ADJUSTABLE AND REPLACEABLE MODULAR HOSEL GOLF CLUB ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A golf club with a multi-piece adjustable and replaceable modular hosel system includes a shaft tip connector portion, an upper hosel portion, and an optional intermediate replaceable hosel adjustment spacer. The modular hosel system can be used, for example, without spacers in place and without one or more risers in each of the hosel adjustability areas. The adjustment spacers can be used to increase the hosel length and shaft axis to head center of gravity offset or intersection. The angled risers can be oriented to adjust the shaft axis to club head orientation to meet and adjust specifications including loft and lie angle, alone or in combination. The modular hosel configuration provides a quick and efficient means to tailor putter specifications to multiple golfer requirements and also adjust specifications to change user needs or course conditions.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] background Technical Field The subject matter herein relates generally to golf clubs and, more specifically, to club head, hosel and shaft constructions. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of Related Art In recent years, adjustable features on golf clubs have received great attention from golf club designers, engineers, and manufacturers so that the clubs can be adjusted to fit a larger segment of the market and then adjusted at the factory after initial manufacture and to a customer order by a fitter at the time of fitting, by a retailer at the time of retail, by a professional golfer at the driving range and putting green, or by an end user to better fit the user's ideal or preferred specifications. Such adjustments have mostly focused on the shaft angle relative to the head and the ability to change the weighting and center of gravity of the head.

[0003] However, there are few technological innovations that provide adjustability for golf clubs that can meet a wider variety of specifications, including club head face loft, shaft lie angle, and also shaft axis relative to the club head's center of gravity through bend and hosel length, as well as interchangeability of the main part of the hosel and adjustable mechanisms to provide a wider range of fitting options to allow selection. The way each golfer swings a club is often a different, dynamic, time-varying experiment or instruction. This is especially true for putters, because golfers use highly personal styles, more readily experiment with different setups, methods, and techniques, and have different needs, tastes, and preferences for ideal models, styles, designs, shapes, weights, balances, materials, colors, aesthetics, and the like.

[0004] Most club companies only offer irons and putters that are made specifically as one piece and cannot be adjusted at all other than by using a bending bar or loft or lie machine or vice, or by older, less precise but more common methods such as stepping on the head while bending the shaft or hosel with force, heating with a torch or friction from a towel to make bending easier, or even bending the hosel or shaft by banging it against the ground or a golf cart tire.

[0005] Some manufacturers offer clubs with interchangeable hosels (or necks), especially in drivers or some fairway woods or hybrids. In full swing clubs, the latest trend is for shafts and grips to be selectable so that they are interchangeable at the head and neck (or hosel) junction and can therefore be replaced with different shaft and grip assemblies (usually with a small hosel adapter sleeve that allows mechanical connection between the head and shaft via an adapter or connector piece, and may also allow different shaft angles relative to the head by using non-coaxial attributes of the sleeve and rotating collar to further adjust the shaft axis relative to the receiving receptacle). Some even allow spacers to provide different net length adjustments for the overall length of the club.

[0006] However, as stated, most of these adjustable hosel systems are fixed in that the adjustable features are only selectable in a given, fixed order of variations: the factory, fitter or user only has the option to rotate the non-coaxial sleeve variations within a fixed set of parameters.

[0007] Furthermore, none of the prior art adjustable systems can be used with an existing inventory of heads and interchangeable hosels.

[0008] Additionally, none of the prior art devices or systems allow a manufacturer, fitter or user to adjust the shaft plane and hosel plane independently and simultaneously to achieve fitting and playing specifications, either independently or together, for extended levels of adjustment for offset, shaft tilt and head loft, lie angle and head center of gravity relative to shaft axis alignment, and balance.

[0009] Additionally, it is known that many golfers often tend to miss shots more consistently to the left or right. Often this is caused by not closing the face soon enough, resulting in a miss to the right for a right-handed golfer, and closing the face too early before impact, resulting in a miss to the left. The hosel design places the shaft axis in a plane relative to the club head's center of gravity. It is also commonly known that the closer the shaft axis is toward the heel, the more the club head's center of gravity is placed outside the shaft axis toward the toe. This configuration is often referred to as "toe hang." A club with more toe hang (club head center of gravity further away from the shaft axis) can slow the rate at which the club's face closes during the stroke. This is especially important with putters, where the rules of golf allow the putter hosel and shaft to be attached to the head at a location other than the heel portion of the head.

