Multi-component golf club head

Abstract

An embodiment of a golf club head comprising a first component and a second component joined together to surround a hollow interior is disclosed herein. The first component comprises at least a striking surface, a striking surface return, and a rear extension. In some embodiments, the first component also comprises a weight channel at the rear end and one or more braces attached to the striking surface return and the rear extension. The second component comprises a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion. The density of the second component is lower than the density of the first component. In some embodiments, the mass of the first component is 85% to 96% of the mass of the golf club head.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to golf equipment, and more specifically to a multi-component club head and a method for manufacturing a multi-component golf club head. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, club head mass is the sum of structural mass and discretionary mass. In an ideal club design with a constant total swing weight, structural mass will be minimized (without sacrificing resilience) to provide the designer with sufficient discretionary mass for selective placement to customize and maximize club performance. Structural mass generally refers to the mass of material required to provide the club head with the structural resilience to withstand repeated impacts. Structural mass varies significantly by design and provides the designer with relatively little control over specific mass distribution. Conversely, discretionary mass is any additional mass (above the minimum structural requirements) that can be added to the club head design solely to customize the club's performance and / or forgiveness. There is a need in the industry for alternative designs for all-metal golf club heads to provide means to maximize discretionary weight to maximize the club head moment of inertia (MOI) and lower / rear center of gravity (CG), and to provide options for golf ball flight manipulation. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0003] Figure 1a shows a rear view of an assembled golf club head. Figure 1b shows a bottom view of an assembled golf club head. 1c illustrates a front perspective view of an assembled golf club head. FIG. 1d is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head taken along the line 1D-1D in FIG. 1b; FIG. 1d includes the loft plane, the ground, and the Z-axis. FIG. 1e shows a front view of an assembled golf club head having an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a hosel axis. Figure 1f shows the assembly and disassembly of a golf club head. Figure 2 shows a rear external view of the second component of a golf club head. FIG. 3a shows a front internal view of the second component of a golf club head. FIG. 3b illustrates a front internal view of a second component of a golf club head according to one embodiment. Figure 4 shows a front plan view of the first component of a golf club head. Figure 5 shows a plan view of the first component of a golf club head. FIG. 6 illustrates a rear view of the first component of a golf club head showing a center plane through the center of the striking surface parallel to the ground. FIG. 7a shows a cross-sectional view of the first component of FIG. 6 along the reference line (610) of FIG. 6. Fig. 7b is VII of Fig. 6 A -VII A A cross-sectional view of the first component of Fig. 6 along the baseline is shown. Fig. 7c is VII of Fig. 6 B -VII B A cross-sectional view of the first component of the golf club of Fig. 6 along the baseline is shown. Figure 8 shows a bottom view of the first component of a golf club head. FIG. 9 shows a bottom view of the rear extension mass portion of the sole portion of the first component of a golf club head. FIG. 10 shows a close rear view of the rear extension mass portion of the sole portion of the first component of a golf club head. FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-section of the rear extension mass portion of the sole portion of the first component of a golf club head. FIG. 12 illustrates a mass portion of the rear extension of the sole portion of a first component of a golf club head having a detachable weight recess and an embedded weight recess. FIG. 13 shows a plan view of a detachable weight having a screw-type fastener. FIG. 14 shows a side perspective view of a detachable weight having a screw-type fastener. FIG. 15 illustrates the first component of a golf club head showing a cast support bar. FIG. 16a shows a side view of a buried weight for fitting into the buried weight recess of FIG. 12. Figure 16b shows a plan view of a buried weight. FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a golf club head according to a second embodiment. FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the first component of the club head of FIG. 17. FIG. 19a shows a drawing of the first component of FIG. 18 with a movable weight in the center position. FIG. 19b illustrates a sole drawing of the first component of FIG. 18 in which a movable weight is located at the toe side position. FIG. 19c illustrates a sole drawing of the first component of FIG. 18 in which a movable weight is located at the heel side position. FIG. 20 shows a close side view of a golf club head similar to the golf club head of FIG. 17, in which a weight channel and a movable weight are located at the center. Figure 21 shows a close rear view of the weight channel of Figure 20. FIG. 22 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a straight rear sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 23 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a straight rear sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 24 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a straight rear sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 25 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having an inclined rear sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 26 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having an inclined rear sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 27 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a variable width sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 28 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a variable width sole extension according to one embodiment. FIG. 29 illustrates a front view of a second component of a golf club head according to one embodiment. FIG. 30 illustrates a front view of a second component of a golf club head according to one embodiment. FIG. 31 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a rear extension portion of the sole portion inclined in the toe direction according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a rear extension portion of the sole portion inclined in the heel direction according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a rear extension of an inclined sole portion according to one embodiment. FIG. 34 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a rear extension of an inclined sole portion according to one embodiment. FIG. 35 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a return portion having an inclined rear edge according to one embodiment. FIG. 36 illustrates a drawing of the sole of a golf club head having a return portion having an offset portion of the rear edge according to one embodiment. FIG. 37 illustrates a perspective view of the crown of a first component of a golf club head having a crown and a sole return including a weight channel and a crown brace according to one embodiment. FIG. 38 shows a side view of the first component of FIG. 37. FIG. 39 shows a plan view of the first component of FIG. 37. FIG. 40 shows a front view of a divided second component of a golf club head configured to be combined with the first component of FIG. 37. FIG. 41 illustrates an exploded view of a golf club head according to a third embodiment. FIG. 42 illustrates an internal extension of the second part of an alternative golf club head embodiment. FIG. 43 shows a perspective view of a golf club head according to a fourth embodiment variation having toe and heel skirt braces. Fig. 44 shows a plan view of the golf club head of Fig. 43. FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of a gold club head according to a fourth embodiment variation having toe and heel skirt braces and a crown brace. Fig. 46 shows a plan view of the golf club head of Fig. 45. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of a golf club head according to a fourth embodiment variation in which toe and heel side crown braces are attached to the side of the sole extension. FIG. 48 shows a plan view of the golf club head of FIG. 47. FIG. 49 shows a perspective view of a golf club head according to a fourth embodiment variation in which toe and heel side crown braces are attached to the center of the sole extension. FIG. 50 shows a plan view of the golf club head of FIG. 49. FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of a golf club head according to a fourth embodiment variation in which toe and heel side crown braces are attached to the sole extension and the sides of toe and heel side skirt braces. Fig. 52 shows a plan view of the golf club head of Fig. 51. FIG. 53 shows a perspective view of a golf club head according to a fourth embodiment variation in which parallel toe and heel side crown braces are attached to the sole extension and the sides of the toe and heel side skirt braces. Fig. 54 shows a plan view of the golf club head of Fig. 53. FIG. 55 shows a perspective view of a golf club head according to a fourth embodiment variation having a cross-shaped crown brace and toe and heel side skirt braces. FIG. 56 shows a plan view of the golf club head of FIG. 55. FIG. 57 illustrates an upper perspective view of a golf club head according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 58 shows a sole perspective view of the golf club head of Fig. 53. FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of the first component of the club head of FIG. 53. Fig. 60 shows an alternative exploded view of the golf club head of Fig. 53. FIG. 61 illustrates a first method for manufacturing a golf club head. FIG. 62 illustrates a second method for manufacturing a golf club head. FIG. 63 illustrates a third method for manufacturing a golf club head. Figure 64 is a graph of the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight over time after center impact for a series of test club head components according to simulation. Figure 65 is a graph of the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight over time after center impact for a test club head component selected from the simulation of Figure 64. Figure 66 is an enlarged area of ​​the graph in Figure 65. Figure 67 is a graph of the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight over time after toe-side impact for a selected test club head component according to the simulation. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0004] This specification describes a hollow golf club head comprising two main components. The first component is metallic. The second component is non-metallic. The second component may comprise a single portion or multiple portions. The metallic first component comprises a striking portion and a sole extension. The non-metallic second component comprises a rear portion of the crown and encloses a portion of the sole. The first component comprises a load-bearing or structural area of ​​the golf club head and also comprises most of the mass of the golf club head. The first component comprises a rearwardly extending sole portion in which a substantial portion of the golf club mass is positioned at the rearmost portion of the extension, so that the first portion forms a "T" shape when viewed from above. The first component may further comprise a bridge or crown brace extending to the rear portion of the golf club head. This arrangement provides discretionary mass that can be redistributed to improve the center of gravity (CG) position and moment of inertia (MOI). Improved CG and MOI provide more accurate ball flight compared to traditional all-metal golf club heads. The golf club heads discussed herein may include driver-type golf club heads, fairway-type golf club heads, or hybrid-type golf club heads.

[0005] A higher density "T" shaped sole of the first component coupled to a lower density crown that surrounds the second component can optimize mass characteristics by reducing crown mass and shifting the center of gravity (CG) of the golf club head lower. The weight saved from the second component can be redistributed to other locations on the golf club head to further optimize the CG and increase the MOI. The CG of the golf club head can be shifted lower toward the rear of the golf club head containing the first and second components, and the second component comprises a second material having a second density lower than the density of the first material compared to an alternative golf club head containing only a first material having a constant density.

[0006] In one or more embodiments, the club head may be a hollow wood-style golf club head formed by combining a first component with a second component to form a closed internal volume between them. The first component may include both the striking surface and a portion of the sole and may be formed of a metal or a metal alloy. The second and third components may form at least a portion of the crown and may wrap to further form both the sole heel portion and the toe portion. In this design, the metallic first component extends between the polymer heel portion of the sole and the polymer toe portion of the sole.

[0007] The singular expressions “at least one” and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the items exists; and that multiple such items may exist unless the context otherwise clearly indicates. All numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification, including the appended claims, should be understood as being modified by “about” in all cases, regardless of whether “about” actually appears before the numerical value. “about” indicates that the specified numerical value allows for some inaccuracy (with a slight approach to the accuracy of the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). Unless the inaccuracy provided by “about” is otherwise understood in the art in this ordinary sense, the “about” as used in this specification refers to at least the variation that may occur in the ordinary method of measuring and using such parameters. Additionally, the disclosure of a range includes the disclosure of all values ​​and includes further subdivided ranges within the entire range. Each value within a range and the end of a range are thereby all disclosed as separate embodiments. The terms “constitute,” “constituting,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the existence of the specified items but do not exclude the existence of other items. As used herein, the term “or” includes any combination of one or more of the enumerated items and all combinations thereof. When terms such as first, second, third, etc. are used to distinguish various items from one another, such designation is for convenience only and does not limit the items.

[0008] In the detailed description and claims, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” “fifth,” etc., are used to distinguish similar elements, if present, and are not necessarily used to describe a specific sequential or chronological order. It should be understood that the terms used in this specification are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and accordingly, the embodiments described herein may operate, for example, in an order not exemplified or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to encompass non-exclusive connotations, and thus a process, method, article, device, or apparatus comprising a list of elements is not necessarily limited to such elements and may include other elements inherent in or not explicitly enumerated in such process, method, article, device, or apparatus.

[0009] In the detailed description and claims, terms such as “left,” “right,” “forward,” “side,” “upper,” “lower,” “top,” and “bottom,” if present, are used for descriptive purposes and are not necessarily intended to describe immutable relative positions. It should be understood that terms used in this specification are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances so that embodiments of the manufacturing apparatus, manufacturing method, and / or manufactured article described herein may operate in an orientation different from, for example, the orientation exemplified or described herein. For consistency and clarity, all directional references used herein assume that the golf club head referenced is placed on a horizontally flat surface so that a predefined loft and lie angle for the head is achieved. The “forward” or “forward portion” of the golf club head generally refers to the side of the golf club head (when viewed perpendicular to the ground) that includes the golf club striking surface. Conversely, the rear portion of the club head may include everything behind the striking surface or the portion of the club that follows the striking surface at impact.

[0010] Other features and aspects will become apparent by considering the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Before any embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details of the configuration and arrangement of components presented in the following description or illustrated in the drawings in its application. The present disclosure may be supported by other embodiments and may be practiced or performed in various ways. It should be understood that the description of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the inclusion of all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that the phrases and terms used in this specification are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0011] 1) First embodiment of a golf club head

[0012] The present specification describes an embodiment of a golf club head (100) comprising two components, namely a first component (100) and a second component (200). As illustrated in FIGS. 1a through 1e, the golf club head forms a striking surface (170), a return portion (177), a hosel (140), a crown (110), a sole (120), a heel end (160), a toe end (150), a rear edge (130) of the rearmost portion of the rear end (180), a hosel (140), and a sole portion hosel adapter attachment recess (195).

[0013] The golf club head (100) further forms a loft plane (198) that contacts the center (175) of the striking surface (170). The face height can be measured parallel to the loft plane between the upper end of the striking surface perimeter near the crown (110) and the lower end of the striking surface perimeter near the sole (120). In these embodiments, the striking surface perimeter can be located along the outer edge of the striking surface (170) where the curvature deviates from the bulge and / or roll of the striking surface (170).

[0014] Referring to FIG. 1d and FIG. 1e, the center of the striking surface (175) further defines a coordinate system having its origin at the center of the striking surface (175). The coordinate system has an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis. The X-axis (190) is a horizontal axis that extends parallel to the ground (105) when the club head (100) is in the address position, in the direction from the heel end (160) of the golf club head (100) to the toe end (150) through the center of the striking surface (175) of the striking surface (170). The Y-axis (192) is a vertical axis that extends perpendicularly to the X-axis (190) in the direction from the crown (110) of the golf club head (100) to the sole (120) through the center of the striking surface (175) of the striking surface (170), and the Z-axis (196) extends perpendicularly to the X-axis (190) and the Y-axis (192) in the direction from the striking surface (170) of the club head (100) to the rear end (180) through the center of the striking surface (175) of the striking surface (170).

[0015] The coordinate system defines an XY plane extending through the X-axis (190) and Y-axis (192), an XZ plane extending through the X-axis (190) and Z-axis (196), and a YZ plane extending through the Y-axis (192) and Z-axis (196), wherein the XY plane, XZ plane, and YZ plane are all perpendicular to each other and intersect at the origin of the coordinate system at the center of the striking surface (175) of the striking surface (170). The XY plane extends parallel to the hosel axis (199) and is positioned at an angle corresponding to the loft angle of the golf club head (100) from the loft plane. The hosel axis (199) is inclined from the X-axis (190) at a predetermined angle called the lie angle. The hosel axis (199) may be inclined from the X-axis (190) by a lie angle of 58 to 65 degrees (inclusive). In some embodiments, the hosel axis (199) is positioned at a 60-degree lie angle with respect to the X-axis (190) when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the XY plane.

[0016] The sole (120) is the lower hemisphere of the golf club head (100). In some embodiments, the sole (120) may be defined as the part of the golf club head that is visible when viewed from the bottom view when the club is in the address position. The skirt of the club head (100) may be defined as the joint between the sole (120) and the crown (110), and forms the circumference of the club head, particularly behind the striking surface (170).

[0017] A golf club head (100) may have a hollow body structure forming a closed internal cavity (185). The outer shell of the golf club head (100) may include a first component (300) and a second component (200) that cooperate and / or combine to define at least a portion of the outer boundary of the internal cavity (185) (i.e., each component (200, 300) defines at least a portion of the outer boundary of the internal cavity (185)).

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1f, the first component (300) is approximately T-shaped when viewed from the sole. The sole of the first component (300) has a sole portion rear extension (500) having a mass portion (510) that accommodates at least one weight at the extreme rear end of the sole extension (500). The second component (200) forms most of the remaining portion of the golf club head not formed by the first component (300). This configuration lowers the CG of the assembled golf club head and shifts the CG toward the rear of the assembled golf club head.

[0019] The first component (300) comprises a first material having a first density. The first material is a metallic material. The second component (200) comprises a second material having a second density. The second material is a non-metallic material. The first and second components (300, 200) each have a first component mass and a second component mass. In some embodiments, the first component (300) may be formed integrally as a single piece, so the first component may comprise a single material. In some embodiments, the first component (300) may be formed integrally except for a removable and / or repositionable mass portion. Alternatively, the first component (300) may comprise a separately formed impact surface insert comprising a metallic material (i.e., a third material) different from the rest of the first component (300).

[0020] A second non-metallic component (200) is joined to, wrapped around, or overlapped over the first metal component (300) to form a hollow golf club head (100). The rear edge portion (230) of the second component is connected to the sole portion (212, 214) of the second component when wrapping the first component (300).

[0021] The material density of the first component (300) (i.e., the first material density) is greater than the material density of the second component (200) (i.e., the second material density). The mass percentage of the first component (300) may range from 85% to 96% of the mass of the golf club head (100). For example, the mass percentage of the first component of the golf club head may be 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, or 96%. The mass percentage of the second component (200) may range from 4% to 15% of the total mass of the golf club head (100). The first component (300) includes a rear extension (500) on the sole, and the rear extension (500) has a mass portion (510). The mass portion (10) is the rear end of the rear extension (500) that starts at the front side of the weight port and ends at the rear edge (500). The mass portion (10) may have 20% to 35% of the mass of the hollow multi-component golf club head (100). Placing a significant portion of the mass of the golf club head at the rearmost position of the golf club head provides functionally desirable mass characteristics. For example, the rearmost position of the mass portion (510) can lower the CG of the golf club head to improve launch characteristics.

[0022] A) 1st component

[0023] As illustrated in FIGS. 1a through 1f and 4 through 8, the first component (300) may include a striking surface (170) having a return portion (177) and a rear extension (500). The return portion (177) forms at least a portion of the crown (400), a portion of the sole (120), the hosel (140), a portion of the heel end (160), a portion of the toe end (150), and a concave lip (450) (also referred to as a joint extension surface). The rear extension (500) is connected to the return portion (177) and extends rearward from it. The rear extension (500) forms at least a portion of the sole (120) and is positioned approximately perpendicular to the striking surface (170). The rear extension (500) extends from the rear edge of the return portion (177) toward the rear edge (130) of the club head (100). The return portion (177) forms a rearward profile in the direction of the heel end to the toe end. In another embodiment, the rearward profile of the first component (300) may extend from the heel end (160) toward the toe end (150) as a straight profile, a positive parabolic profile, a bell-shaped profile, or any other profile for the striking surface (170).

[0024] Referring to FIG. 1e and 4, the first component (300) includes a hosel bore (145) defining the hosel axis (199), a striking surface center (175), a front crown portion (400) having a front crown portion width (405), and a first component rear edge (440). Some embodiments may further include a first component crown portion turbulator (430) having a first component crown portion turbulator toe portion (432) and a first component crown portion turbulator heel portion (434).

[0025] The first component may include a concave lip (also referred to as the first component lip or joint extension surface) configured to overlap with a portion of the second component (200) to form a golf club head (100) together. The first component lip (450) may contact the first component perimeter edge (462) having a first component crown portion lip (455) and a first component tab (457). The first component tab (457) and the matching groove within the second component align the first component (300) to the second component (200) during assembly and also prevent lateral movement between the first component (300) and the second component (200) by adding mechanical support. In some embodiments, the second component does not include a groove for receiving the first component tab (457). In these embodiments, the first component tab (457) provides a predetermined gap (i.e., an adhesive gap) between the first component and the second component. This predetermined spacing allows the adhesive to bond uniformly and evenly across the wrap joint.

[0026] The first component lip (450) is formed concavely from the outer surface of the golf club head to accommodate the overlapping lip of the second component (200) and the combined thickness of any adhesive that secures the two components together. Referring to FIGS. 5, 9 and 10, the first component (300) includes a first component lip recess offset (459), a first component sole portion lip (460), a first component sole portion rear extension (500), a first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510) having an inner front edge of the mass portion (1050 corresponding to the rear outer boundary (918) shown in FIG. 9), one or more mass portion inner ribs (520), and a detachable weight recess recess (540) having a screw-type fastener receiving boss (542). Referring also to FIG. 1f, the first component lip (455) is configured to be covered by a portion of the second component (200) when the first component (300) is joined to the second component (200) to form a golf club (100). The first component (300) may preferably be joined to the second component (200) by an adhesive placed between the overlapping surfaces of the first component and the second component.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 7a, the first component rib has a width (730) that can range from 0.125 inches to 0.275 inches. For example, the width (730) of the first component rib may be 0.125 inches, 0.150 inches, 0.175 inches, 0.200 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.225 inches, 0.250 inches, or 0.275 inches.

