may vary through the range of motion of the toe weight assembly 1400 and/or the heel weight assembly 1300. In such variable separation distance embodiments, as seen in
[0185] In one embodiment the heel track 1100 and/or toe track 1200 are configured, and work in conjunction with the shape of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400, such that in at least one position no portion of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toc weight assembly 1400 is above the origin 128, while in a second position at least a portion of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is above the origin 128. Taken even further, in another embodiment in at least one position the Zup-t and/or Zup-h is below the elevation of the origin 128, while in a second position the Zup-t and/or Zup-h is above the elevation of the origin 128. In still another embodiment at least one position of the repositionable weight assembly 1000 results in a club head Zup that is below the elevation of the origin 128, while a second position of the repositionable weight assembly 1000 results in a club head Zup that is above the elevation of the origin 128.
[0186] In the illustrated mallet-style putter head 100 embodiments the HT length 1110 and/or TT length 1210, seen in
[0187] While the heel track 1100 and the toc track 1200 may be distinct and separate, as seen in
[0188] The location of the heel track 1100, and/or heel weight assembly 1400, in relation to the hosel 122 also plays a significant role in the performance. With reference again to
[0189] In another embodiment a first distance between a portion of the heel weight assembly 1300 and the striking face 116, referred to as a heel weight-face offset distance, is less than a second distance between the rearwardmost hosel interface point 204 and the striking face 116, referred to as a rear interface offset distance. In another embodiment the heel weight-face offset distance is at least 1 mm less than the rear interface offset distance, and in further embodiments at least 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. In another embodiment a difference between the rear interface offset distance and the heel weight-face offset distance is no more than 15 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 13 mm, 11 mm, 9 mm, or 7 mm.
[0190] Similarly, in one embodiment a first distance between the TT proximal end 1212 and the striking face 116, referred to as a toe track-face offset distance, is less than a second distance between the rearwardmost hosel interface point 204 and the striking face 116, referred to as a rear interface offset distance. In another embodiment the toe track-face offset distance is at least 1 mm less than the rear interface offset distance, and in further embodiments at least 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. In another embodiment a difference between the rear interface offset distance and the toe track-face offset distance is no more than 15 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 13 mm, 11 mm, 9 mm, or 7 mm.
[0191] In another embodiment a first distance between a portion of the toe weight assembly 1400 and the striking face 116, referred to as a toe weight-face offset distance, is less than a second distance between the rearwardmost hosel interface point 204 and the striking face 116, referred to as a rear interface offset distance. In another embodiment the toe weight-face offset distance is at least 1 mm less than the rear interface offset distance, and in further embodiments at least 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. In another embodiment a difference between the rear interface offset distance and the toe weight-face offset distance is no more than 15 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 13 mm, 11 mm, 9 mm, or 7 mm.
[0192] In another embodiment at least a portion of the heel track 1100 is between the hosel interface front-back toeward plane 220 and the perimeter of the heel portion 120. In another embodiment at least a portion of the heel track 1100 is between the hosel interface front-back centerline plane 210 and the perimeter of the heel portion 120. In another embodiment at least a portion of the heel track 1100 is between the hosel interface front-back heelward plane 230 and the perimeter of the heel portion 120. In another embodiment, the HT longitudinal axis 1130 located between the HT proximal end 1112 and the HT distal end 1114 intersects the hosel interface front-back heelward plane 230. In another embodiment, the HT longitudinal axis 1130 located between the HT proximal end 1112 and the HT distal end 1114 intersects the hosel interface front-back centerline plane 210. In another embodiment, the HT longitudinal axis 1130 located between the HT proximal end 1112 and the HT distal end 1114 intersects the hosel interface front-back toward plane 220. In another embodiment at least two locations of the heel weight assembly 1300 are located at least 25 mm apart and at both locations the heel weight assembly CGh is located between the hosel interface front-back heelward plane 230 and the perimeter of the heel portion 120, while in further embodiments the locations are at least 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, 45 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm apart. In one embodiment every location of the heel weight assembly 1300 has the heel weight assembly CGh located between the hosel interface front-back heelward plane 230 and the perimeter of the heel portion 120. Another embodiment has at least one location of the heel weight assembly 1300 has the heel weight assembly CGh located between the hosel interface front-back heelward plane 230 and the perimeter of the toc portion 124.
[0193] In some examples, the putter head 100 can also include various other features, such as a sole plate 132 attached to the bottom of the body 102, a crown insert (not shown) attached to the top of the body, etc. For instance, in one embodiment such as that illustrated in
[0194] In the embodiment illustrated in
[0195]
[0196]
[0197]
[0198] At least one secondary weight 2000, as seen in
[0199] The putter head 100 may include an internal cavity 3000, seen formed in the upper body portion 103 in
[0200] In one embodiment the cavity insert 3100 is formed of a nonmetallic cavity insert material having a cavity insert material density of less than 2 g/cc, and in further embodiments less than 1.8 g/cc, 1.6 g/cc, 1.4 g/cc, 1.2 g/cc, 1 g/cc, 0.8 g/cc, 0.6 g/cc, or 0.4 g/cc. The cavity insert 3100 may be formed of any of the filler materials or damper materials disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/506,843, filed Nov. 10, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. A variety of materials and manufacturing processes may be used in providing the cavity insert 3100. In one or more embodiments, the cavity insert 3100 is a combination of Santoprene and Hybrar. For example, using different ratios of Santoprene to Hybrar, the durometer of the cavity insert 3100 may be manipulated to provide for different damping characteristics, such as interference, dampening, and stiffening properties. In one embodiment, a ratio of about 85% Santoprene to about 15% Hybrar is used. In another embodiment, a ratio of at least about 80% Santoprene to about 10% Hybrar is used. In another embodiment the cavity insert is at least 60% Santoprene, and no more than 25% Hybrar.
[0201] Examples of materials that may be suitable for use as a cavity insert 3100 include, without limitation: viscoelastic elastomers; vinyl copolymers with or without inorganic fillers; polyvinyl acetate with or without mineral fillers such as barium sulfate; acrylics; polyesters; polyurethanes; polyethers; polyamides; polybutadienes; polystyrenes; polyisoprenes; polyethylenes; polyolefins; styrene/isoprene block copolymers; hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers; metallized polyesters; metallized acrylics; epoxies; epoxy and graphite composites; natural and synthetic rubbers; piezoelectric ceramics; thermoset and thermoplastic rubbers; foamed polymers; ionomers; low-density fiber glass; bitumen; silicone; and mixtures thereof. The metallized polyesters and acrylics can comprise aluminum as the metal. Commercially available materials include resilient polymeric materials such as Scotchweld (e.g., DP-105) and Scotchdamp from 3M, Sorbothane from Sorbothane, Inc., DYAD and GP from Soundcoat Company Inc., Dynamat from Dynamat Control of North America, Inc., NoViFlex Sylomer from Pole Star Maritime Group, LLC, Isoplast from The Dow Chemical Company, Legetolex from Piqua Technologies, Inc., and Hybrar from the Kuraray Co., Ltd.
[0202] In some embodiments, the cavity insert 3100 may have a modulus of elasticity ranging from about 0.001 GPa to about 25 GPa, and a durometer ranging from about 5 to about 95 on a Shore D scale. In other examples, gels or liquids can be used, and softer materials which are better characterized on a Shore A or other scale can be used. The Shore D hardness on a polymer is measured in accordance with the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) test D2240.
[0203] In some embodiments, the cavity insert 3100 may have a density of about 0.95 g/cc to about 1.75 g/cc, or about 1 g/cc. The cavity insert 3100 may have a hardness of about 10 to about 70 shore A hardness. In certain embodiments, a shore A hardness of about 40 or less is preferred. In certain embodiments, a shore D hardness of up to about 40 or less is preferred.
[0204] In some embodiments, the cavity insert 3100 may have a density between about 0.16 g/cc and about 0.19 g/cc or between about 0.03 g/cc and about 0.19 g/cc. In certain embodiments, the density of the cavity insert 3100 is in the range of about 0.03 g/cc to about 0.2 g/cc, about 0.04-0.18 g/cc, about 0.05-0.16 g/cc, about 0.06-0.12 g/cc, or less than 0.10 g/cc. The density of the cavity insert 3100 may impact the COR, durability, strength, and damping characteristics of the club head. The cavity insert 3100 material may have a hardness range of about 15-85 Shore OO hardness or about 80 Shore OO hardness or less.
[0205] In one or more embodiments, the cavity insert 3100 may be provided with different durometers across a length of the cavity insert 3100. For example, the cavity insert 3100 may be co-molded using different materials with different durometers, masses, densities, colors, and/or other material properties. In one embodiment, the cavity insert 3100 may be provided with a softer durometer adjacent to the ideal striking location of the strike face than adjacent to the heel and toe portions. In another embodiment, the cavity insert 3100 may be provided with a harder durometer adjacent to the ideal striking location of the strike face than adjacent to the heel and toe portions. In these examples, the different material properties used to co-mold the cavity insert 3100 may provide for better performance and appearance.