[0010] Heel shafted clubs create a large moment arm, with the face typically opening on the backswing, then swinging back to square, then through the forward swing. The timing of returning the face to square is important for all clubs to move the ball in the desired direction after contact. With putters in particular, the face angle has a greater effect on the direction of the putt than the path the putter swings, because the swing speed and head speed are lower than those of most full swing clubs. Thus, the ability of a golfer to square the face at address and especially at impact is extremely important to the outcome of the putt. However, the golfer's body dimensions, posture, setup position, stroke mechanics, ball position, and other factors all play important roles in the swing and stroke path. Putting in particular is also very individual in style and content. Thus, the need to be able to accommodate the individual specifications of every golfer becomes important, and is of greater benefit than a fixed putter or minimal type of adjustment.

[0011] Some putter companies make adjustable lie angle systems that pivot about a single hinge axis, however, these adjustable lie angle systems typically do not offer additional shaft axis changes to provide other specification modifications, corrective specifications or other extended levels of adjustment.

[0012] Some companies have designed putters where loft adjustment is accomplished through a selection of interchangeable face plates, however these typically require multiple mounting screws and can result in a poor feel at the face that can vibrate, clunk, or otherwise not feel solid due to the multi-piece construction of the striking area where the greatest force is applied upon contact with the golf ball.

[0013] Other companies have produced adjustable mechanisms to change the angle of the shaft relative to the head using angled rings or faceted bushing-type connecting pieces between the connector portion of the hosel that receives the tip of the shaft at one end and the lower portion of the hosel that intersects and connects with the head, and the hosel adjustment system can change the effective loft of the club face higher or lower, possibly opening or closing the face angle, and in other systems, the lie angle adjustment as well. The hosel and shaft tip section of these devices are typically locked in place through the hosel portion with a machine screw or bolt from a recess on the underside of the head. However, these systems are usually limited or "closed" in that they do not offer the ability to interchange from a selection of different modular hosel pieces, and it is not possible to use the club without the adjustment piece in place, nor to select one or more pieces in combination, or to not select the adjustment piece if so desired.

[0014] Additionally, there is no optional hosel length adjustment that can be easily made with these other systems.

[0015] In another adjustable hosel device, a seamed or segmented hosel is provided that articulates the segmented hosel such that the angle of each segment relative to the other segments can be adjusted as the different segments are rotated. The hosel in this device is described as having sections that are selectively rotatable about the hosel axis with an optional interchangeable mid-section.

[0016] None of the known prior art teaches the ability or mechanism to quickly and easily change golf club hosel types and lengths, shafts and grips, or to change loft, lie, shaft tilt and offset and toe hang head balance to shaft axis specifications within the rules of golf to suit an individual golfer's needs and preferences for shaft alignment to head balance, for player setup and stroke tendencies, nor the ability to customize club lengths, or weight and balance characteristics in the same device.

[0017] Thus, there is a need for an adjustable, interchangeable, modular hosel and shaft configuration for a golf club head that provides for quick and efficient selection and interchangeability of individual components from a wide selection of different components that allow for significant adjustment of shaft alignment to head orientation, hosel length, shaft offset or onset to head, lie angle, loft, shaft tilt, shaft length and head balance to shaft axis by the manufacturer, by the fitter or golf professional or by the user, for example in a golf course setting, with a single tool or set of tools that may also provide the ability to change the orientation of the grip features relative to the shaft and golf club head.

[0018] There is also a need for an adjustable and interchangeable modular hosel and shaft configuration for a golf club head that can provide modular hosel part interchangeability from part selection, and also further refinement of specifications after a particular hosel is installed.

[0019] There is also a need for golf clubs with adjustable and interchangeable modular hosel and shaft configurations that can provide shaft angle adjustment at the top of the hosel independent of and in coordination with hosel type, as well as optional head and modular hosel adjustments and interchangeability at the head and hosel juncture.

[0020] There is also a need for an adjustable, interchangeable, modular hosel and shaft configuration for a golf club head that may also provide the user with the ability to better align the hosel, shaft, and club head face orientation relative to the target line with additional alignment features between the shaft, hosel, and club head.