[0028] The first component recess offset (459) is the offset distance of the rib (455) from the outer surface of the first component (300) toward the interior of the golf club head. The recess offset (459) may have a range of 0.060 inches to 0.160 inches toward the interior of the golf club head (100). In other embodiments, the recess offset (459) may have a range of 0.060 inches to 0.150 inches, 0.060 inches to 0.140 inches, 0.080 inches to 0.160 inches, 0.090 inches to 0.150 inches, or 0.090 inches to 0.160 inches. For example, the recess offset (459) may be 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.120 inches, 0.130 inches, 0.140 inches, 0.150 inches, or 0.160 inches.

[0029] The first component lip (450) may have a thickness. The thickness of the first component lip (450) may range from 0.007 inches to 0.030 inches. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first component lip (450) may be about 0.007 inches to 0.009 inches, 0.009 inches to 0.011 inches, 0.011 inches to 0.013 inches, 0.013 inches to 0.015 inches, 0.015 inches to 0.017 inches, 0.017 inches to 0.019 inches, 0.019 inches to 0.021 inches, 0.021 inches to 0.023 inches, 0.023 inches to 0.025 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.027 inches, or 0.027 inches to 0.030 inches.

[0030] Referring still to FIG. 5, the first component has a rear extension in the sole, which allows more of the mass of the assembled golf club head to be moved down to the sole and toward the rear of the assembled golf club head. The rear extension (500) extends integrally from the return portion (177) to allow impact stress to propagate to the rear end of the sole, thereby helping to maintain a balance of the impact stress distribution of the golf club head.

[0031] Referring still to FIG. 5, the first component lip (450) includes a first component crown portion lip (455) and a first component sole lip (460). The first component lip (450) may have other portions.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 6, a plane (610) parallel to the ground (105) and intersecting the center of the striking surface (175) defines the shape (view) of the lower part of the first component (300) as shown in FIG. 7a. Referring to FIG. 7a and FIG. 8, the rear extension (500) extends from the rear circumference of the striking surface return sole portion (810) toward the rear end (180) of the golf club head (100).

[0033] Referring to FIG. 7a, the first component (300) includes a first component sole portion heel extension (710), a first component sole portion toe extension (720), a first component lip (460) having a first component lip width (730), a first component rear edge portion (740), a first component rear extension mass portion (510) having a vertical lip (750) and a mass portion rear edge shelf (760).

[0034] The rear extension (500) has a larger mass at the rearmost position of the extension. Placing mass at the rearmost position allows for manipulation of the rear sole extension position, which can significantly affect the mass characteristics of the assembled golf club head. In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 57 through 60, the first component rear extension (500) may include a sole aperture (555). The sole aperture functions to further shift the mass adjacent to the rearmost end of the rear extension (500). As previously mentioned, placing mass at the rearmost end causes the CG to shift backward, thereby increasing the moment of inertia of the club head. By adding the sole aperture (555), more free-discretionary mass will be created to be placed at the rearmost end of the rear extension (500).

[0035] Referring to FIG. 8, the first component (300) includes a first component sole portion rear extension length (505) and a first component sole portion rear extension width (507). The first component (300) includes a first component sole portion rear extension (810) having a first component sole portion width (815), a first component sole portion toe extension (820) having a first component sole portion toe extension length (825), and a first component sole portion heel extension (830) having a first component sole portion heel extension length (835). The rear extension length (505) is measured from the rear circumference of the first component sole portion (810) toward the rear end (180). The rear extension length (505) may range from 2.5 inches to 4.5 inches. The width of the return sole portion (815) is measured from the loft plane (198) to the rear circumference of the striking surface return portion (177), and the rear circumference is the sole portion of the first component circumference edge (462). The rear extension length (505) and the width of the striking surface return sole portion (815) together constitute the total sole length of the golf club head (100) measured along the sole (120) from the loft plane (198) to the rear end (180). The width of the rear extension portion (507) is the width of the rear extension portion (500). The width of the rear extension portion (507) is measured in the heel-toe direction to the rear of the rear circumference of the striking surface return sole portion (810), which is the sole portion of the first component circumference edge (462). The width of the rear extension portion (507) is smaller than the total width of the sole (120) of the golf club (100). The rear extension width (507) may range from 25% to 85% of the total width of the sole (120). The rear extension width (507) may be 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85% of the total width of the sole (120). In some embodiments, the rear extension width (507) may range from 0.4 inches to 2.5 inches.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 7a and FIGS. 8, the first component sole portion rear extension (500), toe extension (720), and heel extension (710) together form a T-shaped structure. The first component sole portion rear extension (500) forms a toe direction angle (850) together with the toe extension (720) and forms a heel direction angle (855) together with the heel extension (710). The first component (300) further includes a detachable weight recess (540) having a plurality of detachable weight recess tabs (546).

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 5, 7a and 8, the striking face return (177) extends rearward from the perimeter of the striking face, which is essentially perpendicular to the striking face (170). The striking face (170) and the striking face return (177) comprise the front section of the assembled golf club head. The striking face return (177) comprises a striking face return crown portion (400) having a striking face return crown portion width (405) and a striking face return sole portion (810) having a striking face return sole portion width (815). The striking face return crown portion (400) comprises a rear perimeter that forms a profile on the crown (110) from the heel end (160) of the crown (110) to the toe end (150) of the crown (110). The striking face return crown portion width, measured from the striking face (170) toward the rear end (180), may vary. The maximum width (405) of the impact surface return crown portion may be located near the toe end (150) or the heel end (160). In another embodiment, the maximum width (405) of the rear crown portion may be located in the intermediate area between the toe end (150) and the heel end (160). The width (405) of the impact surface return crown portion may be at least 0.8 inches, at least 1.0 inches, at least 1.2 inches, or at least 1.4 inches. In some embodiments, the maximum width (405) of the impact surface return crown portion may have a range of 1.0 inch to 1.5 inches. For example, the maximum width (405) of the impact surface return crown portion may be 1.0 inch, 1.1 inch, 1.2 inch, 1.3 inch, 1.4 inch, or 1.5 inch. The width (405) of the second component crown portion may be similar to the crown portion described in U.S. Application No. 11 / 693,490 (currently U.S. Patent No. 7,601,078).

[0038] The impact surface return (177) of the first component (300) may have a thickness extending between the outer surface and the inner surface of the impact surface return (177). The thickness of the first component (300) may range from 0.015 inches to 0.040 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of the first component may range from 0.010 inches to 0.040 inches, 0.010 inches to 0.020 inches, 0.015 inches to 0.025 inches, 0.020 inches to 0.030 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.035 inches, 0.030 inches to 0.040 inches, 0.040 inches to 0.10 inches, or 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches. For example, the thickness of the first component may be 0.010 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.035 inches, or 0.040 inches. In some embodiments, the thickness of the first component may further vary in the striking surface (170), the return crown portion (400), the first component sole portion (310), the first component sole portion heel extension (710), the first component sole portion toe extension (720), and the first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510).

[0039] Referring to FIG. 5, the crown portion turbulator (430) located on the return crown portion (400) is a protrusion that affects the aerodynamics of the golf club head (100). In some embodiments, the return crown portion (400) may include an indentation on the inner surface corresponding to the crown portion turbulator (430), which provides the turbulator (430) with the same thickness (wall thickness measured between the inner surface and the outer surface) as the rest of the return crown portion (400). However, in other embodiments, one or more of the crown portion turbulators (430) may be filled to provide a thickness greater than that of the rest of the return crown portion (400). The increased thickness of the return crown portion (400) in one or more filled turbulators can increase the durability of the golf club head (100) by increasing the stiffness of at least one section of the return crown portion (400).

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 5, 7b and 7c, the crown portion turbulator (430) may be classified into a toe portion turbulator (432) and a heel portion turbulator (434). In some embodiments, one or more of the crown portion turbulators (430) are filled with a material (solid) so that there is no indentation corresponding to the inner surface of the return crown portion (400). In some embodiments, one or more toe portion turbulators (432) may be filled. In some embodiments, one or more of the heel portion turbulators (434) may be filled. The area of ​​the crown return portion (400) having one or more filled turbulators may be more rigid or stiff than the area of ​​the crown return portion (400) having unfilled turbulators. The solid turbulators have a thickness greater than the thickness of the rest of the crown return portion (400).

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 7b and 7c, in some embodiments, the thick area (436) of the crown return portion (400) has a greater thickness than the thickness of the rest of the crown return portion (400). Generally, the crown return portion (400) may have the thickness of the aforementioned impact surface return (177). However, in some embodiments, the thickness of the return crown portion (400) may be increased by up to 0.002 inches, up to 0.003 inches, up to 0.004 inches, up to 0.005 inches, up to 0.006 inches, up to 0.007 inches, up to 0.008 inches, up to 0.009 inches, or up to 0.010 inches within the thick area (436). The thick area (436) may be a shape that at least partially surrounds one or more of a patch, a rectangular area, a boundary area, and / or the crown portion turbulator (430). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7b, the boundary region includes two heel portion turbators (434). The turbators are filled (solid) within the boundary region (436). FIG. 7c illustrates a cross-sectional view illustrating a filled crown portion turbator (430).

[0042] When a golf ball is impacted by a golf club (100), the first component (300), including the crown return portion (400), bends and warps. This warping of the crown return portion (400) of the first component (300) can induce stress within the second component (200) joined to the first component rib (450). If the crown return portion (400) of the first component (300) is repeatedly bent beyond a certain threshold, the second component (200) may be at risk of material failure. Adding a thick area (436) can locally increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the crown return portion (400) adjacent to the part of the second component (200) that may be at risk of material failure after repeated impacts. Increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the crown return portion (400) in the thick area (436) reduces stress and thus increases the durability of the club head (100).

[0043] Manipulating the position of the rear sole extension (500) provides a means of manipulating the mass characteristics of the assembled golf club head. Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, 7a and 8, the sole portion of the first component may extend from the center near the striking surface toward the toe end side forming the first component sole portion toe end extension (720), toward the heel end forming the first component sole portion heel end extension (710), and toward the first component sole portion rear extension (500). The first component sole portion toe extension (720), the first component sole portion heel extension (710), and the first component sole portion rear extension (500) may form a "T" shaped profile. In some embodiments, the toe extension may have a first component sole portion toe end extension length (825) ranging from 1.50 inches to 2.00 inches from the YZ plane toward the toe end (150). For example, the first component sole portion toe extension (720) may have a first component sole portion toe end extension length (825) of 1.50 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.90 inches, or 2.00 inches toward the toe end (150). In some embodiments, the first component sole portion heel end extension (710) may have a first component sole portion heel end extension length (835) in the range of 0.90 inches to 1.40 inches toward the heel end (160) from the YZ plane. For example, the first component sole portion heel end extension (710) may be extended by 0.90 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.30 inches, or 1.40 inches. The rear extension (500) of the first component sole portion may extend 2.30 to 2.90 inches rearward from the striking surface return (177). For example, the rear extension (500) of the first component sole portion may extend 2.30 inches, 2.40 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.60 inches, 2.70 inches, 2.80 inches, or 2.It can be extended by a distance of 90 inches.

[0044] Moving the rear extension (500) (also simply called the "rear extension") of the first component sole portion closer to the toe end (150) or heel end (160) of the golf club head (100) provides one means of altering ball flight by manipulating the mass characteristics of the assembled golf club head. When manufacturing the first component (300), moving the rear extension (500) toward the toe end (150) or heel end (160) of the golf club (100) will alter the mass characteristics of the assembled golf club head. If the rear extension (500) of the sole portion is moved toward the toe end (150) by reducing the length (825) of the first component sole portion toe end extension, the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) will also be moved toward the toe end (150). When the rear extension (500) of the first component sole part is moved toward the heel end (160) of the golf club head (100), the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) will also be moved toward the heel end (160).

[0045] The first component (300) has a surface area ranging from 27 square inches to 41 square inches of the total surface area of ​​the golf club head (100). In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the first component (300) is 25 square inches to 43 square inches, 25 square inches Up to 28 square inches, 28 square inches Up to 31 square inches, 31 square inches Up to 34 square inches, 34 square inches Up to 37 square inches, 37 square inches up to 40 square inches or 40 square inches It may have a range of up to 43 square inches. For example, 25 square inches, 27 square inches, 29 square inches, 31 square inches, 33 square inches, 35 square inches, 37 square inches, 39 square inches, 41 square inches, or 43 square inches.

[0046] The first component (300) may include materials such as steel, tungsten, aluminum, titanium, vanadium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, other metals, or metal alloys. In some embodiments, the first component (300) may include a Ti-8Al-1Mo-1V alloy. In many embodiments where the golf club head (100) is a driver-type club head, the first component (300) may include a titanium material. In many embodiments where the golf club head (100) is a fairway wood-type club head, the first component (300) may include a steel material.

[0047] In many embodiments, the first component (300) may be cast. In other embodiments, the first component (300) may be formed by forging, pressing, rolling, extrusion, machining, electrocasting, 3D printing, or any suitable forming technique. Referring to FIG. 15, in an embodiment where the first component (300) is cast, the first component (300) may further include a plurality of cast support bars comprising one or more heel end cast support bars (1510) and one or more toe end cast support bars (1512).

[0048] 1) Rear sole extension of the first component

[0049] As described above, the first component includes a striking surface and a striking surface return (177). These parts of the golf club head (100) receive and distribute the impact force when the golf club strikes the ball. The rear extension (500) is formed integrally with the rest of the first component (300) and extends from the striking surface return sole portion (810). Additionally, the mass of the rear extension (500) resists the torque force caused by an off-center strike to the striking surface. In many embodiments, the first component sole portion toe end extension (720) and the first component sole portion heel end extension (710) may have a constant width from front to rear parallel to the striking surface (170). In other embodiments, the toe end extension (720) and the heel end extension (710) may have a variable width, increasing and / or decreasing in width from / toward the toe end (150) and the heel end (160). In some embodiments, the first component sole portion toe end extension (720) and heel end extension (710) may have a width ranging from 1.0 inch to 1.5 inches. For example, the toe end extension (720) and heel end extension (710) may be 1.00 inch, 1.10 inch, 1.20 inch, 1.30 inch, 1.40 inch, or 1.50 inch.

[0050] In many embodiments, the rear extension (500) of the first component sole portion may have a width that increases, decreases, and / or has a constant width (507) from the rear boundary of the striking surface return sole portion (810) toward the rear end (180). In some embodiments, the rear end extension (500) may have a width (507) ranging from 1.0 inch to 3.5 inches. For example, the rear end extension may be 1.0 inch, 1.25 inch, 1.50 inch, 1.75 inch, 2.00 inch, 2.25 inch, 2.50 inch, 2.75 inch, 3.0 inch, 3.25 inch, or 3.50 inch. In some embodiments, the rear extension (500) has a variable width in the forward-rear direction. Specifically, the rear extension (500) may have a width that increases in the forward-rear direction. In this embodiment, the width of the rear extension (500) has a minimum value adjacent to the striking surface return sole portion (810) and a maximum value adjacent to the rear of the club head. Increasing the width of the rear extension (500) toward the rear of the club head allows the rear extension (500) to support a weight or weight system. Changing the width of the rear extension (500) so that the minimum width is adjacent to the striking surface return sole portion (810) can reduce the quality adjacent to the striking surface return and allow this reduced weight to be redistributed around the circumference of the club head. In another embodiment, the rear extension (500) may have a width that decreases in the forward-rear direction. Decreasing the width of the rear extension toward the rear of the club head can provide additional structural support for a weight or weight system attached to the rear extension (500).

[0051] In some embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 2, the rear extension (500) of the first component sole portion may be extended in a vertical orientation with respect to the striking surface (170) centered between the toe end (150) and the heel end (160). In other embodiments, the rear extension (500) may be extended in an orientation closer to the toe end (150) or closer to the heel end (160). The rear extension (500) may be offset from 0.05 inch to 1.0 inch toward the heel end (160). For example, the rear extension (500) may be offset from the heel end (160) by 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, or 1.0 inch. The rear end extension (500) of the first component sole portion may be offset from 0.05 inch to 1.0 inch toward the toe end (150). For example, the rear extension (500) may be offset from 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, or 1.0 inch toward the toe end (150).

[0052] When the rear end extension (500) of the first component sole portion is offset toward the toe end (150), the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) may be offset toward the toe end (150) by up to 0.150 inches compared to a similar golf club head in which the rear end extension (500) of the sole portion is centered. For example, the center of gravity may be offset toward the toe end (150) by 0.010 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.120 inches, 0.130 inches, 0.140 inches, or 0.150 inches. When the first component sole rear end extension (500) is offset toward the heel end (160), the center of gravity of the golf club head (100) may be offset toward the heel end (160) by up to 0.150 inches. For example, the center of gravity may be offset toward the heel end (160) by 0.010 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.120 inches, 0.130 inches, 0.140 inches, or 0.150 inches. The offset of the center of gravity may affect ball flight characteristics by biasing the golf club head toward a fade-corresponding position or a draw-corresponding position at impact.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, another means of manipulating the mass characteristics of a golf club head is to change the angle of the rear sole extension relative to the striking surface of the first component. The rear extension of the first component sole portion may include a rear extension axis (504). The rear extension axis (504) may extend through the center of the sole extension when viewed from the sole. The rear extension axis (504) may be positioned so that, when viewed from the sole, it is approximately equidistant from each side of the sole portion rear extension (500) at all points along the axis (504). The rear extension (500) itself may be positioned so that the rear extension axis intersects the YZ plane (193) at the rear extension angle (508), as illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 36. In some embodiments, the rear extension axis (504) may intersect the YZ plane (193) at a point adjacent to the rear edge of the return portion (177). The rear extension angle (508) may have a range of 0 to 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear extension angle (508) may have a range of 0 to 10 degrees, 0 to 20 degrees, 0 to 30 degrees, 0 to 40 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, 10 to 30 degrees, 10 to 40 degrees, 10 to 45 degrees, 20 to 30 degrees, 20 to 40 degrees, 20 to 45 degrees, 30 to 40 degrees, and 30 to 45 degrees. FIGS. 25 to 28, 33 and 34 illustrate other embodiments having an inclined sole extension, which will be described later.

[0054] Adjusting the angle of the rear extension positions the removable weight in the heel or toe direction on the club head (100) because the weight is secured within the removable weight recess (540). By tilting the rear extension (500), when the extension (500) is tilted toward the heel of the club head (100), the club (100) can be weighted so that the club head (100) has a draw bias. In another embodiment, tilting the rear extension (500) toward the toe of the club head (100) provides a fade bias to the club head.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, the angulation of the rear extension (500) can also be understood through the angle between the edge of the sole portion rear extension (500) and the return portion (177). The toe direction angle (850) of the first component sole portion rear extension and the heel direction angle (855) of the first component sole portion rear extension are supplementary angles (i.e., the sum of the two angles is 180 degrees). In one embodiment, the toe direction angle (850) and the heel direction angle (855) are each 90 degrees, so the rear extension (500) is essentially perpendicular to the striking surface (170). In an alternative embodiment, the toe direction angle (850) and the heel direction angle (855) may vary between 45 degrees and 135 degrees, respectively, as long as these two angles remain supplementary angles. For example, the toe direction angle (850) may be 100 degrees, while the heel direction angle (855) may be an additional angle of 80 degrees. In this example, the mass portion (510) is angle-offset toward the heel end (180) of the golf club head (100).