[0206] Additional and different damper materials and manufacturing processes can be used in one or more embodiments. For example, additional cavity insert 3100 materials and manufacturing processes are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,427,018, 9,937,395, 9,044,653, 8,920,261, and 8,088,025, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. For example, the cavity insert 3100 may be manufactured at least in part of rubber, silicone, elastomer, another relatively low modulus material, metal, another material, or any combination thereof. For example, a foam, hot melt, epoxy, adhesive, liquified thermoplastic, or another material can be injected into the club head filling or partially filling the internal cavity 3000. In some embodiments, the filler material is heated past melting point and injected into the club head.
[0207] In some embodiments, a filler material is used to secure the cavity insert 3100 in place during installation, such as using hot melt, epoxy, adhesive, or another filler material. In some embodiments, a filler material can be injected into the internal cavity 3000 to make minor changes to the weight of the club head, such as to adjust the club head for proper swing weight, to account for manufacturing variances between club heads, and to achieved a desired weight of each head. In some embodiments, the cavity insert 3100 is a two-part polyurethane foam that is a thermoset and is flexible after it is cured. In one embodiment, the two-part polyurethane foam is any methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (a class of polyurethane prepolymer) or silicone based flexible or rigid polyurethane foam. In some implementations, the cavity insert 3100 is made from a non-metal, such as a thermoplastic material and/or a thermoset material.
[0208] The striking face 116 may include a face insert 117, as seen in
[0209] In one embodiment the face insert 117 comprises nonmetallic material, composite material, hard plastic, resilient elastomeric material, and/or carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastic with short or long fibers, and/or any other materials and coatings disclosed herein, and any method of formation and attachment disclosed herein. In another embodiment the face insert 117 can comprise a thermoplastic material, such as fiber-reinforced thermoplastic. In certain embodiments, the face insert 117 comprise a polyamide material such as nylon. Particular examples include polyphthalamide (PPA) resin, polycarbonate resin, etc., reinforced with carbon fibers (e.g., chopped fibers). The composite material can include 20% to 60% fiber by mass, or by volume. Particular examples include 20% to 50% fiber, 30% to 40% fiber, 60% fiber or less, 50% fiber or less, 40% fiber or less, 30% fiber or less, etc., by mass or by volume. In certain embodiments, the face insert 117 can be injection molded. The face insert 117 may include a metal film deposited on its surface. The face insert 117 can comprise PPA or similar resins compatible with primer materials for metal film deposition. The face insert 117 may comprise a composite material, such as a fiber-reinforced plastic or a chopped-fiber compound (e.g., bulk molded compound or sheet molded compound), or an injection-molded polymer either alone or in combination with prepreg plies. In one embodiment the face insert 117 achieve desirable strain relationships by being formed of a polyamide resin, while in a further embodiment the polyamide resin includes fiber reinforcement, and in yet another embodiment the polyamide resin includes at least 35% fiber reinforcement. In one such embodiment the fiber reinforcement includes long-glass fibers having a length of at least 10 millimeters pre-molding and produce a finished component having fiber lengths of at least 3 millimeters, while another embodiment includes fiber reinforcement having short-glass fibers with a length of at least 0.5-2.0 millimeters pre-molding. Incorporation of the fiber reinforcement increases the tensile strength of the component, however it may also reduce the elongation to break therefore a careful balance must be struck to maintain sufficient elongation. Therefore, one embodiment includes 35-55% long fiber reinforcement, while in an even further embodiment has 40-50% long fiber reinforcement. One specific example is a long-glass fiber reinforced polyamide 66 compound with 40% carbon fiber reinforcement, such as the XuanWu XW5801 resin having a tensile strength of 245 megapascal and 7% elongation at break. Long fiber reinforced polyamides, and the resulting melt properties, produce a more isotropic material than that of short fiber reinforced polyamides, primarily due to the three-dimensional network formed by the long fibers developed during injection molding. Another advantage of long-fiber material is the almost linear behavior through to fracture resulting in less deformation at higher stresses. In one particular embodiment the face insert 117 is formed of a polycaprolactam, a polyhexamethylene adipinamide, or a copolymer of hexamethylene diamine adipic acid and caprolactam, however other embodiments may include polypropylene (PP), nylon 6 (polyamide 6), polybutylene terephthalates (PBT), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), PC/ABS alloy, PPS, PEEK, and semi-crystalline engineering resin systems that meet the claimed mechanical properties. In one embodiment the face insert 117 includes at least two layers that are separately formed of thermoplastic material having compatible resins and are subsequently joined via heat and/or pressure, and without the use of a bonding agent. In another embodiment the face insert 117 comprises an injection molded component and over-molded component to joint the first component and the second component. In another embodiment the face insert 117 is joined to the club head via through the use of a thermoset adhesive tape or a thermoset gasket located between a portion of the two components, and application of heat and/or pressure bonds the two components together.
[0210] In addition to those noted above, some examples of nonmetallic composites that can be used to form the face insert 117 include, without limitation, glass fiber reinforced polymers (GFRP), carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP), metal matrix composites (MMC), ceramic matrix composites (CMC), and natural composites (e.g., wood composites). Further, some examples of polymers that can be used to form the components include, without limitation, thermoplastic materials (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, acrylic, PVC, ABS, polycarbonate, polyurethane, polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether block amides, nylon, and engineered thermoplastics), thermosetting materials (e.g., polyurethane, epoxy, and polyester), copolymers, and elastomers (e.g., natural or synthetic rubber, EPDM, and Teflon)
[0211] In other embodiments, the face insert 117 is formed as a multi-layered structure comprising an injection molded inner layer and an outer layer comprising a thermoplastic composite laminate. The injection molded inner layer may be prepared from the thermoplastic polymers, with preferred materials including a polyamide (PA), or thermoplastic urethane (TPU) or a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Typically the thermoplastic composite laminate structures used to prepare the outer layer are continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic resins. The continuous fibers may include glass fibers (both roving glass and filament glass) as well as aramid fibers and carbon fibers. The thermoplastic resins may be impregnated into these fibers to make the laminate materials include polyamides (including but not limited to PA, PA6, PA12 and PA6), polypropylene (PP), thermoplastic polyurethane or polyureas (TPU) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).
[0212] In some embodiments the face insert 117 comprises multiple laminates that may be formed in a continuous process in which the thermoplastic matrix polymer and the individual fiber structure layers are fused together under high pressure into a single consolidated laminate, which can vary in both the number of layers fused to form the final laminate and the thickness of the final laminate. Typically the laminate sheets are consolidated in a double-belt laminating press, resulting in products with less than 2 percent void content and fiber volumes ranging anywhere between 35 and 55 percent, in thicknesses as thin as 0.5 mm to as thick as 6.0 mm, and may include up to 20 layers. Further information on the structure and method of preparation of such laminate structures is disclosed in European patent No. EP1923420B1 issued on Feb. 25, 2009 to Bond Laminates GMBH, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. The composite laminates structure of the outer layer may also be formed from the TEPEX family of resin laminates available from Bond Laminates which preferred examples are TEPEX dynalite 201, a PA66 polyamide formulation with reinforcing carbon fiber, which has a density of 1.4 g/cm.sup.3, a fiber content of 45 vol %, a Tensile Strength of 785 mPa as measured by ASTM D 638; a Tensile Modulus of 53 gPa as measured by ASTM D 638; a Flexural Strength of 760 mPa as measured by ASTM D 790; and a Flexural Modulus of 45 GPa) as measured by ASTM D 790. Another preferred example is TEPEX dynalite 208, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based formulation with reinforcing carbon fiber, which has a density of 1.5 g/cc, a fiber content of, 45 vol %, a Tensile Strength of 710 mPa as measured by ASTM D 638; a Tensile Modulus of 48 gPa as measured by ASTM D 638; a Flexural Strength of 745 mPa as measured by ASTM D 790; and a Flexural Modulus of 41 gPa as measured by ASTM D 790.
[0213] Another preferred example is TEPEX dynalite 207, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)-based formulation with reinforcing carbon fiber, which has a density of 1.6 g/cc, a fiber content of 45 vol %, a Tensile Strength of 710 mPa as measured by ASTM D 638; a Tensile Modulus of 55 gPa as measured by ASTM D 638; a Flexural Strength of 650 mPa as measured by ASTM D 790; and a Flexural Modulus of 40 gPa as measured by ASTM D 790.