[0021] There is also a need for golf club shafts and grips that can provide the user with the ability to modify the overall length to increase or decrease, or to compensate for other specifications, such as combinations of modular hosels of different lengths used to change loft, lie, balance, and shaft alignment.

[0022] There is also a need for a golf club modular hosel configuration that may also provide a user with the ability to change the sound and feel aspects of the golf club through the addition or removal of optional damping devices within the adjustable hosel arrangement. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0023] overview In one embodiment, a golf club head, multi-piece modular hosel, shaft and grip assembly is provided that includes a first shaft portion having a grip portion oriented to be grasped by a golfer, a shaft section extending toward a golf club head, an intermediate modular hosel upper shank section at a tip of the shaft, the upper hosel shank section connected to the hosel top portion at one or more optional modular hosel riser sections between the hosel top portion and the hosel lower portion, the top portion connected to the lower portion with a mechanical device such as a screw, bolt or the like accessed from within, through or below a bend in the hosel section, the hosel lower portion replaceably connected to a head portion at a hosel port, the mechanical device connecting the hosel and the golf club head.

[0024] In another embodiment, a golf club head including a first shaft portion having an outer grip oriented to be grasped by a golfer, an optional intermediate modular hosel upper shank section at a tip of the shaft, a modular multi-piece hosel, shaft and grip assembly is provided, wherein the upper hosel shank section connects with a hosel top portion, the hosel lower portion is interchangeably connected to a head portion at a hosel port with one or more optional modular hosel adjustment spacers between the hosel lower portion and the head hosel port, and the hosel lower portion is connected to the head with at least one mechanical device, such as a screw, bolt or key, accessed from the underside, side and / or top of the golf club head in association with or adjacent to the hosel port.

[0025] In another embodiment, a golf club head including a first shaft portion having a grip portion oriented to be grasped by a golfer, a modular hosel shaft connector section at a tip of the shaft, a modular multi-piece hosel, shaft and grip assembly is provided, wherein the modular hosel shaft connector section is connected to a hosel top portion with one or more optional modular hosel adjustment spacers between the hosel top portion and the modular hosel shaft connector portion, the shaft connector section is connected to the hosel top portion with a mechanical device, such as a screw, bolt or key, accessed from within, through or below a bend in the hosel section, the hosel lower portion is replaceably connected to a head portion at a hosel port with one or more optional modular hosel adjustment spacer sections between the hosel lower portion and a head hosel port, the lower portion is connected to the head with at least one of a mechanical device, such as a screw, bolt or key, accessed from the underside, side or top of the golf club head in relation to or adjacent to the hosel port.

[0026] Another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is the ability to vary the hosel length and shaft length, as well as the overall club length, independently of one another. The ability to vary the hosel length at the bottom and / or top provides a distinct advantage not found in other prior art devices. Changing the length at the top of the hosel bend changes the length of the shaft, but does not change the balance of the head relative to the shaft axis. Changing the hosel length at the bottom of the hosel changes the balance of the head because it changes the distance of the hosel bend point from the head and therefore the relationship of the shaft axis to the head center of gravity.

[0027] Another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is the ability to change hosel types with a wide selection of different hosel geometries and still use upper and / or lower adjustment spacers to further, better and more precisely fit, customize and tune the overall and shaft-to-head specifications. The ability to change hosel styles and selectively choose and orient adjustment spacers provides distinct advantages not found in other prior art adjustability devices.

[0028] The disclosed subject matter provides a multi-piece modular golf club hosel assembly that can have a conventional design, shape and appearance with very small, unobtrusive fitting and adjustment mechanisms at either or both ends of the conventional hosel pieces. The ability to independently adjust shaft angle orientation and specifications for lie angle, putter head loft angle, putter head balance and offset relative to the shaft axis, and shaft tilt is extremely beneficial to manufacturers, retailers, fitters, golf pros, and customers. For example, a retailer can stock one model of club that can be adapted and adjusted for the needs of many different golfers. Furthermore, golfers can adjust specifications to accommodate changing course conditions, such as before or after a round, or when moving to a different course.

