US20130109501A1 - Golf Club and Golf Club Head Structures - Google Patents

Abstract

A golf club head has a body defining a ball striking face. The body further has a first leg extending away from the ball striking face and a second leg extending away from the ball striking face wherein a void is defined between the first leg and the second leg. The body further defines a cover that extends over the void. The golf club head may further have support structures and adjustable weight members.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
• The present application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 61/526,326, filed on Aug. 23, 2011, and U.S. Patent Application No. 61/598,832, filed on Feb. 14, 2012, and the present application further claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/250,051, filed on Sep. 30, 2011, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/723,951, filed on Mar. 15, 2010, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/356,176, filed on Jan. 20, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,922,603, which applications are incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof.
TECHNICAL FIELD
• Aspects of this invention relate generally to golf clubs and golf club heads, and, in particular, to golf clubs and golf club heads having a portion of the club head removed or open, thereby creating a void in the club head, in order to reduce or redistribute weight associated with the club head to enhance performance.
BACKGROUND
• Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players, players of different genders and players of dramatically different ages and/or skill levels. Golf club designers have successfully advanced the technology incorporated in golf clubs in response to the constant demand of golfers for improved performance. In one aspect, golfers tend to be sensitive to the “feel” of a golf club. The “feel” of a golf club comprises the combination of various component parts of the club and various features associated with the club that produce the sensations experienced by the player when a ball is swung at and/or struck. Club weight, weight distribution, swing weight, aerodynamics, swing speed, and the like all may affect the “feel” of the club as it swings and strikes a ball. “Feel” also has been found to be related to the sound produced when a club head strikes a ball to send the ball in motion. If a club head makes an unpleasant, undesirable, or surprising sound at impact, a user may flinch, give up on his/her swing, decelerate the swing, lose his/her grip, and/or not completely follow-through on the swing, thereby affecting distance, direction, and/or other performance aspects of the swing and the resulting ball motion. User anticipation of this unpleasant, undesirable, or surprising sound can affect a swing even before the ball is hit.
• Also, the performance of a golf club can vary based on several factors, including weight distribution about the club head, which affects the location of the center of gravity of the golf club head. When the center of gravity is positioned behind the point of engagement on the contact surface, the golf ball follows a generally straight route. When the center of gravity is spaced to a side of the point of engagement, however, the golf ball may fly in an unintended direction and/or may follow a route that curves left or right, including ball flights that often are referred to as “pulls,” “pushes,” “draws,” “fades,” “hooks,” or “slices.” Similarly, when the center of gravity is spaced above or below the point of engagement, the flight of the golf ball may exhibit more boring or climbing trajectories, respectively.
• Weight distribution about the club head can also affect moment of inertia associated with the club head. Thus, altering the moment of inertia can affect how the golf club performs including how the golf club head design impacts heel and toe mishits. Similarly, other factors such as point of impact and launch angle can also affect how the ball travels once it has been struck.
• Club designers are often looking for new ways to distribute or redistribute weight associated with a golf club and/or golf club head. For instance, club designers are often looking to distribute weight to provide more forgiveness in a club head, improved accuracy, a desired ball flight and the like. In pursuit of such designs, club designers also face a challenge of maintaining a club head having a traditional aesthetic look desired by most golfers. While certain golf club and golf club head designs according to the prior art provide a number of advantageous features, they nevertheless have certain limitations. Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a golf club and golf club head having a reduced weight characteristic and improved weight distribution throughout the club head to enhance club performance. The present invention is provided to overcome certain of the limitations and drawbacks of the prior art, and to provide new features not heretofore available.
SUMMARY
• At least some aspects of the disclosure relate to golf clubs and golf club heads having enhanced weight distribution about the club head. In one aspect, the golf club utilizes a geometric weight feature in the form of a void formed in the golf club head. The golf club head may include a cover extending over the void such that the void may not be visible from a top of the golf club head at an address position. In some examples, the golf club head may include certain support structures that enhance performance characteristics of the golf club head. In some additional examples, the golf club head may further include one or more adjustable weight arrangements.
• These and additional features and advantages disclosed here will be further understood from the following detailed disclosure of certain embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate example golf club and golf club head structures according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an example golf club head having a void formed in a rear of the golf club head body and a cover according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate example golf club head bodies according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate another example golf club head body according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a golf club head cover for use with the golf club head bodies ofFIGS. 3A-4B according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another golf club head body and cover arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate yet another golf club head body and cover arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate yet another golf club head body and cover arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate another golf club head body and cover arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate another golf club head body and cover arrangement having a sensor according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 11 illustrates a golf club head arrangement with removable inserts according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate a golf club head arrangement having a void formed in a rear of the club head body and including a weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate another golf club head arrangement having a void and having a weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate another golf club head arrangement having a void in the rear of the golf club head body and an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate another golf club head having a void and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 16 illustrates another golf club head having a void in the club head body and an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate yet another golf club head arrangement having a void in the club head body and an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 18 illustrates another golf club head arrangement having adjustable weights according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate an example golf club head with adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate yet another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 21 illustrates yet another golf club head having an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 22 illustrates still another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 23A-23C illustrate another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate yet another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate still another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 26 illustrates yet another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrates yet another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 28 illustrates yet another golf club head and adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 29 illustrates another golf club head according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 30 is a plan view of the golf club head shown inFIG. 29.
• FIG. 31 is a side view of the golf club head ofFIG. 29.
• FIG. 32 is an opposite side view of the golf club head ofFIG. 29.
• FIG. 33 is a bottom perspective view of the golf club head ofFIG. 29.
• FIG. 34 is a bottom view of the golf club head ofFIG. 29.
• FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head ofFIG. 29, generally taken along line35-35 inFIG. 30.
• FIGS. 35aand35bare additional cross-section views of the golf club head ofFIG. 29.
• FIGS. 36-38 illustrate further alternative embodiments of the golf club head, similar to the golf club head ofFIG. 29, according to one or more aspects described herein.
• FIG. 39 illustrates another golf club head according to one or more aspects described herein, similar to the golf club head illustrated inFIG. 29.
• FIG. 40 is a side view of the golf club head ofFIG. 39.
• FIG. 41 is an opposite side view of the golf club head ofFIG. 39.
• FIG. 42 is a bottom perspective view of the golf club head ofFIG. 39.
• FIG. 43 is a bottom view of the golf club head ofFIG. 29.
• FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head ofFIG. 39, generally taken along line44-44 inFIG. 39.
• The figures referred to above are not drawn necessarily to scale, should be understood to provide a representation of particular embodiments of the invention, and are merely conceptual in nature and illustrative of the principles involved. Some features of the golf club and golf club head structures depicted in the drawings have been enlarged or distorted relative to others to facilitate explanation and understanding. In certain instances, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings for similar or identical components and features shown in various alternative embodiments. Golf clubs and golf club head structures as described herein may have configurations and components determined, in part, by the intended application and environment in which they are used.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• In the following description of various example structures in accordance with the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example articles, including one or more golf club or golf club head structures. Additionally, it is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, while the terms “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “rear,” “side,” “underside,” “overhead,” and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein as a matter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures and/or the orientations in typical use. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three dimensional or spatial orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of this invention. Further, the invention generally will be described as it relates to wood-type golf clubs. In particular, the club heads disclosed herein will be drivers and fairway woods in exemplary embodiments. However, aspects of the invention may be used with any of several types of golf clubs, including hybrid type golf clubs, utility clubs, putters, and the like and nothing in the specification or figures should be construed to limit the invention to use with the wood-type golf clubs described.
• FIG. 1 generally illustrates anexample golf club100 and/orgolf club head102 in accordance with this invention. In addition to thegolf club head102, the overallgolf club structure100 of this example includes ahosel104, ashaft106 received in and/or inserted into and/or through thehosel104, and a grip or handle108 attached to theshaft106. Optionally, if desired, theexternal hosel104 may be eliminated and theshaft106 may be directly inserted into and/or otherwise attached to the head102 (e.g., through an opening provided in the top of theclub head102, through an internal hosel (e.g., provided within an interior chamber defined by the club head102), etc.). Thehosel104 may be considered to be an integral part of thegolf club head102 or could also be a separate structure attached to thegolf club head102.
• Theshaft106 may be received in, engaged with, and/or attached to theclub head102 in any suitable or desired manner, including in conventional manners known and used in the art, without departing from the invention. As more specific examples, theshaft106 may be engaged with theclub head102 via thehosel104 and/or directly to theclub head structure102, e.g., via adhesives, cements, welding, soldering, mechanical connectors (such as threads, retaining elements, or the like) and further including releasable adjustable members or connectors, etc.; through a shaft-receiving sleeve or element extending into the body of theclub head102; etc. Theshaft106 also may be made from any suitable or desired materials, including conventional materials known and used in the art, such as graphite based materials, composite or other non-metal materials, steel materials (including stainless steel), aluminum materials, other metal alloy materials, polymeric materials, combinations of various materials, and the like. Also, the grip or handle108 may be attached to, engaged with, and/or extend from theshaft106 in any suitable or desired manner, including in conventional manners known and used in the art, e.g., using adhesives or cements; via welding, soldering, adhesives, or the like; via mechanical connectors (such as threads, retaining elements, etc.); etc. As another example, if desired, the grip or handle108 may be integrally formed as a unitary, one-piece construction with theshaft106. Additionally, any desired grip or handle108 materials may be used without departing from this invention, including, for example: rubber materials, leather materials, rubber or other materials including cord or other fabric material embedded therein, polymeric materials, and the like.
• Theclub head102 itself also may be constructed in any suitable or desired manner and/or from any suitable or desired materials without departing from this invention, including from conventional materials and/or in conventional manners known and used in the art. For example, in theexample club head102 shown inFIG. 1, theclub head102 includes afront face102athat generally includes aball striking surface102b(optionally including a ball striking face plate integrally formed with theball striking surface102aor attached to the club head such that the face plate and a frame together constitute the overallball striking surface102a). Thefront face102amay be considered aball striking face102a. Theclub head102 may further include a top102cor crown, a sole102d, atoe107 and aheel109. Theclub head102 may also include a rear111 (FIG. 1B).
• A wide variety of overall club head constructions are possible without departing from this invention. For example, if desired, some or all of the various individual parts of theclub head102 described above may be made from multiple pieces that are connected together (e.g., by welding, adhesives, or other fusing techniques; by mechanical connectors; etc.). The various parts (e.g., crown, sole, front face, rear, etc.) may be made from any desired materials and combinations of different materials, including materials that are conventionally known and used in the art, such as metal materials, including lightweight metal materials, and the like. More specific examples of suitable lightweight metal materials include steel, titanium and titanium alloys, aluminum and aluminum alloys, magnesium and magnesium alloys, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the various parts of the club head may be formed of one or more composite materials. Injection molded parts are also possible. Theclub head102 also may be made by forging, casting, or other desired processes, including club head forming processes as are conventionally known and used in the art. Thegolf club head102 could further be formed in a single integral piece.
• The various individual parts that make up aclub head structure102, if made from multiple pieces, may be engaged with one another and/or held together in any suitable or desired manner, including in conventional manners known and used in the art. For example, the various parts of theclub head structure102, such as thefront face102a,ball striking surface102b, the top102c, the sole102d, etc., may be joined and/or fixed together (directly or indirectly through intermediate members) by adhesives, cements, welding, soldering, or other bonding or finishing techniques; by mechanical connectors (such as threads, screws, nuts, bolts, or other connectors); and the like. If desired, the mating edges of various parts of theclub head structure102 may include one or more raised ribs, tabs, ledges, or other engagement elements that fit into or onto corresponding grooves, slots, surfaces, ledges, openings, or other structures provided in or on the facing side edge to which it is joined. Cements, adhesives, mechanical connectors, finishing material, or the like may be used in combination with the raised rib/groove/ledge/edge or other connecting structures described above to further help secure the various parts of theclub head structure102 together.
• The dimensions and/or other characteristics of a golf club head structure according to examples of this invention may vary significantly without departing from the invention, and the dimensions may be consistent with those commonly used in the art for similar club heads and clubs.