[0214] There are various ways in which the multilayered face insert 117 may be formed. In some embodiments the outer layer, is formed separately and discretely from the forming of the injection molded inner layer. The outer layer may be formed using known techniques for shaping thermoplastic composite laminates into parts including but not limited to compression molding or rubber and matched metal press forming or diaphragm forming. The inner layer may be injection molded using conventional techniques and secured to the outer layer by bonding methods known in the art including but not limited to adhesive bonding, including gluing, welding (preferable welding processes are ultrasonic welding, hot element welding, vibration welding, rotary friction welding or high frequency welding. Before the inner layer is secured to the outer layer, the outer surface of the inner layer and/or the inner of the outer layer may be pretreated by means of one or more of the following processes: mechanical treatment, such as by brushing or grinding; cleaning with liquids, preferably with aqueous solutions or organics solvents for removal of surface deposits; flame treatment, such as with propane gas, natural gas, town gas or butane; corona treatment (potential-loaded atmospheric pressure plasma); potential-free atmospheric pressure plasma treatment; low pressure plasma treatment (air and 02 atmosphere); UV light treatment; chemical pretreatment, e.g. by wet chemistry by gas phase pretreatment; and/or primers and coupling agents.
[0215] In an especially preferred method of preparation a so called hybrid molding process may be used in which the composite laminate outer layer is insert molded to the injection molded inner layer to provide additional strength. Typically the composite laminate structure is introduced into an injection mold as a heated flat sheet or, preferably, as a preformed part. During injection molding, the thermoplastic material of the inner layer is then molded to the inner surface of the composite laminate structure the materials fuse together to form the face insert 117 as a highly integrated part. Typically the injection molded inner layer is prepared from the same polymer family as the matrix material used in the formation of the composite laminate structures used to form the outer layer so as to ensure a good weld bond.
[0216] A further embodiment includes a polymer layer on the striking surface of the face insert 117. The polymer layer can be provided on the outer surface of the face insert 117 to provide for better performance of the face insert 117, such as in wet conditions. Exemplary polymer layers are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/330,486 (patented as U.S. Pat. No. 8,979,669), which is incorporated by reference. The polymer layer may include polyurethane and/or other polymer materials. The polymer layer may have a polymer thickness of at least 0.05 mm, and in further embodiments at least 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.25 mm, or 0.3 mm. In another embodiment the polymer thickness is no more than 1 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.6 mm, or 0.5 mm. The polymer layer can be configured with alternating maximum thicknesses and minimum thicknesses to create score lines on the face insert 117. Further, in some embodiments, teeth and/or another texture may be provided on the thicker areas of the polymer layer between the score lines, such as those disclosed in U.S. Ser. No. 18/109,760, filed Feb. 14, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0217] The size and shape of the insert recess corresponds with the size and shape of the face insert 117. For example, the insert recess has the same peripheral shape as the face insert 117. Moreover, the size of the outer periphery of and the depth of the insert recess is just larger than the outer periphery and thickness of the face insert 117, respectively. In some examples, the outer periphery of the insert recess is sized so that the edge of the recess contacts the edge of the face insert 117. Unless otherwise noted, the term substantially or about means within 5% of a defined characteristic. According to certain examples, a depth of the insert recess is substantially equal to a thickness of the face insert 117, which can be a constant or variable thickness. The depth of the insert recess and the thickness of the face insert 117 are selected so that when the face insert 117 is seated in the insert recess, the face insert 117 is between, and inclusive of, 0.15 mm proud and 0.1 mm recessed, between, and inclusive of, 0.1 mm proud and 0.05 mm recessed, or between, and inclusive of, 0.05 mm proud and 0.05 mm recessed relative to the portion of the front 114 that surrounds the insert recess. In some examples, the depth of the insert recess is between, and inclusive of, 3 mm and 5 mm. The face insert 117 may further include any of the materials and variations disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,465,240, issued Dec. 16, 2008, U.S. Pat. No. 6,089,993 issued Jul. 18, 2000, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Further, the striking face 116 may include a plurality of grooves, include any of those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,637,044, issued Jun. 10, 1997, which is incorporated by reference herein in the entirety.
[0218] As previously disclosed, a number of variations of the hosel 122 may be incorporated in the present putter head 100, including the variations illustrated in the embodiments of
[0219] While most of the illustrated embodiments show the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 as independently repositionable, in the embodiment of
[0220] Another embodiment includes at least one toe window 1600 and/or at least one heel window 1700, formed in the top portion 112, the sole portion 110, and/or a side portion, as seen in
[0221] Another embodiment includes a forward toe window 1600 and a rearward toe window 1600, and/or a forward heel window 1700 and a rearward heel window 1700. In a further embodiment the toe window open area of the forward toe window 1600 is greater than that of the rearward toe window 1600, and in additional embodiments at least 10%, 20%, or 30% greater; while another series of embodiments caps the toe window open area of the forward toe window 1600 to no more than 1000% of that of the rearward toe window 1600, and in additional embodiments no more than 900%, 850%, 800%, 750%, 700%, 650%, 600%, or 550%. In a further embodiment the heel window open area of the forward heel window 1700 is greater than that of the rearward heel window 1700, and in additional embodiments at least 10%, 20%, or 30% greater; while another series of embodiments caps the heel window open area of the forward heel window 1700 to no more than 1000% of that of the rearward heel window 1700, and in additional embodiments no more than 900%, 850%, 800%, 750%, 700%, 650%, 600%, or 550%.
[0222] As previously disclosed, the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 has a maximum visible surface area and a minimum visible surface area. In one embodiment the toe window open area is at least 25% of the maximum visible surface area of the toe weight assembly 1400, and in additional embodiments at least 35%, 45%, 55%, or 65%. Another series of embodiments caps this relationship such that the toe window open area is no more than 100% of the maximum visible surface area of the toe weight assembly 1400, and in additional embodiments no more than 95%, 90%, or 85%. Similarly, in one embodiment the heel window open area is at least 25% of the maximum visible surface area of the heel weight assembly 1300, and in additional embodiments at least 35%, 45%, 55%, or 65%. Another series of embodiments caps this relationship such that the heel window open area is no more than 100% of the maximum visible surface area of the heel weight assembly 1300, and in additional embodiments no more than 95%, 90%, or 85%.
[0223] In one embodiment the at least one toe window 1600 and/or at least one heel window 1700 is within the visible clearance distance, thereby allowing the user to visually see a portion of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 within the visual clearance distance, yet the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 do not create a portion of the visible perimeter length of the overall putter head 100 within the visual clearance distance. This allows the user to note the location of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toc weight assembly 1400 even when it would otherwise be hidden by the visible perimeter of the overall putter head 100, and the location's impact on the performance of the putter head 100. Thus, in one embodiment at least 5 mm{circumflex over ()}2 of the toe window open area and/or the heel window open area is within the visual clearance distance, and in further embodiments at least 7.5 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 10 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 12.5 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 15 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 17.5 mm{circumflex over ()}2, or 20 mm{circumflex over ()}2. Another series of embodiments caps the toe window open area, and/or the heel window open area, within the visual clearance distance to no more than 140 mm{circumflex over ()}2, and in further embodiments no more than 120 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 100 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 90 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 80 mm{circumflex over ()}2, 70 mm{circumflex over ()}2, or 60 mm{circumflex over ()}2.
[0224] In a further embodiment the visibility of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toc weight assembly 1400 within the toc window 1600 and/or heel window 1700 is emphasized by having a contrast whereby the weight assembly contrasts with the top portion 112 around the perimeter of the toc window 1600 and/or heel window 1700. Further, in another embodiment a portion of the sole plate 132 is visible through the toe window 1600 and/or heel window 1700 when the sole plate 132 is not visually obscured by the location of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400. For instance, in
where (L*.sub.1, a*.sub.1 and b*.sub.1) and (L*.sub.2, a*.sub.2 and b*.sub.2) represents two colors in the L,a,b space and where E*.sub.ab=2.3 sets the threshold for the just noticeable difference under illuminant conditions using the reference illuminant D65 (similar to outside day lighting) as described in CIE 15.2-1986. Thus, in one embodiment the color contrast is present when a contrasting color difference, E*.sub.ab, is greater than 2.3, preferably greater than 10, more preferably greater than 20, even more preferably greater than 40 and even more preferably greater than 60.
[0225] In another example the contrast is provided solely by the finish whereby one surface may be provided as a matte, semigloss, or low gloss surface area having a CIELab gloss value of less than about 60, about 50, or about 40 gloss units and a second contrasting surface having a CIELab gloss value of greater than about 40, about 50, about 60, and about 70 gloss units. For example, a matte or low gloss face insert may have gloss values of less than 10, 8, 5, 4, or 2 gloss units. The contrast may be provided by color, brightness, texture, finish, or another visual difference. For example, different finishes may be used, such gloss, semigloss, low gloss, matte, or another finish. Different textures may also be used, such textures manufactured into the club head components, ridges, valleys, patterns of material, composite weaves, and other textures.
[0226] In some embodiments, a first contrast surface may be a dark surface area having a CIELab brightness (L) of less than about 40 and a second contrast surface may be a bright surface area having a CIELab brightness of between about 50 and about 100. In some embodiments, the difference in brightness (L) between the contrasting surfaces is at least 5, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, or at least 50. Further, all of the disclosed contrast relationships between the weight assembly and the top portion 112, apply equally other components as such visual distinctions aid in alignment of the putter head 100, including (a) a contrast between the face insert 117 and a portion of the striking face 116 surrounding the face insert, (b) a contrast between a portion of the striking face 116 and a portion of the top portion 112 adjacent to the striking face 116, (c) a contrast between the hosel 122 and a portion of the top portion 112 adjacent to the hosel 122, and/or (d) a contrast between the one or more repositionable weight assemblies 1000 and the top portion 112 adjacent to the perimeter of the putter head 100.