[0029] The optional modular hosel shaft tip connector portion can be made separate from the shaft tip section, fixedly secured to the shaft, or made part of the shaft. The modular hosel shaft tip connector portion can be epoxied to the shaft tip section or connected in a replaceable and / or adjustable configuration.

[0030] The optional lower hosel shaft connector section may be a male "shaft in" as in a conventional shaft tip that goes into a female cup at the top of the hosel; or an upper hosel adjustment section. The hosel cup section may be made as a female piece and the upper hosel section is the male part that connects to the female inside of the multi-piece. For the purposes of this application, by "fixed" it is meant that the parts are relatively permanently connected so that they are not separable, such as one-piece construction or welded parts or parts epoxied together to prevent movement, press-fit together, or some combination for added redundancy and durability.

[0031] The hosel shaft connector portion may be made similar to a conventional shaft tip, preferably from lightweight materials such as thin wall steel conduit, aluminum conduit, titanium conduit or graphite conduit or solid rod, or other suitable materials and configurations. As taught in Billings '604 and Billings '991, modular hosels may be used to provide different shaft alignment configurations, such as, for example, different lie angles, head loft specifications, offsets, onsets or no offsets. In the disclosed subject matter, the addition of different combinations of adjustment spacers and their orientations may provide an entirely new level of customization, fitting and adjustability.

[0032] In one embodiment, adjustments to loft, lie angle and club head balance, such as toe hang, can be achieved separately or in combination using zero, one, two or more straight or angled adjustment spacers together at the junction between the base of the hosel and the hosel port, or the stem, or the club head. In another embodiment, an optional selection of straight or angled adjustment spacers can be assembled between the tip of the shaft tip or the modular hosel shaft tip connector portion and used to adjust the shaft axis angle for adjustments to the effective loft, lie angle and club head balance, such as toe hang, face balance, or heel hang. Angled or straight adjustment spacers can also be used to adjust the shaft length, especially when paired with the selection of a different hosel section, longer or shorter.

[0033] Another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is the combination of adjustments between the upper and lower hosel portion adjustments that provide a new level of adjustability not found in other prior art systems. For example, the lower hosel adjustment can be used to move the hosel portion angle forward toward the toe to move closer to the center of the club head, while the upper hosel adjustment allows the shaft axis to be brought back to be realigned with the appropriate lie angle suitable for the individual golfer. In this manner, the club head shaft axis alignment can be made to more or less follow the head's center of gravity. Or in other words, the hosel can be adjusted from an orientation commonly referred to as "toe down" to "face balanced" or even "heel down", or from face balanced to toe down, heel down, etc. This same system can be used to more or less offset the hosel, so that the shaft axis can be kept neutral at a straight 90 degrees vertical from the ground, or can be tilted forward toward the face or tilted back away from the face, as may be most suitable or desirable for the individual golfer.

[0034] Another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is the ability for the optional modular hosel shaft tip connector to be rotated about its axis so that the grip is oriented upwards towards the golfer's chin (usually under the golfer's thumb) or conversely, downwards towards the ground (under the fingers) or oriented in one direction such as towards or away from the target, as another form of adjustability, for example if the golfer prefers or desires to try different grip geometries, such as flats, etc. By unscrewing a locking screw, bolt, threaded tab or key or other locking mechanism from under or through the hosel bend section, rotating the shaft tip or shaft tip connector, engaging a keyed, geared, ratcheted or internal mortise joint or other type of configuration, realigning and reengaging and locking the screw, the golfer can quickly and easily make changes to find the best grip alignment for his or her setup, stroke mechanics and personal preferences.

[0035] The hosel port, which receives the hosel and optional adjustment spacer, is preferably mortised, keyed, knurled, slotted, geared or otherwise designed in such a way as to facilitate the modular parts being attached to one another without undesired movement, rattling or vibration. When using the preferred mortise-type joint, the structure may include many sides, i.e. circular, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, etc. with one or more flat sides. The illustrated embodiment is a square exterior with rounded corners and a circular interior through port. The mortise section may be located at the top portion of the club head such that the outermost portion of the adjustment spacer abuts flush against the top edge, or the mortise section may be recessed such that the adjustment spacer or spacers fit partially or completely within the recess.