• Several embodiments of golf club heads are disclosed herein. It is understood that the description of the club head and various components described above regardingFIGS. 1A and 1B will apply to the other embodiments described herein. It will be appreciated that the several different embodiments may utilize a geometric weighting feature. The geometric weighting feature may provide for reduced head weight and/or redistributed weight to achieve desired performance. For example, more weight may be positioned towards the rear ends of the heel and toe of the club head. In the various embodiments disclosed herein, the golf club head may have a body having spaced legs defining a void, space or gap in between the legs. The club heads herein may be considered to have a portion removed to define the void, space or gap. The body may include a cover that is positioned over the void and/or the legs, and may be an integral component of the body or separately attached. Additional support members and/or weight assemblies may also be utilized with certain embodiments.
• FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate one example golf club head according to at least some aspects of the invention. The golf club head is generally designated with thereference numeral200. Thegolf club head200 generally includes a golf club head body202 and acover250. As will be described in greater detail below, the body202 has several structures and defines various surfaces. Thecover250 is connected to the body202 to form thegolf club head102. As described herein, it is appreciated that the body202 and cover250 can be formed as an integral structure as well.
• As further shown inFIG. 2A, the golf club head body202 further includes and defines a front210, a rear212, a top214, atoe216, aheel218 and a sole (not shown inFIGS. 2A-2C). The front210 generally defines a ball striking face. The ball striking face may take various forms and in an exemplary embodiment, may utilize variable face thickness designs such as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/211,961 which is incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof. The ball striking face may further have a constant thickness. It is further understood that theball striking face210 may be separately connected to the golf club head body202 such as in a welding process. Thegolf club head200 may, in some arrangements, include a geometric weighting feature. In one exemplary embodiment, theclub head200 has a void230, gap, or space, formed generally in the rear212 of the golf club head body202. The void230 may, in some examples, be substantially v-shaped and may extend entirely through the golf club head200 (e.g., from the top214 to the sole). The golf club head body202 further has abase220 and afirst leg222 and asecond leg224. Thefirst leg222 extends away from the front210 orball striking face210 and thesecond leg224 extends away from theball striking face210. Thevoid230 is defined between thefirst leg222 and thesecond leg224. Thevoid230 opens into the rear of the golf club head. The body202 may form the hosel at theheel218 of the body202. It is understood that the various structures of the body202 may define an internal cavity having an internal volume.
• As shown inFIG. 2A, the void230 may extend from arear edge212aof thegolf club head200, inward, toward a center or central region of thegolf club head200 and towards theball striking face210. The void230 may be wider proximal therear edge212aof the golf club head than proximal the center of thegolf club head200, thereby forming the v-shape. The void230 formed in thegolf club head200 may reduce the overall weight associated with the golf club head, redistribute weight of the club, and may aid in adjusting the performance characteristics of thegolf club head200. In some examples, thefirst leg222 defines afirst side207 and the second leg defines asecond side209. Thesides207,209 are generally in confronting relation. Thesides207,209 of the v-shapedvoid230 may be generally linear. That is, thesides207,209 may provide a generally flat surface. It is understood that thesides207,209 may further be non-linear and define interrupted surfaces, or non-flat surfaces. As further shown inFIG. 2A, as thevoid230 is v-shaped, thelegs222,224 and thesides207,209 converge towards theball striking face210 to aninterface area226. Theinterface area226 may be positioned in or proximate the central region of theclub head200 and this position may vary as described further herein. As described in greater detail below, thesides207,209 andinterface area226 may have certain performance-enhancing structures associated therewith on internal surfaces in the internal cavity defined by the club head body202, as well as outer surfaces of thesides207,209. As also described in greater detail below, thelegs222,224 andinterface area226 may have moveable weight assemblies operably associated therewith to further enhance the performance characteristics of thegolf club head200. The thicknesses of the material forming the golf club head body including materials making up the legs can also vary as desired. The volume of the internal cavity including the volumes of the legs could also be filled with a filler material if desired.
• In some examples, thegolf club head200 may be formed as a single piece. For instance, the front210, rear212, top214,toe216,heel218 and sole may be a single piece unit. Thegolf club head200 may be formed using known methods of manufacture, such as casting, molding, forging, etc, and various combinations thereof. Thus, the golf club head body202 may be cast in a metal material such as titanium. The void230 may be formed in the golf club head during the initial manufacturing process of the golf club head (e.g., during casting) or may be formed into thegolf club head200 using an additional process (e.g., by cutting).
• In some arrangements, arecess203 may be formed in the top214 of the golf club head body202. Therecess203 may form a ridge orlip205 around a perimeter, or substantially around a perimeter, of thegolf club head200. The recess may vary in depth and may be between 0.1 and 0.3 inches deep. Therecess203 may be configured to receive a cover, such as thecover250, which will be discussed more fully below. Further, in examples in which therecess203 is configured to receive thecover250, therecess203 may be shaped to correspond to thecover250.
• As mentioned above, and as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B, thegolf club head200 further includes thecover250. Thecover250 may, in some examples, cover the rear212, or a portion of the rear212, of the golf club head body202 such that thevoid230 is not visible when thegolf club head200 is in use, especially when thegolf club head200 is at an address position with the golfer standing over thegolf club head200. That is, with thecover250 in position, thegolf club head200 may appear similar to a conventional golf club head that does not include a void230 in the rear212 of thegolf club head200. However, the performance advantages (e.g., reduced weight, redistributed weight, etc.) would be provided. Thecover250 may, in some examples, extend over the top214 of the golf club head body202 such that the void230 may be visible when thegolf club head200 is viewed from the sole but the void230 may be obstructed from view when viewed from the top of theclub200. Additionally or alternatively, thecover250 may extend over theentire rear212 of thegolf club head200 and may cover the top and sole of the golf club head such that the void is not visible when the golf club head is viewed from any angle.
• In some arrangements, thecover250 may be received in therecess203 formed in the top214 of thegolf club head200. In some examples, the depth and/or shape of therecess203 may correspond to the thickness and/or shape of thecover250. For instance, when thecover250 is installed on thegolf club head200, a top surface of thecover250 may be flush with a top of the ridge orlip205 formed by therecess203.
• Thecover250 may be formed of any suitable material, such as lightweight metals, alloys, composite, plastic, etc. A polymer-basedcover250 may further have a nano-coating to provide a metallic-type finish or some other treatment to provide such look. Thecover250 may be connected to the golf club head using known methods of connection, including mechanical fasteners, snap fits, screws, adhesives, friction fits, and the like. In some examples, thecover250 may be connected to thegolf club head200 by a friction fit between the ridge orlip205 formed by therecess203 on the top214 of thegolf club head200.
• In some arrangements, thecover250 may be removable and or interchangeable with other covers. For instance,FIG. 2A illustrates thegolf club head200 with thecover250 removed.FIG. 2B illustrates thegolf club head200 with thecover250 partially in place, whileFIG. 2C illustrates thegolf club head200 with thecover250 in place along the top of thegolf club head200. Thecover250 generally forms the crown of thegolf club head200. As shown inFIGS. 2A-2C, when thecover250 is in place, thevoid230 is not visible from the top214 of thegolf club head200. That is, in an address position, a user would not be able to see the void230 formed in thegolf club head200. Rather, thegolf club head200 would have the appearance of a conventional golf club head. As shown inFIG. 2C, thegolf club head200 appears similar to a conventional golf club head when viewed from the top with thecover250 in place.
• In some arrangements, thecover250 may be interchangeable with other covers having different performance characteristics. For instance, the cover may be interchanged with other covers having different weighting characteristics. Alternative covers may further have different aesthetic characteristics or may incorporate different training guides.
• FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate another golf club head arrangement for agolf club head300 and having golf club head body and a cover wherein the cover may be considered to be a portion of the club head body. Thegolf club head300 has a void302 formed in the rear312 of thegolf club head300. Similar to thegolf club head200 ofFIGS. 2A-2C, thegolf club head300 includes a front, a rear, a top, a sole, a toe and a heel. Thegolf club head300 further includes a pair of spaced legs that define the geometric weighting feature in the form of a void302 formed in the rear312 of thegolf club head300. As shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the void302 may be substantially v-shaped in some examples. The void302 may be other shapes as desired. For instance, a square, rectangular, triangular, etc. shaped void may be used without departing from the invention.
• The top of the golf club head body may include a plurality of angled surfaces320a-320c. In some examples, the angled surfaces320a-320cmay be generally planar and may extend downward, from atop edge321 of the front of thegolf club head300 to atop edge323 of the v-shapedvoid302. That is, the top of thegolf club head300 may gradually slope downward, from atop edge321 of the front of the golf club head to thetop edge323 of the void. In some examples, the top may be formed of multiple angled surfaces320a-320c. For instance,FIG. 3A illustrates three angled surfaces320a-320cextending downward, from the top of the golf club head toward the sole. The three angled surfaces may extend in differing directions (e.g., from front to rear, toe to heel, heel to toe, etc.) to form the top surface of thegolf club head300.
• The angled surfaces320a-320cforming the top of thegolf club head300 may further aid in reducing weight associated with the golf club head and/or redistributing weight to adjust the center of gravity of thegolf club head300. That is, the angled surfaces320a-320callow for removal of additional material that would form a conventional golf club head. That additional material may add additional weight to an upper portion of the golf club head, thereby moving the center of gravity upward, which may not be desirable. Accordingly, providing the angled surfaces320a-320caids in moving the center of gravity downward, toward a sole of thegolf club head300. It is further understood that the legs of the club head body may be dimensioned differently wherein surface areas of the angled surfaces are also different. Such differences in the legs can further adjust the performance characteristics of the golf club.
• The void302 may then extend entirely through the rear of the golf club head, from the top of the body to the sole of the golf club head. As shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the void302 may extend inward, from a rear edge of the golf club head toward a center portion of the golf club head, and the void may be wider proximal the rear edge than proximal the center of the golf club head wherein it is understood that the legs converge to an interface area.
• Similar to the arrangement discussed above, thegolf club head300 may further include acover350 that may be received on the top surface of thegolf club head300.FIGS. 3C and 3D illustrate the golf club head with thecover350 in place. Similar to the arrangement discussed above, thecover350 may be received in arecess303 formed in the top of the body of thegolf club head300. In some examples, thecover350 may extend over one or more exterior sides of thegolf club head300, as shown inFIG. 3C.
• Thecover350 may be connected to the golf club head using known methods of connection, such as mechanical fasteners, adhesives, friction fits, snap fits, and the like. Further, thecover350 may be formed of known materials, such as plastics, composites, metals, etc.
• Similar to the arrangement discussed above, the cover may obscure the angled surfaces320a-320cof the top of thegolf club head300 and the v-shapedvoid302. Thus, when viewed from the top or in an at address position, thegolf club head300 may have the appearance of a conventional golf club head when thecover350 is installed.
• FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate another example golf club head according to one or more aspects described herein. Thegolf club head400 may include a recessedregion403 in the rear of thegolf club head400. Therecess403 may aid in reducing overall weight associated with the golf club and may aid in moving the center of gravity lower on the golf club head by reducing weight near the top of the golf club head. The recessedregion403 may be formed bysidewalls420. Thesidewalls420 may extend downward, from a top of the golf club head toward a sole of the golf club head and may be substantially vertical. In some examples, at least one sidewall may be substantially parallel to the front of the golf club head, or generally parallel to a ball striking face. In other examples, thesidewalls420 may be angled.
• Thegolf club head400 may further include a geometric weighting feature in the form of a void402 formed in a bottom surface of the recessedregion403. In some examples, the void402 may be substantially v-shaped and may aid in reducing weight associated with the golf club head, or may also further redistribute weight towards the rear of the heel and toe. The void402 may extend from a rear edge of the golf club head inward, toward a center of the golf club head. In some examples, the void may extend completely through the rear of the golf club head (e.g., from the bottom surface of the recessed region to the sole of the golf club head) and may be wider proximal the rear edge of the golf club head than the center of the golf club head. In some arrangements, the void may include sides that are substantially planar.
• Similar to the arrangements discussed above, the arrangement ofgolf club head400 may aid in reducing overall weight and/or redistributing weight associated with the golf club head and may alter the performance characteristics of the golf club head. However, thegolf club head400 may not look like a conventional golf club head, which may be distracting to players and may not conform with one or more parameters of golf club design requirements. Accordingly, a cover may be provided to provide the appearance of a conventional golf club head while still providing the performance advantages of the golf club heads having voids as discussed above.
• FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate thegolf club head400 including acover550 extending over at least a portion of the rear of the golf club in order to provide the appearance of a conventional golf club head. The cover arrangement ofFIGS. 5A and 5B may also be used with other golf club heads described herein (such asgolf club head200,golf club head300, and other embodiments). Thecover550 may extend over the top of thegolf club head400 such that it obscures the void and/or recessed region of the golf club head and provides the appearance of a conventional golf club head. Thecover550 may be connected to thegolf club head300 or400 using known methods of connection, such as mechanical fasteners, snap fits, friction fits, adhesives, and the like.
• In some arrangements, as shown inFIG. 5B, thecover550 may extend over a top edge of the golf club head and along a side of the golf club head. Thus, thecover550 may include a dependingperipheral skirt551. This may aid in providing a conventional appearance for the golf club head. The golfclub head cover550 may cover the entire rear of the golf club head400 (e.g., extend over the top and sole of the golf club head from the toe to the heel) to obscure the void from all angles of the golf club head. Alternatively, thecover550 may extend over the top of the golf club head (e.g., from the rear to the front and from the toe to the heel along the top of the golf club head) to obscure the void402 and/or recessed region when thegolf club head400 is viewed from the top (e.g., an at address position). However, in this arrangement, the void may still be visible when the golf club head is viewed from the bottom or sole.
• FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate one arrangement in which acover650 extends over a top of agolf club head600 such that a void602 formed in thegolf club head600 is obscured when viewed from the top but visible when viewed from the bottom or sole of the golf club head.FIG. 6A illustrates the sole615 of thegolf club head600. As shown, thegolf club head600 includes a substantially v-shapedvoid602 formed in the rear of thegolf club head600 and extending generally from the rear edge of the golf club head inward, toward a center of thegolf club head600. The void602 may be similar to other voids described herein. Thevoid602 is visible when thegolf club head600 is viewed from the bottom or sole. However, when viewed from the top, the golf club head has the appearance of a conventional golf club head, as shown inFIG. 6B.
• Thecover650 ofFIGS. 6A and 6B may generally cover the top of thegolf club head600 and may somewhat wrap around the top of the golf club head to cover a portion of the sides of the golf club head (similar to some arrangements discussed above). Accordingly, thecover650 may also have a dependingskirt651.
• FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a golf club head700 (similar to thegolf club head600 ofFIG. 6A) having acover750 extending over the top surface of the golf club but not wrapping around to cover a portion of the sides of the golf club head. Thus, the void702 formed in the golf club head is visible from the sole of thegolf club head700, but not from the top of thegolf club head700. In the arrangement ofFIGS. 7A and 7B, an underside of thecover750 is visible from the sole of the golf club head700 (e.g., through the void702).
• In some examples, thecover750 may be received in a recess (similar to recess203 ofFIG. 2) formed in the top of the golf club head. Further, the recess may have a depth and/or shape that corresponds to a thickness and/or shape of thecover750 such that a top surface of thecover750 will be flush with the top of the lip or ridge formed by the recess in thegolf club head700.
• FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate another example golf club head according to one or more aspects described herein. Thegolf club head800 may include a void802 arranged in a rear of the golf club head and extending from the top to the sole of the golf club head (similar to the arrangements described above). The void802 may extend from arear edge804 of the golf club head inward, toward a center orcentral region806 of the golf club head and may be substantially v-shaped. In some examples, the void802 may have other shapes, such as substantially square, rectangular, triangular, and the like. Similar to the arrangement discussed above, the void may have a greater width at the rear804 of thegolf club head800 than near thecentral region806. That is, the void802 may narrow as it extends from the rear804 to thecentral region806 to form the v-shape. In some examples, the void802 may have sides that are generally planar forming a smooth, substantially flat inner surface of the void802 and may include a generally curved portion at a base of the v-shape, near thecentral region806, which may be referred to as an interface area.
• Similar to the arrangements discussed above,golf club head800 may include acover850 configured to obscure the void, or portions of the void, when thegolf club head800 is viewed from the top (e.g., an at address position).FIG. 8B illustrates a top view of thegolf club head800 having acover850 arranged along the top of thegolf club head800 to cover thevoid802. In the arrangement shown, thecover850 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the void802 and, in some examples, may connect to thegolf club head800 to cover only thevoid802. That is, thecover850 may cover only the void802 and may not cover any portion of the rear of the golf club head800 (other covers discussed herein may also cover only the void or may cover other portions of the rear, sides, etc. of the golf club head).FIG. 8C illustrates thecover850 partially removed from thegolf club head800. Thecover850 is shaped to correspond to the shape of the void802 in order to fit into the top of thegolf club head800 and cover thevoid802 along the top of the golf club head. The cover may be connected to thegolf club head800 using known methods of attachment, such as adhesives, mechanical fasteners, snap fits, friction fits, etc. In some examples, the cover may slide into slots arranged along a top portion of the generally planar sidewalls of thevoid802. The slots may provide a friction fit and/or may include additional fasteners to secure thecover850 to thegolf club head800.
• FIG. 8D illustrates thegolf club head800 from the bottom or sole. Thevoid802 is visible when thegolf club head800 is viewed from this side, and a bottom surface of thecover850 is also visible. In some examples, thecover850 may be removable and/or replaceable with other covers having differing performance characteristics. It is understood that in further alternative embodiments, additional structures can be a part of or associated with thecover850 to provide desired characteristics of the club head.
• FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate yet another golf club head arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein.FIG. 9A provides a perspective and toe side view of agolf club head900 having acover950, whileFIG. 9B provides a perspective and toe side view of thegolf club head900 ofFIG. 9A with thecover950 removed showing the club head body.
• As shown inFIG. 9B, thegolf club head900 may include an open rear arrangement in which a portion of the top and sides of the rear of thegolf club head900 have been removed. That is, the rear of thegolf club head900 may include a substantiallyplanar portion908 located near a bottom or sole of thegolf club head900. In some arrangements, the substantiallyplanar portion908 may be the sole of the golf club head. The rear of thegolf club head900 may further include a plurality of sides915a-915cextending from a top of a base of the body of thegolf club head900 to the substantially planarlower portion908. The sides915a-915cmay, in some examples, be substantially vertical. Further, one or more sides915a-915cmay be angled with respect to another of sides915a-915c(e.g.,side915ais angled with respect to915b,side915cis angled with respect to915b).
• This open rear arrangement may aid in reducing weight associated with the golf club head and may aid in lowering the center of gravity of thegolf club head900. In addition, weight may also be distributed more towards the rear of the heel and toe of the club head.
• In some examples, thegolf club head900 may further include a void902 formed in the substantially planarlower portion908 of thegolf club head900. The void902 may, in some examples, be substantially v-shaped and may extend from arear edge904 of the golf club head inward, toward a center or central region of thegolf club head906, similar to the arrangements discussed above. Such a geometric weighting feature assists in distributing weight towards the rear of the heel and toe of the club head.
• As shown inFIG. 9A, thegolf club head900 may include acover950. Thecover950 may extend over the substantially open rear arrangement of thegolf club head900 to provide the appearance of a conventional golf club head when thegolf club head900 is viewed from the top. In some arrangements, aportion952 of thecover950 may extend over a portion of a side of thegolf club head900. This may aid in maintaining the aerodynamic characteristics of thegolf club head900 and may also aid in providing the appearance of a conventional golf club head. In some examples, agap954 may be formed between thecover950 and the bottom or sole908 of the golf club head. Thisgap954 may further reduce the overall weight associated with thegolf club head900.
• FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate another golf club head arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein. The golf club head1000 ofFIG. 10A may include one ormore sensors1020aarranged within the golf club head. In some examples, thesensor1020amay be arranged with the void formed in the rear of the golf club head and/or may be connected to acover1050acove ring a portion of the void. In particular, an underside surface of the cover of the club head has an opening to receive the sensor. The opening is dimensioned to correspond in size to thesensor1020awherein the sensor is received in the opening. Thesensor1020amay be secured in the opening in an interference or friction fit or other mechanical fastening mechanisms can be utilized. Thesensor1020amay record and/or transmit performance data to a computing device (not shown). For instance, thesensor1020amay detect performance data such as swing speed and transmit the data to a computing device that may be accessed by a user to track various performance characteristics. The data may be transmitted wirelessly using known methods of data transmission, or, in some examples, thesensor1020amay be removed and connected to a computing device, such a via a USB port. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 10A, thesensor1020ais accessible from a sole of the club head through the void.
• In some examples, the cover, or portion thereof, may be removable to access thesensor1020a. For instance,FIG. 10B illustrates agolf club head1000bwhich may also include a sensor1020bconnected thereto (e.g., to cover1050b) to track and/or transmit performance data. Thecover1050bis shown partially removed from thegolf club head1000bto illustrate that thesensor1020amay be accessed, removed, etc., as desired.
• In some arrangements, the golf club heads described above, as well as those described below, may include one or more weights, weight assemblies, mechanisms or weighting features. The weighting features may be removable, adjustable, etc., as will be discussed more fully below. The weighting features described herein may be used, alone or in combination with other weighting features described herein, with any golf club head described herein and are not limited to the golf club head with which they are described.
• FIG. 11 illustrates another example golf club head according to one or more aspects described herein. Thegolf club head1100 may include one or more recesses formed in a sole of thegolf club head1100. One ormore inserts1130 may be inserted into the recesses. Theinserts1130 may be removable and/or interchangeable with other inserts to adjust one or more performance characteristics of thegolf club head1100. For instance, theinserts1130 may have different properties to adjust the moment of inertia or center of gravity of thegolf club head1100. Theinserts1130 may be formed of any suitable material, such as lightweight metals, metal alloys, composite materials, plastic, etc. In some arrangements, theinserts1130 may slide into the recess and be held in place by friction. Additionally or alternatively, theinserts1130 may be connected to thegolf club head1100 by one or more screws or mechanical fasteners, snap fits, adhesives, and the like.
• In some examples, theinserts1130 may have different weighting characteristics to adjust performance of thegolf club head1100. Theinserts1130 may be the same weight as each other or different weights. In still other examples, theinserts1130 may be removably connected to the golf club head in order to allow for replacement of the inserts with those having different weighting characteristics or other features.
• FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate another example golf club head according to one or more aspects described herein. Thegolf club head1200 may include an arrangement similar to those described above in which avoid1202 is formed in the rear of the golf club head. In addition, thegolf club head1200 may include one ormore weights1240 arranged within thegolf club head1200. The weights may be provided to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1200. For instance, theweights1240 may adjust the center of gravity, moment of inertia, etc. of thegolf club head1200. The weights may, in some arrangements, be removable and/or interchangeable with other weights to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1200. That is, theopen void1202 provided in the rear of thegolf club head1200 may permit access to the weights1240 (as shown inFIG. 12B). Thus, theweights1240 may be removed from thegolf club head1200 and/or interchanged with other weight members.
• In some examples, theweights1240aand1240bmay have different weight characteristics. For instance,weight1240amay be lighter thanweight1240bin order to adjust the center of gravity of the golf club head lower on thehead1200. Theweights1240aand1240bmay then be interchanged to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1200, or may be interchanged with other weight members (not shown inFIGS. 12A-12C) to further adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1200. As can be appreciated fromFIGS. 12B and 12C, the weight ports could be positioned in areas of the club head generally not possible with traditional club heads. Because of the structure defining the void in the club head, the weight ports are more readily accessible.
• FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate another golf club head arrangement having a void1302 formed in the rear of the golf club head and one ormore weights1340. Similar to the arrangements discussed above, thevoid1302 may be substantially v-shaped or may have other shapes, as discussed above. Theweights1340 may be adjustable, removable, interchangeable, replaceable, etc. and may be accessed, in some examples, via thevoid1302 formed in the rear of thegolf club head1300. For instance, as shown inFIGS. 13A and 13B,weight1340bmay be accessed from an interface area or from a base of the void (e.g., the bottom of the v-shape). Theweights1340a,1340bmay be connected to the golf club head using mechanical fasteners, adhesives, snap fits, etc. In some examples, theweights1340 may be connected to thegolf club head1300 with screws. Accordingly, the screw may be accessed and removed via thevoid1302 to removeweight1340b.
• Further, thevoid1302 may provide agap1317 through which theweight1340amay be accessed. Accordingly, a screw or otherfastener connecting weight1340amay be removed via thegap1317 and the weight may be adjusted, removed, replaced, etc.
• Similar to the arrangement described above with respect toFIGS. 12A and 12B, theweights1340aand1340bmay have different weights or weight characteristics in order to adjust performance of thegolf club head1300. The weights may be formed of any suitable material.
• FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate another golf club head arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein. Thegolf club head1400 may include a void1402 formed in the rear of thegolf club head1400. In addition, thegolf club head1400 may include aweight1440 arranged in the rear of thegolf club head1400. In some examples, theweight1440 may have twosides1440a,1440b, each having different properties. For instance, oneside1440aofweight1440 may be heavier than asecond side1440bof theweight1440. This difference in weight characteristics may be due to different materials used, density of materials used, etc. in forming theweight1440. Themoveable weight1440 is capable of altering the performance characteristics of the golf club head.
• Additionally or alternatively, the structure of each side may be different. For instance, as shown inFIG. 14C, oneside1440bof the weight may be hollow to reduce weight associated with that side, while theother side1440amay be solid to make it heavier.
• The weight may be removably connected to the golf club head via screws or other mechanical fasteners, and the like. That is, the user may access the fastener of theweight1440 via thevoid1402 in the rear of thegolf club head1400 in order to remove, adjust, etc. theweight1440. Theweight1440 may be removed from thegolf club head1400 and a user may rotate or flip theweight1440 and connect it in different configurations in order to adjust the performance characteristics of the golf club head. That is, adjustment of theweight1440 may adjust the weight characteristics (and thus the performance characteristics) in a high to low or top to sole manner (e.g., adjusting the center of gravity of thegolf club head1400 higher or lower on the golf club head1400).
• FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate another example of an adjustable weight arrangement in which agolf club head1500 may have an adjustable, removable, etc.weight1540. In the arrangement shown, theweight1540 may again have two sides or ends, each having different weighting characteristics to allow for adjustment of the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1500 with adjustment of theweight1540. As shown inFIG. 15B, the weight may be connected at two points in this arrangement, rather than one point as shown inFIGS. 14A-14C. However, the single point of connection may be used with this arrangement without departing from the invention.
• Similar to the arrangement described above, theweight1540 may be substantially v-shaped (as shown inFIG. 15B) and may extend over a base of thevoid1502. At the interface area at thevoid1502, the club head body may have aprojection1510 that extends away from the ball striking face and towards or into thevoid1502. As shown inFIG. 15B, theweight1540 defines a cavity dimensioned to receive theprojection1510. Once secured, theweight1540 fits and conforms about theprojection1510. Theweight1540 may include multiple ends having different characteristics, such as weight characteristics. For example, oneend1540amay be heavier than theother end1540b. This may be due to a difference in materials used to construct the weight or, in some examples, the structure of theends1540a,1540b. For instance, one end, such asend1540a, may be thicker than theother end1540b. The added thickness of material may result in additional weight that may be used to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1500. The ends1540a,1540bmay also support additional weight elements thereon. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 15B, theweight1540 can be rotated or adjusted such that a heavier end of theweight1540 is positioned either closer to the crown or closer to the sole of theclub head1500.