[0227] Another embodiment the toe window 1600 has a toe window perimeter that includes at least one straight toe window perimeter section. In one embodiment the straight toe window perimeter section is located along the toe window perimeter nearest the striking face 116 and is referred to as a face side straight toe window perimeter section. The face side straight toe window perimeter section is parallel to the club head X-axis in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment the face side straight toe window perimeter section is not parallel to the club head X-axis, and in a further embodiment creates an acute angle, toward the face, from the club head Y-Z plane, as seen in
[0228] In one embodiment the straight toe window perimeter section is located along the toc window perimeter nearest the rearward portion 118 and is referred to as a rear side straight toe window perimeter section. The rear side straight toe window perimeter section is parallel to the club head X-axis in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment the rear side straight toe window perimeter section is not parallel to the club head X-axis, and in a further embodiment creates an acute angle, toward the face, from the club head Y-Z plane, as seen in
[0229] The toe weight assembly 1400 may also have a straight face side toe weight assembly perimeter section that mimics the attributes described with respect to the face side straight toc window perimeter section. For instance, the straight face side toe weight assembly perimeter section is parallel to the club head X-axis in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment the straight face side toe weight assembly perimeter section is not parallel to the club head X-axis, and in a further embodiment creates an acute angle, toward the face, from the club head Y-Z plane, as seen in
[0230] Another embodiment the heel window 1700 has a heel window perimeter that includes at least one straight heel window perimeter section. In one embodiment the straight heel window perimeter section is located along the heel window perimeter nearest the striking face 116 and is referred to as a face side straight heel window perimeter section. The face side straight heel window perimeter section is parallel to the club head X-axis in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment the face side straight heel window perimeter section is not parallel to the club head X-axis, and in a further embodiment creates an acute angle, toward the face, from the club head Y-Z plane, as seen in
[0231] In one embodiment the straight heel window perimeter section is located along the heel window perimeter nearest the rearward portion 118 and is referred to as a rear side straight heel window perimeter section. The rear side straight heel window perimeter section is parallel to the club head X-axis in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment the rear side straight heel window perimeter section is not parallel to the club head X-axis, and in a further embodiment creates an acute angle, toward the face, from the club head Y-Z plane, as seen in
[0232] The heel weight assembly 1300 may also have a straight face side heel weight assembly perimeter section that mimics the attributes described with respect to the face side straight heel window perimeter section. For instance, the straight face side heel weight assembly perimeter section is parallel to the club head X-axis in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment the straight face side heel weight assembly perimeter section is not parallel to the club head X-axis, and in a further embodiment creates an acute angle, toward the face, from the club head Y-Z plane, as seen in
[0233] All, or a portion, of the top portion 112 may include a separate cap attached to the putter head 100. In one such embodiment a portion of the cap may be recessed in a top portion recess 1800, as seen in
[0234] As seen in
[0235] As noted throughout, all of the disclosure with respect to the one or more repositionable weight assemblies 1000, seen in
[0236] Tables 1 and 2 illustrate mass property relationships of an embodiment of the putter head 100 associated with five different positions of the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400. For ease of explanation, position 1 is similar to
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 POSITION 1 POSITION 2 POSITION 3 CGhy > < CGty > < Ixx Ixx1 Ixx2 = (1) (Ixx1) Ixx3 = (1) (Ixx1) Iyy Iyy1 Iyy2 = (2) (Iyy1) Iyy3 = (2) (Iyy1) Izz Izz1 Izz2 = (3) (Izz1) Izz3 = (3) (Izz1) Toe Hang 17 20 23 CGy CGy1 CGy2 = (1) (CGy1) CGy3 = (2) (CGy1)
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 POSITION 4 POSITION 5 CGhy > < CGty < > Ixx Ixx4 = (1) (Ixx1) Ixx5 = (1) (Ixx1) Iyy Iyy4 = (2) (Iyy1) Iyy5 = (2) (Iyy1) Izz Izz4 = (3) (Izz1) Izz5 = (3) (Izz1) Toe Hang 20 19 CGy CGy4 = (3) (CGy1) CGy5 = (4) (CGy1)
[0237] Greek letters omega, , and psi, , are used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify boundary values for the y-coordinate of heel weight assembly CGh and the y-coordinate of toe weight assembly CGt. Omega, , is 55 mm in one embodiment, and 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps omega, , to no more than 125 mm in one embodiment, and no more than 120 mm, 110 mm, 100 mm, 90 mm, or 80 mm in further embodiments. Psi, , is 30 mm in one embodiment, and 30 mm, 28 mm, 26 mm, or 24 mm in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps psi, , to at least 10 mm in one embodiment, and at least 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm, 18 mm, or 20 mm in further embodiments.
[0238] Greek letter alpha, , is used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify boundary values of the moments of inertia in position 2, namely Ixx2, Iyy2, and Izz2, relative to the moments of inertia in position 1, namely Ixx1, Iyy1, and Izz1. Alpha1, 1, is used in the relation of Ixx, Alpha2, 2, is used in the relation of Iyy, while Alpha3, 3, is used in the relation of Izz. Alpha1, 1, is at least 0.65 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, or 0.69 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Alpha1, 1, to no more than 0.76 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.75, 0.74, 0.73, 0.72, or 0.71 in further embodiments. Alpha2, 2, is at least 1.00 in one embodiment, and is at least 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, or 1.09 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Alpha2, 2, to no more than 1.16 in one embodiment, and no more than 1.15, 1.14, 1.13, 1.12, or 1.11 in further embodiments. Alpha3, 3, is at least 0.81 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, or 0.85 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Alpha3, 3, to no more than 0.95 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.94, 0.93, 0.92, 0.91, 0.90, 0.89, 0.88, or 0.87 in further embodiments.
[0239] Greek letter beta, , is used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify boundary values of the moments of inertia in position 3, namely Ixx3, Iyy3, and Izz3, relative to the moments of inertia in position 1, namely Ixx1, Iyy1, and Izz1. Beta1, 1, is used in the relation of Ixx, Beta2, 2, is used in the relation of Iyy, while Beta3, 3, is used in the relation of Izz. Beta1, 1, is at least 0.60 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, or 0.65 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Beta1, 1, to no more than 0.73 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.72, 0.71, 0.70, 0.69, 0.68, 0.67, or 0.66 in further embodiments. Beta2, 2, is at least 1.02 in one embodiment, and is at least 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, or 1.09 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Beta1, 2, to no more than 1.17 in one embodiment, and no more than 1.16, 1.15, 1.14, 1.13, 1.12, or 1.11 in further embodiments. Beta3, 3, is at least 0.80 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, or 0.87 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Beta3, 3, to no more than 0.92 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.91, 0.90, or 0.89 in further embodiments.
[0240] Greek letter gamma, , is used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify boundary values of the moments of inertia in position 4, namely Ixx4, Iyy4, and Izz4, relative to the moments of inertia in position 1, namely Ixx1, Iyy1, and Izz1. Gamma1, 1, is used in the relation of Ixx, Gamma2, 2, is used in the relation of Iyy, while Gamma3, 3, is used in the relation of Izz. Gamma1, 1, is at least 0.80 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, or 0.85 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Gamma1, 1, to no more than 0.94 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.93, 0.92, 0.91, 0.90, or 0.89 in further embodiments. Gamma2, 2, is at least 1.00 in one embodiment, and is at least 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, or 1.09 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Gamma2, 2, to no more than 1.16 in one embodiment, and no more than 1.15, 1.14, 1.13, 1.12, or 1.11 in further embodiments. Gamma3, 3, is at least 0.89 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.90, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, or 0.97 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Gamma3, 3, to no more than 0.99 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.98 in a further embodiment.
[0241] Greek letter delta, , is used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify boundary values of the moments of inertia in position 5, namely Ixx5, Iyy5, and Izz5, relative to the moments of inertia in position 1, namely Ixx1, Iyy1, and Izz1. Delta1, 1, is used in the relation of Ixx, Delta2, 2, is used in the relation of Iyy, while Delta3, 3, is used in the relation of Izz. Delta1, 1, is at least 0.80 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, or 0.85 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Delta1, 1, to no more than 0.94 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.93, 0.92, 0.91, 0.90, or 0.89 in further embodiments. Delta2, 2, is at least 1.00 in one embodiment, and is at least 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, or 1.09 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Delta2, 2, to no more than 1.16 in one embodiment, and no more than 1.15, 1.14, 1.13, 1.12, or 1.11 in further embodiments. Delta3, 3, is at least 0.89 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.90, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, or 0.97 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Delta3, 3, to no more than 0.99 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.98 in a further embodiment.