[0056] Other combinations of toe direction angle (850) and heel direction angle (855) may be 110 degrees and 70 degrees, 120 degrees and 60 degrees, 130 degrees and 50 degrees, or 135 degrees and 45 degrees. The center of gravity of the golf club head will be offset toward the position of the rear mass portion (510). For example, the center of gravity may be offset toward the heel end (160) by 0.010 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.120 inches, 0.130 inches, 0.140 inches, or 0.150 inches. In a similar manner, the toe direction angle may be reduced, while the heel direction angle may be increased. For example, the combination of the toe direction angle (850) and the heel direction angle may be 80 degrees and 100 degrees, 70 degrees and 110 degrees, 60 degrees and 120 degrees, 50 degrees and 130 degrees, or 45 degrees and 135 degrees. For example, the center of gravity may be offset toward the toe end (160) by 0.010 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.120 inches, 0.130 inches, 0.140 inches, or 0.150 inches. Such an angle offset may be desirable to position the rear mass further toward the rear heel or rear toe portions to position the club head center of gravity in a direction that affects ball flight characteristics. In other embodiments, different angle offsets may combine the first component sole portion rear extension toe direction angle (850) and the first component sole portion rear extension heel direction angle (855) differently, which may produce different club head center of gravity positions and different ball flight characteristics.

[0057] 2) Rear mass of the rear sole extension of the first component

[0058] As discussed above, the first component comprises most of the mass of the assembled golf club head. The rear extension (500) causes a portion of the golf club mass to be positioned far toward the rear of the club head on the sole of the club head. By having a portion of mass at the rear of the golf club head, the rear extension (500) allows the mass there to further influence the CG and MOI of the golf club head. The mass portion (510) of the rear extension of the first component sole portion may alone comprise 20% to 35% of the total mass of the golf club head (100). Placing this mass at the rearmost portion of the rear extension (500) is an important aspect for controlling the mass characteristics of the golf club head (100) during the manufacture of the first component (300).

[0059] Referring to FIG. 9, the first component sole portion rear extension mass portion (510) includes a screw-type receiver (545), one or more weight recess tabs (546), and a mass portion (510) having a heel-side outer boundary (910), a toe-side outer boundary (915), and a front outer boundary (918).

[0060] Referring to FIG. 10, the mass portion (510) further comprises a plurality of internal ribs (520) having an internal rib width (523). The plurality of internal ribs (520) may comprise two ribs, three ribs, four ribs, five ribs, or more than five ribs. The plurality of internal ribs (520) are paired with or attached to the inner surface of a detachable weight recess (540) of the rear extension mass portion. The internal ribs (520) can reduce unwanted vibrations in the mass portion (510), which is desirable because a significant portion of the mass of the golf club head (100) is located too far from the rear of the golf club head. The mass portion (510) further comprises a vertical lip (750) having a vertical lip height (1150) and a mass portion rear edge shelf (1042) having a shelf length (1048), a shelf height (1044), and a shelf width (1046). The shelf length (1048) is approximately the same as the rear extension width (507) and varies as the width of the mass portion (510) changes.

[0061] The shelf (1042) provides a joining surface for a portion of the second component when the first and second components are joined to form an assembled golf club head. The mass portion (510) further includes an inner front boundary (1050) and a vertical rib length (1052).

[0062] Referring to FIG. 8, the shape of the rear mass (510) is bisected by the YZ plane (1930). As shown in FIG. 11, the mass portion further includes an internal length (1110), a maximum height of the mass portion (1112), and a vertical rib height (1150). The internal rib further includes a rib height (1120) and a rib length (1122).

[0063] The inner rib width (523) may range from 0.025 inches to 0.100 inches. For example, the inner rib width (523) may be 0.025 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.075 inches, or 0.100 inches. The inner rib height (1120) may range from 25% to 100% of the removable weight recess depth (1216). The inner rib length (1122) may range from 0.100 inches to 1.500 inches. For example, the inner rib length (1122) may be 0.100 inches, 0.200 inches, 0.300 inches, 0.400 inches, 0.500 inches, 0.600 inches, 0.700 inches, 0.800 inches, 0.900 inches, 1.000 inches, 1.100 inches, 1.200 inches, 1.300 inches, 1.400 inches, or 1.500 inches.

[0064] The mass portion (510) has a mass portion maximum height (1112) located approximately along the uppermost portion of the mass portion vertical rib (750). The mass portion (510) decreases in thickness as it approaches the heel-side outer boundary (910), the toe-side outer boundary (915), and the front outer boundary (918). The mass portion maximum height (1112) has the maximum thickness of the mass portion (510). The maximum thickness of the mass portion (510) may range from 0.40 inches to 0.70 inches. For example, the maximum thickness of the mass portion (510) may be 0.40 inches, 0.50 inches, 0.60 inches, or 0.70 inches.

[0065] 3) Separable and embedded weights of the first component

[0066] A detachable weight recess and a detachable weight are provided to further control the mass characteristics of the assembled golf club head, and the detachable weight mass can fine-tune the mass characteristics of the golf club head at the assembly point. The detachable weight recess (540) further includes a plurality of detachable weight recess tabs. The plurality of detachable weight recess tabs may be two tabs, three tabs, four tabs, five tabs, or more than five tabs.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 12, it may be desirable to further increase the mass placed at the rear end of the golf club head. The mass portion (510) further includes a buried weight recess (1220). Thus, a buried weight recess (1220) and a buried weight (1220) (configured to be received within the buried weight recess (1220)) may be provided, comprising a buried weight material having a density higher than the first density of the first material of the first component (1220).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 13, the separable weight (1300) may comprise a material such as steel, tungsten, aluminum, titanium, vanadium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, other metals, metal alloys, composite polymer materials, or any combination thereof. In many embodiments, the sole weight may be tungsten. The separable weight (1300) has a mass.

[0069] The mass of the separable weight (1300) may range from 1.0 gram to 35.0 gram. For example, the mass of the separable weight (1300) is 1.0 gram, 1.5 gram, 2.0 gram, 3.0 gram, 4.0 gram, 5.0 gram, 6.0 gram, 7.0 gram, 8.0 gram, 9.0 gram, 10.0 gram, 11.0 gram, 12.0 gram, 13.0 gram, 14.0 gram, 15.0 gram, 16.0 gram, 17.0 gram, 18.0 gram, 19.0 gram, 20.0 gram, 21 gram, 22 gram, 23 gram, 24 gram, 25 gram, 26 gram, 27 gram, 28 gram, 29 gram, 30 gram, 31 gram, 32 It can be gram, 33 grams, 34 grams, or 35 grams.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 8 and FIGS. 13, the detachable weight (1300) is configured to be received within the detachable weight recess (540). The detachable weight (1300) further includes a through hole approximately at the center of the detachable weight (1300). The through hole is configured to receive a detachable weight screw fastener (1320), so that the screw fastener (1320) is screwed into the screw receiver boss (542) to secure the detachable weight (1300) within the detachable weight recess (540).

[0071] Referring to FIG. 14, the detachable weight (1300) further comprises a thickness (1430), a plurality of detachable weight offsets (1434), and a plurality of detachable weight side grooves (1438). The plurality of detachable weight offsets (1434) may be two offsets, three offsets, four offsets, five offsets, or more than five offsets. The plurality of detachable weight side grooves (1438) may be two grooves, three grooves, four grooves, five grooves, or more than five grooves. The offsets (1434) are configured to allow the detachable weight (1300) to be slightly offset from the wall of the detachable weight recess (540) when the detachable weight (1300) is received within the detachable weight recess (540). The detachable weight side groove (1438) is configured to accommodate a detachable weight recess tab when the detachable weight (1300) is accommodated within the detachable weight recess (540).

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 16a and 16b, the embedded weight (1600) has a mass. The mass of the embedded weight (1600) may range from 1.0 gram to 20.0 gram. For example, the mass of the embedded weight (1600) is 1.0 gram, 2.0 gram, 3.0 gram, 4.0 gram, 5.0 gram, 6.0 gram, 7.0 gram, 8.0 gram, 9.0 gram, 10.0 gram, 11.0 gram, 12.0 gram, 13.0 gram, 14.0 gram, 15.0 gram, 16.0 gram, 17.0 gram, 18.0 gram, 19.0 gram, or 20.0 gram.

[0073] The embedded weight (1600) comprises a tungsten material, a tungsten alloy material, a polymer matrix in which tungsten particles are embedded, or any other suitable material having a density higher than that of the first material. The embedded weight (1600) is configured to be inserted into the embedded weight recess (1220) and permanently fixed. The embedded weight (1600) may be permanently attached using an adhesive by means of a wedge or other press-fit method, or by using a suitable mechanical attachment means.

[0074] B) Second component

[0075] A golf club head (100) comprises a first component (300) and a non-metallic lightweight second component (200) configured to be joined together to form a hollow golf club head (100). As illustrated in FIGS. 1f, 2 and 3, the second component (200) comprises at least a portion of the crown (110), a sole (120), a rear edge (130), and a rear cutout (240). Referring specifically to FIGS. 1f and 2, the second component (200) comprises a second component crown portion (205), a heel portion (214) of the second component sole portion, a toe portion (212) of the second component sole portion, a second component perimeter edge (220), a second component sole portion rear cutout (240) having a second component sole portion rear cutout width (242) and a second component sole portion rear cutout height (244), and a second component rear edge portion (230). In some embodiments not illustrated, the second component may include only a portion of the crown. In these embodiments, the rear cutout (240) of the sole portion may be wrapped within the crown (205).

[0076] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the second component crown portion (205) wraps over the rear edge (130) to integrally form a sole portion complementary to the first component. The second component heel and toe sole portions (214) (212) formed by the second component (200) may have a triangular shape located between the toe end extension and the rear end extension of the first component and between the rear end extension and the heel end extension. In another embodiment, the sole portion formed by the second component (200) may have a shape that is circular, square, elliptical, any other polygon, or has at least one curved surface complementary to the sole portion of the first component (100). The second component (200) may comprise a single monolithic piece formed together as a whole without the need for additional joining. For example, the second component (200) may be formed by injection molding a single monolithic piece comprising a single material.

[0077] Alternatively, the second component (200) may comprise a plurality of individually formed parts that are subsequently permanently joined by an adhesive, sonic welding, fusion welding, or other permanent joining method suitable for the material used to form the plurality of individually formed parts. For example, the second component crown part (205), toe part (212), and heel part (214) may be individually formed from the same or different materials. Then, the second component parts may be bonded adhesively to form the complete second component (200). This formation of the individually parts to be bonded later may be advantageous when using a material such as bidirectional carbon fiber prepreg. Since bidirectional carbon fiber prepreg does not easily accommodate certain small curvatures, it cannot be easily formed as a single piece to achieve the desired shape of the second component (200). Using such a material may necessitate forming separate sole parts (212, 214) that are later bonded to the rest of the second component (200) by an adhesive or other method.

[0078] Alternatively, multiple second component parts may be attached individually to the first component without being attached to each other.

[0079] The second component of the golf club head (100) may have a thickness. The thickness of the second component may range from 0.030 inches to 0.500 inches. In some embodiments, the thickness of the second component is 0.030 to 0.040 inches, or 0.030 to 0.045 inches, or 0.030 to 0.055 inches, or 0.045 to 0.055 inches, 0.045 to 0.65 inches, 0.050 to 0.060 inches, 0.055 to 0.065 inches, 0.060 to 0.070 inches, 0.065 to 0.075 inches, 0.070 to 0.080 inches, 0.075 to 0.085 inches, 0.080 to 0.090 inches, 0.085 to 0.095 inches, 0.080 to 0.090 inches, 0.085 to 0.085 inches It may have a range of 0.095 inches, 0.090 inches to 0.100 inches, 0.100 inches to 0.200 inches, 0.200 inches to 0.300 inches, 0.300 inches to 0.400 inches, or 0.400 inches to 0.500 inches. For example, the thickness of the second component may be 0.008 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.035 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.055 inches, 0.060 inches, or 0.065 inches. The thickness of the second component may vary further from the crown, sole, heel end, toe end, and trailing edge. For example, in a single embodiment, the thickness of the second component may vary across the crown, sole, heel end, toe end, and trailing edge portions of the second component. In some embodiments, the second component further includes an internal rib.

[0080] In some embodiments, the second component further comprises an internal rib or an internal thick section. As used herein, when referring to an internal rib or an internal thick section, the present disclosure is intended to refer to a portion of the club body having a variable internal surface contour that presents a thickness (measured perpendicular to the external surface of the component) relatively greater than the second non-thick area of ​​the component. In each case, the term “internal” is intended to mean a feature that is not easily recognizable from the outside of the club head. In other words, the external surface maintains a flat or substantially flat contour across the feature and adjacent structures.

[0081] Internal ribs or internal thick sections can provide additional strength and / or stiffness to the club head through various mechanisms. First, the thick ribs / sections can act as struts / gussets, providing a structural framework for the component. In this way, the design of the structure itself can increase strength. Additionally, the presence of the thick sections can be utilized during molding to help control the direction, speed, and uniformity of polymer flow. When doing so, the orientation of the embedded fibers can be controlled so that any anisotropic parameter of the material itself supports the intended purpose of the club head. In this sense, the thick sections can provide both an engineered structure and an engineered material. Finally, in some embodiments, the first component may include buttressing features, such as upright struts, configured to be fixed to the second component. In such a design, the thick sections can provide a suitable bonding location because they can distribute any transmitted load without the risk of fatigue or failure of the relatively thinner sections.

[0082] In some embodiments such as the embodiment of FIG. 3, the second component (200) further comprises a plurality of second component thickness reduction sections (250) having one or more crown portion thickness reduction sections (255) and one or more sole portion thickness reduction sections (257). The second component (200) further comprises a plurality of second component internal ribs (260) having one or more crown portion internal ribs (262) and one or more sole portion internal ribs (264). The plurality of internal ribs (260) may be two ribs, three ribs, four ribs, five ribs, or more than five ribs. The crown portion (262) and sole portion (264) internal ribs are located between the second component thickness reduction sections (250). The crown portion (262) and sole portion (264) internal ribs may have the maximum thickness of the second component (200). In some embodiments, the second component internal rib (260) may be similar to the rib described in U.S. Application No. 15 / 076,511 (currently U.S. Patent No. 9,700,768), the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. The second component internal rib (260) may reduce stress on the golf club head (100) and improve acoustics upon impact.

[0083] A plurality of second component thickness reduction sections (250) have a thickness. The thickness of the plurality of second component thickness reduction sections (250) may range from 0.008 inches to 0.035 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of the thickness reduction sections (250) may range from 0.008 to 0.015 inches, 0.010 to 0.020 inches, 0.015 to 0.025 inches, 0.020 to 0.030 inches, or 0.025 to 0.035 inches. For example, the thickness of the thickness reduction sections (250) may be 0.008 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.030 inches, or 0.035 inches. The inner rib or thick portion may be up to 0.010 inches thicker than other portions of the second component (200). In some embodiments, the second component does not have an inner rib or a thickness reduction section.

[0084] In another embodiment, such as that generally illustrated in FIG. 3b, the second component comprises a central thick section (270) surrounded by a crown portion thickness reduction section (255) having a relatively smaller thickness. In one configuration, this central thick section (270) is about 1.5 in 2 to about 3.0 in 2 It has the total area of. In another configuration, this central thick section (270) is about 2.0 in 2 to about 2.5 in 2It has the entire surface area. In some embodiments, the central thick section (270) has a slightly trapezoidal shape, so that at least a portion (272) of the thick section (270) closer to the face and / or the front edge (274) is wider than a portion (276) of the thick section (270) further away from the face. These width dimensions are preferably taken parallel to the horizontal centerline of the face extending between the heel and toe portions of the club head. As additionally illustrated, the central thick section (270) may be spaced from the front edge (274) by a distance (d) greater than about 0.8 inches, or from 0.8 inches to 1.0 inches, or from 1.0 inches to 1.2 inches, or from 1.2 inches to 1.4 inches. In some embodiments, the distance (d) is approximately 1.25 inches.

[0085] In some embodiments (not illustrated), the second component may further include a front thick strip extending along the perimeter or front edge (274) of the second component (200). This thick strip may have the same thickness as the rear edge portion (230) and / or the center thick section (270). The front thick strip provides structural rigidity to the front edge (274). To facilitate stress transfer across the crown, there may be a thickness transition area between the front thick strip and the crown portion thickness reduction section (255). The second component comprises a mass percentage of the total mass of the golf club head (100). The mass percentage of the second component may range from 4% to 15% of the total mass of the golf club head (100), or may be approximately 10 grams to 25 grams. In other embodiments, the mass percentage of the second component may range from 4% to 15%. For example, the mass percentage of the second component may be 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, or 15% of the total mass of the golf club head (100).

[0086] The second component includes an external surface area ranging from 17 square inches to 25 square inches. In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the second component may range from 15 square inches to 27 square inches, from 15 square inches to 18 square inches, from 18 square inches to 21 square inches, or from 21 square inches to 25 square inches. For example, the surface area of ​​the second component may be 15 square inches, 17 square inches, 19 square inches, 21 square inches, 23 square inches, or 25 square inches.

[0087] 1) Second component material

[0088] The second component (220) comprises a material having a lower density than the material of the first component. In some embodiments, the second component may comprise a composite formed of a polymer resin and reinforcing fibers. The polymer resin may comprise a thermosetting resin or a thermoplastic resin. The second component (200) composite may be a filled thermoplastic (FT) or a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC). In some embodiments, the second component (200) may comprise an FT bonded together with an FRC. The filled thermoplastic (FT) is typically injection molded into a desired shape. As the name implies, the filled thermoplastic (FT) may consist of a thermoplastic resin and randomly oriented discontinuous fibers. In contrast, the fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) is formed from a resin-impregnated (prepreg) sheet of continuous fibers. The fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) may comprise a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin.

[0089] In embodiments having a thermoplastic resin, the resin may comprise thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). For example, the resin may comprise polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyetheretheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide, polyamide such as PA6 or PA66, polyamide-imide, oliphenylene sulfides (PPS), polycarbonate, engineering polyurethane, and / or other similar materials. While strength and weight are the two primary characteristics considered for composite materials, suitable composites may also exhibit secondary benefits such as acoustic properties. In some embodiments, PPS and PEEK are preferred because they generally emit a metallic acoustic response when the club head is impacted.

[0090] The reinforcing fibers may include carbon fibers (or cut carbon fibers), glass fibers (or cut glass fibers), graphene fibers (or cut graphene fibers), or any other suitable filler material. In other embodiments, the composite material may include any reinforcing filler that adds strength, durability, and / or weight.

[0091] The density of the composite material (bonded resin and fiber) forming the second component (200) may range from about 1.15 g / cc to about 2.02 g / cc. In some embodiments, the density of the composite material may range from about 1.20 g / cc to about 1.90 g / cc, about 1.25 g / cc to about 1.85 g / cc, about 1.30 g / cc to about 1.80 g / cc, about 1.40 g / cc to about 1.70 g / cc, about 1.30 g / cc to about 1.40 g / cc, or about 1.40 g / cc to about 1.45 g / cc.

[0092] Filled thermoplastic resin (FT)

[0093] In FT materials, the polymer resin should preferably comprise one or more polymers having material strength and / or strength-to-weight ratio characteristics high enough to withstand normal use while providing the benefit of weight reduction to the design. Specifically, design and materials are important for efficiently withstanding the stress transmitted during impact between the striking face and the golf ball without substantially contributing to the total weight of the golf club head. Generally, polymers are characterized by a yield tensile strength greater than about 60 MPa (net). When the polymer resin is combined with reinforcing fibers, the resulting composite material may have a yield tensile strength greater than about 110 MPa, greater than about 180 MPa, greater than about 220 MPa, greater than about 260 MPa, greater than about 280 MPa, or greater than about 290 MPa. In some embodiments, suitable composite materials may have a yield tensile strength of about 60 MPa to about 350 MPa.

[0094] In some embodiments, the reinforcing fiber comprises a number of dispersed discontinuous fibers (i.e., “cut fibers”). In some embodiments, the reinforcing fiber comprises discontinuous “long fibers” having a designed fiber length of about 3 mm to 25 mm. In some embodiments, the discontinuous “long fibers” have a designed fiber length of about 3 mm to 14 mm. For example, in some embodiments, the fiber length is about 127 mm (0.5 inches) before the molding process. In another embodiment, the reinforcing fiber comprises discontinuous "short fibers" having a designed fiber length of about 0.01 mm to 3 mm. In both cases (short fibers or long fibers), it should be noted that the given length is a pre-mixed length, and due to breakage during the molding process, some fibers may actually be shorter than the described range in the final component. In some configurations, the discontinuous cut fibers may feature an aspect ratio (e.g., fiber length / diameter) greater than about 10 or more preferably greater than about 50 and less than about 1500. Regardless of the specific type of discontinuous cut fiber used, in some configurations, the composite material may have a fiber length of about 0.01 mm to about 25 mm or about 0.01 mm to about 14 mm.