• Similar to the arrangement inFIGS. 14A-14C, the weight may be accessed via thevoid1502 and may be removed and replaced in an alternate configuration (second side down vs. second side up, etc.) in order to adjust the performance characteristics of the golf club head. In some examples, theweight1540 may be a single piece member, while in other examples, theweight1540 may be formed of multiple pieces joined together or separately connected to thegolf club head1500. As further shown inFIG. 15B, a pair of threaded fasteners are used to secure theweight1540 to theclub head1500. Because the structure of theclub head1500, thevoid1502 provides ready access to the fasteners for removal or adjustment of theweight1540. As further shown inFIG. 15A (while not shown inFIG. 15B), theclub head1500 may have achannel1550 extending across the sole of theclub head1500 from a heel to a toe and generally adjacent the ball striking face. The channel allows a certain amount of compression of the club head upon ball impact. This feature may cooperate with the other club head structures and weighting characteristics to further enhance performance of the club.
• FIG. 16 illustrates yet anothergolf club head1600 according to the present invention. As discussed with other embodiments, thegolf club head1600 has thebody1602 having afirst leg1622 andsecond leg1624 that are spaced by avoid1630. Thevoid1630 is generally v-shaped similar to other embodiments. Thegolf club head1600 further defines aninterface area1626. Acover1604 is integral with or otherwise connected to thebody1602. Thefirst leg1622 andsecond leg1624 converge toward one another to theinterface area1626.
• Thegolf club head1600 utilizes a weight assembly to further enhance performance of theclub head1600. The weight assembly or weight is operably associated with theinterface area1626. In an exemplary embodiment, theinterface area1626 of thehead1600 supports a receptacle orreceiver1642 in the form of a receivingtube1642 in an exemplary embodiment. Aweight1640 of the weight assembly is configured to be received by the receivingtube1642.FIG. 16 shows theweight1640 both in thetube1642 and further in an exploded configuration. Theweight1640 may, in some examples, be received in the receivingtube1642 incorporated into thegolf club head1600 and, in some arrangements, arranged at the base of the v-shapedvoid1602 formed in thegolf club head1600. Thus, as shown inFIG. 16, theinterface area1626 supports the receivingtube1642 generally at the junction of thefirst leg1622 and thesecond leg1624. Thefirst leg1622 and thesecond leg1624 converge to the receivingtube1642. The receivingtube1642 generally has a height that extends from an underside of thecover1604 to proximate the sole surface of theclub head body1602. The receivingtube1642 may have varying heights as desired and be mounted have one or both ends spaced away from the underside of the crown or sole. It is understood that theweight1640 may have oneend1640athat is heavier than an opposite end1640bwherein theweight1640 can be flipped as desired. Thus, differing weighting characteristics and arrangements are possible to alter the performance characteristics of theclub head1600. A threadedfastener1644 can also be provided to mate with internal threads in the receivingtube1642 to secure theweight1640 in the receivingtube1642.
• The receivingtube1642 andweight1640 may have corresponding shapes such that theweight1640 may slide into the receivingtube1642. In some examples, theweight1640 and receivingtube1642 may be cylindrical, square, rectangular, etc. The receivingtube1642 may have a longitudinal axis and the weight may have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axes may generally correspond when theweight1640 is received in thetube1642. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 16, the longitudinal axis of thetube1642 is generally vertical and generally parallel to the ball striking face with the understanding that the ball striking face may have a certain amount of loft. The receivedtube1642 may be integrally formed with one or more portions of thegolf club head1600 or may be formed as a separate portion and connected to thegolf club head1600 using known methods of connection, such as adhesives, mechanical fasteners, snap fits, and the like.
• In the example shown inFIG. 16, the receivingtube1642 is generally vertical in arrangement (e.g., in a vertical position when the golf club head is in an at address position). However, various other tube arrangements, positions, etc. may be used without departing from the invention. Some other arrangements, positions, etc. will be described more fully below.
• The receivingtube1642 may receive theweight1640 which may be a single weighted member or may have ends with different weighting characteristics or weight values. For instance, theweight1640 may have oneend1640aheavier than an opposite end1640b. In some arrangements, the heavier end may be positioned towards the top of the golf club head to provide a first weight arrangement or alternatively, towards the bottom of the golf club head to provide a second weight arrangement. The different weight arrangements can affect performance of theclub head1600. The v-shapedvoid1630 may permit easier access to the body of thegolf club head1600,weights1640, etc. to more easily adjust weight from a high position to a low position. Other structures can be operably associated with the interface area at the void1630 to removably support weight members thereon.
• Additionally or alternatively, theweight member1640 may include multiple weights or portions of theweight1640 that can be releasably fastened to one another; e.g. three pieces with one piece being heaviest (e.g., shown in phantom lines inFIG. 16). The different weights may also have different weight values. In some examples, the heavy member can be at either end or at a middle of the member. Various other combinations of weight members may be used without departing from the invention. The overall height of theweight member1640 along with the length of the threadedfastener1644 may generally correspond to the height of thereceiver tube1642 so that theweight1640 fits snugly in thetube1642 and does not slide within the tube during use. It is understood that thetube1642 and/or theweight1640 may have shock absorbing features if desired.
• In some arrangements, the base of the v-shaped void may be angled and the receivingtube1642 may conform to the angle. Thus, the weight member may be adjusted in a hybrid fashion, e.g., high/low, fore/aft, by adjusting theweight1640 within the receivingtube1642.Multiple receiving tubes1642 can also be utilized in vertical, horizontal or angular configurations. The receiving tube(s) may also be positioned at locations spaced away from theinterface area1626 including along surfaces of thefirst leg1622 and thesecond leg1624.
• The position of theweight1640 and receivingtube1642 at the base of the v-shaped void may aid in adjusting the center of gravity near a central region of thegolf club head1600. Weight in thetube1642 can be focused in thetube1642 to provide a low center of gravity or a high center of gravity. Theweight1640 can also be configured to provide a more neutral center of gravity. The insertion or removal ofweight1640 may add or remove additional weight from the overall weight of thegolf club head1600 and may add or remove weight from the central region, thereby adjusting the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1600. Such weighting characteristics provided by theweight1640 in thetube1642 can further impact golf ball trajectory by providing a change in ball spin. It has been determined that this weighting feature can provide a change of approximately 500-600 rpm in ball spin. Utilizing theadjustable weight1640 in thetube1642 to affect ball spin as well as considering launch angle and ball speed, a golfer can customize the golf club to achieve desired ball trajectory, distance and other characteristics. The adjustable weighting feature can further be used to customize theclub head1600 to produce a desired ball spin for a particular golf ball being used.
• The weight assembly utilized inFIG. 16 can also take certain alternative forms. For example, the club head body can be formed such that the first leg and the second leg define the v-shaped void therebetween. In this embodiment, the void extends completely from a crown of the club head to a sole of the club head. The sides of the legs facing into the void may be closed with material defining side surfaces or the sides of the legs could have an open configuration. A cover member can be provided that is also v-shaped to correspond to the v-shaped void. The cover member has a top portion and depending legs as well as structure defining the receiving tube therein. The receiving tube is configured to receive the weights as described above. The cover member is positioned in the v-shaped void wherein the top portion of the cover member is attached to the crown of the club head body. The depending legs of the cover member confront the legs of the club head body and may also be connected to the legs of the club head body. As such, a club head body is formed similar to the club head shown inFIG. 16. In one exemplary embodiment, the club head body is a cast metal body such as titanium. The cover member is formed in a plastic injection molding operation. The plastic cover member reduces the overall weight of the club head as opposed to such corresponding structures also being made from metal such as titanium. Coating operations could be utilized on the plastic cover member to provide a metallic appearance and to further strengthen the member. It is further understood that in the various embodiments described herein utilizing additional weight members, the weight members may be of a material heavier than the remainder of the golf club head or portions of the head. In other exemplary embodiments, the weight member(s) may be made of the same material as the remainder of the golf club head or portions thereof. In certain exemplary embodiments, the weight member may be formed from steel, aluminum, titanium, magnesium, tungsten, graphite, or composite materials, as well as alloys and/or combinations thereof.
• FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate another weight arrangement similar toFIG. 16. Thegolf club head1700 may include club head body defining a v-shapedvoid1702 in the rear of thegolf club head1700. The club head body has the pair of spaced legs defining the void1702 wherein the legs converge and an interface area is defined in the club head body. Further, thegolf club head1700 may include aweight1740 arranged in the interface area or generally at or proximate a central region of the golf club head (e.g., at the base of the v-shaped void1702). The weight assembly or weight is operably associated with the interface area. Similar to the arrangement ofFIG. 16, the weight may be cylindrical and may be received in a receiver such as a receivingtube1742 in an exemplary embodiment.
• Similar to the arrangement discussed above, the weight may have ends having different weighting characteristics or weight values. For instance, oneend1740amay be heavier than theother end1740b. The additional weight may be due to end1740abeing a larger portion of the weight1740 (as shown inFIG. 17B) or the material used to form the weight may differ for each end. Theweight1740 may be removed from the receivingtube1742 and rotated or flipped to adjust the weight distribution associated with theweight1740. That is, the heavier end may be proximal an upper portion of the receiving tube1742 (e.g., proximal the sole of the golf club head) or theweight1740 may be reversed so that the heavier end is proximal the top or crown of thegolf club head1740.
• Additionally or alternatively, the weight may be comprised of multiple weight portions having varying weight characteristics, as described above. For instance,portions1740aand1740bmay be separate portions of theweight1740 that may be connected together in multiple configurations to adjust the weight distribution and thereby adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1700. Although two weight portions are shown inFIG. 17B, three or more portions may be used to form theweight1740 as desired.
• In some examples, the receivingtube1742 may include afastener1750 to secure theweight1740 within the receivingtube1742. For instance, a screw or other threadedfastener1750 may be inserted into the receivingtube1742 after theweight1740 has been inserted to maintain the position of theweight1740. The receivingtube1742 has mating threads to receive the threadedfastener1750. In order to remove or adjust the weight, thefastener1750 may be removed and theweight1740 may then be removed. Similar to the arrangements discussed above, access to theweight1740 andfastener1750 may be via thevoid1702 formed in the rear of thegolf club head1700. It is understood that theweight1740 could be secured in thetube1740 in several other alternative embodiments.
• Additionally or alternatively, theweight1740 may be threaded or connected to a threadedfastener1750 such that adjustment of the thread moves theweight1740 within the receivingtube1742. For instance, turning of the threadedfastener1750 may move thefastener1750 up or down within the receivingtube1742. Aweight1740 connected to thefastener1750 may then also move up and down with the threadedfastener1750. As further shown inFIGS. 17A and 17B, the receivingtube1742 may have awindow1744 to allow one to see theweight1740 in thetube1742. The weight(s)1740 may be provided with indicia to the allow for easy determination of the particular weighting arrangement provided.
• Although the above-described arrangements including a receiving tube generally illustrate an exterior of the receiving tube being exposed, the receiving tube may be enclosed within a rear portion of the golf club head without departing from the invention. For example, the interface area of the golf club head may completely enclose the receiving tube or some other structure to receive a weight member.
• FIG. 18 illustrates yet another golf club head having a void1802 formed in the rear and having adjustable weight members. Theclub head1800 has the pair of spaced legs defining thevoid1802 underneath the cover or crown portion of the club head. Thegolf club head1800 includes twoweight members1840aand1840b. The twoweight members1840a,1840bmay be arranged similar to the weights ofFIGS. 16 and 17 such that one end may be heavier than another end. Further, theweight members1840a,1840bmay be received in a receiving tube (not shown inFIG. 18) similar to the arrangements above, or may be connected to an outer surface of the golf club head, as also described above.
• The weight may be removed and flipped, rotated, etc. in order to adjust the overall weight arrangement of thegolf club head1800 and adjust the performance characteristics. In the arrangement ofFIG. 18, oneweight1840ais arranged to adjust weight in a fore/aft matter (e.g., toward the face/front, toward the rear) while theother weight1840bis configured to adjust weight in a high/low matter (e.g., toward the top, toward the sole). Each weight may be adjusted independently of the other in order to customize the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1800. Additional arrangements including weights that may be adjusted in a fore/aft and high/low manner will be discussed below. It is understood that theweights1840a,1850amay be switched such that the high/low weight member1850 may be positioned towards the toe and the front/rear weight member1840amay be positioned towards the heel. As further shown inFIG. 18, theclub head1800 may have achannel1850 extending across the sole of theclub head1850 from a heel to a toe and generally adjacent the ball striking face. The channel allows a certain amount of compression of the club head upon ball impact. This feature may cooperate with the other club head structures and weighting characteristics to further enhance performance of the club.
• FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate another alternative golf club head arrangement having a void1902 formed in the rear of thegolf club head1900 and having an adjustable weight arranged within thevoid1902. Similar to the arrangements discussed above, thevoid1902 provides ease of access to the adjustable weight arranged in thegolf club head1900. Thegolf club head1900 includes an open rear portion with a receivingtube1942 extending from a sole of thegolf club head1900 toward a top of thegolf club head1900. Theclub head1900 has asole surface1930 extending from a base of the body proximate the ball striking face towards a rear of the club head body. Thesole surface1930 supports the end of the receivingtube1942 at the sole. The cover or crown portion of the club head body extends past thesole surface1930 wherein thesole surface1930 would not be visible at an address position. Similar to the arrangements discussed above, the receivingtube1942 may be configured to receive aweight1940 that may have various weighting characteristics and may be adjustable, removable, rotatable, etc. to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head1900.
• Due to the arrangement and location of thevoid1902, theweight1940 may be visible through an open portion of the receivingtube1942, as shown inFIG. 19B. This may permit a user to identify a position of theweight1940 within the receivingtube1942 and determine whether an adjustment of the weight is desirable. As with some arrangements discussed above, theweight1940 may be held within the receivingtube1942 via a fastener, such as a threaded fastener. The void1902 may permit access to the fastener to adjust theweight1940.
• Similar to the arrangements discussed above, theweight1940 may have ends having different weight characteristics or may be formed of multiple portions that may permit adjustment of the weight distribution associated with theweight1940.
• FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate yet another golf club head arrangement having adjustable weights. Theclub head2000 has the pair of spaced legs defining thevoid2002 underneath the cover or crown portion of theclub head2000. The weight arrangement shown includes twoadjustable weights2040a,2040b, that are received in a first receiver and a second receiver or receptacles respectively. Theadjustable weights2040a,2040bmay have ends that are weighted differently and also be made from multiple weight members releasably connected together and having various weight values. In an exemplary embodiment, the first receiver is afirst receiver tube2042a, and the second receiver is a second receiver tube2042b. Thefirst receiver tube2042ahas a vertical configuration positioned proximate aninterface area2026. The second receiver tube2042bhas a general horizontal configuration and extends from proximate thefirst receiver tube2042atowards a rear of theclub head2000. An end of the second receiver tube2042bis connected at the rear periphery of theclub head2000. While two weights are being shown, it is understood that more or fewer weights may be used as desired. Similar to the arrangements discussed above, theweights2040a,2040bmay have one end heavier than another end or may be formed of multiple weight portions having different weight characteristics. It is understood that thefirst receiver tube2042amay be completely encased at theinterface area2026. As can be appreciated fromFIGS. 20A and 20B, the second receiver tube2042bextends along the void and has a space or gap defined between thetube2042aand an underside surface of the cover or crown. An opening or open end into the second receiver tube2042bis positioned proximate the rear of theclub head2000. The second receiver tube2042bhas a closed end proximate the open end of thefirst receiver tube2042a.
• Similar to certain arrangements discussed above, theweights2040a,2040bare contained within the receivingtubes2042a,2042bin thegolf club head2000. In some examples, the position of theweight2040a,2040bwithin the receiving tube may be maintained by a fastener, such as a screw or other threaded fastener. The receiving tube may be visible, such as receiving tube2042bor may be contained within a portion of thegolf club head2000 such that it is not visible from an exterior of the club, such as the receivingtube2042aassociated withweight2040a.
• Theweights2040a,2040bmay be rotated, removed, adjusted, etc. to adjust the performance characteristics of the golf club head. For example, adjustment ofweight2040bmay adjust the weight distribution of the golf club head in a front to rear direction. That is, positioning a heavier end of theweight2040bnear a front will adjust the overall weight of theclub head2000 toward a front or front face of the golf club. Alternatively, positioning a heavier end of theweight2040btoward a rear of thegolf club head2000 may shift the overall weight of theclub head2000 toward the back or rear of thegolf club head2000.
• Weight2040amay also be adjustable, removable, rotatable, etc. to adjust the overall weight characteristics of thegolf club head2000. For instance, theweight2040amay have a heavier end and a lighter end, as described above. As desired, the heavier end or lighter end may be inserted into thefirst receiving tube2042afirst to adjust the weight of the golf club in a high to low direction. That is, inserting the heavier end in first (e.g., toward the crown since the receiving tube is accessed from the sole of the golf club head) may move weight toward a crown of top of the golf club, while inserting the lighter end in first (e.g., toward the crown) will add more weight near the bottom or sole of the golf club.
• Theweights2040a,2040bmay be adjusted independently of each other. Adjustment, rotation, etc. of theweights2040a,2040bmay move or adjust the center of gravity of thegolf club2000 as desired. The hybrid arrangement of adjusting weight in both a fore/aft direction and high/low or sole/crown direction may provide for further customization of the weight and/or performance characteristics of thegolf club head2000. It is also understood that the receivers could be supported by pivotable supports providing further adjustment capabilities. It is further understood that the receivers or receptacles have generally longitudinal axes. The weights are received along the longitudinal axes. In certain structures, the longitudinal axis is generally transverse to the ball striking face. In other structures, the longitudinal axis is generally parallel to the ball striking face. In still other structures, the longitudinal axis can be positioned at an angle with respect to the ball striking face.
• FIG. 21 illustrates yet another golf club head arrangement. Theclub head2100 has the pair of spaced legs defining avoid2102 underneath the cover or crown portion of theclub head2000. Thegolf club head2100 includes the void2102 proximate the rear of thegolf club head2100 and extending towards the central region of theclub head2100. In this embodiment, thevoid2102 is formed by thefirst leg2122 and thesecond leg2124 that are spaced apart to help define the v-shapedvoid2102. In some examples, thelegs2122,2124 may include one or more slidingweights2140 operably associated with thelegs2122,2124. To this end, theweights2140 may be supported by thelegs2122,2124 in different configurations. In one exemplary embodiment, thefirst leg2122 may define a first passageway that receives amoveable weight2140, and thesecond leg2124 may define a second passageway that receives amoveable weight2140. The passageways may be considered a track defined by thelegs2122,2124. The slidingweights2140 may be connected to thegolf club head2100 usingscrews2165 or other fasteners that may permit adjustment of the position of theweights2140. For instance, afastener2165 positioned through thelegs2122,2124 may be received in aslot2160 on theweight2140 or other receiving recess positioned along a top of theweight2140. This cooperative configuration may allow for self-tightening upon rotation of thefastener2165. Thefastener2165 may maintain the position of the slidingweight2140 within the leg. To adjust a position of theweight2140, thefastener2165 may be loosened and theweights2140 may be moved into (e.g., toward the front) or out of (e.g., toward the rear) the golf club head2100 (as indicated by arrows) and thefastener2165 may be retightened to secure theweight2140 in the new or adjusted position. The void structure assists in providing the necessary access for adjustment of theweights2140 along the legs. In an additional alternative arrangement, the legs could also define an internal floor wherein theweights2140 could be supported by and slide along the floor. A fastener could be provided as a setting mechanism to secure the weight at a desired location along the leg. Additional track mechanisms may also be employed between the weights and the leg structures.
• Theslot2160 arrangement may permit theweight2140 to be secured in infinitely many positions along a length of thelegs2122,2124. Additionally or alternatively, theslot2160 may include one or more stops (not shown) which may define positions in which theweight2140 may be secured and may aid in maintaining a position of theweight2140. The stops may take various forms and cooperate with theweight2140 to maintain a position. In one exemplary embodiment, the stop may be a resiliently deflectable material, such rubber, polymer or other elastomeric material in order to maintain the position of the weight in the slot, while permitting movement of the weight along the slot, e.g., by moving the weight over the stop causing the stop to deflect. In other exemplary embodiments, the moveable weight may cooperate with a biasing member to assist in maintaining a position of the weight. The weight may also be able to be changed out with other weights that are heavier or lighter.
• In some examples,weights2140 may have the same or substantially similar weight characteristics. In other examples, theweights2140 may be different. Further, in some arrangements, theweights2140 may be removable from thegolf club head2100 and, in some examples, replaced with other weights having different weight characteristics.
• Adjustment of theweights2140 will adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head2100. For instance, as the weight is moved inward, toward a front face of the golf club head, the overall weight distribution of thegolf club head2100 will move forward, thereby adjusting the center of gravity of thegolf club head2100. Alternatively, as the weights are adjusted outward, toward a rear of thegolf club head2100, the center of gravity may be shifted toward the rear of thegolf club head2100.
• The weights may be adjusted independently of each other. For instance, one weight may be adjusted more forward than the other weight to further adjust the weight distribution, center of gravity, moment of inertia etc. of thegolf club head2100. Further, the v-shaped configuration of theweights2140 may provide a shift in weight in the fore/aft direction, as described above, but also in a toe/heel direction. In some examples, theweights2140 may be arranged on an incline which may also result in a high/low weight adjustment when theweights2140 are moved. The incline of the legs could also be structured to provide an increased combination of high/low and fore/aft weight movement. As further shown inFIG. 21, theclub head2100 may have achannel2150 extending across the sole of theclub head2100 from a heel to a toe and generally adjacent the ball striking face. The channel allows a certain amount of compression of the club head upon ball impact. This feature may cooperate with the other club head structures and weighting characteristics to further enhance performance of the club.
• FIG. 22 illustrates another golf club head arrangement having a void2202 formed in a rear of thegolf club head2200. In some examples, thevoid2202 may be substantially v-shaped and may include one or moreadjustable weight assemblies2240 positioned within thegolf club head2200 and along sidewalls2204 of the v-shapedvoid2202. Although the arrangement ofFIG. 22 includes two adjustable weight assemblies, more or fewer weight assemblies may be used without departing from the invention.
• In some examples, theweights2240 are supported by the legs and may be slidable along thesides2204 of thevoid2202. For instance, a screw orother fastener2265 may aid in maintaining a position of a weight within aslot2260 arranged on thesidewalls2204 of thevoid2202. As desired, thefastener2265 may be loosened and adjusted along theslot2260, moving the weight fore (toward a face of the golf club head2200) or aft (toward a rear of the golf club head2200). Once a desired position is determined, thefasteners2265 may be tightened to maintain the position of the weight along theslot2260.
• In the arrangement shown, the weight may be positioned anywhere alongslot2260. In an alternate arrangement, one or more stops may be arranged along theslot2260 to aid in maintaining a position of the weight and to provide finite positions for the weight.
• Similar to the arrangement discussed with respect toFIG. 21, the weights may be adjusted along the slots and may move the weight distribution fore and/or aft, and may also adjust weight in a toe/heel direction due to the v-shapedvoid2202 andsides2204 of the void2202 in which the weights are positioned. This may provide for customization of the weight distribution in multiple directions. Further, the weights may be adjusted independently of each other to further aid in customizing the overall weight distribution of the golf club head in order to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head2200. The weights may also be slidably mounted at various locations on the inner surfaces of thesidewalls2204 including more towards an interface area at the convergence of the legs, or more towards the rear of the legs and also at various angles along theside walls2204. In other alternatives, theweights2240 can be contained within an internal cavity of the club head but configured to be selectively slidable along internal surfaces of the legs. It is understood that theclub head2200 inFIG. 22 can be provided with a cover to extend over thevoid2202 and/or the legs.
• FIGS. 23A-23C illustrate another golfclub head arrangement2300 having a void formed in the rear of thegolf club head2300 and having an adjustable weight arrangement configured therein. Thegolf club head2300 includes anadjustable weight2340 positioned within thevoid2302 and accessible via thevoid2302. Theweight2340 may slide along a track extending from proximate a toe to proximate a heel. In some arrangements, some or all of theweight2340 may be arranged within thegolf club head2300 and may not be visible from an exterior of the golf club head. Alternatively, the weight may be arranged on an outer surface of thegolf club head2300, as desired.
• In the arrangement ofFIGS. 23A-23C, a portion of the weight may be arranged on an interior of thegolf club head2300. However, the weight may be adjusted from an exterior of thegolf club head2300. For instance, theweight2340 may be adjusted along a track orslot2360 in order to shift the weight associated with the golf club head from proximate the toe to proximate the heel or vice versa. Although the slot is shown as being curved or arced, various slot arrangements may be used without departing from the invention. For instance, the slot may be generally linear, v-shaped, etc.
• Similar to the arrangement described above, theweight2340 may be threaded or may be adjustable via a threaded fastener and may be maintained in positioned via the threads. In some arrangements, theweight2340 may have varying shapes and may be held in place via a threaded fastener extending through the slot.
• FIG. 23B illustrates acover2350 that may extend over a portion of the rear of the golf club head to cover theweight2340 andslot2360. The cover may provide a more conventional appearance for thegolf club head2300 and may prevent dirt, debris, etc. from entering thegolf club head2300 via theslot2360.
• FIG. 23C illustrates thegolf club head2300 with the cover removed. As shown, the rear of thegolf club head2300 is generally open and has a substantially planar structure. This open rear structure may aid in reducing overall weight associated with thegolf club head2300. The addition of thecover2350 may provide the advantage of a golf club head having reduced weight while maintaining the appearance of a conventional golf club head.
• FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate an arrangement similar toFIGS. 23A-23C including anadjustable weight2440 that is adjustable along a slot ortrack2460. As shown inFIG. 24B, theweight2440 may have two ends having different weight characteristics. Thus, as theweight2440 is adjusted along a length of theslot2460, the weight distribution in a toe/heel direction may be altered, as well as in a high/low direction. Thegolf club head2400 may further include asecond slot2470 that may allow for adjustment of another weight (not shown). The club head structure having the void provides for easy access to theweight2440.
• FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate anothergolf club head2500 having a void2502 formed in the rear of the golf club head and having adjustable weights arranged therein (e.g., along the walls of the void2502). Thegolf club head2500 includes twoadjustable weights2540 arranged along a sidewall of the v-shapedvoid2502. More or fewer weights may be used without departing from the invention. In some examples, a portion of theweight2540 may be arranged within an interior of thegolf club head2500, while a portion may be accessible from the exterior of thegolf club head2500. That may aid in ease of adjustment of theweights2540.
• In some arrangements, theweights2540 may be slidable, e.g., along a track orslot2560. For instance, theweights2540 may have a first position near a base of the v-shapedvoid2502 and proximal a front of thegolf club head2500. Theweights2540 may slide outward, from the first position, toward the rear corners of thegolf club head2500 to adjust the overall weight distribution of thegolf club head2500. In some examples, theweights2540 may be held in place via friction fits, etc. In other examples, one or more stops may be arranged along theslots2560 and may maintain the position of theweights2540 until a force exceeding a certain threshold is applied to theweight2540 and it may be moved beyond the stop. Although theslot2560 shown is generally linear, the slot may be curved, arced, etc. without departing from the invention.
• In some arrangements, the weights may have the same or substantially similar weights or weight characteristics. Alternatively, theweights2540 may have different weight characteristics. Further, the weights may, in some examples, be adjusted together. For instance, the movement of oneweight2540 along theslot2560 may also cause a corresponding movement of theother weight2540 along theslot2560. Alternatively, theweights2540 may move independently of each other. Theweights2560 may be secured via friction fits or other mechanical configurations.
• FIG. 26 illustrate another examplegolf club head2600 having a void2602 formed in the rear of thegolf club head2600. Abottom cover2643 may be used to cover one or more of the adjustable weight arrangements discussed herein. In addition, thegolf club head2600 may include achannel2650 that further provides performance enhancements to thegolf club head2600 as described above.
• FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate another examplegolf club head2700 having a void and including anadjustable weight2740. It is understood that a cover to be positioned over the void is not shown inFIG. 27A. Similar to the arrangements discussed above, a portion of the weight may be internal to thegolf club head2700, while a portion of theweight2740 may be accessible from an exterior of the golf club head. Theweight2740 may be adjustable along a slot ortrack2760. In some examples, theweight2740 may be maintained in position along the slot ortrack2760 using a fastener, such as a threaded fastener, that may be loosened to allow for adjustment of theweight2740. In other examples, theweight2740 may be held in position using friction fits. In still other examples, one or more stops may be arranged along the slot or track to maintain a position of theweight2740 until a threshold force is applied to move the weight past the stop.