[0242] Ixx1 is at least 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in one embodiment, and at least 2650 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 2700 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 2750 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 2800 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 2850 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 2900 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 2950 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Ixx1 to no more than 6000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in one embodiment, and no more than 5500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5250 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4750 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4250 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3750 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3450 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3400 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3350 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3300 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3250 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 3200 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in further embodiments.
[0243] Iyy1 is at least 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in one embodiment, and at least 2200 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 2300 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Iyy1 to no more than 3500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in one embodiment, and no more than 5500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5250 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4750 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4250 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3750 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3450 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3400 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3300 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3200 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 3000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 2900 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in further embodiments.
[0244] Izz1 is at least 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in one embodiment, and at least 4600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4700 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4800 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 4900 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 5000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Izz1 to no more than 14000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in one embodiment, and no more than 13000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 12000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 11000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 10000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 9000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 8000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 7000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 6000 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5900 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5800 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5700 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, 5400 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, or 5300 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in further embodiments.
[0245] Greek letter phi, , is used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify tolerances of the toe hang value, which is measured in degrees. Phi, , is 2.5 degrees in one embodiment, and is 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, or 0.5 degree(s) in further embodiments. As illustrated, the amount of toe hang is adjustable from a minimum toe hang to a maximum toe hang, with a toe hang differential being the difference therebetween. Thus, in one embodiment the toe hang differential is at least 3 degrees, and in further embodiments at least 4, 5, or 6 degrees. Another series of embodiments caps the toc hang differential to no more than 12 degrees, and in further embodiments no more than 10 degrees, 9 degrees, 8 degrees, or 7 degrees. In a further embodiment the minimum toe hang is 19 degrees or less, while in additional embodiments the minimum toe hang is 18 degrees or less, or 17 degrees or less. In another embodiment the maximum toe hang is at least 21 degrees, and in additional embodiments is at least 22 degrees or 23 degrees. Another embodiment caps the maximum toe hang to no more than 30 degrees, and in additional embodiments no more than 28 degrees, 27 degrees, 26 degrees, 25 degrees, or 24 degrees.
[0246] Greek letter epsilon, , is used in Tables 1 and 2 to identify boundary values of the CGy coordinates of the putter head 100 in position 2, namely CGy2, position 3, namely CGy3, position 4, namely CGy4, and position 5, namely CGy5, relative to the CGy coordinate of the putter head 100 in position 1, namely CGy1. Epsilon1, 1, is no more than 0.91 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.90, 0.89, 0.88, 0.87, or 0.86 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Epsilon1, 1, to at least 0.78 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, or 0.83 in further embodiments. Epsilon2, 2, is no more than 0.75 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.74, 0.73, 0.72, or 0.71 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Epsilon2, 2, to at least 0.63 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, or 0.70 in further embodiments. Epsilon3, 3, is no more than 0.89 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.88, 0.87, 0.86, or 0.85 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Epsilon3, 3, to at least 0.79 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, or 0.83 in further embodiments. Epsilon4, 4, is no more than 0.89 in one embodiment, and no more than 0.88, 0.87, 0.86, or 0.85 in further embodiments. A further set of embodiments caps Epsilon4, 4, to at least 0.79 in one embodiment, and is at least 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, or 0.83 in further embodiments.
[0247] Further, CGy3 is at least 7 mm less than CGy1 in one embodiment, and at least 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, or 13 mm less in further embodiments. Additionally, CGy1 is at least 35 mm in one embodiment, and at least 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, or 40 mm in further embodiments. Another set of embodiments caps CGy1 to no more than 50 mm in one embodiment, and no more than 48 mm, 46 mm, 44 mm, or 42 mm in further embodiments. Still further, CGy3 and/or CGy4 is at least 4 mm less than CGy1 in one embodiment, and in further embodiments at least 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, or 6.5 less. In another series of embodiments the difference between CGy1 and CGy3, or CGy4, is no more than 10 mm, and in further embodiments no more than 9 mm, 8 mm, 7.5 mm, or 7 mm.
[0248] The orientation of the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 play a significant role in controlling the changes in mass properties to achieve desirable performance. This is illustrated by comparing a reference embodiment with straight-back tracks, namely the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 set to 90 degrees, with a symmetrically angled embodiment with the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 set to 94 degrees. The reference embodiment in position 1 has an Izz1 of 5233 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, which dropped to 4146 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in position 3, for a difference of 1087 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2; while the angled embodiment in position 1 has an Izz1 of 5233 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, which dropped to just 4353 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 in position 3, for a difference of 880 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2. Thus, the Izz drop-off for the angled embodiment is 19% less than the Izz drop-off for the reference embodiment, which is significant.
[0249] Another example of the impact of the orientation of the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 plays in controlling the changes in mass properties to achieve desirable performance is related to CGx. This is illustrated by comparing a reference embodiment with straight-back tracks, namely the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 set to 90 degrees, with a symmetrically angled embodiment with the HTLA x-axis angle 1132 and the TTLA x-axis angle 1232 set to 94 degrees. In the reference embodiment CGx is 1.8 mm when the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 are positioned such that CGhy and CGty are equal, and is referred to as a unity CGx value; whereas in position 4 CGx shifts about 0.004 mm heelward from the unity CGx value, and in position 5 CGx shifts about 0.05 mm heelward from the unity CGx value; thereby illustrating the insignificant movement of CGx. Conversely, in the angled embodiment CGx is 1.8 mm when the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 are positioned such that CGhy and CGty are equal, again referred to as the unity CGx value; whereas in position 4 CGx shifts about 0.4 mm toeward of the unity CGx value to a CGx of 1.4 mm, and in position 5 CGx shifts about 0.4 mm heelward of the unity CGx value to a CGx of 2.2 mm; thereby illustrating a significant adjustability of the CGx value, including the ability to shift CGx both toeward from the unity CGx and heelward from the unity CGx, depending on the locations of the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400.
[0250] In a second symmetrically angled embodiment further illustrates the ability to significantly adjust the CGx value. In the second angled embodiment the mass of the heel weight assembly 1300 was increased by 10 grams compared to the first angled embodiment discussed above, and the mass of the toe weight assembly 1400 was increased by 10 grams compared to the first angled embodiment discussed above. The second angled embodiment likewise had a unity CGx of 1.8 mm, however in position 4 CGx shifts about 1.2 mm toeward of the unity CGx value to a CGx of 0.6 mm, and in position 5 CGx shifts about 1.2 mm heelward of the unity CGx value to a CGx of 3.0 mm; thereby illustrating an even greater adjustability of the CGx value, again including the ability to shift CGx both toeward from the unity CGx and heelward from the unity CGx, depending on the locations of the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400. Thus, in one embodiment a CGx is adjustable from the unity CGx value by a CGx shift value that is at least 0.2 mm toeward, and in further embodiments at least 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, or 1.2 mm. In another embodiment a CGx is adjustable from the unity CGx value by a CGx shift value that is at least 0.2 mm heelward, and in further embodiments at least 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, or 1.2 mm. A further embodiment enables any of the disclosed CGx shift values both heelward and toeward.
[0251] Stated another way the putter head 100 has a CGx value that is adjustable from a minimum CGx value to a maximum CGx value depending on the position of the at least one repositionable weight assembly 1000. In one embodiment the minimum CGx value is less than 0, meaning toward of the origin, while in further embodiments the minimum CGx value is less than 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, or 0.3 mm. 20230615
[0252] Now, one example from Tables 1 and 2 will be discussed for clarity, but applies to all disclosed embodiments and ranges. In this example omega, , is 55 mm and psi, , is 30 mm. Therefore, in position 1 CGhy is greater than 55 mm, CGty is greater than 55 mm, and in position 2 CGhy is 55-30 mm and CGty is 55-30 mm, and in position 3 CGhy is less than 30 mm and CGty is less than 30 mm, and in position 4 CGhy is greater than 55 mm and CGty is less than 30 mm, and finally in position 5 CGhy is less than 30 mm and CGty is greater than 55 mm.
[0253] Now, continuing with the above example, in position 1 Ixx1 is at least 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, so for this example 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 will be used, Iyy1 is least 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, so for this example 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 will be used, and Izz1 is at least 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, so for this example 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2 will be used. One skilled in the art will appreciate that all of the disclosed design features, including, but not limited to, the materials of construction, sizes, mass distribution, and the arrangement, location, shape, and orientation of the repositionable weight assembly 1000 and the track associated therewith, all significantly influence the moments of inertia, toe hang, and overall putter head CG location as the repositionable weight assembly 1000, in this example both the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400, is repositioned.
[0254] Thus, continuing with the above example, in position 2 the Ixx2=(1)(Ixx1). For this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 1, namely at least 0.65 and no more than 0.76. Therefore, with Ixx1 at 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Ixx2 is at least 1690 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.652600, and no more than 1976 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.762600.