[0095] The composite material may have a polymer resin content of about 40 wt% to about 90 wt% or about 55 wt% to about 70 wt%. The composite material of the second component may have a fiber content of about 10 wt% to about 60 wt%. In some embodiments, the composite material has a fiber content of about 20 wt% to about 50 wt% or 30 wt% to 40 wt%. In some embodiments, the composite material has a fiber content of about 10 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 15 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 25 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 30 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 35 wt%, about 35 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 40 wt% to about 45 wt%, about 45 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 50 wt% to about 55 wt%, or about 55 wt% to about 60 wt%.

[0096] In an embodiment where the second component (200) comprises a filled thermoplastic (FT) material, the second embodiment (200) may be injection molded from a composite pellet comprising both a polymer resin and reinforcing fibers. The reinforcing fibers may be embedded in the resin prior to the injection molding process. The pellet may be melted and injected into an empty mold to form the second component (200). The FT composite material may have a melting temperature of about 210°C to about 280°C. In some embodiments, the composite material may have a melting temperature of about 250°C to about 270°C.

[0097] In an embodiment having a second component (200) of FT material, at least 50% of the fibers may be aligned approximately in the front-rear direction in the central region of the crown (110). In other words, the fibers may be aligned approximately perpendicular to the striking surface (170). The FT material exhibits the greatest strength in the direction of fiber alignment. Therefore, by orienting the fibers in the crown (110) approximately in the front-rear direction, the front-rear durability of the club head can be increased. Fiber alignment may correspond to the direction of material flow within the mold during the injection molding process.

[0098] When the golf club head (100) strikes the golf ball, the impact can cause the mass at the rear end (180) of the rear extension (500) to be displaced vertically in the Y-axis (192) direction. Upon impact, the rear extension (500) of the sole portion will bend upward and apply stress to the second component crown portion (205). The crown portion is compressed between the first component rear extension (500) and the front portion of the first component (300). Therefore, in an embodiment having the FT second component (200), aligning the fibers in the direction of the expected compressive stress upon impact reduces the likelihood of breakage within the composite second component (200).

[0099] In some embodiments, the second component (200) may be formed from a long fiber reinforced TPU material (an exemplary FT material). The long fiber TPU may contain about 40 weight percent of long fibers. The long fiber TPU may exhibit a higher elastic modulus than carbon short fiber compounds. The long fiber TPU can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for use in golf club heads used and / or stored in hot climates. The long fiber TPU also exhibits high toughness, allowing it to be easily used as a substitute for conventional metal parts. In some embodiments, the long fiber TPU has a tensile modulus of about 26,000 MPa to about 30,000 MPa or about 27,000 MPa to about 29,000 MPa. In some embodiments, the long fiber TPU has a flexural modulus of about 21,000 MPa to about 26,000 MPa or about 22,000 MPa to 25,000 MPa. The long fiber TPU material may exhibit a tensile elongation of about 0.5% to about 2.5% (at break). In some embodiments, the tensile elongation of the composite TPU material may be about 10% to about 20%, about 12% to about 14%, about 14% to about 16%, about 16% to about 18%, or about 18% to about 20%.

[0100] Fiber Reinforced Composite (FRC)

[0101] In some embodiments, the second component (200) may comprise a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) material. The FRC material generally comprises one or more layers of unidirectional or multidirectional fiber fabric extending across a larger portion of the polymer. Unlike reinforcing fibers that can be used in filled thermoplastic (FT) materials, the maximum dimensions of the fibers used in FRC may be substantially larger or longer than those used in FT materials and may have sufficient size and characteristics to be provided as a continuous fabric separated from the polymer. When formed from a thermoplastic polymer, the polymer flows freely upon melting, whereas the continuous fibers included generally do not. The reinforcing fibers are 75 g / m² 2 Up to 150 g / m² 2 It may include the area weight (weight per length-width area).

[0102] FRC materials are generally formed by arranging fibers in a desired arrangement and then impregnating the fiber material with a sufficient amount of polymer material to provide stiffness. In this way, the FT material may have a resin content of more than about 45 volume% or more preferably more than about 55 volume%, while the FRC material preferably has a resin content of less than about 45 volume% or more preferably less than about 35 volume%. In some embodiments, the resin content of the FRC may be 24 volume% to 45 volume%.

[0103] FRC materials traditionally use 2-part thermosetting epoxy as the polymer matrix, but thermoplastic polymers may also be used as the matrix. In many cases, FRC materials are prepared in advance prior to final manufacturing, and these intermediate materials are often referred to as prepregs. When thermosetting polymers are used, the prepreg is partially cured in an intermediate form, and final curing occurs when the prepreg is formed into its final form. When thermoplastic polymers are used, the prepreg may contain a cooled thermoplastic matrix that can be subsequently heated and molded into the final shape.

[0104] The FRC second component (200) may comprise a plurality of layers (also called a plurality of laminas). Each layer may comprise prepreg and / or have the same thickness as the prepreg. Each layer of the plurality of layers may comprise a unidirectional fiber fabric (UD) or a unidirectional fiber fabric (sometimes called a weave). In some embodiments, the plurality of layers may comprise at least three UD layers. The second and third layers may be inclined with respect to the base layer. With respect to the base layer oriented at 0 degrees, the second and third layers may be oriented at + / -45 degrees from the base layer. In some embodiments, the layers may be oriented at 0, +45, -45, +90, and -90 in any suitable order. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers comprises at least one unidirectional weave layer, which is typically positioned as the top layer to improve the appearance of the FRC second component (200).

[0105] Mixed materials

[0106] The second component (200) may have a mixed material structure comprising both a fiber-reinforced composite elastic layer and a molded thermoplastic structural layer. In some preferred embodiments, the molded thermoplastic structural layer may be formed from a filler thermoplastic material (FT). As previously described, the FT may comprise discontinuous glass, carbon, or aramid polymer fiber fillers embedded throughout the thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic resin may be, for example, TPU, such as polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or polyamides such as PA6 or PA66. The fiber-reinforced composite elastic layer may comprise woven glass, carbon fibers, or an aramid polymer fiber reinforcement layer embedded in the polymer resin (or matrix). The polymer resin of the elastic layer may be a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin.

[0107] In some embodiments, the polymer resin of the fiber-reinforced composite elastic layer is the same thermoplastic material as the resin of the molded thermoplastic structural layer. In other words, the fiber-reinforced elastic layer and the molded structural layer may comprise a general thermoplastic resin. Forming the elastic layer and the structural layer with a general thermoplastic resin enables strong chemical bonding between the layers. In these embodiments, the elastic layer and the structural layer may be bonded without using an intermediate adhesive. In one specific embodiment, the elastic layer of the second component (200) may comprise a woven carbon fiber fabric embedded in polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), and the structural layer of the second component (200) may comprise a filled polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) polymer. In an alternative embodiment, the second component (200) may be formed by extrusion, injection blow molding, 3-D printing, or any other suitable molding means.

[0108] Cross-connecting member

[0109] In an alternative embodiment, the second component (200) may have one or more internal cross-connecting members (not shown). The cross-connecting members may provide additional structural stiffness or acoustic control. The internal cross-connecting members may include members that connect non-adjacent portions within the second component (200). For example, the cross-connecting members may connect the inner surface of the second component crown portion (205) to either the heel portion (214) of the second component sole portion or the toe portion (212) of the second component sole portion. The internal cross-connecting members may have a length that extends completely from the inner surface of the foremost edge of the second component (200) to the inner surface of the second component rear edge portion (230), or the internal cross-connecting members may have a length that does not extend completely from the inner surface of the foremost edge of the second component (200) to the inner surface of the second component rear edge portion (230). The internal cross-connecting members have a thickness. The thickness of the internal cross-connecting member may range from 0.01 inch to 0.25 inch. For example, the thickness of the internal cross-connecting member may be 0.01 inch, 0.05 inch, 0.10 inch, 0.15 inch, 0.20 inch, or 0.25 inch.

[0110] II) Second embodiment of a golf club head (including a weight channel)

[0111] A second embodiment of the golf club head (2100) illustrated in FIG. 17 includes a first component (2300) having a weight channel and a second component (2200) coupled to the first component (2300). The first component (2300) of the golf club head (2100) may be similar to the first component (300) of the golf club head (100), except for the weight system. The second component (2200) of the golf club head (2100) may be similar to the second component of the golf club head (100) described above. The golf club head (2100) forms a skirt (2125) having a rear edge (2130) at the rear end of a striking surface (2170), a striking surface return (2177), a hosel (2140), a crown (2110), a sole (2120), a heel end (2160), a toe end (2150), and a sole portion hosel adapter attachment recess (2195). The skirt (2125) may extend along the circumference of the club head between the crown (2110) and the sole (2120) behind the hosel (2140).

[0112] 1st component

[0113] As illustrated in FIG. 18, the first component (2300) may include a rear extension (2500). The rear extension (2500) may include a portion of the sole (2120). The rear extension (2500) includes a weight channel (2540). The weight channel (2540) is exposed at the rear end (2180) of the club head (2300) and at the sole (2120).

[0114] The weight channel (2540) is configured to accommodate a movable weight (2350) in one of the elongated positions. The weight (2350) may be secured to the weight channel (2540) by a screw fastener (2320). The weight (2350) may be positioned at the toe side position, the center position, or the heel side position. The weight channel (2540) includes a mounting wall (2542) and a sole wall (2550). The mounting wall (2542) may be oriented approximately perpendicular to the sole (2120). The sole wall (2550) may be oriented approximately parallel to the main sole (2120), but positioned inward by a distance equal to the height of the mounting wall (2542). The movable weight (2350) may have an elongated trapezoidal shape or other suitable weight. The movable weight (2350) may include an inward wall and a connecting wall. The inward wall is placed at the same height as the sole wall (2550) of the weight channel (2540). The connecting wall is placed at the same height as the mounting wall (2542) when the weight (2350) is attached to one of three positions.

[0115] The mass of the movable weight (2350) can be 1.0 gram to 35.0 gram. For example, the mass of the movable weight (2350) is 1.0 gram, 1.5 gram, 2.0 gram, 3.0 gram, 4.0 gram, 5.0 gram, 6.0 gram, 7.0 gram, 8.0 gram, 9.0 gram, 10.0 gram, 11.0 gram, 12.0 gram, 13.0 gram, 14.0 gram, 15.0 gram, 16.0 gram, 17.0 gram, 18.0 gram, 19.0 gram, 20.0 gram, 21 gram, 22 gram, 23 gram, 24 gram, 25 gram, 26 gram, 27 gram, 2, 29 gram, 30 gram, 31 gram, 32 gram, It can be 33 grams, 34 grams, or 35 grams. Mass concentration within the weight channel (2540) at the rear end (2180) of the club head can strategically position the center of gravity of the head to improve the launch characteristics of the golf club.

[0116] The mounting wall (2542) of the weight channel (2540) includes three threaded openings corresponding to three weight positions. The mounting wall (2542) includes a toe-side threaded opening (2544), a center threaded opening (2546), and a heel-side threaded opening (2548). A movable weight (2350) is positioned at the toe-side position by positioning the connecting wall of the weight (2350) at the same height as the mounting wall (2542) of the channel (2540) and securing a fastener (2320) to the toe-side threaded opening (2544). A movable weight (2350) is positioned at the center-side position by positioning the connecting wall of the weight (2350) at the same height as the mounting wall (2542) of the channel (2540) and securing a fastener (2320) to the center threaded opening (2546). The movable weight (2350) is positioned at the heel side by placing the connecting wall of the weight (2350) at the same height as the mounting wall (2542) of the channel (2540) and securing the fastener (2320) to the heel side screw opening (2548).

[0117] When the movable weight (2350) is positioned at the center position as illustrated in the sole drawing of FIG. 19a, the golf club (2100) is configured not to provide a draw or fade bias. When the weight (2350) is positioned at the toe-side position as illustrated in FIG. 19b, the weight (2350) provides a fade bias to the club head. When the weight (2350) is positioned at the heel-side position as illustrated in FIG. 19c, the weight (2350) provides a draw bias to the club head. When the weight (2350) has a greater mass, the weight (2350) causes a greater fade or draw bias when positioned at the toe-side or heel-side position, respectively. Additionally, a greater separation distance between the toe-side position, the center position, and the heel-side position, respectively, can also increase the fade or draw bias. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the mass of the movable weight (2350) can be balanced with respect to the separation distance of the weight position to achieve the desired shot bias.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, when a movable weight (2350) is installed in a weight channel (2540), the movable weight (2350) may be offset by a gap from the sole wall (2550) of the weight channel (2540). The gap or offset distance (2557) may be measured as the shortest distance between the movable weight (2350) and the sole wall (2550). The offset distance (2557) may be approximately 0.004 inches to 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the offset distance (2557) is approximately 0.004 inches to 0.010 inches, 0.006 inches to 0.010 inches, 0.008 inches to 0.012 inches, 0.010 inches to 0.014 inches, 0.012 inches to 0.016 inches, 0.014 inches to 0.018 inches, 0.016 inches to 0.020 inches, 0.020 inches to 0.030 inches, 0.030 inches to 0.040 inches, or 0.040 inches to 0.050 inches. When the offset distance (2557) is larger, the movable weight (2350) may shake or vibrate up and down after the golf club head impacts the golf ball. This vibration can cause stress on the fastener (2320), screw opening (2544, 2546, 2548) and / or weight channel (2540), which can cause durability issues over time.

[0119] Reducing the ability of the movable weight (2350) to deflect vertically can reduce stress by more than 10%, more than 20%, more than 30%, or more than 40% compared to a similar design that allows vertical deflection of the movable weight (2350). In some embodiments, a reduction in the vertical deflection of the weight (2350) results in approximately 40% less stress according to finite element analysis (FEA) simulations. The vertical deflection of the movable weight (2350) (toward the crown or sole) is correlated with the vibration amplitude of the movable weight (2350). The vertical deflection of the weight (2350) may be limited by the offset distance (gap size) between the aforementioned movable weight (2350) and the sole wall (2550). In some embodiments, to maintain durability by reducing the vertical deflection of the weight (2350), the offset distance must be less than 0.040 inches, less than 0.030 inches, less than 0.020 inches, less than 0.010 inches, less than 0.009 inches, less than 0.008 inches, less than 0.007 inches, less than 0.006 inches, or less than 0.005 inches.

[0120] Additionally, vertical deflection and vibration of the weight (2350) can be controlled by inserting a heavy-duty tape (2558), such as VHB (Very High Bond) tape, between the movable weight (2350) and the sole wall (2550). The VHB tape (2558) can fill most of the gap. In some embodiments, the VHB tape (2558) fills the entire gap. The VHB tape (2558) can reduce or eliminate vibration of the movable weight (2350).

[0121] The first component (2300) includes a sole portion rear extension (2500), a striking surface return crown portion (2400), and a striking surface return sole portion (2810). The striking surface return sole portion (2810) includes a heel extension (2830) and a toe extension (2820). The heel extension (2830) includes a rear wall (2832). The toe extension (2820) includes a rear wall (2822).

[0122] The first component rear extension (2500) includes a toe side wall (2522) and a heel side wall (2532) that connect the weight channel (2540) to the striking surface sole return portion (2810). The rear extension toe side wall (2522) and the toe extension rear wall (2822) can form a toe side wall angle (2850). The toe side wall angle (2850) can have a range of 45 degrees to 180 degrees. The rear extension heel side wall (2532) and the heel extension rear wall (2832) can form a heel side wall angle (2855). The heel side wall angle (2855) can have a range between 45 degrees and 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the toe side wall angle (2850) is approximately the same as the heel side wall angle (2855). In other embodiments, the toe side wall angle (2850) and the heel side wall angle (2855) are different. In some embodiments, the toe side wall angle (2850) and the heel side wall angle (2855) are supplementary angles (the sum of which is approximately equal to 180 degrees). In these embodiments, the toe extension rear wall (2822) and the heel extension rear wall (2832) are located in approximately the same plane (the toe rear wall (2822) and the heel rear wall (2832) are approximately parallel when viewed from the sole). For example, the toe side wall angle (2850) may be an acute angle, while the heel side wall angle (2855) is a supplementary angle of an obtuse angle.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 19 and FIG. 22, some embodiments have obtuse toe-side wall and heel-side wall angles (2850, 2855). Referring to FIG. 23, some embodiments have toe-side wall and heel-side wall angles (2850, 2855) of approximately 90 degrees. Referring to FIG. 24, some embodiments have acute toe-side wall and heel-side wall angles (2850, 2855). Embodiments having obtuse toe-side and heel-side wall angles (2850, 2855) can smoothly distribute stress backward into the sole (2120). The obtuse angle can increase the strength of the sole (2120) and support the sole rear extension (2500). However, embodiments having an acute angle may include a first component having a smaller mass than embodiments having an obtuse angle or a 90-degree angle. Accordingly, embodiments having acute toe-side and heel-side wall angles (2850, 2855) can allow for improved weighting characteristics such as high MOI.

[0124] The weight channel (2540) may extend outward beyond the main section of the rear sole extension (2500) as illustrated in the embodiments of FIGS. 19 through 21. In these embodiments where the weight channel (2540) extends in the toe direction and the heel direction, the rear extension toe side wall (2522) and the heel side wall (2532) each have a curve adjacent to the weight channel (2540). In another embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 22, the rear extension toe side wall (2522) and the heel side wall (2532) may be straight. In some embodiments, the rear extension toe side wall (2522) may be parallel to the rear extension heel side wall (2532). In some embodiments, the rear extension toe side wall (2522) may not be parallel to the rear extension heel side wall (2532). The rear extension (2500) may extend from the return portion (2810) at a different location. The movement of the rear extension (2500) can affect the way the rear extension (2500) is inclined relative to the return portion (2810). The rear extension axis (2504) is located near the center of the rear extension (2500). The rear extension axis (2504) extends between the front midpoint (2502) of the rear extension and the center screw opening (2546) of the weight channel (2540). The front midpoint (2502) is located midway between the toe-side intersection (2824) and the heel-side intersection (2834). The toe-side intersection (2824) is the point where the rear wall (2822) of the rear extension intersects and connects with the rear extension toe-side wall (2522). Similarly, the heel-side intersection (2834) is the point where the rear wall (2832) of the heel extension intersects and connects with the rear extension heel-side wall (2532). The toe side and heel side intersections (2824, 2834) can be located anywhere along the rear edge of the front sole portion (2810).In some embodiments, the connection between the rear wall (2822 / 2832) of the toe / heel extension and the rear toe / heel side wall (2522 / 2532) is each filleted, beveled, or chamfered.

[0125] The sole rear extension (2500) of the first component (2300) may be inclined with respect to the intersection plane (2840). As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 22 through 28, the intersection plane (2840) coincides with the toe-side intersection (2824) and the heel-side intersection (2834). In some embodiments, the intersection plane (2840) extends parallel to the XY plane. In some embodiments as illustrated in FIGS. 19 through 24, the rear extension (2500) extends in a straight line backward such that the intersection plane (2840) and the rear extension axis (2504) form an angle of approximately 90 degrees when viewed from the sole drawing. In some embodiments such as the embodiment of FIGS. 25 through 28, the intersection plane (2840) and the rear extension axis (2504) intersect at an angle other than 90 degrees.