• Theweight2740 may be adjusted up toward the top or crown of the golf club head, or down toward the sole of thegolf club head2700. In some examples, the slot ortrack2760 may be inclined (e.g., slanting upward as it extends from the rear toward the front of the golf club head). This inclined slot arrangement may permit adjustment of the weight in both a high/low direction, as well as in a fore/aft direction.FIG. 27B illustrates an interior of thegolf club head2700 as seen from the toe end. Theweight2740 is movable as indicated by the arrow. Thus, in one aspect, the weight is moveable along the track between a position proximate the sole and a position proximate the cover or crown. Movement of the weight will adjust the weight of the club both in the high/low direction (e.g, from crown to sole and vice versa) and the fore/aft direction (e.g., from front to rear and vice versa). Movement of the weight may adjust the overall weight distribution of thegolf club head2700, as well as affect the center of gravity and moment of inertia characteristics of the golf club head.
• As can be appreciated fromFIG. 27B, a cover member may be used to cover theadjustable weight2740. The cover may aid in preventing dirt and debris from entering the slot ortrack2760. However, the void2702 formed in the rear of thegolf club head2700 may still provide ease of access to theadjustable weight2740 when the cover is removed.
• FIG. 28 illustrates another adjustable weight arrangement. Similar to some arrangements discussed above, theweight2840 may be adjustable alongtrack2841 to move the weight toward the toe or the heel of the golf club head in order to adjust the performance characteristics of thegolf club head2800. Theclub head2800 has a void formed therein and it is understood that a cover could be provided to be positioned over the void and weight.
• FIGS. 29-44 disclose additional embodiments of the club head according to aspects of the present invention. In particular,FIGS. 29-35 disclose an embodiment of the golf club head according to at least some aspects of the invention, generally designated with thereference numeral3000. Thegolf club head3000 generally includes a golfclub head body3002 and acover3004. In this particular embodiment, thecover3004 is formed as an integral portion of theclub head body3002, such as from a casting manufacturing process. Similar to previous embodiments, thegolf club head3000 has a geometric weighting feature associated therewith. Thegolf club head3000 generally has a front orball striking face3008, a rear3010, a top3012 orcrown3012, a sole3014, aheel3016, and atoe3018. It is further understood that the golfclub head body3002 defines aninternal cavity3019.
• As shown inFIGS. 29-35, the golfclub head body3002 has abase member3020 and afirst leg3022 and asecond leg3024. As theclub head body3002 is generally an integral structure in this embodiment, thebase member3020 andlegs3022,3024 may be considered to depend from thecover3004. Thebase member3020 generally extends from theheel3016 to thetoe3018 and defines theball striking face3008 on one side. Thebase member3020 assists in defining a portion of theinternal cavity3019 and in an exemplary embodiment, theinternal cavity3019 extends from an inner surface of theball striking face3008 and into the end of the internal areas defined by thelegs3022,3024 andcover3064. As can be appreciated from the drawings, the inner surface of theball striking face3008 faces into theinternal cavity3019 and is further in communication with portions of theinternal cavity3019 defined by thefirst leg3022 and thesecond leg3024. Theball striking face3008 may utilize a variable face construction as described above and be separately connected to theclub head body3002. As shown inFIGS. 33-34, thefirst leg3022 extends away from theball striking face3008, and thesecond leg3024 extends away from theball striking face3008. Thefirst leg3022 and thesecond leg3024 extend respectively towards the rear of the club at theheel3016 andtoe3018 of theclub head3000. In an exemplary embodiment, thelegs3022,3024 extend consistently from theinterface area3028 towards the rear at theheel3016 and thetoe3018. Thus, thelegs3022,3024 extend continuously from theinterface area3028 outwardly towards theheel3016 andtoe3018 of theclub head3000, and generally in a linear configuration. Thelegs3022,3024 could extend in a non-linear configuration. Thelegs3022,3024 could also extend at different lengths if to achieve further weight distribution and performance characteristics.
• Theclub head3000 utilizes the geometric weighting feature and in an exemplary embodiment, avoid3026, or space or gap, is defined between thefirst leg3022 and thesecond leg3024. Thus, it may be considered that this portion of the golf club head is removed to form or define thevoid3026. In a further exemplary embodiment thevoid3026 is generally v-shaped. Thus, thefirst leg3022 andsecond leg3024 converge towards one another and generally meet at aninterface area3028. Thevoid3026 has a wider dimension at the rear3010 of theclub head3000 and a more narrow dimension proximate a central region of the club head generally at theinterface area3028. Thevoid3026 opens to the rear3010 of theclub head3000. In one exemplary embodiment, theinterface area3028 has a height and is positioned proximate a central portion or region of thebody3002 and defines abase support wall3030. Thebase support wall3030 may have a rounded surface that faces into thevoid3026. A proximal end of thefirst wall3022 connects to one end of thebase support wall3030, and a proximal end of thesecond wall3024 connects to another end of thebase support wall3030. It is understood from the figures that thebase support wall3030 can extend between the sole surface and the underside of thecover3004 in a general vertical configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, thebase support wall3030 extends from the sole surface at an angle from a vertical axis. Thus, thebase support wall3030 could extend along its length towards the rear of the club head or towards the ball striking face. Thebase support wall3030 may meet a sole surface of thegolf club head3000 to define a ridge location. An angle A is defined between thelegs3022,3024 which angle can vary in degree, including a right angle, acute angles or obtuse angles. In one exemplary embodiment, the angle A can be in the general range of 30 degrees to 110 degrees, and more specifically 45 degrees to 90 degrees. It is further understood that the angle A can change from a location proximate the sole to a location proximate an underside of the cover or crown. The angle A could also change along the length of thelegs3022,3024. Thelegs3022,3024 could also extend from theinterface area3028 at different angles in a non-symmetrical fashion to provide desired performance characteristics. It is further understood that thevoid3026 and also thelegs3022,3024 could be positioned in a rotated configuration about the central region such as rotated more towards the rear heel of the club head or rotated more towards the rear toe of the club head. It is also understood that theinterface area3028 could be positioned at various locations between the heel and toe and the golf club head. While a v-shapedvoid3026 is formed, thevoid3026 could take other forms including a more u-shaped defined void wherein theinterface area3028 defines a more extendedbase support wall3030 that separates thelegs3022,3024, even if thelegs3022,3024 extend at an angle or are generally transverse to theball striking face3008. It is understood that thebase support wall3030 can vary in width.
• With such structures, it is understood that theinternal cavity3019 does not extend completely from an inner surface of the ball striking face to a rear of the golf club head. Thus, the internal cavity is interrupted proximate the central region of theclub head3000. It is further understood that the geometric weighting feature described herein is generally v-shaped wherein a width of the geometric weighting feature proximate the rear is greater than a width of the geometric weighting feature towards the ball striking face.
• As further shown inFIGS. 33-34, thefirst leg3022 defines a firstexternal side surface3032 and thesecond leg3024 defines a secondexternal side surface3034. Eachside surface3032,3034 has aproximal end3036 positioned at theinterface area3028 and further has adistal end3038 at the rear3010 of theclub3000. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal ends3038 extend inwards from the majority portion of the side surfaces3032,3034. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 33, inwardly extending the distal ends3038 of the side surfaces3032,3034 shortens the arc of the rear of the club head between the distal ends3038. This can have a desired effect on the sound characteristics of thegolf club head3000. In still other exemplary embodiments, such desired effects may prompt the distal ends3039 to extend outward therefore lengthening the arc of the rear between the distal ends3038. The respective heights of the distal ends3038 further decrease towards the rear3010 of theclub head3000. As further shown inFIG. 33, the side surfaces3032,3034 have a greater height at the proximal ends3036 wherein the surfaces extend to a lesser height towards the distal ends3038. For example, in one exemplary embodiment for a driver type golf club head, the height of the side surfaces3032,3034 at the proximal ends3036 from an underside of thecover3004 to the sole of the club head proximate thebase support wall3030 is approximately 48-62 millimeters. This height can be considered the depth of the void3026 proximate theinterface area3028. In one particular driver type golf club head, this height is approximately 52 millimeters while the ball striking face height at a face center of the golf club head is approximately 58 millimeters. In another particular driver type golf club head, this height is approximately 60 millimeters and the ball striking face height at a face center is approximately 62 millimeters. In a fairway type golf club head, this height is approximately 33 millimeters and the ball striking face height at a face center is approximately 35 millimeters. In a hybrid type golf club head, this height is approximately 33 millimeters and the ball striking face height at a face center is approximately 38 millimeters. Generally, this height may be approximately 85%-100% of the ball striking face height at a face center of the golf club head. Such configurations allow the cover or crown geometry to be dimensioned such that the desired performance characteristics of the club head are achieved. The height of the side surfaces3032,3034 proximate the distal ends from an underside of thecover3004 to the sole is generally less at the distal ends3028.
• In one exemplary embodiment, the side surfaces3032,3034 each have a plurality ofribs3040 or ridges extending from the proximal ends3036 towards the distal ends3038. Thus, the side surfaces3032,3034 have a stepped configuration or undulations. Such structures assist in adding a certain amount of rigidity to thebody3002. It is understood that asingle rib3040 could be used and only asingle leg3022,3024 could have arib3040. Other rigidity-enforcing structures could also be employed on thelegs3022,3024 or other portions of thegolf club head3000. It is further understood that in exemplary embodiments, thefirst leg3022 is generally defined by thefirst side surface3032 and the club head body forming the heel of theclub head3000, and thesecond leg3024 is generally defined by thesecond side surface3024 and the club head body forming the toe of theclub head3000. As can be appreciated from the figures, the sole3014 of theclub head body3002 may be defined as adjacent theball striking face3008, towards the central region of the club head at theinterface area3028 and to the distal ends of thefirst leg3022 and thesecond leg3024.
• Theclub head body3002 defines additional internal support structures in theinternal cavity3019 to enhance features of theclub head3000. The structures may be internal support members, gussets, or fins, positioned in theinternal cavity3019 to provide additional support to components of theclub head3000. Accordingly, as shown inFIG. 35, theclub head3000 includes afirst gusset member3050 and asecond gusset member3052. In an exemplary embodiment, thefirst gusset member3050 and thesecond gusset member3052 are triangle-shaped members, and generally right triangle members in particular, although it is understood that thegussets3050,3052 can have certain contoured outer sides. Thegussets3050,3052 may have a constant or variable thickness. Thefirst gusset member3050 is positioned proximate an internal surface of thefirst leg3022 and an internal surface of theinterface area3028. Thesecond gusset member3052 is positioned proximate an internal surface of thesecond leg3024 and an internal surface of theinterface area3028. Thefirst gusset member3050 is in spaced relation to thesecond gusset member3052. In particular, thefirst gusset member3050 has one side, or first side, connected proximate afirst interface junction3054 of thebase support wall3030 and thefirst leg3022, and has a bottom side, or second side, connected to an internalsole surface3058. Similarly, thesecond gusset member3052 has one side, or first side, connected proximate asecond interface junction3056 of thebase support wall3030 and thesecond leg3024, and has a bottom side, or second side, connected to the internalsole surface3058. Thegusset members3050,3052 generally extend from thebase support wall3030 towards theball striking face3008. It is understood that thegusset members3050,3052 can be moved inwards and connected on the inner surface of thebase support wall3030. As further shown inFIG. 35, thegusset members3050,3052 extend upwards on a portion of thebase support wall3030 at theinterface area3028. This distance can vary and may or may not extend fully to an underside surface of the cover of theclub head3000. Similarly, thegusset members3050,3052 are dimensioned to extend along a portion of the internalsole surface3058, which distance can also vary.FIGS. 35aand35bshow additional views of thegusset members3050,3052. In an exemplary embodiment, thegusset members3050,3052 diverge on the internalsole surface3058 as shown by the arrows inFIG. 35 as the members extend towards theball striking face3008. As shown inFIG. 35a, it is understood that thegusset members3050,3052 may extend vertically up the surface of thebase support wall3030 at an angle. It is further understood that additional support members could be connected between thegusset members3050,3052 as desired. It has been determined that based on the particular construction of theclub head3000, upon ball impact, portions of theclub head3000 can flex, such as at theinterface area3028. Sound upon ball impact is also affected with the particular construction of thegolf club head3000.
• Thefirst gusset member3050 and thesecond gusset member3052 assist in adding stiffness, rigidity and load strength at theinterface area3028 and limits flexing as desired to provide the desired performance characteristics including acoustic properties. Increased durability is also achieved. Thegusset members3050,3052 do not add significant additional weight to thegolf club head3000. With such constructions, weight distribution can be further maximized to be moved towards the rear at theheel3016 and thetoe3018. The configuration of the void3026 can then also be maximized. These constructions further adjust sound characteristics of thegolf club head3000 upon ball impact to desired frequency levels. It is noted that the sole surface is generally solid at locations where the gusset members engage and extend along the inner surface of the sole. Thus, no other weight port structures are positioned at the gusset members in an exemplary embodiment.
• It is understood that additional gusset members could be utilized if desired or gusset members having different configurations than shown could also be utilized. For example, multiple gusset support members could span around different locations at the interface area or inner surfaces of the first leg and second leg. Thegusset members3050,3052 could also be connected at the internal surfaces of the legs rather than at theinterface junctions3054,3056. The gusset members could also extend to and be connected to other internal surfaces of the club head. In addition, thegusset members3050,3052 could be dimensioned to extend across theinterface face area3028 and against the internal surfaces of thelegs3022,3024 towards the rear of thegolf club head3000. Thegusset members3050,3052 are metallic members in one exemplary embodiment but other materials are possible including composite materials. It is further understood that the gusset support members could be cast or otherwise integrally formed with the club head body in the same forming process. The gusset support members can also be formed separately and later connected as described above such as by welding, adhesives or other connection techniques. While the gusset members are shown as triangular members in one exemplary embodiment, the gusset members could take many different shapes and sizes. The gusset members could further have certain cut-out portions or contours as desired.