[0255] Similarly, in position 3 the Ixx3=(1)(Ixx1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 1, namely at least 0.60 and no more than 0.73. Therefore, with Ixx1 at 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Ixx3 is at least 1560 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.602600, and no more than 1898 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.732600. Likewise, in position 4 the Ixx4=(1)(Ixx1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 1, namely at least 0.80 and no more than 0.94. Therefore, with Ixx1 at 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Ixx4 is at least 2080 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.802600, and no more than 2444 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.942600. Finally, in position 5 the Ixx5=(1)(Ixx1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 1, namely at least 0.80 and no more than 0.94. Therefore, with Ixx1 at 2600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Ixx5 is at least 2080 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.802600, and no more than 2444 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.942600.
[0256] Thus, continuing with the above example, in position 2 the Iyy2=(2)(Iyy1). For this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 2, namely at least 1.00 and no more than 1.16. Therefore, with Iyy1 at 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Iyy2 is at least 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.002100, and no more than 2436 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.162100.
[0257] Similarly, in position 3 the Iyy3=(2)(Iyy1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 2, namely at least 1.02 and no more than 1.17. Therefore, with Iyy1 at 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Iyy3 is at least 2142 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.022100, and no more than 2457 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.172100. Likewise, in position 4 the Iyy4=(2)(Iyy1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 2, namely at least 1.00 and no more than 1.16. Therefore, with Iyy1 at 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Iyy4 is at least 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.002100, and no more than 2436 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.162100. Finally, in position 5 the Iyy5=(2)(Iyy1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 2, namely at least 1.00 and no more than 1.16. Therefore, with Iyy1 at 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Iyy5 is at least 2100 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.002100, and no more than 2436 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 1.162100.
[0258] Thus, continuing with the above example, in position 2 the Izz2=(3)(Izz1). For this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 3, namely at least 0.81 and no more than 0.95. Therefore, with Izz1 at 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Izz2 is at least 3645 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.814500, and no more than 4275 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.954500.
[0259] Similarly, in position 3 the Izz3=(3)(Izz1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 3, namely at least 0.80 and no more than 0.92. Therefore, with Izz1 at 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Izz3 is at least 3600 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.804500, and no more than 4140 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.924500. Likewise, in position 4 the Izz4=(3)(Izz1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 3, namely at least 0.89 and no more than 0.99. Therefore, with Izz1 at 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Izz4 is at least 4005 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.894500, and no more than 4455 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.994500. Finally, in position 5 the Izz5=(3)(Izz1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 3, namely at least 0.89 and no more than 0.99. Therefore, with Izz1 at 4500 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, the Izz5 is at least 4005 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.894500, and no more than 4455 g*cm{circumflex over ()}2, from 0.994500.
[0260] Now, continuing with the above example, in position 1 CGy1 is at least 35 mm, so for this example a CGy1 of 35 mm will be used for illustration. In position 2 the CGy2=(1)(CGy1). For this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundaries of 1, namely at least 0.78 no more than 0.91. Therefore, with CGy1 at 35 mm, the CGy2 is at least 27.3 mm, from 0.7835, and no more than 31.85 mm, from 0.9135. Similarly, in position 3 the CGy3=(2)(CGy1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of &2, namely at least 0.63 and no more than 0.75. Therefore, with CGy1 at 35 mm, the CGy3 is at least 22.05 mm, from 0.6335, and no more than 26.25 mm, from 0.7535. Similarly, in position 4 the CGy4=(3)(CGy1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 3, namely at least 0.79 and no more than 0.89. Therefore, with CGy1 at 35 mm, the CGy4 is at least 27.65 mm, from 0.7935, and no more than 29.75 mm, from 0.8535. Similarly, in position 5 the CGy5=(4)(CGy1), and for this example we will use the disclosed upper and lower boundary of 4, namely at least 0.79 and no more than 0.89. Therefore, with CGy1 at 35 mm, the CGy5 is at least 27.65 mm, from 0.7935, and no more than 29.75 mm, from 0.8535.
[0261] A Y-CG differential value represents the difference between the CGy value of the putter head 100 minus the y-coordinate of the heel weight assembly CGh, namely CGhy, or the toc weight assembly CGt, namely CGty. For example, in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 is rearward having a CGhy of 67.5 mm and producing a CGy of 40 mm, therefore a HWA Y-CG differential is 27.5, with the negative value meaning the CG of the heel weight assembly 1300 is rearward of the CG of the putter head 100. In one embodiment the toe weight assembly 1400 is rearward having a CGty of 67.5 mm and producing a CGy of 40 mm, therefore a TWA Y-CG differential is 27.5, with the negative value meaning the CG of the toe weight assembly 1400 is rearward of the CG of the putter head 100.
[0262] In one embodiment at least one of the HWA Y-CG differential or the TWA Y-CG differential becomes positive, meaning the CG of the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toe weight assembly 1400 is forward of the CG of the putter head 100. For example, in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 is forward having a CGhy of 21.4 mm and producing a CGy of 26.4 mm, therefore a HWA Y-CG differential is +5, with the positive value meaning the CG of the heel weight assembly 1300 is forward of the CG of the putter head 100, as seen in
[0263] Thus, in one embodiment, such as that seen in
[0264] Therefore, in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 may be positioned such that the HWA Y-CG differential is positive and at least 1 mm, while the TWA Y-CG differential is negative with an absolute value of at least 25 mm; while in a further embodiment the HWA Y-CG differential is positive and at least 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, or 7 mm, and the TWA Y-CG differential is negative with an absolute value of at least 30 mm, 35 mm, 37.5 mm, 40 mm, 42.5 mm, or 45 mm. Another embodiment caps the HWA Y-CG differential to no more than 20 mm, and no more than 18 mm, 16 mm, 14 mm, or 12 mm in further embodiments. Additionally, a further embodiments caps the TWA Y-CG differential so that is negative with an absolute value of no more than 65 mm, and no more than 60 mm, 55 mm, 50 mm, or 45 mm in further embodiments.
[0265] Similarly, in one embodiment, such as that seen in
[0266] Therefore, in one embodiment the heel weight assembly 1300 and the toe weight assembly 1400 may be positioned such that the TWA Y-CG differential is positive and at least 1 mm, while the HWA Y-CG differential is negative with an absolute value of at least 25 mm; while in a further embodiment the TWA Y-CG differential is positive and at least 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, or 7 mm, and the HWA Y-CG differential is negative with an absolute value of at least 30 mm, 35 mm, 37.5 mm, 40 mm, 42.5 mm, or 45 mm. Another embodiment caps the TWA Y-CG differential to no more than 20 mm, and no more than 18 mm, 16 mm, 14 mm, or 12 mm in further embodiments. Additionally, a further embodiment caps the HWA Y-CG differential so that is negative with an absolute value of no more than 65 mm, and no more than 60 mm, 55 mm, 50 mm, or 45 mm in further embodiments.
[0267] As previously mentioned, repositioning the heel weight assembly 1300 and/or the toc weight assembly 1400 facilitates significant adjustability of the toe hang, labeled TH in
[0268] One skilled in the art will appreciate that the ability to obtain the disclosed relationships involves significantly more than merely optimizing, or maximizing, a single design variable, but rather is a complex balancing of positive and negative tradeoffs to obtain this ability and achieve the other disclosed and desirable performance attributes. Further, while the disclosure tracks the illustrated embodiments and generally refers to embodiments having a heel weight assembly 1300 and a toe weight assembly 1400, the disclosure is intended to cover single weight assembly embodiments, as well as those where the track is centrally positioned, and thus all the disclosure with respect to a heel weight assembly 1300 and a toe weight assembly 1400 applies equally to single weight assembly embodiments, as well as those having more than two weight assemblies, and a track in general, whether positioned toward the toe, heel, or centrally.