[0036] Another aspect of this disclosure is the ability to change the tilt of the shaft from standard, balanced or belly to an "arm rest" or "arm lock" style. This is accomplished by changing at least one of the length, size, shape or material of the abutment section. Modular hosels and / or adjustable / replaceable shaft tips or mid sections can also be used for additional combinations and adjustments and interchangeable options. For example, modular hosels can be used to adjust the lie angle within a range of optional lie angles. Easily replaceable modular hosels can also allow a forward tilt to be built into the golf club to change the effective loft or to allow alternative setups, postures and means and methods of holding the club, for example, in an arm rest or arm lock style where the shaft angle is leaned forward against the primary arm of play - under or across the arm, or against the arm with the other arm and tilted forward, as known in the game and approved by the new rules by the USGA and R&A that limit fixation to the body but allow fixation to the player's arm. In this setup, the ability to rotate the grip and lay it flat against the arm is a significant benefit.

[0037] An optional means of adjusting the length and grip section of the shaft uses a length spacer or set of spacers that fit between the shaft tip section and the top portion of the hosel that, when installed, provide different net lengths. Such spacers can be provided in a variety of lengths, e.g., 1 / 4", 1 / 2" and 1" long, and can be used alone or in combination to provide precise length changes over the entire length of the golf club. The length of the upper hosel adjustment spacer can be increased to add to the overall club length without changing the head and shaft balance using square or non-angled spacers, or the shaft alignment configuration can be changed by using angled spacers in addition to changing the length. Longer connection screws, bolts, keys or other connection mechanisms can be used to allow for added length. A long screw with a deep hole and tapped section on the lower shaft tip connector shank can facilitate different lengths and heights depending on the number of adjustment spacers selected. The adjustment spacers also preferably have the same dedicated mortise joint, male on one end and female on the other end, to keep the shaft and grip section from rotating around its passage during use. The shank length adjustment may be secured for use with mechanisms such as a locking screw, locking washer, or spring-loaded tab, latch, threaded collet, or other means. Dedicated specialty tools, such as star or Torx® brand by Textron, hex lobe driver screwdrivers, or keyed or pronged collet turning keys, may be used for quick and easy deflection by one or all of the manufacturer, retailer, fitter, and / or user.

[0038] Alternatively, the modular hosel configuration can include optional damping devices, such as foam, rubber or other damping materials in the form of “O-rings,” gaskets, inserts, etc., that can be designed, sized and positioned to fit within its mating section to dampen the sound and feel of the golf club as it strikes the ball.