[0126] The toe-side axis angle (2860) is measured from the intersection plane (2840) to the rear extension axis (2504) on the toe side of the rear extension axis (2504) (in the sole drawing). The heel-side axis angle (2865) is measured from the intersection plane (2840) to the rear extension axis (2504) on the heel side of the rear extension axis (2504) (in the sole drawing). The toe-side axis angle (2860) and the heel-side axis angle (2865) are supplementary angles (the sum is 180 degrees).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 25, in some embodiments, the rear extension is attached to the striking surface sole return (2810) that is closer to the toe end (2150) of the club head (2100) than to the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100). In this embodiment, the toe-side axis angle (2860) is greater than 90 degrees, and the heel-side axis angle (2865) is less than 90 degrees. The weight channel (2540) is maintained in a position at the center of the rear end (2180) of the golf club head (2100). Due to the position of the first component rear extension (2500), the second component (2200) may occupy a larger portion of the heel side of the sole (2120). More specifically, the sole portion (2214) of the second component heel may be larger than the portion (2212) of the second component toe sole.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 26, in some embodiments, the rear extension is attached to the striking surface sole return (2810) that is closer to the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100) than to the toe end (2150) of the club head (2100). In this embodiment, the toe-side axis angle (2860) is greater than 90 degrees, and the heel-side axis angle (2865) is less than 90 degrees. The weight channel (2540) is maintained in a position at the center of the rear end (2180) of the golf club head (2100). Due to the position of the rear extension (2500) of the first component (2300), the second component (2200) may occupy a larger portion of the toe side of the sole (2120). More specifically, the sole portion (2212) of the second component toe may be larger than the sole portion (2214) of the second component heel. The attachment position of the rear extension can change the weighting and launch characteristics of the golf club head (2100).

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, in some embodiments, the rear extension may have a variable width. In these embodiments, the toe side wall angle (2850) and the heel side wall angle (2855) may not be supplementary angles (the sum may not be 180 degrees). In some embodiments, the toe side and heel side wall angles (2850, 2855) may both be acute angles, which may reduce the weight of the first component and allow for greater perimeter weighting in the club head. In other embodiments, the toe side and heel side wall angles (2850 and 2855) may both be obtuse angles, which may increase the durability of the sole and simplify the manufacturing assembly of the golf club head (2100).

[0130] The rear extension width (2507) is measured in the heel-toe direction towards the rear of the rear circumference of the rear sole portion (2810). The rear extension width (2507) is smaller than the total width of the sole (2120) of the golf club (2100). The rear extension width (2507) may range from 25% to 85% of the total width of the sole (2120). The rear extension width (2507) may be 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85% of the total width of the sole (2120). The width of the rear extension adjacent to the weight channel (2540) may range from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. The rear extension width (8507) between the toe side intersection (2824) and the heel side intersection (2834) may range from 1 inch to 5 inches. The rear extension width (2507) may be larger adjacent to the weight channel (2540) or adjacent to the return portion (2810), as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, the position of the sole rear extension (2500) of the first component (2300) can also be understood in relation to the striking surface (2170) and the X, Y, Z coordinate system. The rear extension angle (2508) can be measured from the sole drawing between the rear extension axis (2504) and the YZ plane (193). In some embodiments, the rear extension axis (2504) may intersect the YZ plane (193) adjacent to the rear end (2180) of the club head (2100). In other embodiments, the rear extension axis (2504) may intersect the YZ plane (193) at a point between the return portion (2177) and the rear end (2180) of the golf club head (2100). The rear extension angle (2508) is 0 to 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear extension angle (2508) may have a range of 0 to 10 degrees, 0 to 20 degrees, 0 to 30 degrees, 0 to 40 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, 10 to 30 degrees, 10 to 40 degrees, 10 to 45 degrees, 20 to 30 degrees, 20 to 40 degrees, 20 to 45 degrees, 30 to 40 degrees, or 30 to 45 degrees.

[0132] In the embodiment of FIG. 37, the rear extension axis (2504) is adjacent to or intersects the YZ plane (193) at the rear end (2180) of the club head (2100). The front end of the rear extension (2500) is positioned closer to the heel end (2160) than to the toe end (2150). By moving the front end of the rear extension (2500), the CG and MOI of the club head (2100) are affected because the first component (2300) has a higher density than the second component. The placement of more of the first component (2300) within the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100) increases the mass within the heel end (2160) of the club head (2100).

[0133] In the embodiment of FIG. 38, the rear extension axis (2504) is adjacent to or intersects the YZ plane (193) at the rear end (2180) of the club head (2100). The front end of the rear extension (2500) is positioned closer to the toe end (2150) than to the heel end (2160). The placement of more first components (2300) within the toe end (2150) of the club head (2100) increases the mass within the toe end (2150) of the club head (2100).

[0134] Referring to FIG. 39, in some embodiments, the rear edge (2410) of the return portion (2177) may be inclined with respect to the XY plane (191). In some embodiments, the rear edge (2410) may be aligned with the intersection plane (2840). In other embodiments, the rear edge (2410) is at least partially curved or inclined so as not to be fully aligned with the intersection plane (2840). In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 40, portions of the rear edge (2410) may be parallel to the XY plane (191), while the intersection plane (2840) is maintained inclined with respect to the XY plane (191). The rear edge angle (2411) may be defined between the intersection plane (2840) and the XY plane (191). The rear edge angle (2411) may have a range of 0 to 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear edge angle (2411) may have a range of 0 to 10 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, 20 to 30 degrees, or 30 to 45 degrees. Beveling the rear edge (2410) places more mass at the heel end (2160) or toe end (2150) of the club head (2100).

[0135] Referring to FIG. 40, in some embodiments, a portion of the rear edge (2410) is offset from the remainder of the rear edge (2410). For example, one portion of the rear edge (2410) on the toe-direction side of the rear extension (2500) (hereinafter "rear edge toe-direction portion (2412)") may be further forward than a second portion of the rear edge (2410) on the heel-direction side of the rear extension (2500) (hereinafter "rear edge heel-direction portion (2413)"). The rear edge toe-direction portion (2412) may be offset by a distance (2414) from the rear edge heel-direction portion (2413). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 40, the rear edge heel-direction portion (2413) is offset backward by a distance (2414) from the rear edge toe-direction portion (2412). In another embodiment, the rear edge toe direction portion (2412) may be offset rearward from the heel direction portion (2413). In yet another embodiment, the rear edge (2410) of the return portion (2177) may be arched, parabolic, tapered, or have a shape that contributes to specific mass characteristics and / or impact durability of the first component (2300).

[0136] 2nd component

[0137] As illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30, the second component may include a crown portion (2205), a trailing edge portion (2230), a sole toe portion (2212), and a sole heel portion (2214). The crown portion (2205) connects the sole toe portion (2212) and the sole heel portion (2214). The trailing edge portion (2230) connects the crown portion (2205) to the toe and heel portions (2212 and 2214) of the sole. The crown portion (2205), the sole toe portion (2212), and the sole heel portion (2214) define a rear cutout (2240) on the sole side of the second component (2200). In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in FIG. 29, the rear cutout (2240) is cut only at the sole. In another embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 30, the rear cutout (2240) is cut into both the sole and crown portions (2205). The embodiment cut into both the sole and crown portions (2205) allows more space at the rear end (2180) of the club head (2100) for the weight channel (2540) of the first component (2300).

[0138] The second component sole toe portion (2212) and sole heel portion (2214) may be dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of the first component (2300) as illustrated in FIGS. 22 through 28. For example, the second component sole toe portion (2212) may be approximately the same size as the sole heel portion (2214) when the rear extension portion (2500) is positioned at the center as in the embodiments of FIGS. 22 through 24. In an embodiment where the rear extension portion axis (2504) forms an angle with respect to the intersection plane (2840), the sole toe portion (2212) may be smaller or larger than the sole heel portion (2214) as illustrated in the embodiments of FIGS. 25 and 26.

[0139] In some embodiments, the second component (2200) may be fixed to the first component (2300) in a manner similar to that described for the first golf club head (100) embodiment. In some embodiments, the material of the first component (2300) and the second component (2200) may also be similar to the material described for the first golf club head (100) embodiment.

[0140] III) Third embodiment of a golf club head (including a crown brace and a split second part)

[0141] A third embodiment of the golf club head (3100) illustrated in FIGS. 37 through 41 and FIG. 53 comprises a first component (3300) and a second component (3200) coupled to the first component (3300). The first component (3300) comprises a sole rear extension (3500) and a crown brace (3560). The first component (3300) of the golf club head of the third embodiment may be similar to the first component (300, 1300) of the golf club head (100, 2100), except for the added crown brace (3560). The second component (3200) may comprise a toe portion (3212) and a heel portion (3214). The toe portion and the heel portion (3212, 3214) may be separate parts. Except for the two-part design, the second component (3200) of the golf club head may be similar to the second component (200, 2200) of the golf club head (100, 2100). The golf club head forms a skirt (3125) having a trailing edge (3130) at the rear end of the striking surface (3170), return portion (3177), hosel (3140), crown (3110), sole (3120), heel end (3160), toe end (3150), and rear end (3180). The skirt (3125) may extend along the circumference of the club head between the crown (3110) and the sole (3120) behind the hosel (3140).

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41, the second component toe portion (3212) may include a toe portion center edge (3220) configured to be positioned along the center portion of the crown (3110) when the golf club head is fully assembled, a toe portion maximum crown portion width (3222) measured from the toe portion center edge (3220) toward the toe end (3150), and a toe portion maximum crown portion length (3224) measured from the front end toward the rear end. The second component heel portion (3214) may include a heel portion center edge (3216) configured to be positioned along the center portion of the crown (3110) when the golf club head is fully assembled, a heel portion maximum crown portion width (3217) measured from the heel portion center edge (3216) toward the heel end (3160), and a heel portion maximum crown portion length (3218) measured from the front end toward the rear end.

[0143] The toe portion (3212) and the heel portion (3214) may have the same maximum length (3224, 3218). Alternatively, the toe portion (3212) and the heel portion (3214) may have a maximum length (3224, 3218) that can vary so that one is larger than the other. The toe portion (3212) and the heel portion (3214) may have the same maximum width (3222, 3217). Alternatively, the toe portion (3212) and the heel portion (3214) may have a maximum width (3222, 3217) that can vary so that one is larger than the other. The maximum length may be 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 inches, 4.3 inches, 4.4 inches, 4.5 inches, 4.6 inches, 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inches.

[0144] As illustrated in FIGS. 37 through 39, the first component (3300) of the third embodiment may include both a sole rear extension (3500) and a crown brace (3560). The sole rear extension (3500) accommodates a weight channel (3540) at the rear end (3180). The crown brace (3560) is attached to the front crown portion (3400) and the sole rear extension (3500). The crown brace (3560) is attached to the sole rear extension (3500) adjacent to the weight channel (3540) at the rear end (3180) of the club head. As illustrated in FIG. 39, the crown brace (3560) and the weight channel (3540) of the rear extension (3500) may form a hammerhead shape. In another embodiment, the shape of the connection between the crown brace (3560) and the rear extension (3500) may be filleted, round, or have other shapes.

[0145] The crown brace (3560) can provide support to prevent the sole rear extension (3500) from bending too much upward when the golf club head impacts the golf ball. Because the weight channel (3540) accommodates a movable weight (3350), the weight channel (3540) holds a significant amount of mass. The mass of the weight channel (3540) and the weight (3350) is supported by the sole rear extension (3500). However, impact with the golf ball can cause the weight channel (3540) portion of the rear extension (3500) to bend upward. This upward bending of the rear extension (3500) can cause compressive stress within the crown (3110). In some embodiments, this stress can cause breakage or cracking within the second component (3200) that forms most of the crown (3110). The crown brace (3560) can provide support to prevent stress-induced bending (or clamshell effect) of the sole rear extension (3500). In other words, the crown brace (3560) can reduce vibration and oscillation of the weight channel (3540).

[0146] In some embodiments, the sole rear extension (3500) and the crown brace (3560) may be inclined together in a manner similar to how the sole rear extensions (500, 2500) of the golf club head (100 and 2100) are inclined. In some embodiments, the crown brace (3560) is positioned at an angle different from the angle of the sole rear extension (3500).

[0147] Referring to FIG. 39, the crown brace (3560) includes a crown brace longitudinal axis (3565). The crown brace longitudinal axis (3565) bisects the crown brace (3560) along its maximum length. In some embodiments, the crown brace longitudinal axis (3565) may be parallel to the rear extension axis (2504), or alternatively, may be offset toward the heel or toe end of the golf club head that is not parallel to the rear extension axis (2504) so ​​that the crown brace longitudinal axis (3565) forms an acute angle with respect to the rear extension axis (2504).

[0148] The crown brace (3560) may include a toe-side edge (3562) and a heel-side edge (3564). The crown brace (3560) may include a width (3561) measured from the toe-side edge (3562) to the heel-side edge (3564). The crown brace width (3561) may have a range of 0.05 inches to 0.8 inches. In some embodiments, the crown brace width (3561) may have a range of 0.05 inches to 0.1 inches, 0.1 inches to 0.2 inches, 0.2 inches to 0.4 inches, 0.3 inches to 0.5 inches, 0.3 inches to 0.6 inches, or 0.4 inches to 0.7 inches. In some embodiments, the crown brace width may be approximately 0.2 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.75 inches, or 0.8 inches. The crown brace width (3561) may affect or determine the mass of the crown brace (3560). To preserve any mass, the crown brace (3560) may be designed to weigh less than 0.6 g, less than 0.5 g, less than 0.4 g, less than 0.3 g, less than 0.2 g, or less than 0.1 g.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41, two parts of the second component (3200) may each include a crown (3110), a sole (3120), and a rear edge (3130). The toe portion (3212) may be configured to be fitted and secured over a circumferential rib or ledge of the first component (3300) (not shown). In particular, the toe portion (3212) may be configured to engage with the rear extension toe side wall (3522) and overlap with the crown brace toe side wall (3562). The heel portion (3214) may be configured to engage with the rear extension heel side wall (3532) and overlap with the crown brace heel side wall (3564).

[0150] Because the second component (3200) comprises two separate parts (3212, 3214), the second component (3200) can be assembled onto the first component (3300) in two steps. For example, the toe part (3212) can first be slid onto the first component (3300) in the toe-heel direction. The heel part (3214) can be slid separately onto the first component (3300) in the heel-toe direction. The first component (3300) may have a more complex geometry because the second component (3200) can be assembled onto the first component from the heel and toe sides, as described in more detail below. The materials of the first component (3300) and the second component (3200) may be similar to those described for the first golf club head (100) embodiment.

[0151] When two second component parts (3212, 3214) are assembled onto the first component, the two parts (3212, 3214) can be positioned to completely cover the crown brace (3560). Completely covering the crown brace (3560) can ensure a strong bonded joint between the two parts (3212, 3214) and the first component (2300). The two parts (3212, 3214) can be positioned so that no part of the crown brace (3560) is exposed to the outside of the golf club head.

[0152] In an alternative embodiment, the club head (3100) may be formed without a crown brace (3560) but still includes two second component parts (3212, 3214). The two second component parts (3212, 3214) may include center edge internal extensions, thereby connecting the component parts (3212, 3214). The internal extensions may extend along the entire center edge of each part or along only a portion of the center edge of each part. The internal extensions may extend inward toward the interior of the golf club head, parallel to each other and approximately parallel to the Y-axis. The heel part (3214) may have a heel part internal extension (3234). The toe part (3212) may have a toe part internal extension (3232). Each internal extension may have an internal extension length between 0.1 inch and 1.0 inch. The length of the internal extension may be 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, or 1.0 inch.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 42, in some embodiments, the internal extensions (3232, 3234) may be positioned adjacent to each other when the golf club head is assembled. The internal extensions (3232, 3234) may be mechanically attached to each other with mechanical fasteners or press-fit fasteners, or may be adhesively attached through epoxy or other suitable adhesives.

[0154] In another alternative embodiment, the golf club head (3100) may be formed as a single integral second component similar to the second component (200, 2200) described for the first and second embodiments (100, 2100), rather than two separate second component parts. This alternative embodiment may include a weight channel (3540) and a crown brace (3560) that helps support the single second component.

[0155] IV) Fourth embodiment of a golf club head (including two or more braces)

[0156] A fourth embodiment of a golf club head (4100) includes a first component (4300) and a second component (not shown) coupled to the first component (4300). In this fourth embodiment, the first component (4300) may have one or more braces, supports, bridges, or spans extending between the front crown portion (4400) and the rear sole extension (4500). The braces may increase durability by reducing shaking and vibration at the rear end of the club head. The second component (not shown) of the fourth embodiment may be a single integral second component similar to the second component (200, 2200), or a split second component similar to the second component (3200).

[0157] The golf club head (4100) may be similar to the aforementioned golf club head (100, 2100, 3100). Although a complete golf club head (4100) is not shown in FIG. 43 through 56, the golf club head (4100) may form the same components as the aforementioned golf club head (100, 2100, 3100). A golf club head (4100) has a skirt (125, 2125, 3125) having a tail edge (130, 2130, 3130) at the rearmost part of a striking surface (4170 similar to 170, 2170, 3170), a return portion (similar to 177, 2177, 3177), a hosel (4140 similar to 140, 2140, 3140), a crown (similar to 110, 2110, 3110), a sole (similar to 120, 2120, 3120), a heel end (similar to 160, 2160, 3160), a toe end (similar to 150, 2150, 3150), and a rear end (4180 similar to 180, 2180, 3180) and a tail edge (similar to 130, 2130, 3130). Forms a similar)

[0158] As illustrated in FIGS. 43 through 56, a golf club head (4100) may include a first component (4300) having various brace configurations. All variations of the first component (4300) include a striking surface (4170), a front crown portion (4400), a front sole portion (4810), and a sole rear extension (4500) connected to the front sole portion (4810). The rear extension (4500) may include a weight channel (4540) configured to allow mounting of a weight (4350) movable at the toe side edge (4522), the heel side edge (4532), and the rear edge (4130) of the golf club head (4100). The weight channel (4540) and the movable weight (4350) may each be similar to the weight channel (2540, 3540) and the movable weight (2350, 3350) of the golf club head (2100, 3100) as described above with reference to FIGS. 17 through 21 and 41. Additionally, the first component (4300) may include a perimeter lip (4450) that is offset inwardly around the edges of the front crown portion (4400), the front sole portion (4810), and the rear sole extension (4500). The perimeter lip (4450) may be similar to a shelf and may serve as a wrap joint when the second component (4200) is attached to the first component (4300). The brace can reduce vibrations caused by impact or vibrations of the weight channel (4540) at the rear end (4180), thereby reducing the stress experienced across the lap joint. Reducing stress in the lap joint helps increase the durability of the lap joint joint and prevents delamination.

[0159] Additionally, all variations of the first component (4300) may include two or more braces (also referred to as supports, bridges, spans, or connecting members). Two or more braces provide stability to the weight channel (4540), which can reduce vibration and vertical displacement of the rear weight channel after the golf club head (4100) impacts the golf ball. Additionally, two or more braces can increase the lateral stiffness of the rear extension (4500) of the first component (4300).

[0160] In the variations illustrated in FIGS. 43 and 44, the first component (4300) includes a toe skirt brace (4566) and a heel skirt brace (4568). The toe skirt brace (4566) may extend from the return portion to the rear end of the club head. More specifically, the toe skirt brace (4566) may extend from the front crown and sole portions (4400, 4810) at the rear edge of the club head (4100) to the rear extension (4500). The toe skirt brace (4566) and the heel skirt brace (4568) are configured to be at the same level as the circumferential rib (4450) of the first component (4300). In other words, the toe and heel skirt braces (4566 and 4568) may be at the same height as the circumferential rib (4450). The second component (4200) can be fitted over the toe and skirt braces (4566 and 4568) when the club head (4100) is assembled, so as to completely cover it.

[0161] In the variations illustrated in FIGS. 45 and 46, the first component (4300) includes a toe skirt brace (4566), a heel skirt brace (4568), and a center crown brace (4560). The toe skirt brace (4566) and the heel skirt brace (4568) may be similar to the toe and skirt braces (4566, 4568) described for the variations in FIGS. 43 and 44. The crown brace (4560) may be similar to the crown brace (3560) described for the golf club head (3100) illustrated in FIGS. 37 through 42. The center crown brace (4560) may extend from the front crown portion (4400) to the rear extension (4500) at the rear edge of the club head (4100). The center crown brace (4560) may be located approximately midway between the toe end (4150) and the heel end (4160) of the club head (4100). In a plan view such as FIG. 46, the center crown brace (4560) may be approximately perpendicular to the XY plane (191). The orientation of the center crown brace (4560) may approximately bisect the rear sole extension (4500).