• As further shown inFIG. 34, theinterface area3028 is positioned at generally a central portion or central region of theclub head3000 between the ball striking face and rear of thegolf club head3000. Theclub head3000 has a breadth dimension B generally defined as a distance from theball striking face3008 to the rear3010 of theclub3000. (See, e.g.FIG. 1B). As further shown inFIGS. 36-38, thebase support wall3030 of theinterface area3028, proximate the sole surface, is positioned at approximately “x” distance from theball striking face3008. Alternatively, thebase support wall3030 of theinterface area3028, proximate the sole surface, is positioned at approximately “y” distance from the rear3010 of thegolf club head3000. Considered in an alternative fashion, theinterface area3028 may be positioned at a range of approximately 30%-60% of the breadth B of theclub3000, measured from theball striking face3008, or 40%-70% of the breadth B of theclub3000, measured from theball striking face3008. In a further exemplary embodiment, this range can be approximately 40%-50% of the breadth B of theclub3000, measured from theball striking face3008, or 40%-60% of the breadth B of theclub3000, measured from theball striking face3008. In one exemplary embodiment for a driver type club, the overall breadth is approximately 4.365 inches and the distance from the ball striking face to the support wall is approximately 1.875 inches. In another exemplary embodiment for a driver type club, the overall breadth is approximately 4.45 inches and the distance from the ball striking face to the support wall is approximately 2.6 inches. In one exemplary embodiment for a fairway wood type golf club, the overall breadth is approximately 3.375 inches and the distance from the ball striking face to the support wall is approximately 1.5 inches. In another exemplary embodiment for a fairway wood type golf club, the overall breadth is approximately 3.375 inches and the distance from the ball striking face to the support wall is approximately 1.7 inches. In one exemplary embodiment for a hybrid type golf club, the overall breadth is approximately 2.375 inches and the distance from the ball striking face to the support wall is approximately 1.125 inches. In another exemplary embodiment for a hybrid type golf club, the overall breadth is approximately 2.375 inches and the distance from the ball striking face to the support wall is approximately 1.25 inches. From these recited dimensions, the distance y from the rear of the club to the base support wall can be readily determined. It has been found that these dimensions can further have an effect on the club head body flexing upon ball impact and effect the sound characteristics desired for thegolf club head3000.FIGS. 36-38 disclose further alternative embodiments of thegolf club head3000. As shown inFIG. 36, thebase support wall3030 andinterface area3028 are positioned closer to theball striking face3008. InFIGS. 37 and 38, thebase support wall3030 andinterface areas3028 are positioned further away from theball striking face3008 and closer towards the rear3010 of theclub head3000. Thus, these embodiments can be utilized depending on the desired characteristics of the club head.
• As further shown inFIGS. 33-34, it is understood that the outer, bottom surfaces of thebase3020 andlegs3022,3024 generally define the sole of theclub head3000. It is further understood that the length of the base3020 from theball striking face3008 to theinterface area3028 could vary as desired. The first leg and/or base has a first recessedarea3060 proximate theheel3016 of theclub head3000, and the second leg and/or base has a second recessed area3062 proximate thetoe3018 of theclub head3000. The first recessedarea3060 is further in communication with abore3064. Thebore3064 is dimensioned to receive a releasable adjustable connection mechanism for connecting the shaft to theclub head3000 such as via thehosel104. It is understood that the connection mechanism may be configured to have the ability to adjust loft, face angle and/or lie angle. It is further understood that the connection mechanism could take various different forms and also form a non-adjustable connection that merely connects the shaft to the golf club head in a non-adjustable manner.
• FIGS. 29-34 disclose thecover3004. As discussed, in this embodiment, thecover3004 is integrally formed as a portion of theclub head body3002 and generally defines thecrown3012 of theclub head3000. Thecover3004 is configured to be connected to and at least cover portions of theclub head body3002. Thecover3004 may have a certain amount of curvature on an outer, top surface. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 29-34, thecover3004 is dimensioned to substantially cover theclub head body3002.
• Thecover3004 will cover the void3026 as well as thefirst leg3022 andsecond leg3024. Thefirst leg3022 and thesecond leg3024 may be considered to depend from thecover3004. With such construction, and as shown generally schematically inFIG. 30, afirst segment3070 of thecover3004 may be considered to be positioned over theinternal cavity3019, and asecond segment3072 of thecover3004 may be considered to be positioned over thevoid3026. The surface area of thefirst segment3070 is generally greater than the surface area of thesecond segment3072 in an exemplary embodiment. Thecover3004 has a curved outer periphery at a rear that extends over and to just beyond the distal ends of thefirst leg3022 and thesecond leg3024. In certain exemplary embodiments, thecover3004 defines the rear of the club having an outermost periphery of the club head. If theclub head body3002 is formed with a recess as discussed above, peripheral portions of thecover3004 are dimensioned to correspond with the shape of the recess on theclub head body3002. An underside surface of thecover3004 confronts and is in communication with thevoid3026. In addition to sensor mountings as shown in other embodiments, other structures could be mounted on this surface. An underside of the cover facing into the void may have a plaque member adhered thereto via adhesive. The plaque has sufficient rigidity and the adhesive has sufficient resilience to promote a durable bond and vibration dampening characteristics. The plaque materials may be fiber-reinforcement plastics, metals, plastics and the like. The adhesives could be epoxies, silicone adhesives or 3M VHB double-sided tape. The plaque could also have indicia thereon facing into the void. As discussed, the cover could wrap around the sole surface side the golf club to completely encase the void3026 wherein thevoid3026 is not seen from a top or a bottom of the club head. In an exemplary embodiment, however, thecover3004 extends over thevoid3026 andlegs3022,3024 wherein at an address position; thegolf club head3000 has the appearance of a traditional golf club head and wherein thevoid3026 is not visible.
• As further shown inFIGS. 29-35, thecover3004 is integrally formed as a portion of theclub head body3002. In one exemplary embodiment, theclub head body3002 is formed in a casting manufacturing process. In a further exemplary embodiment, theclub head body3002 is cast entirely from titanium. It is understood that other metal materials could be used, or composite materials, or plastic injection molded materials or a combination thereof. With certain materials, additional coating processes may also be used to add additional strength. It is also understood that theball striking face3008 is separately connected to the golfclub head body3002, such as in a welding operation. It is further understood that alternative connection mechanisms between thebody3002 and thecover3004 can also be employed if an integral connection is not employed. Thecover3004 and theclub head body3002 may be connected, joined, fastened or otherwise fixed together (directly or indirectly through intermediate members) via adhesives, cements, welding, soldering or other boding or finishing techniques; by mechanical connectors (such as threads, screws, nuts, bolts or other connectors); interference fits and the like. As can be appreciated, thecover3004 may be considered to generally form the crown of theclub head3000. Remaining portions of theclub head body3002 define the ball striking surface and the depending legs spaced apart to define the void underneath the cover.
• It is understood that the structures of thegolf club head3000 described herein cooperate to form a club head having enhanced characteristics. The void construction provides the ability to distribute weight more towards the rear at the heel and toe. In further exemplary embodiments, theclub head3000 could be structured wherein wall thicknesses of the first leg and second leg can be increased in the manufacturing process to further increase weight towards the rear at the toe and the heel. Wall thicknesses at the distal ends of the legs can be increased to add weight at the rear at the toe and heel. It is further understood that weight members can be internally supported in the legs. Additional structures such as the gusset members provide for the desired amount of rigidity and flexing. The resulting club head provides enhanced performance and sound characteristics.
• FIGS. 39-44 disclose another embodiment of the club head according to at least some aspects of the invention, and the club head is also generally designated with thereference numeral3000. Because of the similarities in structure to the embodiment of the club head shown inFIGS. 29-35, the additional features and differences will be described with the understanding that the above description is applicable to theclub head3000 shown inFIGS. 39-44. In this embodiment, thegolf club head3002 includes a receptacle, or aweight port3070 on a sole surface of theclub head3000. Theweight port3070 is positioned proximate theinterface area3028 and in particular, at thebase support wall3030 adjacent thevoid3026. Theweight port3070 may have internal threads or other further connection structure. Aweight member3072 is provided and may have multiple parts, outer threads or other connection mechanisms. Theweight member3072 may have a certain weight value and may be secured in theweight port3070. Theweight member3072 may comprise multiple parts connected together to allow adjustability of weight. Using theweight member3072 in theweight port3070 allows the golfer to customize the swing weight of the golf club as desired. It is understood that internal support members or gussets are not utilized in this embodiment although such structures could be incorporated if desired.
• Several different embodiments of the golf club head of the present invention have been described herein. The various embodiments have several different features and structures providing benefits and enhanced performance characteristics. It is understood that any of the various features and structures may be combined to form a particular club head of the present invention.
• The structures of the golf club heads disclosed herein provide several benefits. The unique geometry of the golf club head provides for beneficial changes in mass properties of the golf club head. The geometric weighting feature provides for reduced weight and/or improved weight redistribution. The void defined in the club head can reduce overall weight as material is removed from a conventional golf club head wherein a void is defined in place of such material that would normally be present. The void also aids in distributing weight throughout the club head to order to provide improved performance characteristics. The void provides for distributing weight to the rear corners of the club head, at the toe and the heel. Increases in moment of inertia have been achieved while optimizing the location of the center of gravity of the club head. This can provide a more forgiving golf club head as well as a golf club head that can provide more easily lofted golf shots. In certain exemplary embodiments, the weight associated with the portion of the golf club head removed to form the void may be approximately 4-15 grams and more particularly, 8-9 grams. In other exemplary embodiments, this weight savings may be redistributed to other areas of the club head such as towards the rear at the toe and the heel. In certain exemplary embodiments, approximately 2% to 7.5% of the weight is redistributed from a more traditional golf club head design. In still further examples, the void may be considered to have a volume defined by an imaginary plane extending from the sole surfaces and rear of the club and to cooperate with the side surfaces of the legs and underside portion of the cover. The internal cavity may also have a certain volume. The volumes are dimensioned to influence desired performance characteristics. It is further understood that certain portions of the club head can be formed from alternative materials to provide for weight savings or other weight redistribution. In one exemplary embodiment, the walls defining the void may be made from other materials such as composites or polymer based materials.
• As discussed, the weight can be redistributed to more desired locations of the club head for enhanced performance. For example, with the centrally-located void and the legs extending outwardly towards the rear on the heel side and the toe side, more weight is located at such areas. This provides more desired moment of inertia properties. In the designs described herein, the moment of inertia (MOI) about a vertical axis (z-axis) through the center of gravity of the club head (Izz) can range from approximately 1500 gm-cm²to 5900 gm-cm²depending on the type of golf club. In an exemplary embodiment for a driver type golf club, the moment of inertia about a vertical axis (z-axis) through the center of gravity of the club head (Izz) can range from approximately 3800 gm-cm²to 5900 gm-cm², and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 4300 gm-cm²to 5200 gm-cm². In an exemplary embodiment of a fairway wood type golf club, the moment of inertia about a vertical axis (z-axis) through the center of gravity of the club head (Izz) can range from approximately 2000 gm-cm²to 3500 gm-cm², and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 2200 gm-cm²to 3000 gm-cm². In an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid type golf club, the moment of inertia about a vertical axis (z-axis) through the center of gravity of the club head (Izz) can range from approximately 2000 gm-cm²to 3500 gm-cm², and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 2200 gm-cm²to 3000 gm-cm², and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertial can range from 1800 gm-cm²to 2800 gm-cm². In a particular embodiment utilizing the adjustable connection mechanism in the hosel, the Izz moment of inertia is approximately 4400 gm-cm²to 4700 gm-cm². These values can vary. With such moment of inertia properties, improved ball distance can be achieved on center hits. Also, with such moment of inertia properties, the club head has more resistance to twisting on off-center hits wherein less distance is lost and tighter ball dispersion is still achieved. Thus, a more forgiving club head design is achieved. As a result, golfers can feel more confident with increasing their golf club swing speed.
• In addition, the center of gravity of the club head is positioned at a location to enhance performance. In the structures of the exemplary embodiments of the golf club head, the center of gravity is positioned outside of the void location of the club head, and inside the internal cavity or internal volume of the club head. In certain exemplary embodiments, the center of gravity is located between an inner surface of the ball striking face and an inner surface of the base support wall, or within the internal cavity.
• In addition, the geometry and structure of the golf club head provides enhanced sound characteristics. With the structure of the crown, geometric weighting feature as well as the internal support members as described above such as inFIGS. 29-44, it has been determined that the first natural frequency of the golf club head, other than the six rigid body modes of the golf club head, is in the range of 2750-3200 Hz. In additional exemplary embodiments, the first natural frequency of the golf club head is at least 3000 Hz. It has been found that golf club head structures providing such a frequency of less than 2500 Hz tend to be displeasing to the user by providing undesirable feel including sound and/or tactical feedback. The structures provided herein provide for increased frequencies at more desirable levels.
• In addition, the moveable weight mechanisms employed herein provide additional options for distributing weight providing further adjustability of moment of inertia and center of gravity properties. For example, embodiments described herein providing weights that can be further moved towards the rear of the club head at the heel and toe can provide more easily lofted golf shots. Weights can also be more towards the front of the club head to provide more boring shots, such as those desired in higher wind conditions. Weights can also be positioned more towards a crown or sole of the golf club head in certain embodiments. Such moveable weighting features provide additional customization. Finally, adjustable connection mechanisms can be used with the club heads to provide club head adjustability regarding face angle, loft angle and/or lie angle. Such adjustable connection mechanisms are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Ser. Nos. 61/577,660 and 61/526,325, which applications are incorporated by reference herein. Other adjustable mechanisms could also be used. A further embodiment utilizing the adjustable connection mechanism described above allows the golfer to adjust parameters of the golf club such as loft angle of the golf club. Certain golfers desire a lower loft angle setting such as but not limited to 7.5 degrees, 8 degrees, or 8.5 degrees or even 9 degrees. Such low loft angle settings may provide lower ball spin at ball impact. The moveable weight mechanisms, such as shown inFIGS. 17-20 could be utilized to place a heavier weight low towards a sole of the golf club head. This weighting configuration can provide for increased ball spin at the low loft angle settings. Certain other golfers may desire a higher loft setting such as but not limited to 11 degrees, 11.5 degrees, 12 degrees or 12.5 degrees. Such high loft angle settings may provide higher ball spin at ball impact. The moveable weight mechanism could be utilized to place a heavier weight high towards the top of the golf club head. This weighting configuration can provide for reduced ball spin at the high loft angle settings. Additional moveable weight mechanisms such as provided inFIGS. 20A-20B could provide combinations of high/low and fore/aft weighting configurations to affect performance characteristics and provide particular desired launch conditions at particular loft angle settings.
• Thus, while there have been shown, described, and pointed out fundamental novel features of various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated, and in their operation, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements and/or steps which perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way, to achieve the same results are within the scope of the invention. Substitutions of elements from one described embodiment to another are also fully intended and contemplated. It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto.