[0039] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a more complete understanding of the disclosed subject matter, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1A] Shown is a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric view embodying features of the disclosed subject matter, where the adjustable, selectable, interchangeable modular hosel section has an optional lower adjustment spacer selection between the hosel and head and an optional upper adjustment spacer selection between the shaft and the hosel. [Figure 1B] Shown is a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric view embodying features of the disclosed subject matter, where the adjustable, selectable, interchangeable modular hosel section has an optional upper adjustment spacer option between the shaft and the hosel. [Figure 1C] Shown is a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric view embodying features of the disclosed subject matter, with an adjustable, selectable, interchangeable modular hosel section having an optional lower adjustment spacer selection between the head and hosel. [Figure 1D] 1B shows the example putter of FIG. 1A with a set of two lower modular hosel adjustment spacers and a shaft assembled directly into the hosel cup. [Figure 2A]A golf club, in this case a putter, is shown having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric exploded view embodying features of the disclosed subject matter, with the adjustable and selectable interchangeable modular hosel section having an optional lower adjustment spacer option between the hosel and head and an optional upper adjustment spacer option between the hosel shaft connector portion and the main hosel upper section. [Figure 2B] 1 illustrates a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric exploded cutaway view embodying features of this disclosure. [Figure 2C] A golf club, in this case a putter, is shown having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric assembly cutaway view embodying features of the disclosed subject matter, where the adjustable and selectable interchangeable modular hosel section has an optional lower adjustment spacer option between the hosel and head and an optional upper adjustment spacer option between the shaft and hosel. [Figure 3A] Shown is a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club closer to the heel in an isometric assembly cutaway view embodying features of the disclosed subject matter, where the head, optional lower adjustment spacer and hosel lower shank are joined together with a machine screw that enters the underside of the head, and the hosel shaft connector, upper adjustment spacer and hosel upper section are joined together with a machine screw located below the underside of the hosel upper section. [Figure 3B] 1 illustrates a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric exploded cutaway view embodying features of the disclosure. [Figure 3C]3A is shown here with an alternative means of fastening the modular hosel shank via a hosel connection bolt located in the heel portion of the head. [Figure 4A] 4A-4B show a selection of modular lower hosel spacers with different angles according to one embodiment, where the various angles are all located on the top portion of the spacer. FIG. 4B shows an alternative design where both the top and bottom of the spacer are angled. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates a cutaway view of a selection of modular lower hosel spacers with different adjustment angles according to one embodiment, where the various angles are located at the bottom of the adjustment spacer while all the top angles are square. [Figure 4C] 1 shows an alternative design in which both the top and bottom of the spacer are angled. [Figure 4D] 1 shows an alternative design in which both the top and bottom of the spacer are angled. [Figure 5A] A golf club, in this case a driver or fairway wood, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an assembled isometric view embodying features of the disclosure, the adjustable and selectable interchangeable modular hosel section having an optional lower adjustment spacer option between the hosel main portion and the head, and an optional upper adjustment spacer option between the upper hosel portion and the hosel shaft connector portion. [Figure 5B] 1 shows a golf club, in this case a fairway wood, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an isometric view. [Figure 5C] 1 shows a golf club, in this case a fairway wood or hybrid wood-iron, with a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an exploded isometric view. [Figure 6A]Illustrated is a golf club, in this case an iron, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in an assembled cutaway isometric view. [Figure 6B] Illustrated is a golf club, in this case an iron, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club in a cutaway exploded isometric view. [Figure 7] Shown is an exploded view of a golf club, in this case a putter, having a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, shaft and optional grip section (not shown) shown from the front of the club, with a shaft option with a hosel shaft tip connector, an upper hosel adjustment spacer option, various length hosel options with intermediate lengths installed in the head along with a pair of lower hosel adjustment spacers, and an optional lower hosel length adjustment spacer option. [Figure 8A] Shown is an assembled isometric cutaway view of a golf club, in this case a putter, having a head with a "center shaft" hosel port through the head with a cylindrical multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, optional lower hosel adjustment spacer, hosel shaft connector, shaft and optional grip section (not shown) shown from the face of the club nearest the toe. [Figure 8B] 1 shows an exploded isometric view of a golf club, in this case a putter, having a head with a recessed hosel port at the top of the club head, a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, an optional lower hosel adjustment spacer, a hosel shaft connector, a shaft and an optional grip section (not shown) shown from the face of the club. [Figure 8C]Shown is an assembly cutaway isometric view from closer to the heel of a golf club, in this case a putter, having a head with a hosel port recessed into the top of the club head with at least one flat surface for engaging and restricting the hosel shaft connector piece, a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, an optional lower hosel adjustment spacer, a hosel shaft connector, a shaft and an optional grip section (not shown) shown from the face of the club. [Figure 8D] Illustrated is an exploded cutaway isometric view from closer to the toe of a golf club, in this case a putter, having a head with a hosel port recessed into the top of the club head with at least one flat surface for engaging and restricting a hosel shaft connector piece, a multi-piece adjustable modular hosel system, an optional lower hosel adjustment spacer, a hosel shaft connector, an optional threaded retaining ring, an optional locking washer, a threaded shaft and an optional grip section (not shown). [Figure 8E] Illustrated is an exploded cutaway isometric view from closer to the toe of a golf club, in this case a putter, having a head with a hosel port recessed into the top of the club head with a flat surface for engaging and restricting the hosel shaft connector piece, a multi-piece adjustable, modular hosel system, an optional lower hosel adjustment spacer, a hosel shaft connector, a small machine screw for connecting the mid-hosel section and the hosel shaft connector, and a larger machine screw for connecting the head and the lower portion of the hosel section, and an optional grip section (not shown). [Figure 9A] 1 shows an isometric exploded view of a selection of optional alignment spacers of an alternative design, here shown positioned above one another, with the upper female mortise section having a number of locating ports in the recessed lower floor wall and at least one locating pin on the opposing lower male side. [Figure 9B]An alternative design for an adjustment spacer is shown in which a lower locating pin of a male tenon joint connects with a series of locator pin holes in an upper female mortise joint in the club head, hosel or hosel shaft connector piece section and head hosel. [Figure 9C] 13 shows an isometric view of the underside of an alternative design of an adjustable spacer in which the male mortise section has a locating pin extending from the lower floor wall. [Figure 9D] 1 shows an isometric view of the top side of an alternative design aligning spacer with a rounded outer wall and a modified square inner wall with rounded corners, with a series of notches formed in the side of the wall that form the inside dimension of the spacer. [Figure 9E] 1 shows an isometric view of an alternative design hosel shaft connector piece with a modified rounded corner square outer male adapter with an external rib located on one of the flat sides of the adapter. [Figure 10A] 1 shows an isometric exploded cutaway close-up view of a hosel in a head port configuration, including an orientation flat on the hosel shank, a corresponding alignment flat on the hosel port in the head, and an optional washer and screw retaining ring. [Figure 10B] 1 shows a close-up isometric exploded cutaway view of an alternative hosel in head port configuration, including an orientation flat on the hosel shank, a corresponding alignment flat on the hosel port in the head, an alternative location at the base of the lower hosel shank, and an optional washer and locking nut in the configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0041] Detailed Description 1A of the drawings, reference numeral 100 generally refers to a golf club, in this case a putter, embodying features of the subject disclosure. The golf club head 100 may generally include a base head portion 110, a face portion 112, optional grooves 212, a heel portion 114, a toe portion 116, a sole portion 118, a top portion 119, and a modular hosel portion 120.