[0269]
[0270] As illustrated in
[0271] Now, with continued reference to
[0272] The blade-style putter head embodiments have a maximum length L, a maximum height H, and a maximum width W, as illustrated and disclosed with respect to
[0273] The embodiment of
[0274] As seen in
[0275] As previously noted, this disclosure applies equally to other iron type golf club heads conventionally referred to as a 3-iron, 4-iron, 5-iron, 6-iron, 7-iron, 8-iron, 9-iron, and wedges, however with the loft, lie, and head weight adjusted accordingly, one embodiment of which is seen in Table 3; as well as hybrid iron type golf club heads, often referred to as rescue golf club heads, generally having a hollow construction and curved, or flat, faces, however with the loft, lie, and head weight adjusted accordingly, one embodiment of which is seen in Table 4; as well as fairway wood type golf club heads, generally having a hollow construction and curved faces, however with the loft, lie, and head weight adjusted accordingly, one embodiment of which is seen in Table 5; and even driver golf club heads, generally having a hollow construction and curved faces, however with the loft, lie, and head weight adjusted accordingly, one embodiment of which is seen in Table 6.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 3-iron 4-iron 5-iron 6-iron 7-iron 8-iron 9-iron Finished Head Weight 240 247 254 261 268 275 282 (grams) 5 g Loft (degrees) 3 degrees 19 21 23.5 26.5 30.5 35 40 Lie (degrees) 3 degrees 60.5 61.0 61.5 62 62.5 63 63.5 Club Length 2 inches 39 38.5 38 37.5 37 36.5 36
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 2-hybrid 3-hybrid 4- hybrid 5- hybrid 6- hybrid 7-hybrid Finished Head Weight 217 227 237 247 257 267 (grams) 5 g Loft (degrees) 3 16.5 19 22 25 29 33 degrees Lie (degrees) 3 degrees 57.5 58.00 58.5 59 59.5 60 Club Length 2 inches 41.25 40.75 40.25 39.75 39.25 38.75
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 3 fairway wood 5 fairway wood Finished Head Weight (grams) 5 g 215 218 Loft (degrees) 3 degrees 15 18 Lie (degrees) 3 degrees 58.5 59.50 Club Length 2 inches 43.25 42.25
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 driver Finished Head Weight (grams) 5 g 190-210 Loft (degrees) 3 degrees 10 Lie (degrees) 3 degrees 58.00 Club Length 2 inches 45.75
[0276] Any embodiments of the club head may include an electronic display, as disclosed in U.S. Ser. No. 17/878,734, filed Aug. 1, 2022, U.S. application Ser. No. 16/352,537, filed Mar. 13, 2019, and U.S. application Ser. No. 17/695,194, filed Mar. 15, 2022, which are all incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. In addition to the various features described herein, any of the features of the golf club heads disclosed herein may also incorporate additional features, which can include any of the following features found in the following, which are all incorporated by reference herein in their entirety: U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,179,608; 10,874,928; 10,391,369; 10,052,530; 9,827,479; 9,522,313; 9,468,817; 9,375,619; 9,220,960; 8,328,654; 8,066,581; 7,648,425; 7,594,865; 7,465,240; 7,438,648; 7,396,295; 7,278,926; 6,929,564; U.S. Ser. No. 18/534,512, filed Dec. 8, 2023; U.S. Ser. No. 17/878,734, filed Aug. 1, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/645,033, filed Dec. 17, 2021; U.S. Ser. No. 17/974,279, filed Oct. 26, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/566,263, filed Mar. 16, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 18/068,347, filed Dec. 19, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/722,632, filed Apr. 18, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/691,649, filed Mar. 10, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/577,943, filed Jan. 18, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/107,490, filed Nov. 30, 2020; U.S. Ser. No. 17/505,511, filed Oct. 19, 2021; U.S. Ser. No. 17/736,766, filed May 4, 2022; U.S. Ser. No. 17/963,491, filed Oct. 11, 2022; U.S. Pat. No. 9,468,817, issued Oct. 18, 2016; U.S. Pat. No. 9,375,619, issued Jun. 28, 2016; U.S. Pat. No. 9,522,313, issued Dec. 20, 2016; U.S. Pat. No. 8,758,155, issued Jun. 24, 2014; U.S. Pat. No. 9,375,619, issued Jun. 28, 2016; U.S. Pat. No. 9,220,960, issued Dec. 29, 2015; U.S. Pat. No. 7,465,240, issued Dec. 16, 2008; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/436,330, filed Dec. 30, 2022; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/433,380, filed Dec. 27, 2022; U.S. Pat. No. D925,677, issued Jul. 20, 2021; U.S. Pat. No. D924,991, issued Jul. 13, 2021; and U.S. Pat. No. D924992, issued Jul. 13, 2021.
[0277] In addition to the various features described herein, any of the golf club heads disclosed herein may also incorporate additional features, which can include any of the following features: [0278] movable weight features including those described in more detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,773,360, 7,166,040, 7,452,285, 7,628,707, 7,186,190, 7,591,738, 7,963,861, 7,621,823, 7,448,963, 7,568,985, 7,578,753, 7,717,804, 7,717,805, 7,530,904, 7,540,811, 7,407,447, 7,632,194, 7,846,041, 7,419,441, 7,713,142, 7,744,484, 7,223,180, 7,410,425 and 7,410,426, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein; [0279] slidable weight features including those described in more detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,775,905 and 8,444,505, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/898,313 filed on May 20, 2013, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/047,880 filed on Oct. 7, 2013, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety; [0280] aerodynamic shape features including those described in more detail in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013/0123040A1, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety; [0281] removable shaft features including those described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 8,303,431, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in in their entirety; [0282] adjustable loft/lie features including those described in more detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,025,587, 8,235,831, 8,337,319, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0312437A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0258818A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0122601A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0071264A1, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/686,677, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety; and [0283] adjustable sole features including those described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 8,337,319, U.S. Patent Publication Nos. US2011/0152000A1, US2011/0312437, US2012/0122601A1, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/686,677, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
[0284] The technology described herein may also be combined with other features and technologies for golf clubs, such as: [0285] variable thickness face features described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/006,060, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,997,820, 6,800,038, and 6,824,475, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety; [0286] composite face plate features described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/998,435, 11/642,310, 11/825,138, 11/823,638, 12/004,386, 12/004,387, 11/960,609, 11/960,610 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,267,620, which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0287] Additionally, in addition to the various features described herein, any of the golf club heads disclosed herein may also incorporate additional features, which can include any of the features disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/560,054, filed Dec. 22, 2021, Ser. No. 17/505,511, filed Oct. 19, 2021, Ser. No. 17/389,167, filed Jul. 19, 2021, Ser. No. 17/321,315, filed May 14, 2021, Ser. No. 18/179,848, filed Mar. 7, 2023, Ser. No. 17/124,134, filed Dec. 16, 2020, Ser. No. 17/137,151, filed Dec. 29, 2020, Ser. No. 17/691,649, filed Mar. 10, 2022, Ser. No. 18/510,476, filed Nov. 15, 2023, Ser. No. 17/228,511, filed Apr. 12, 2021, Ser. No. 17/224,026, filed Apr. 6, 2021, Ser. No. 17/564,077, filed Dec. 28, 2021, 63/292,708, filed Dec. 22, 2021, 63/478,107, filed Dec. 30, 2022, 63/433,380, filed Dec. 16, 2022, Ser. No. 14/694,998, filed Apr. 23, 2015, Ser. No. 18/068,347, filed Dec. 19, 2022, Ser. No. 17/547,519, filed Dec. 10, 2021, Ser. No. 17/360,179, filed Jun. 28, 2021, Ser. No. 17/531,979, filed Nov. 22, 2021, Ser. No. 17/722,748, filed Apr. 18, 2022, Ser. No. 17/006,561, filed Aug. 28, 2020, Ser. No. 16/806,254, filed Mar. 2, 2020, Ser. No. 17/696,664, filed Mar. 16, 2022, Ser. No. 17/565,580, filed Dec. 30, 2021, Ser. No. 17/727,963, filed Apr. 25, 2022, Ser. No. 16/288,499, filed Feb. 28, 2019, Ser. No. 17/530,331, filed Nov. 18, 2021, Ser. No. 17/586,960, filed Jan. 28, 2022, Ser. No. 17/884,027, filed Aug. 9, 2022, Ser. No. 13/842,011, filed Mar. 15, 2013, Ser. No. 16/817,311, filed Mar. 12, 2020, Ser. No. 17/355,642, filed Jun. 23, 2021, Ser. No. 17/132,645, filed Dec. 23, 2020, Ser. No. 17/390,615, filed Jul. 30, 2021, Ser. No. 17/164,033, filed Feb. 1, 2021, Ser. No. 17/107,474, filed Nov. 30, 2020, Ser. No. 17/526,981, filed Nov. 15, 2021, Ser. No. 16/352,537, filed Mar. 13, 2019, Ser. No. 17/156,205, filed Jan. 22, 2021, Ser. No. 17/132,541, filed Dec. 23, 2020, Ser. No. 17/824,727, filed May 25, 2022, Ser. No. 17/722,632, filed Apr. 18, 2022, Ser. No. 17/712,041, filed Apr. 1, 2022, Ser. No. 17/695,194, filed Mar. 15, 2022, Ser. No. 17/686,181, filed Mar. 3, 2022, 63/305,777, filed Feb. 2, 2022, Ser. No. 17/577,943, filed Jan. 18, 2022, Ser. No. 17/570,613, filed Jan. 7, 2022, Ser. No. 17/569,810, filed Jan. 6, 2022, Ser. No. 17/566,833, filed Dec. 31, 2021, Ser. No. 17/566,131, filed Dec. 30, 2021, Ser. No. 17/566,263, filed Dec. 30, 2021, Ser. No. 17/557,759, filed Dec. 21, 2021, Ser. No. 17/558,387, filed Dec. 21, 2021, Ser. No. 17/645,033, filed Dec. 17, 2021, Ser. No. 17/541,107, filed Dec. 2, 2021, Ser. No. 17/526,855, filed Nov. 15, 2021, Ser. No. 17/524,056, filed Nov. 11, 2021, Ser. No. 17/522,560, filed Nov. 9, 2021, Ser. No. 17/515,112, filed Oct. 29, 2021, Ser. No. 17/513,716, filed Oct. 28, 2021, Ser. No. 17/504,335, filed Oct. 18, 2021, Ser. No. 17/504,327, filed Oct. 18, 2021, Ser. No. 17/494,416, filed Oct. 5, 2021, Ser. No. 17/493,604, filed Oct. 4, 2021, 63/261,457, filed