[0162] The variations illustrated in FIGS. 47 and 48 all include a toe-side brace (4557) and a heel-side brace (4559) connected to the outer edge of the rear extension (4500). The toe-side brace (4557) may extend rearward from the front crown portion (4400) and may be attached to the toe-side edge (4522) of the rear extension (4500) at the rear edge (4532) of the club head (4100). Similarly, the heel-side brace (4557) may extend rearward from the front crown portion (4400) and may be attached to the heel-side edge (4532) of the rear extension (4500) at the rear edge (4130) of the club head (4100). The toe-side and heel-side braces (4557, 4559) can be attached to the front crown portion (4400) at a position that divides the front crown portion (4400) into approximately one-thirds in the plan view. In other words, the toe-side and heel-side braces (4557, 4559) are attached to the rear crown portion (4400) such that, when measured along the rear edge of the rear crown portion (4400) in the plan view, the distance between the toe end (4150) of the club head (4100) and the toe-side brace (4557) is approximately equal to the distance between the toe-side brace (4557) and the heel-side brace (4559), and also approximately equal to the distance between the heel-side brace (4559) of the club head (4100) and the heel end (4160).

[0163] The toe and heel side braces (4557, 4559) may be separated by a greater distance from the rear end (4180) of the golf club head (4100) toward the trailing edge (4130), as illustrated in the plan view of FIG. 48. In the plan view, the toe and heel side braces (4557, 4559) may be within the footprint of the sole rear extension (4500).

[0164] The variations illustrated in FIGS. 49 and 50 both include a toe-side brace (4557) and a heel-side brace (4559) connected to the center of the rear extension (4500). The toe-side and heel-side braces (4557, 4559) may be attached to the front crown portion (4400) at a position that divides the front crown portion (4400) approximately one-third of the plane, as described for the variations in FIGS. 47 and 48. However, in the variations in FIGS. 49 and 50, the toe-side and heel-side braces (4557, 4559) are separated by a smaller distance from the rear end (4180) of the golf club head (4100) toward the tail (4130). The toe side brace (4557) can be combined with the heel side brace (4559) before or when it is connected to the rear extension (4500) at the rear end (4180). The toe side and heel side braces (4557, 4559) can form a V-shaped pattern in a plan view, as shown in FIG. 50.

[0165] The variations illustrated in FIGS. 51 and 52 include the following four braces: a toe side brace (4557), a heel side brace (4559), a toe skirt brace (4566), and a heel skirt brace (4568). The toe and heel side braces (4557, 4559) of the variations in FIGS. 51 and 52 may be similar to the toe and heel side braces of the variations in FIGS. 47 and 48 described above. The toe and heel skirt braces (4566, 4568) of the variations in FIGS. 51 and 52 may be similar to the toe and heel side skirt braces of the variations in FIGS. 43 and 44 described above.

[0166] The variations illustrated in FIGS. 53 and 54 include the following four braces: a toe side brace (4557), a heel side brace (4559), a toe skirt brace (4566), and a heel skirt brace (4568). The toe and heel side braces (4557 and 4559) of the variations in FIGS. 53 and 54 may extend from the front crown portion (4400) to the rear extension (4500) at the rear edge (4130) of the rear end (4180) of the club head. In the plan view, the toe side brace (4557) and the heel side brace (4559) may be oriented approximately perpendicular to the XY plane (191). In some embodiments, the toe-side and heel-side braces (4557, 4559) may be aligned so that their planar footprints roughly follow the edges (4522, 4532) of the sole rear extension (4500).

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 53 and 54, in some embodiments, when measured along the rear edge of the front crown portion (4400), the distance between the toe end (4150) and the toe side brace (4557) may be smaller than the distance between the heel side brace (4559) and the heel end (4160). In other embodiments, when measured along the rear edge of the front crown portion (4400), the distance between the toe end (4150) and the toe side brace (4557) may be approximately equal to the distance between the heel side brace (4559) and the heel end (4160). Both the distance between the toe end (4150) and the toe side brace (4557) and the distance between the heel end (4160) and the heel side brace (4559) may be smaller than the distance between the toe side brace (4557) and the heel side brace (4559).

[0168] The variation illustrated in FIGS. 55 and 56 includes the following two braces: a first brace (4570) and a second brace (4572). The first brace (4570) extends from the rear edge (4130) of the rear end (4180) from the heel-side half of the front crown portion (4400) to the toe-side half of the rear extension (4500). The second brace (4572) extends from the rear edge (4130) of the rear end (4180) from the toe-side half of the front crown portion (4400) to the heel-side half of the rear extension (4500). The first and second braces (4570, 4572) cross each other. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 56, the first and second braces (4570, 4572) cross each other approximately midway between the front crown portion (4400) and the rear extension (4500) adjacent to the rear edge (4130). The cross braces (4570, 4572) may form an X shape or an hourglass shape in the top view. In some embodiments, the cross braces (4570, 4572) are moved toward the toe end (4150) or heel end (4160) to achieve desired structural support.

[0169] Any of the braces described above may include a thickness. The brace thickness, measured from the outer surface of the brace to the inner surface of the brace, may be about 0.015 inches to 0.035 inches. In some embodiments, the brace thickness may be 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.026 inches, 0.027 inches, 0.028 inches, 0.029 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.031 inches, 0.032 inches, 0.033 inches, 0.034 inches, or 0.035 inches. A brace located on the crown (not a skirt brace) may have a width similar to the crown brace width (3561) described above for the club head (3100).

[0170] Any of the aforementioned braces may have a brace width similar to the aforementioned crown brace width (3561). The width of each brace may affect or determine the mass of the brace. To preserve discretionary mass, the braces within the club head (4100) may be designed to have a total weight of less than 0.6 g, less than 0.5 g, less than 0.4 g, less than 0.3 g, less than 0.2 g, or less than 0.1 g. In some embodiments, the total weight of the braces is equal to 0.6 g, 0.5 g, 0.4 g, 0.3 g, 0.2 g, or 0.1 g. Thus, in some cases, in embodiments having more braces, the brace width may be smaller than the brace width in embodiments having fewer braces.

[0171] The two or more braces described above can increase the durability of the golf club head. More specifically, the braces can reduce potential vertical vibration of the weight channel (4540) of the rear extension (4500) of the sole. Additionally, the braces can reduce lateral movement of the weight channel (4540). In a club head without the braces described herein, the impact force experienced when the golf club head (4100) strikes a golf ball can cause shaking and vibration of the rear extension due to high weight concentration within the weight channel and movable weight. The vertical displacement of the rear edge (4130) of the rear extension (4500) can be measured in a simulation to quantify potential vibration. Since vibrations of a larger amplitude can cause material fatigue, higher vertical displacement at impact corresponds to lower durability. The aforementioned brace reduces the vertical displacement of the rear edge (4130) upon impact and thus increases the durability of the club head (4100).

[0172] The two or more braces described above may define or form the boundaries of the openings in the first component (4300). The openings are also referred to as voids, material-free areas, or empty areas. The two or more braces may define three, four, five, six, or more openings in the first component (4300). In variations of FIG. 43 and 44, the toe and heel skirt braces (4566, 4568) form part of the boundary of the crown opening, part of the boundary of the toe sole opening, and part of the boundary of the heel sole opening. Additionally, the rear extension (4500) and the striking surface return form the boundary portions of the toe and heel sole openings. In the variations of FIGS. 45 and 46, the toe and heel skirt braces (4566, 4568) and the front crown portion (4400) define and surround two crown openings separated by a center crown brace (4560). The variations of FIGS. 45 and 46 may have toe and heel sole openings similar to the variations of FIGS. 43 and 44.

[0173] In the variations of FIGS. 47 and 48, the toe and heel side braces (4557, 4559) define a central crown opening and two side openings. The crown openings cross the skirt and cover a portion of the crown and a portion of the sole, respectively. The variations of FIGS. 49 and 50 are similar except that the central crown opening has a roughly triangular shape. In the variations of FIGS. 51 through 54, the braces define five openings. The skirt braces (4566, 4568), crown braces (4557, 4559), rear extension (4500), and front crown portion (4400) define three crown openings. The skirt braces (4566, 4568), striking surface return, and sole extension (4500) define a toe sole opening and a heel sole opening.

[0174] In the variations of FIGS. 55 and 56, the brace defines six openings. The cross braces (4570, 4572) define the front triangular opening and the rear triangular opening. The front crown portion (4400) and the cross brace forms (4570, 4572) form the edges of the front triangular opening. The rear extension (4500) and the cross brace forms (4570 and 4572) form the edges of the rear triangular opening. The toe-side crown opening and the heel-side crown opening are formed between the center cross brace (4570, 4572) and the toe and heel skirt braces (4566, 4568). Additionally, the skirt braces (4566, 4568), the impact surface return, and the sole extension (4500) define the toe sole opening and the heel sole opening.

[0175] During and immediately after impact with the golf ball, the rear weight (4350) and weight channel (4540) of the first component (4300) may be deflected vertically relative to the rest of the golf club head (4100). In the case of the first component without braces, the rear weight (4350) of 30 to 35 grams may be deflected by more than 0.3 inches without additional support from the second component (4200). In the case of the first component (4300) having two or more braces, the rear weight (4350) of 30 to 35 grams may be deflected by up to 0.03 to 0.20 inches without additional support from the second component (4200). In some embodiments, the rear weight (4350) may be deflected by up to 0.03 inches to 0.06 inches, 0.04 inches to 0.07 inches, 0.05 inches to 0.08 inches, 0.05 inches to 0.10 inches, 0.10 inches to 0.15 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.20 inches. In some embodiments, the rear weight (4350) may be deflected by up to about 0.3 inches or less, less than 0.2 inches, less than 0.18 inches, less than 0.16 inches, less than 0.14 inches, less than 0.12 inches, less than 0.10 inches, less than 0.08 inches, less than 0.06 inches, less than 0.04 inches, or less than 0.02 inches.

[0176] In some embodiments, with two crown braces and no skirt brace, a rear weight (4350) of 30 to 35 grams may be deflected (perpendicular to the rest of the club head) by up to 0.09 to 0.18 inches or 0.10 to 0.15 inches without additional support from the second component (4200). In some embodiments, with two skirt braces and no crown brace, the rear weight (4350) may be deflected by up to 0.10 to 0.20 inches. In some embodiments, with two skirt braces and at least one crown brace, the rear weight (4350) may be deflected by up to 0.03 to 0.10 inches or by less than 0.10 inches, less than 0.08 inches, less than 0.07 inches, or less than 0.06 inches. In some embodiments, a variant having parallel toe and heel side braces provides greater support (less deflection) than a variant using cross or inclined (non-parallel) braces.

[0177] V) Fifth embodiment of a golf club head

[0178] A fifth embodiment of a golf club head (5100) illustrated in FIGS. 53 to 56 comprises a first component (5300) having a weight channel (5540) and a sole opening (5555), a second component (5200) coupled to the first component (5300), and a sole panel (5556) covering a sole cavity (5555) within the first component (5300). The first component (5300) of the golf club head (5100) of the fifth embodiment may be similar to the first component (300, 1300) of the golf club head (100, 2100), except for the sole opening (5555). The second component (5200) of the golf club head (5100) may be similar to the second component of the golf club head (100) described above. The second component (5200) of the golf club head (5100) may be similar to the second component of the golf club head (100) described above. The golf club head (5100) forms a striking surface (5170), a return portion (5177), a hosel (5140), a crown (5110), a sole (5120), a heel end (5160), a toe end (5150), a rear edge (5130) at the rearmost portion of the rear end (5180), a hosel (5140), and a sole portion hosel adapter attachment recess (5195).

[0179] As illustrated in FIG. 57, the first component (5300) may include a rear extension (5500). The rear extension (5500) further includes a toe side span (5557) and a heel side span (5559). The toe side span (5557) extends toward and is connected to a rear end (5180). The heel side span (5559) extends toward and is connected to a rear end (5180) located opposite the toe side span (5557). The toe side span (5557), the heel side span (5559), the rear end (5180), and the return portion (5177) form a sole opening (5555). The sole opening (5555) functions to remove high-density material of the first component (5300) toward the rear end (5180) of the first component (5300). The sole opening (5555) is additionally covered and sealed by another material sole panel (5556) to create a multi-material sole (5120), thereby increasing MOI and improving sound characteristics.

[0180] The sole opening (5555) may be of any shape, but in most embodiments, the sole opening (5555) is approximately rectangular. The sole opening (5555) is bent into the general shape of the sole (5120). In some embodiments, the sole opening (5555) may be square, rectangular, circular, oval, elliptical, triangular, polygonal, pentagonal, hexagonal, trapezoidal, or any other desired shape.

[0181] The sole opening (5555) includes a width (5574), which is measured from the toe-side lateral span (5557) to the heel-side lateral span (5559). In most embodiments, the sole opening (5555) has a larger width near the return section (5177) than the opening width near the rear end (5180). This characteristic helps to remove as much high-density mass as possible from the center of the club head (5100), so that the mass is redistributed to the rear end (5180) of the club head (5100). However, in some embodiments, the width of the sole opening (5555) may be the same or uniform from the return section (5177) to the rear (5180). Additionally, in some embodiments, the width of the sole opening (5555) may be larger near the rear end (5180) than the opening width near the return section (5177).

[0182] The width of the brush opening (5574) may be between 0.5 inches and 6.0 inches. Width (5574) is 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.1 inch, 1.2 inch, 1.3 inch, 1.4 inch, 1.5 inch, 1.6 inch, 1.8 inch, 1.9 inch, 2.0 inch, 2.1 inch, 2.2 inch, 2.3 inch, 2.4 inch, 2.5 inch, 2.6 inch, 2.7 inch, 2.8 inch, 2.9 inch, 3.0 inch, 3.1 inch, 3.2 inch, 3.0 inch, 3.4 inch, 3.5 inch, 3.6 inch, 3.7 inch, 3.8 inch, 3.9 inch, 4.0 inch, 4.1 inch, 4.2 inch, 4.3 inch, 4.4 inch, 4.5 inch It can be 4.6 inches, 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inches.

[0183] Additionally, the sole opening (5555) includes a length (5576), which is measured from the return portion (5177) to the rear end (5180). In most embodiments, the sole opening (5555) has the same length as the length near the toe-side span (5557) near the heel-side span (5559). This characteristic helps maintain the balance of the club head from the heel to the toe. In some embodiments, the length near the heel-side span (5559) may be smaller than the length near the toe-side span (5557) to affect a draw or hook shot, thereby removing mass from the toe and placing more of it on the heel. In contrast, in some embodiments, the length near the toe-side span (5557) may be smaller than the length near the heel-side span (5559) to affect a slice or fade shot, thereby removing mass from the heel and placing more of it near the toe.

[0184] The brush opening length (5576) may be between 0.5 inches and 6.0 inches. The length (5576) is 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch, 1.0 inch, 1.1 inch, 1.2 inch, 1.3 inch, 1.4 inch, 1.5 inch, 1.6 inch, 1.8 inch, 1.9 inch, 2.0 inch, 2.1 inch, 2.2 inch, 2.3 inch, 2.4 inch, 2.5 inch, 2.6 inch, 2.7 inch, 2.8 inch, 2.9 inch, 3.0 inch, 3.1 inch, 3.2 inch, 3.0 inch, 3.4 inch, 3.5 inch, 3.6 inch, 3.7 inch, 3.8 inch, 3.9 inch, 4.0 inch, 4.1 inch, 4.2 inch, 4.3 inch, 4.4 inch, 4.5 It can be 4.6 inches, 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inches.

[0185] The toe-side span (5557) and the heel-side span (5559) connect the return portion (5177) to the rear end (5180). The toe-side span (5557) and the heel-side span (5559) of the rear extension (5500) may include a portion of the sole (5120). The rear extension (5500) includes a weight channel (5540). The weight channel (5540) is exposed at least a portion of the rear end (5180) of the club head (5300) and the sole (5120).

[0186] The weight channel (5540) is configured to accommodate a movable weight (5350) in one of three positions. The weight (5350) may be secured to the weight channel (5540) by a screw fastener (5320). The weight (5350) may be positioned at the toe side position, the center position, or the heel side position. The weight channel (5540) includes a mounting wall (5542) and a sole wall (5550). The mounting wall (5542) may be oriented approximately perpendicular to the sole (5120). The sole wall (5550) may be oriented approximately parallel to the main sole (5120) but positioned inward by a distance equal to the height of the mounting wall (5542). The movable weight (5350) may include an elongated trapezoidal shape or other suitable weight. The movable weight (5350) may include an inward wall and a connecting wall. The inward wall is placed at the same height as the sole wall (5550) of the weight channel (5540). The connecting wall is placed at the same height as the mounting wall (5542) when the weight (5350) is attached to one of three positions.

[0187] The mounting wall (5542) of the weight channel (5540) includes three threaded openings corresponding to three weight positions. The mounting wall (5542) includes a toe-side threaded opening (5544), a center threaded opening (5546), and a heel-side threaded opening (5548). A movable weight (5350) is positioned at the toe-side position by positioning the connecting wall of the weight (5350) at the same height as the mounting wall (5542) of the channel (5540) and securing the fastener (5320) into the toe-side threaded opening (5521). A movable weight (5350) is positioned at the center-side position by positioning the connecting wall of the weight (5350) at the same height as the mounting wall (5542) of the channel (5540) and securing the fastener (5320) into the center threaded opening (5546). The movable weight (5350) is positioned at the heel side by placing the connecting wall of the weight (5350) at the same height as the mounting wall (5542) of the channel (5540) and securing the fastener (5320) into the heel side screw opening (5548).

[0188] When the movable weight (5350) is positioned at the center (similar to the golf club (2100) as illustrated in the sole drawing of FIG. 19), the golf club (5100) is configured not to provide a draw or fade bias. When the weight (2350) is positioned at the toe side (similar to the golf club (2100) as illustrated in the sole drawing of FIG. 20), the weight (2350) provides a fade bias to the club head. When the weight (5350) is positioned at the heel side (similar to the golf club head (2100) as illustrated in FIG. 21), the weight (5350) provides a draw bias to the club head.

[0189] The first component (5300) includes a rear extension (5500) of the sole portion, a front crown portion (5400), and a front sole portion (5810). The front sole portion (5810) includes a heel extension (5830) and a toe extension (5820). The heel extension (5830) includes a rear wall (5832). The toe extension (5820) includes a rear wall (5822).

[0190] The first component rear extension (5500) includes a toe side wall (5522) and a heel side wall (5532) connecting the weight channel (5540) to the striking surface sole return (5810). The toe side wall (5522) is formed by a toe side span (5557) opposite the sole opening (5555). Similarly, the heel side wall (5532) is formed by a heel side span (5559) opposite the sole opening (5555). The rear extension toe side wall (5522) and the toe extension rear wall (5822) can form a toe side wall angle (5850). The toe side wall angle (5850) can range from 45 degrees to 180 degrees. The rear extension heel side wall (5532) and the heel extension rear wall (5832) can form a heel side wall angle (5855). The heel side wall angle (5855) may range from 45 degrees to 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the toe side wall angle (5850) is approximately the same as the heel side wall angle (5855). In other embodiments, the toe side wall angle (5850) and the heel side wall angle (5855) are different. In some embodiments, the toe side wall angle (5850) and the heel side wall angle (5855) are supplementary angles (i.e., the sum of the two angles is 180 degrees). In these embodiments, the toe extension rear wall (5822) and the heel extension rear wall (5832) are located in approximately the same plane (the toe rear wall (5822) and the heel rear wall (5832) are approximately parallel when viewed from the sole). For example, the toe side wall angle (5850) may be an acute angle, while the heel side wall angle (5855) is an obtuse angle that is supplementary.