[0042] The golf club head 100 is shown generally completed and includes an optional replaceable flange 115 at the rear of the putter head. The head 110 or flange 115 may include an optional adjustable weight 215 in the head as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,828,672 and 7,566,276.

[0043] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the multi-piece modular hosel system includes an upper shaft tip 132, a hosel shaft connector piece 140, two optional adjustment spacer ring pieces 150, a hosel cup 126, a hosel elbow 128, a hosel shank 123, and two optional lower hosel adjustment spacer square pieces 160.

[0044] FIG. 1B of the drawings shows the same putter 100 as shown in FIG. IA with a pair of upper modular hosel adjustment spacers, with the hosel 120' integrated directly into the putter head 110'. FIG. 1C of the drawings shows the example putter from FIG. 1A, now shown with a set of two lower modular hosel adjustment spacer squares 160', with the shaft 132 and hosel shaft connector piece 140 integrated directly into the hosel cup 126.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 1D of the drawings, there is shown the example putter from FIG. 1A with a set of two lower modular hosel adjustment spacers 160 ′, where the shaft 132 is assembled directly into the hosel cup 126 .

[0046] 2A of the drawings, a preferred embodiment of the golf club head 100, shaft 132 and adjustable modular hosel assembly 120 is shown in an exploded view, making the individual components more readily visible, including the hosel shaft connector piece 140, two upper adjustable spacers 150, hosel cup 126, upper connecting screw 170, hosel shank 123, lower adjustable spacer 160, head 110', rear flange 115 and lower connecting screw 180.

[0047] Figure 2B shows a cutaway view of the same putter head 110 as in Figure 2A with the modular hosel component sliced ​​at the axis of the shaft to expose the internal configuration of the head, hosel and shaft assembly, and Figure 2C shows the same head, modular hosel and shaft in an assembled cutaway view showing the components fully assembled.

[0048] 3A of the drawings, a cutaway view of golf club 100, head 110, shaft tip 132, and adjustable modular hosel assembly 120 is shown, including hosel shaft connector piece 140, two upper adjustable spacers 150, hosel cup 126, upper connecting screw 170, hosel shank 123, lower adjustable spacer 160, lower hosel shank 122, lower hosel shank plane 222, head hosel port plane 195, rear flange 115, and lower connecting screw 180.