Claims (23)

What is claimed is:

1. A golf club head comprising:

a body defining a ball striking face, the body further having a first leg extending away from the ball striking face and a second leg extending away from the ball striking face wherein a void is defined between the first leg and the second leg, the body further having a cover that extends over the void; and

a first moveable weight operably associated with one of the first leg and the second leg, the moveable weight being moveable between a first position towards the ball striking face and a second position proximate a distal end of the one of the first leg and the second leg.

2. The golf club head ofclaim 1 wherein the first moveable weight has a slot therein, and the one of the first leg and the second leg has an opening receiving a fastener therethrough, the fastener capable of securing the weight between the first position and the second position.

3. The golf club head ofclaim 2 wherein the one of the first leg and the second leg defines a passageway therein, the first moveable weight positioned in the passageway.

4. The golf club head ofclaim 1 wherein the first moveable weight is moveably supported on the first leg and further comprising a second moveable weight moveably supported on the second leg.

5. The golf club head ofclaim 4 wherein the first moveable weight is moveable between a first position towards the ball striking face and a second position proximate a distal end of the first leg, and wherein the second moveable weight is moveable between a first position towards the ball striking face and a second position proximate a distal end of the second leg.

6. The golf club head ofclaim 5 wherein the void defined between the first leg and the second leg is generally v-shaped, wherein the first leg extends towards the rear of the body proximate the heel, and wherein the second leg extends towards the rear of the body proximate the toe.

7. The golf club head ofclaim 5 wherein the first moveable weight is supported on a side of the first leg and the second moveable weight is supported on a side of the second leg, the side of the first leg confronting the side of the second leg.

8. The golf club head ofclaim 1 wherein the first moveable weight is supported on the first leg and further comprising a second moveable weight supported on the second leg, wherein the first moveable weight has a first slot therein, and the first leg has an opening receiving a first fastener therethrough, the first fastener positioned in and moveable along the first slot between the first position and the second position of the first moveable weight, and wherein the second moveable weight has a second slot therein, and the second leg has an opening receiving a second fastener therethrough, the first fastener positioned in and moveable along the second slot between the first position and the second position of the second moveable weight.

9. The golf club head ofclaim 4 wherein the first leg defines a first passageway therein and the second leg defines a second passageway therein, the first moveable weight positioned in the first passageway and the second moveable weight positioned in the second passageway.

10. A golf club head comprising:

a body defining a ball striking face, the body further having a first leg extending away from the ball striking face and a second leg extending away from the ball striking face wherein a void is defined between the first leg and the second leg, the body further having a cover that extends over the void, the body further having a track defined therein; and

a weight member moveably supported on the track.

11. The golf club head ofclaim 10 wherein the track is defined on one of the first leg and the second leg.

12. The golf club head ofclaim 11 wherein the body defines an interface area generally between the first leg and the second leg, the track defined at the interface area.

13. The golf club head ofclaim 10 wherein the track comprises a plurality of tracks wherein a weight member is moveable supported in each track.

14. The golf club head ofclaim 10 wherein the body defines an inclined surface extending from proximate a sole to proximate a crown, the track positioned on the inclined surface, wherein the weight member is moveable along the track between a position proximate the sole and a position proximate the crown.

15. A golf club head, comprising:

a golf club head body having a front, a rear, a top, a sole, a toe and a heel;

a v-shaped void formed in the rear of the golf club head body, the void extending from the rear of the golf club head body toward a central region of the golf club head body and having a greater width along a rear edge of the golf club head body than at the central region of the golf club head body, the void extending from the sole the golf club head body toward the top of the golf club head body; and

an adjustable weight arranged within the v-shaped void, the adjustable weight being positionable in a first position providing a first weight arrangement and a second position providing a second weight arrangement.

16. The golf club head ofclaim 15 wherein the adjustable weight is accessible via the v-shaped void.

17. The golf club head ofclaim 15 wherein the v-shaped void defines a first leg and a second leg and the adjustable weight includes a first weight on the first leg and a second weight on the second leg, the first weight being different from the second weight.

18. A golf club head comprising:

a body defining a ball striking face, the body further having a first leg extending away from the ball striking face and a second leg extending away from the ball striking face wherein a void is defined between the first leg and the second leg, the body further defining a cover that extends over the void, the body defining a receptacle extending into the body, and a weight member positioned in the receptacle.

19. The golf club head ofclaim 18 wherein the receptacle has internal threads, the weight member being a threaded member dimensioned to be screwed into the receptacle.

20. The golf club head ofclaim 18 wherein the receptacle has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the weight member is received by the receptacle along the longitudinal axis.

21. The golf club head ofclaim 20 wherein the longitudinal axis is generally transverse to the ball striking face.

22. The golf club head ofclaim 20 wherein the longitudinal axis is generally parallel to the ball striking face.

23. The golf club head ofclaim 20 wherein the longitudinal axis is positioned at an angle with respect to the ball striking face.

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