Sep. 21, 2021, Ser. No. 17/479,785, filed Sep. 20, 2021, Ser. No. 17/476,839, filed Sep. 16, 2021, Ser. No. 17/477,258, filed Sep. 16, 2021, Ser. No. 17/476,025, filed Sep. 15, 2021, Ser. No. 17/467,709, filed Sep. 7, 2021, Ser. No. 17/403,516, filed Aug. 16,2021, Ser. No. 17/399,823, filed Aug. 11, 2021, 63/227,889, filed Jul. 30, 2021, Ser. No. 17/387,181, filed Jul. 28, 2021, Ser. No. 17/378,407, filed Jul. 16, 2021, Ser. No. 17/368,520, filed Jul. 6, 2021, Ser. No. 17/330,033, filed May 25, 2021, Ser. No. 17/235,533, filed Apr. 20, 2021, Ser. No. 17/233,201, filed Apr. 16, 2021, Ser. No. 17/216,185, filed Mar. 29, 2021, Ser. No. 17/198,030, filed Mar. 10, 2021, Ser. No. 17/191,617, filed Mar. 3, 2021, Ser. No. 17/190,864, filed Mar. 3, 2021, Ser. No. 17/183,905, filed Feb. 24, 2021, Ser. No. 17/183,057, filed Feb. 23, 2021, Ser. No. 17/181,923, filed Feb. 22, 2021, Ser. No. 17/171,678, filed Feb. 9, 2021, Ser. No. 17/171,656, filed Feb. 9, 2021, Ser. No. 17/107,447, filed Nov. 30, 2020, and 63/338,818, filed May 5, 2022, all of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. Additionally, in addition to the various features described herein, any of the golf club heads disclosed herein may also incorporate additional features, which can include any of the features disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,610,479, issued Apr. 4, 2017, U.S. Pat. No. 11,213,726, issued Jan. 4, 2022, U.S. Pat. No. 8,777,776, issued Jul. 15, 2014, U.S. Pat. No. 7,278,928, issued Oct. 9, 2007, U.S. Pat. No. 7,445,561, issued Nov. 4, 2008, U.S. Pat. No. 9,409,066, issued Aug. 9, 2016, U.S. Pat. No. 8,303,435, issued Nov. 6, 2012, U.S. Pat. No. 7,874,937, issued Jan. 25, 2011, U.S. Pat. No. 8,628,434, issued Jan. 14, 2014, U.S. Pat. No. 8,608,591, issued Dec. 17, 2013, U.S. Pat. No. 8,740,719, issued Jun. 3, 2014, U.S. Pat. No. 9,694,253, issued Jul. 4, 2017, U.S. Pat. No. 9,683,301, issued Jun. 20, 2017, U.S. Pat. No. 9,468,816, issued Oct. 18, 2016, U.S. Pat. No. 8,262,509, issued Sep. 11, 2012, U.S. Pat. No. 7,901,299, issued Mar. 8, 2011, U.S. Pat. No. 8,119,714, issued Feb. 21, 2012, U.S. Pat. No. 8,764,586, issued Jul. 1, 2014, U.S. Pat. No. 8,227,545, issued Jul. 24, 2012, U.S. Pat. No. 8,066,581, issued Nov. 29, 2011, 10052530, issued Aug. 21, 2018, 10195497, issued Feb. 5, 2019, 10086240, issued Oct. 2, 2018, U.S. Pat. No. 9,914,027, issued Mar. 13, 2018, U.S. Pat. No. 9,174,099, issued Nov. 3, 2015, and U.S. Pat. No. 11,219,803, issued Jan. 11, 2022, all of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0288] The above-described embodiments are just examples of possible implementations of the disclosed technologies, and are set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process descriptions or blocks in flow diagrams should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of processes for implementing specific functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included in which functions may not be included or executed at all, may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present disclosure.
[0289] Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope of the present disclosure includes any and all combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects disclosed herein and in the documents that are incorporated by reference. All such combinations, modifications, and variations are included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure.
[0290] Reference throughout this specification to one example, an example, one embodiment, an embodiment, or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example or embodiment is included in at least one example or embodiment of the present disclosure. Appearances of the phrases in one example, in an example, in one embodiment, in an embodiment, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same example or embodiment. Similarly, the use of the term implementation means an implementation having a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one or more examples or embodiments of the present disclosure, however, absent an express correlation to indicate otherwise, an implementation may be associated with one or more examples or embodiments.
[0291] In the above description, certain terms may be used such as up, down, upper, lower, horizontal, vertical, left, right, over, under and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an upper surface can become a lower surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object. Further, the terms including, comprising, having, and variations thereof mean including but not limited to unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms a, an, and the also refer to one or more unless expressly specified otherwise. Further, the term plurality can be defined as at least two. The term about in some embodiments, is defined to mean within +/5% of a given value, however in additional embodiments any disclosure of about may be further narrowed and claimed to mean within +/4% of a given value, within +/3% of a given value, within +/2% of a given value, within +/1% of a given value, or the exact given value. Further, when at least two values of a variable are disclosed, such disclosure is specifically intended to include the range between the two values regardless of whether they are disclosed with respect to separate embodiments or examples, and specifically intended to include the range of at least the smaller of the two values and/or no more than the larger of the two values. Additionally, when at least three values of a variable are disclosed, such disclosure is specifically intended to include the range between any two of the values regardless of whether they are disclosed with respect to separate embodiments or examples, and specifically intended to include the range of at least the A value and/or no more than the B value, where A may be any of the disclosed values other than the largest disclosed value, and B may be any of the disclosed values other than the smallest disclosed value. Any tables and/or examples disclosed herein that give exact values, are to be interpreted as also disclosing an embodiment where each of the values is +10% of the value indicated, and in further embodiments each of the values is +7.5%, +5%, or +2.5%, thereby disclosing distinct upper values for each, distinct lower values for each, as well as closed ranges having upper and lower limiting values.
[0292] Throughout the disclosure embodiments are described often with one embodiment setting a minimum value for variable or relationship, followed by an embodiment setting a maximum value for a variable or relationship. For example, in one sentence the disclosure states: in another embodiment the toe weight portion mass is at least 100% greater than the toe washer portion mass, and in further embodiments at least 200%, 400%, 600%, 800%, 1000%, 1200%, 1400%, or 1600% greater. In another sentence the disclosure states: while in another embodiment the toe weight portion mass is no more than 4000% greater than the toe washer portion mass, and in further embodiments no more than 3800%, 3600%, 3400%, 3200%, 3000%, 2800%, 2600%, or 2400% greater. In any such disclosure, any integer value meeting these limitations is enabled and may be claimed, such as 220%, 240%, 260%, 280%, 300%, 320%, etc., and likewise for the disclosed upper end boundary values, and likewise for any disclosed variable. Further, any discreet value within the disclosed ranges is fully enabled and may be claimed either as a value or as a boundary to a range, which applies to all the disclosure herein. Further, any discreet value within the disclosed ranges is fully enabled and may be claimed either as a value or as a boundary to a range. These principles apply to each variable and/or relationship disclosed, and the contents of each table.
[0293] Additionally, instances in this specification where one element is coupled to another element can include direct and indirect coupling. Direct coupling can be defined as one element coupled to and in some contact with another element. Indirect coupling can be defined as coupling between two elements not in direct contact with each other, but having one or more additional elements between the coupled elements. Further, as used herein, securing one element to another element can include direct securing and indirect securing. Additionally, as used herein, adjacent does not necessarily denote contact. For example, one element can be adjacent another element without being in contact with that element.
[0294] As used herein, the phrase at least one of, when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of the items in the list may be needed. The item may be a particular object, thing, or category. In other words, at least one of means any combination of items or number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list may be required. For example, at least one of item A, item B, and item C may mean item A; item A and item B; item B; item A, item B, and item C; or item B and item C. In some cases, at least one of item A, item B, and item C may mean, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.
[0295] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms first, second, etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a second item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a first or lower-numbered item, and/or, e.g., a third or higher-numbered item.
[0296] As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware configured to perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware configured to perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, configured to denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware which enable the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as being configured to perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being adapted to and/or as being operative to perform that function.
[0297] The present subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the examples below are to be embraced within their scope. In view of the many possible embodiments to which the principles of the disclosure may be applied, it should be recognized that the illustrated embodiments are only preferred examples and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than a restrictive sense. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosure is at least as broad as the full scope of the following exemplary claims and their equivalents.