[0191] A second component (5200) similar to the second component (2200) illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30 may include a crown portion (5205), a trailing edge portion (5230), a sole toe portion (5212), and a sole heel portion (5214). The crown portion (5205) connects the sole toe portion (5212) and the sole heel portion (5214). The trailing edge portion (5230) connects the crown portion (5205) to the toe and heel portions (5212, 5214) of the sole. The crown portion (5205), the sole toe portion (5212), and the sole heel portion (5214) define a rear cutout on the sole side of the second component (5200). The rear cutout may be similar to the rear cutout (2240) described for the second embodiment with reference to FIGS. 29 and 30. In some embodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 29, the rear cutout (2240) is cut only into the sole. In other embodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 30, the rear cutout (2240) is cut into both the sole and the crown portion (5205). The embodiment in which it is cut into both the sole and the crown portion (5205) allows more space at the rear end (5180) of the club head (5100) for the weight channel (5540) of the first component (5300).

[0192] In some embodiments, the second component (5200) may be fixed to the first component (5300) in a manner similar to that described for the first golf club head (100) embodiment and the second club head embodiment (2100). In some embodiments, the material of the first component (5300) and the second component (5200) may also be similar to the material described for the first golf club head (100) embodiment.

[0193] The geometry of the rear sole extension (5500) can mechanically lock or hold the second component (5200) to the first component. The fan-shaped rear extension (5500), which includes a weight channel (5540), prevents the rigid part from sliding onto the first component (5300). To overcome these manufacturing problems, the second component (5200) may include a semi-rigid or flexible material so that the second component (5200) can bend around or onto the first component. In these embodiments, the second component (5200) can be snapped or locked in place. In some embodiments, the fan-shaped shape of the rear sole extension (5500) allows the second component (5200) to be secured to the first component (5300) using no adhesive or less adhesive.

[0194] Additionally, the golf club head (5100) includes a sole panel (5556), which covers the sole opening (5555) of the first component (5300). When covering the sole opening (5555), the sole panel (5556) combines with the toe-side span (5557), the heel-side span (5559), and the rear end (5180) to form the entire sole (5120). The sole panel (5556) is shaped identically to the sole opening (5555) so that the sole panel (5556) covers the entire sole opening (5555) by being combined with the rear (5180), the toe-side span (5557), the heel-side span (5559), and the front sole portion (810). In most embodiments, the sole panel (5556) is bonded to the sole opening (5555).

[0195] Similar to the sole opening (5555), the sole panel (5556) may be of any shape, but in most embodiments, the sole panel (5556) is approximately rectangular. The sole panel (5556) is bent into the general shape of the sole (5120). In some embodiments, the sole panel (5556) may be square, rectangular, circular, oval, elliptical, triangular, polygonal, pentagonal, hexagonal, trapezoidal, or any other desired shape.

[0196] The sole panel (5556) includes a width, which is measured from the toe side span (5557) to the heel side span (5559). In most embodiments, the sole panel (5556) has a greater width near the return section (5177) than near the rear end (5180). This characteristic helps to match the geometry of the sole opening (5555) and provides a closed golf club head (5100). Similar to the width of the sole opening (5555), in some embodiments, the width of the sole panel (5556) may be the same or uniform from the return section (5177) to the rear (5180). Additionally, in some embodiments, the width of the sole panel (5556) is greater near the rear end (5180) than near the return section (5177).

[0197] The sole panel width can be between 0.5 inches and 6.0 inches. The widths are 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 inches, 4.3 inches, 4.4 inches, 4.5 inches, and 4.6 inches. It can be 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inches.

[0198] Additionally, the sole panel (5556) includes a length, which is measured from the return portion (5177) to the rear end (5180). In most embodiments, the sole panel (5556) has a length near the toe side span (5557) that is equal to the length near the heel side span (5559). This characteristic helps the sole panel (5556) match the exact length of the sole opening (5555). In some embodiments, the length near the heel side span (5559) may be shorter than the length near the toe side span (5557). In contrast, in some embodiments, the length near the toe side span (5557) may be shorter than the length near the heel side span (5559).

[0199] The sole panel length can be between 0.5 inches and 6.0 inches. The lengths are 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.1 inches, 3.2 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.4 inches, 3.5 inches, 3.6 inches, 3.7 inches, 3.8 inches, 3.9 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.1 inches, 4.2 inches, 4.3 inches, 4.4 inches, 4.5 inches, 4.6 It can be 4.7 inches, 4.8 inches, 4.9 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.1 inches, 5.2 inches, 5.3 inches, 5.4 inches, 5.5 inches, 5.6 inches, 5.7 inches, 5.8 inches, 5.9 inches, or 6.0 inches.

[0200] VI) Manufacturing Method

[0201] Method 1

[0202] Referring to FIG. 61, a first embodiment of a method (10) for manufacturing a golf club head (100) comprises the steps of forming a first component (300), forming a second component (200), applying an adhesive to the lip (450) of the first component, aligning the second component (200) to the first component (300), fitting the second component (200) to the first component (300) so that the second component (200) covers the lip (450), and forming a hollow golf club head (100) by allowing the adhesive to cure and permanently attaching the second component (200) to the first component (300) (step 4040 in FIG. 50). The method (10) may be used to form a golf club head similar to the first, second, third, or fourth golf club head (100, 2100, 3100, or 4100) described above. For convenience of explanation, in the method description below, the reference number refers to the first club head (100), but this method (10) may be applicable to all the aforementioned club heads (100, 2100, 3100, 4100) or variations thereof.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 15, as discussed above, the first component (300) may further include a plurality of casting support bars, including one or more heel end casting support bars (1510) and one or more toe end casting support bars (1512). The casting support bars stabilize the cast part of the first component (300) while the metal cools after casting. The stabilization provided by the casting support bars prevents the front part of the cast part from folding away from the first component sole part rear extension (500) while the cast part cools after casting. Since the casting support bars are removed from the cast first component (300), they are not present in the finished golf club head (100).

[0204] An alternative method for manufacturing a golf club head (100) includes the steps of casting a first component (300), forming a wax pattern of the first component (300), adding a wax support bar to the wax pattern, providing a modified wax pattern, casting an article, trimming a metal casting support bar (1510, 1512), forming the first component (300), forming a second component (200), applying an adhesive to the lip (450) of the first component, aligning the second component (200) to the first component (300), fitting the second component (200) to the first component (300) so that the second component (200) covers the lip (450), and forming a hollow golf club head (100) by allowing the adhesive to cure and permanently attaching the second component (200) to the first component (300). When adding a support bar to the wax pattern, the attachment point of the support bar becomes the inner surface of the wax pattern of the first component (300) to prevent damage or warping to the outer surface of the first component (300). The advantage of adding a support bar is that the casting of the first component is supported against warping during the cooling phase after casting.

[0205] The first component (300) can be joined to the second component (200) at the first component lip (450) to form the body of the golf club head (100). The first component lip (450), comprising a crown portion lip (455), a sole portion lip (460), and a mass portion vertical lip (750), is completely covered by the second component (200) when the first component (300) is joined to the second component (200) to form the body of the golf club head (100). The second component sole rear cutout (240) includes a portion of the circumferential edge (220) at the rear edge portion (230). When the first component (300) is joined to the second component (200) at the first component lip (450) (to form the body of the golf club head (100)), a portion of the circumferential edge (220) at the rear edge is joined along the mass portion rear edge shelf (1042).

[0206] The first component (300) can be bonded to the second component (200) by an adhesive. Many In the embodiments, an adhesive such as glue, epoxy, epoxy gasket, tape (e.g., VHB tape), or any other adhesive material may be placed at the joint between the second component (200) and the first component lip (450). In some embodiments, a first component tab (457) on the first component lip (450, 455) may be in contact with the second component (200) to leave a gap between the first component lip (450, 455) and the second component (200). This gap may accommodate an adhesive. Since the first component tab (457) has a uniform height, the gap may have a uniform height or thickness. The height of this uniform gap may create a uniform bond between the first component and the second component. In another embodiment, the second component (200) may be joined to the first component (300) by a fastener, clip, press, or any other suitable mechanical attachment means (not shown). In another embodiment, the first component (300) may be joined to the second component (200) by an adhesive in conjunction with a suitable mechanical attachment means. In another embodiment, the first component (300) may be joined to the second component (200) using laser welding to heat the second component (200) material so that the second component material adheres to the first component (300) material.

[0207] In some embodiments, when the first component is coupled to the second component to form the golf club head (100), the surface of the first component (300) is not offset from the surface of the second component (200). When the first component (300) is coupled to the second component (200) to form the golf club head (100), the nominal outer surface of the first component is not offset above or below the nominal outer surface of the second component at the joint of the coupling (i.e., the outer surfaces of the first component (300) and the second component (200) are coplanar).

[0208] Method 2

[0209] Referring to FIG. 62, a second method (20) for manufacturing a golf club head (100) comprises the following steps: (Step 1: 21) casting an unfinished first part; (Step 2: 22) cutting a portion of the unfinished first part to form a finished first component; (Step 3: 23) injection molding a second component; (Step 4: 24) permanently fixing the second component to the first component; and (Step 5: 25) completing the club head. The second method (20) may be used to form a golf club head similar to the aforementioned first, second, third, or fourth golf club head (100, 2100, 3100, or 4100). For convenience of explanation, in the method description below, the reference number refers to the first club head (100), but this method (10) may be applicable to all the aforementioned club heads (100, 2100, 3100, 4100) or variations thereof.

[0210] The step of forming the first component in the first step (21) may begin with casting an unfinished version of the first component (300). The first component (300) may be cast as a whole club head having a thickness reduction area. Most of the thickness reduction area may be located near the location where the second component (200) will later be attached. The perimeter section around the edge of the thickness reduction area will eventually form the lip (450) of the first component (300). The unfinished first component is cast with a thickness reduction area because the thickness reduction area helps the first component maintain its desired shape during the casting process. Casting the first component (300) without a thickness reduction area may cause warping of the part or other casting quality problems. Therefore, casting with a thickness reduction area that is later removed ensures that the first component maintains its desired shape so that the second component (200) fits accurately to the first component during step 3.

[0211] After the unfinished first component is removed from the mold in which it was cast, a laser is used to cut away the unwanted portion of the thickness reduction area (Step 2: 22), leaving only the perimeter section forming the lip (450) of the second component. The lip may be ground or polished as needed. In some embodiments, the striking surface (170) of the club head is cast integrally as part of the first component (300). In other embodiments, the first component (300) may be cast without the striking surface (170) (there is an opening or void on the front of the first component). In these embodiments, the face plate is provided separately by casting or forging the face plate from a metal material. The face plate may generally be welded, laser welded, or swedged to the front opening of the first component (300).

[0212] Step 3 (23) includes the step of injection molding the second component. Step 3 (23) includes the step of providing a composite material (typically in the form of pellets), the step of melting the composite material, the step of injecting the molten composite material into a mold to form an unfinished second component, the step of cutting off a sprue, and the step of polishing the gate area to finish the second component (200). As previously described, the composite material may include a polymer resin and reinforcing fibers. The composite material may be provided as pellets containing both resin and fibers. The composite pellets are melted and injected into a mold to form an unfinished second component. The injection molding process of Step 3 (23) may be similar to the injection molding process disclosed in Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application number PCT / US2020 / 047702 filed on August 24, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0213] Step 4 (24) may include applying an adhesive (e.g., 2-part liquid epoxy) to the first component lip (450), aligning and placing the second component (200) on the first component lip (450), and allowing the adhesive to dry. One or more first component tabs (457) on the lip (450, 455) may provide a gap between the first component lip (450) and the second component. This gap may accommodate the adhesive. Since the first component tabs (457) have a uniform height, the gap may have a uniform height or thickness. This uniform height of the gap may create a uniform bond between the first component (300) and the second component (200).

[0214] In some embodiments of this second method (20), a functionalized bonding film or layer may be used instead of an adhesive. The functionalized bonding film may be provided in one or more strip sections corresponding to the shape and side of the first component lip (450, 455). The functionalized bonding film includes first and second sides. The film may be configured to bond with the material of the first component on the first side and the material of the second component on the second side. The bonding film may bond the first and second components together when placed under the required temperature and pressure conditions for a set time.

[0215] After the adhesive is applied to the first component lip (450, 455), the second component may be placed or slid over the first component lip. The second component may be slid over the first component lip until the outer edge of the second component contacts the remainder of the first component. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the first component lip includes a concave offset (459) into which the second component is filled when the club head is assembled. The fourth step may further include a step of allowing the adhesive to dry to bond the first component to the second component.

[0216] Step 5 (25) may include the step of grinding, cleaning, coating, and / or painting the club head. In some embodiments, Step 5 may further include the step of placing a removable weight (1300) within a weight recess (540) and the step of securing a movable weight (300) using a fastener. In other embodiments, Step 5 (25) may further include the step of placing a movable weight (2350) within a weight channel (2540) and the step of securing the movable weight (2350) using a fastener.

[0217] Method 3

[0218] As illustrated in FIG. 63, the third method (30) comprises the following steps: (Step 1: 31) forming a first component; (Step 2: 32) providing a second component as a toe portion (3212) and a heel portion (3214); (Step 3: 33) fixing the second component toe portion (3212) to the first component (3300); (Step 4: 34) fixing the second component heel portion (3214) to the first component (3300); and (Step 5: 35) completing the club head. The first step (31) may include casting an unfinished first component, laser cutting an unwanted portion of the unfinished first component, and optionally welding a face plate to the first component to form a completed first component. The third method (30) may be used to form a golf club head similar to the aforementioned third or fourth golf club head (3100 or 4100). For convenience of explanation, the reference number in the method description below indicates the third club head (3100), but this method (30) may be applicable to all the aforementioned club heads (3100 or 4100) or variations thereof.

[0219] The first step (31) of forming the first component (3300) may be similar to steps 1 and 2 (21, 22) of the second method (20) described above. However, in this manufacturing process, the crown brace (3560) remains after laser cutting of the unfinished first component. The finished first component includes an opening on the heel side (configured to accommodate the second component heel portion (3214)) and an opening on the toe side (configured to accommodate the second component toe portion (3212)).

[0220] The second step (32) of providing the second component (3200) may be similar to step 3 (23) of the second method (20) described above. However, in the third manufacturing process (30), the second component (3200) is provided as two separate parts, namely a toe part (3212) and a heel part (3214). In some embodiments, the toe part (3212) and the heel part (3214) may be injection molded simultaneously from the same sprue and gate and then disconnected from each other. In other embodiments, the toe part (3212) and the heel part (3214) are injection molded individually at different times. After injection molding, the toe and heel parts (3212, 3214) are finished by cutting or grinding any excess material from the gate of the mold into which the material entered the mold.

[0221] Steps 3 and 4 (33 and 34) may be performed in any desired order. Step 3 (33) includes applying adhesive onto a perimeter lip (not shown) of the first component (3300), sliding a toe portion (3212) onto the lip of the first component (3300), and allowing the adhesive to cure. The toe portion (3212) may be assembled by sliding it onto the first component (3300) in a toe-heel direction. Step 4 (34) includes applying adhesive onto the perimeter lip of the first component (3300), sliding a heel portion (3214) onto the lip of the first component (3300), and allowing the adhesive to cure. The heel portion (3214) may be assembled by sliding it onto the first component (3300) in a heel-toe direction. In some embodiments of the method, steps 3 and 4 (33, 34) involve applying the adhesive first, then sliding the toe portion (3212) and heel portion (3214) individually onto the first component (3300), and then joining them so that the adhesive dries.

[0222] Because the toe portion (3212) and the heel portion (3214) are geometrically configured to slide from the side onto the first component (3300), the first component (3300) may include a geometric structure at the rear end of the club head that would otherwise be impossible. For example, in an embodiment having an integral second component, the second component generally must slide in a rearward-forward direction onto the first component (3300). This directional assembly required for the integral second component determines that the first component must be configured in a shape with an appropriate draft angle. For example, in some embodiments having an integral second component, the rear extension of the sole portion cannot include an area having a width smaller than the rearmost edge of the extension. In light of this, forming the second component as two parts (the toe portion and the heel portion) may result in a complex geometric structure in which the first component is not limited by the frontward-rearward draft angle.

[0223] VII) T-shaped design function

[0224] As discussed above, an embodiment of the hollow golf club head (100, 2100, 3100, 4100, or 5100) described herein may include at least two main components. A metallic first component (300, 2300, 3300, 4300, or 5300) includes a striking portion and a sole extension (500, 2500, 3500, 4500, or 5500) forming a "T" shape. A non-metallic second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, 5200) encloses the first component to include a rear portion of the crown (110, 2110, 3110, 4110, or 5110) and also a portion of the sole (120, 2120, 3120, 4120, or 5120). A higher density “T” shaped sole among the first components (300, 2300, 3300, 4300, or 5300) that is coupled to a less dense crown enclosing the second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, or 5200) can optimize mass characteristics by reducing crown mass and shifting the center of gravity (CG) of the golf club head. The weight saved from the second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, or 5200) is redistributed to other locations on the golf club head (100, 2100, 3100, 4100, or 5100) to further optimize the CG, increase the MOI, and manipulate the shape of the shot trajectory.

[0225] The CG of a golf club head (100, 2100, 3100, 4100, or 5100) can move downward toward the rear of the golf club head, which includes a first component (300, 2300, 3300, 4300, or 5300) and a second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, or 5200), wherein the second component (200, 2200, 3200, 4200, or 5200) includes a second material having a second density lower than the density of the first material, compared to an alternative golf club head that includes only a first material having a constant density.

[0226] yes

[0227] Example 1:

[0228] A comparative club head and an exemplary club head of the present application are compared in Table 1. The comparative club is entirely metal but has an overall mass and overall volume similar to that of the exemplary club head. The exemplary club head was similar to the first embodiment of the golf club head described above. The exemplary club head included a metallic first component and a polymeric second component attached to the first component to surround the hollow interior. The first component had a striking surface, a striking surface return, and a rear extension on the sole. The second component had a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion.

[0229] CG y CG x I XX I YY mass volume Comparison of golf club heads 0.895 1.913 584.45 843.3 205.7 g 445 cc Exemplary golf club head 0.887 1.986 652.71 875.94 205.8 g 445 cc Exemplary golf club head with embedded weight 0.89 2.013 678.31 901.78 205.2 g 445 cc

[0230] The comparison club head and the exemplary club head are approximately 445 cm. 3 It has the same volume. A comparison club made entirely of metal material has a CG height of 0.895 inches above the ground (105). y It has. An exemplary golf club head has a CG of 0.887 inches. y has. CG y It is desirable for it to have a lower value. CG of an exemplary golf club head yIt is 0.008 inches lower than the comparison club.

[0231] As previously mentioned, CG z CG is measured as the distance from the center of the striking surface (175) toward the rear end of the golf club head in a direction perpendicular to the loft plane of 198. A larger CG located further rear of the golf club. z It is advantageous for ball flight control. The comparison club has a CG of 1.913 inches. z It has. An exemplary golf club head has a CG of 1.986 inches. z It has. The CG of an exemplary golf club head. z is the CG of the comparison club z It is 0.073 inches further back.

[0232] The position of the CG helps determine the ball's launch characteristics (e.g., trajectory, spin, and velocity), moment of inertia (MOI), and performance characteristics (e.g., face squaring during impact or swing speed). A high MOI prevents rotation of the golf club head during the swing and helps the face square during impact with the ball. Striking the ball with a squared face helps ensure a straight ball path and optimal height / trajectory compared to a slice or hook shot when the face is not squared. Additionally, a low CG improves ball speed and spin, adding distance and preventing the ball from rolling backward upon landing.

[0233] The MOI of an exemplary golf club head is greater than the MOI of a comparison golf club. MOI value (I XX , I YY ) are MOI values ​​for the X-axis (190) and Y-axis (192), respectively. A larger MOI is desirable because a higher MOI helps prevent rotation of the golf club head during the swing and helps square the striking surface during impact with the ball. The comparison club is I XX Wow IYY The values ​​are 584.45 and 834.30, respectively. I of an exemplary golf club head XX and I YY The values ​​are 652.71 and 875.94, respectively. The exemplary golf club head is I compared to the comparison club. XX Ga improved significantly by 117%, and I YY It improves by 50%.

[0234] The flight of a golf ball struck by an exemplary golf club head brings about an improvement in the CGy and CGz values, I XX and I YY It leads directly to improvements in values. An improved CG value lowers ball spin at impact and leads to longer flight distance. An improved MOI value leads directly to greater forgiveness for eccentric hits.

[0235] In an alternative embodiment, an embedded high-density weight was added to an exemplary golf club head. The exemplary golf club head with the weight has a CG of 0.890 inches. y and 2.013 inch CG z It has. Weight (CG y An exemplary golf club head having ) is the CG of a comparative golf club head y CG of an exemplary golf club head with weight, 0.005 inches smaller than z CG of a comparison golf club head z It is 0.100 inches larger than. An exemplary golf club head with weights has an IXX value of 678.31 and I YY The value is 901.78. All of these MOI values ​​are the I of the comparison golf club head. XX and I YY They are 16% and 81% larger, respectively.

[0236] Example 2:

[0237] A series of club head components were compared to one another through finite element analysis (FEA) simulation tests of the impact of a golf ball on each club head. The club head components were metal components comprising at least one face, a striking face return, and a sole extension having a rear weight channel that maintains a movable weight at the center position. The components tested were not fully assembled club heads. A second component with lower density was not included. Rather, because the simulation and comparison of a single component can be more accurate than the complex simulation of an assembled club head, this test isolated the metal club head components. The simulation test considered the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight after impact with the center face by a golf ball traveling at 80 mph. The rear weight in the simulation had a mass of 32 grams.

[0238] A series of club head components included: first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh test components. The first test component is similar to the first component (300) of the aforementioned first golf club head (100), except that the first test component includes a rear weight channel that maintains a weight movable at the center position rather than a single rear weight. The first test component did not have any brace between the striking face return and the rear edge of the rear extension.

[0239] The second test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variations of FIGS. 43 and 44. The second test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566) and a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568). The third test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variations of FIGS. 45 and 46. The third test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), and a center crown brace (similar to 4560).

[0240] The fourth test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variation of FIGS. 47 and 48. The fourth test component had a toe-side brace (similar to 4557) and a heel-side brace (similar to 4559). The toe-side brace and the heel-side brace of the fourth test component were separated by a greater width toward the rear end of the fourth test component. The fifth test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variation of FIGS. 49 and 50. The fifth test component had a toe-side brace (similar to 4557) and a heel-side brace (similar to 4559). The toe-side brace and the heel-side brace of the fifth test component were spaced apart by a smaller width toward the rear end of the fifth test component, forming a V shape when viewed in plane.

[0241] The sixth test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variation of FIGS. 51 and 52. The sixth test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), a toe side brace (similar to 4557), and a heel side brace (similar to 4559). The toe side and heel side braces of the sixth test component were separated more widely toward the rear end of the sixth test component. The seventh test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variation of FIGS. 53 and 54. The seventh test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), a toe side brace (similar to 4557), and a heel side brace (similar to 4559). The toe and heel braces of the 7th test component were parallel to each other.

[0242] The eighth test component was similar to the first component (4300) of the aforementioned fourth golf club head (4100), specifically the variation of FIG. 55 and 56. The eighth test component had a toe skirt brace (similar to 4566), a heel skirt brace (similar to 4568), and a pair of cross braces (similar to the first brace (4570) and second brace (4572) described above).

[0243] When a golf ball impacts the club head off-center relative to the center of gravity line, the golf club head will provide torque around the center of gravity. The center of gravity line is a theoretical line that extends approximately perpendicularly to the face and coincides with the center of gravity. The torque effect induced on the center of gravity due to an off-center impact is known in the golf industry as "gearing." Because gearing can contribute to measurements, the relative displacement of parts of a test component cannot be accurately measured based on a fixed coordinate system. For example, if a golf ball strikes the face above the center of gravity line, gearing causes the rear movable weight to appear to move downward. Therefore, when measuring the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight channel and the weight, measurements must be taken based on a coordinate system that tracks the overall movement of the golf club head.

[0244] To perform accurate simulation tests, a coordinate system was established within each test component. The coordinate system was connected to a theoretical plane. The theoretical plane was parallel to the loft plane and offset 1.25 inches behind the loft plane, as this area of ​​the golf club head is appropriately separated from the critical stress zone of the crown and sole. Separating the theoretical plane from the critical stress zone separates the fixed coordinate system, allowing it to accurately track the entire movement of the club head component. Connecting the coordinate system to the entire movement of the club head component enables accurate measurement of the relative vertical deflection of the movable weight. For the purposes of this example, "relative vertical deflection" should be understood as the deflection in the sole-crown direction parallel to the loft plane (and the theoretical plane). In other words, relative vertical deflection is a measure of the impact-induced vibration amplitude of the rear weight relative to the rest of the test golf club head component.

[0245] As graphed in Fig. 64, the rear weight of the first test component (without braces) was deflected by more than 0.3 inches. The second test component (including toe and heel skirt braces) showed an improvement with the rear weight deflected by approximately 0.15 inches. The fifth test component (V-shaped, including toe and heel side braces) showed a maximum relative vertical weight displacement of approximately 0.12 inches. The fourth test component (including rearward-widening toe and heel side braces) performed similarly to the fifth test component. The fourth test component showed a maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.11 inches. The eighth test component (including skirt braces and a cross crown brace) showed a maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.075 inches. The third, sixth, and seventh test components demonstrated better performance than the other components.

[0246] The graph in Fig. 65 illustrates the third, sixth, and seventh test components compared to the baseline first test component. The graph in Fig. 66 is an enlarged view of the graph in Fig. 65. As shown in the graph in Fig. 66, the third test component (including the skirt brace and the center crown brace) exhibited a maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.065 inches. The sixth test component (including the skirt brace and the rearward-widening toe and heel side braces) exhibited a slightly lower maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.057 inches, and the seventh test component (including the toe and heel side braces parallel to the skirt brace) exhibited a maximum relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.054 inches.

[0247] A rear weight that deflects more upward will rebound more downward, causing more material fatigue and stress in the rear extension portion of the sole. In the case of a fully assembled golf club head having the two-component design described herein, the rib or overlapping joint structure connecting the first and second components is at risk of delamination when the rear weight vibrates or shakes with high amplitude (high value of relative vertical displacement). Therefore, a test component exhibiting a lower relative vertical displacement of the rear weight will form a more durable golf club head. This simulation test showed that adding a brace to the first component improves the durability of the golf club head. In particular, a combination of two skirt braces, a toe-side brace, and a heel-side brace of the first component (e.g., FIGs 51 to 54) provided the best stability to the rear weight and thus the best durability.

[0248] The performance of a complete golf club head will be better than the performance of a series of tested club head components (i.e., a first component made of metal). For the golf club head embodiments described herein, a second component, typically comprising a polymer material, provides some support to the first component. The attached second component reduces the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight. Thus, any component of the series of tested club head components can form a sufficiently durable club head when combined with a properly designed second component. However, a first component (metallic) having less relative vertical displacement of the rear weight can be combined with a second component that is thinner, lighter, or less durable to achieve a complete club head with the same durability.

[0249] Example 3:

[0250] A second comparison was performed between the first, third, and seventh test components described in Example 2 above. This comparison test was conducted through a finite element analysis (FEA) simulation of the impact of a golf ball on each club head. The simulation test considered the relative vertical displacement of the rear weight after a toe-side (off-center) face impact by a golf ball traveling at 80 mph. The face was impacted at 1 inch from the geometric center of the face toward the toe end.

[0251] As illustrated in the graph of Fig. 67, the first test component (no brace) showed a rear weight relative vertical displacement of more than 0.5 inches. The third test component (including a skirt brace and a center crown brace) showed a maximum rear weight relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.1 inches. The seventh test component (including toe and heel side braces parallel to the skirt brace) showed a maximum rear weight relative vertical displacement of approximately 0.08 inches. This comparison demonstrates that braces increase club head durability not only on center-strike shots but also on off-center shots.

[0252] The replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes a reconstruction, not a restoration. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with respect to specific embodiments. Any benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements or elements that may cause or make any benefit, advantage, or solution more prominent shall not be interpreted as important, required, or essential features or elements of any or all claims unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are specified in the claims.

[0253] Because the rules of golf may change from time to time (for example, new rules may be adopted, or old rules may be removed or modified by golf standards organizations and / or boards of directors, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A)), golf equipment related to the apparatus, method, and manufactured article described herein may or may not comply with the rules of golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the apparatus, method, and manufactured article described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and / or sold as golf clubs that comply with or do not comply with the rules of golf. The apparatus, method, and manufactured article described herein are not limited thereto.

[0254] Industry practices, rules and naming conventions established by golf organizations such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) or the R&A may supplement the description of the terms without departing from the scope of this application.

[0255] Although the above examples may be described in relation to hollow body golf clubs, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applied to other types of golf clubs, such as iron-type golf clubs, wedge-type golf clubs, or putter-type golf clubs. Alternatively, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applied to other types of sports equipment, such as hockey sticks, tennis rackets, fishing rods, ski poles, etc.

[0256] Furthermore, the embodiments and limitations disclosed in this specification are not made public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and / or limitations are (1) not explicitly claimed in the claims, but (2) equivalent or potentially equivalent to the express elements and / or limitations within the claims under the principle of equivalence.

[0257] Various features and advantages of the present disclosure are described in the following items.

[0258] Item 1: A golf club head comprises a main body, wherein the main body comprises a striking surface, a rear end, a toe end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt, and a rear edge; the main body comprises a first component comprising the striking surface, a striking surface return, a rear extension including a weight channel, and a crown brace attached to the striking surface return and the rear extension; and further comprises a second component comprising a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion, wherein the second component is coupled to the first component to form a sealed hollow interior of the golf club head; the first component comprises a first material having a first density; the second component comprises a second material having a second density; the first density is greater than the second density; the striking surface comprises a striking surface center; the weight channel is centered at the rear end of the golf club head; and the striking surface return of the first component extends rearward from the striking surface and comprises a front crown portion and a front sole portion; A golf club head, wherein the rear extension extends from the front sole portion of the striking surface return toward the rear end; the rear extension further comprises a rear extension axis extending through the center of the rear extension; and the first component mass is 85% to 96% of the golf club head mass.

[0259] Item 2: Item 1, wherein the crown brace is attached to the front crown portion of the striking surface return and the rear sole extension adjacent to the weight channel at the rear end of the golf club head.

[0260] Item 3: In Item 2, the crown brace and the weight channel comprise a hammerhead shape, a golf club head.

[0261] Item 4: Item 2, wherein the crown brace further comprises a crown brace longitudinal axis; the crown brace comprises a maximum length; and the crown brace longitudinal axis bisects the crown brace along the maximum length, a golf club head.

[0262] Item 5: In Item 4, the longitudinal axis of the crown brace is offset toward the heel end parallel to the rear extension axis, a golf club head.

[0263] Item 6: A golf club head according to Item 4, wherein the longitudinal axis of the crown brace is offset toward the toe end parallel to the rear extension axis.

[0264] Item 7: A golf club head according to Item 4, wherein the longitudinal axis of the crown brace is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rear extension such that the longitudinal axis of the crown brace forms an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the rear extension.

[0265] Item 8: In Item 4, the X-axis extends through the center of the striking surface in the direction from the heel end of the golf club head to the toe end, and extends parallel to the ground when the club head is in the address position; the Y-axis extends through the center of the striking surface in a direction perpendicular to the X-axis from the crown of the golf club head to the sole; the Z-axis extends through the center of the striking surface in a direction perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis from the striking surface to the rear end of the golf club head; the loft plane is approximately parallel to the striking surface and tangent to the center of the striking surface to form a loft angle with the ground; the XY plane extends through the X-axis and the Y-axis; the YZ plane extends through the Y-axis and the Z-axis; and the crown brace longitudinal axis is parallel to the YZ plane, a golf club head.

[0266] Item 9: In Item 1, the weight channel is exposed at the rear end of the main body and at the sole, a golf club head.

[0267] Item 10: In Item 1, the weight channel is configured to accommodate a movable weight in any one of three positions, a golf club head

[0268] Item 11: A golf club head according to Item 1, wherein the rear extension comprises a toe side wall and a heel side wall extending between the weight channel and the front sole portion of the striking surface return.

[0269] Item 12: In Item 10, the weight channel further comprises a mounting wall including three threaded apertures; said three threaded apertures include a toe-side threaded aperture, a center threaded aperture, and a heel-side threaded aperture; said center threaded aperture is located at the center point of the length of said mounting wall, a golf club head.

[0270] Item 13: In Item 1, the rear extension comprises a rear extension width measured in the heel-toe direction rearward from the rear circumference of the front sole portion of the striking surface return; and the rear extension width is in the range of 25% to 85% of the total width of the sole, a golf club head.

[0271] Item 14: A golf club head in which, in Item 13, the width of the rear extension adjacent to the weight channel may be in the range of 1 inch to 2.5 inches.

[0272] Item 15: A golf club head in which, in Item 12, a movable weight is secured by a screw fastener engaging with any one of the three screw openings.

[0273] Item 16: In Item 12, the weight channel further comprises a sole wall, said sole wall positioned inward from the sole; said mounting wall oriented approximately perpendicular to the sole; said sole wall positioned inward from the sole by a distance approximately equal to the height of said mounting wall, a golf club head.

[0274] Item 17: A golf club head comprising a body, wherein the body comprises a striking surface, a rear end, a toe end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt, and a rear edge; wherein the body comprises a first component comprising the striking surface, a striking surface return, a rear extension including a weight channel, and a plurality of crown braces; and further comprising a second component comprising a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion, wherein the second component is coupled to the first component to form a sealed hollow interior of the golf club head; wherein the first component comprises a first material having a first density; wherein the second component comprises a second material having a second density; wherein the first density is greater than the second density; wherein the striking surface comprises a striking surface center; wherein the weight channel is centered at the rear end of the golf club head; wherein the striking surface return of the first component extends rearward from the striking surface and comprises a first component crown portion and a first component sole portion; A golf club head, wherein the rear extension extends from the front sole portion of the first component of the striking surface return toward the rear end; the rear extension further includes a rear extension axis extending through the center of the rear extension; and the first component mass is 85% to 96% of the golf club head mass.

[0275] Item 18: In Item 17, the plurality of crown braces define a plurality of openings in the first component; the number of openings is selected from a group consisting of 3, 4, 5, or 6 openings, a golf club head.

[0276] Item 19: In Item 17, the plurality of crown braces comprises two crown braces; each of the two crown braces is attached to the rear extension and the crown portion adjacent to the weight channel at the rear end of the golf club head.

[0277] Item 20: In Item 19, the two crown braces are attached to the rear extension at different points, in a golf club head.

Claims

Claim 1 A golf club head comprising a main body, wherein the main body comprises a striking surface, a rear end, a toe end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt, and a rear edge, and the main body A first component comprising a rear extension including the striking surface, striking surface return, and weight channel, and a crown brace attached to the striking surface return and the rear extension; and A golf club head further comprising a second component including a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion, wherein the second component is configured to be coupled to the first component to form a sealed hollow interior of the golf club head, wherein the first component comprises a first material having a first density, and the second component comprises a second material having a second density, wherein the first density is greater than the second density, wherein the striking surface comprises a center of the striking surface, and the weight channel is centered at the rear end of the golf club head, wherein the striking surface return of the first component extends rearward from the striking surface and comprises a front crown portion and a front sole portion, wherein the rear extension extends from the front sole portion of the striking surface return toward the rear end, and the rear extension further comprises a rear extension axis extending through the center of the rear extension, and wherein the mass of the first component is 85% to 96% of the mass of the golf club head. Claim 2 A golf club head, wherein the crown brace is attached to the front crown portion of the striking surface return and the rear sole extension adjacent to the weight channel at the rear end of the golf club head. Claim 3 A golf club head according to paragraph 2, wherein the crown brace and the weight channel include a hammerhead shape. Claim 4 A golf club head according to paragraph 2, wherein the crown brace further comprises a crown brace longitudinal axis, the crown brace comprises a maximum length, and the crown brace longitudinal axis bisects the crown brace along the maximum length. Claim 5 A golf club head, wherein the longitudinal axis of the crown brace is offset toward the heel end parallel to the axis of the rear extension in paragraph 4. Claim 6 A golf club head, wherein the longitudinal axis of the crown brace is offset toward the toe end parallel to the rear extension axis in paragraph 4. Claim 7 A golf club head according to claim 4, wherein the longitudinal axis of the crown brace is not parallel to the rear extension axis such that the longitudinal axis of the crown brace forms an acute angle with respect to the rear extension axis. Claim 8 A golf club head, wherein the X-axis extends through the center of the striking surface in the direction from the heel end of the golf club head to the toe end and extends parallel to the ground when the club head is in the address position, the Y-axis extends through the center of the striking surface from the crown of the golf club head in the direction perpendicular to the X-axis and the sole, the Z-axis extends through the center of the striking surface from the striking surface to the rear end of the golf club head and in the direction perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis, the loft plane is approximately parallel to the striking surface and tangent to the center of the striking surface to form a loft angle with the ground, the XY plane extends through the X-axis and the Y-axis, the YZ plane extends through the Y-axis and the Z-axis, and the crown brace longitudinal axis is parallel to the YZ plane. Claim 9 In claim 1, the weight channel is a golf club head exposed at the rear end of the main body and at the sole. Claim 10 In claim 1, the golf club head, wherein the weight channel is configured to accommodate a movable weight in any one of three positions. Claim 11 A golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the rear extension comprises a toe side wall and a heel side wall extending between the weight channel and the front sole portion of the striking surface return. Claim 12 In claim 10, the weight channel further comprises a mounting wall including three threaded apertures, said three threaded apertures including a toe-side threaded aperture, a center threaded aperture, and a heel-side threaded aperture, said center threaded aperture located at the center point of the length of said mounting wall, a golf club head. Claim 13 A golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the rear extension comprises a rear extension width measured in the heel-toe direction rearward from the rear circumference of the front sole portion of the striking surface return, and the rear extension width is in the range of 25% to 85% of the total width of the sole. Claim 14 A golf club head according to claim 13, wherein the width of the rear extension adjacent to the weight channel may be in the range of 1 inch to 2.5 inches. Claim 15 A golf club head according to claim 12, wherein a movable weight is secured by a screw fastener engaging with any one of the three screw openings. Claim 16 A golf club head according to claim 12, wherein the weight channel further comprises a sole wall, said sole wall inserted from said sole, said mounting wall oriented approximately perpendicular to said sole, said sole wall inserted from said sole by a distance approximately equal to the height of said mounting wall. Claim 17 A golf club head comprising a main body, wherein the main body comprises a striking surface, a rear end, a toe end, a heel end, a crown, a sole, a skirt, and a rear edge, and the main body A first component comprising a rear extension including the above-mentioned striking surface, striking surface return, and weight channel, and a plurality of crown braces; and A golf club head further comprising a second component including a crown portion, a sole toe portion, and a sole heel portion, wherein the second component is configured to be coupled to the first component to form a sealed hollow interior of the golf club head, wherein the first component comprises a first material having a first density, and the second component comprises a second material having a second density, wherein the first density is greater than the second density, wherein the striking surface comprises a center of the striking surface, and the weight channel is centered at the rear end of the golf club head, wherein the striking surface return of the first component extends rearward from the striking surface and comprises a first component front crown portion and a first component front sole portion, wherein the rear extension extends from the first component front sole portion of the striking surface return toward the rear end, and the rear extension further comprises a rear extension axis extending through the center of the rear extension, and wherein the mass of the first component is 85% to 96% of the mass of the golf club head. Claim 18 A golf club head according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of crown braces define a plurality of openings in the first component, and the number of openings is selected from a group consisting of 3, 4, 5, or 6 openings. Claim 19 In claim 17, the plurality of crown braces comprises two crown braces, each of which is attached to the rear extension and the front crown portion adjacent to the weight channel at the rear end of the golf club head. Claim 20 In paragraph 19, the golf club head, wherein the two crown braces are attached to the rear extension at different points.

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