[0049] Figure 3B of the drawings shows the same golf club 100 as in 3A, but now in an exploded cutaway view showing the club head 110, shaft 132, hosel shaft connector piece 140, two upper adjustable spacers 150, hosel cup 126, upper connecting screw 170, hosel shank 123, lower adjustable spacer 160, hosel port 190 in the head, lower hosel stalk 122, lower hosel stalk plane 222, head hosel port plane 195, rear flange 115, hosel port countersink 218 in the head at the sole 118, and lower connecting screw 180. Note that the hosel port 190' can be located in various locations on the head, as seen in Figure 3C, where the hosel connecting bolt 181 is located in the heel portion 114 of the head, for example, instead of the sole 118. Additionally, a side screw or pin can be threaded through the head and can bear against the hosel stalk or through clearance hole and can be threaded into the hosel stalk. The hosel port countersink 218 may be located in the flange 115, or other piece of a multi-piece head design, especially in putters where the USGA and R&A rules governing club design allow for a variety of hosel positions. Additionally, there may be multiple hosel connection ports and screws to provide a redundant system that may provide another means for positioning the hosel in the correct orientation relative to the head to comply with the rules, as well as to provide additional strength and reliability of the parts that remain connected for play and over time. Similarly, the hosel port countersink 218 and lower connection screw 180 or bolt 181 may also be located below or adjacent to the hosel port, wherever the two may be connected, allowing for a close and robust mechanical configuration.

[0050] 4A shows an isometric view of a selection of bottom adjustment spacers 160. Adjustment spacer 162 has no markings on its outermost surface, indicating no angular change. Adjustment spacer 164 has a 1 / 2 degree change and is marked with a hash mark 264 on the outer surface adjacent the direction of tilt. Adjustment spacer 166 has a 1 degree change and is marked with a single dot 266. Adjustment spacer 168 has a 2 degree angular change and is therefore marked with two dots 268 to indicate its shape and orientation.

[0051] FIG. 4B shows a cutaway side view of a selection of lower adjustment spacers 162, 164, 166 and 168 manufactured according to a preferred embodiment. The adjustment spacer 162 is square with no angular difference between the upper female mortise recess 152 and the lower male tenon section 154. Preferably, the different angled spacer selection is angled by CNC machining the female mortise joint from a larger stock piece uniformly on all pieces. The lower male tenon section is then cut in a second operation to create an amount of variation. Alternative designs can be seen in FIG. 4C and FIG. 4D. In FIG. 4C, the amount of variation is cut into the upper mortise recess and the surrounding wall. In FIG. 4D, variation is provided simultaneously on both the upper and lower sides of the adjustment spacer. Note that adjustment spacers can also be manufactured with compound angles where the degree of variation is directed in two directions at the same time, providing both loft and lie angle variation in one adjustment spacer, in addition to varying the balance of the head relative to the shaft axis depending on the spacer length and position. However, for simplicity and ease of use for customers and end users across a broad spectrum, a single angle change oriented to a single marked side is preferred.

[0052] FIG 5A shows a driver or fairway wood club 100 (grip not shown) in which the modular hosel section 120 can have a smooth flat configuration and all exterior surfaces can have generally the same profile and diameter from shaft tip 132 to club head hosel section 219 as also shown in FIG 5B showing a fairway wood head 110 embodying features of a preferred embodiment. FIG 5C shows a fairway wood or hybrid wood-iron type head 110 and an exploded view of the hosel shaft connector 142, set of upper adjustment spacers 150, hosel mid section 129, upper connecting machine screw 170, lower set of adjustment spacers 160, club head 110 and lower connecting screw 180. The lower adjustment spacers 150 and upper adjustment spacers 160 can be the same size and shape and can be interchangeable for efficiency of manufacturing, inventory, distribution, sales, utility and use.

[0053] FIG. 6A shows a hybrid, utility-iron or standard iron-type head 110 in an exploded cutaway view showing a preferred embodiment, with shaft connector piece 142, hosel mid-section 140, a set of two lower adjustment spacers 150, club head hosel shank portion 219, hosel port 190 and lower connecting screw 180.

[0054] FIG. 6B shows a hybrid, utility-iron or standard iron-type head 110 in an exploded cutaway view showing an alternative embodiment with an upper hosel shaft connector piece 142, a hosel upper mid section 140, a set of two upper adjustment spacers 150, a hosel mid section connector piece 129, an upper connecting screw 170, a set of lower adjustment spacers 160, a hosel port 190, a head hosel shank portion 219, a club head hosel shank portion 219, a hosel port 190 and a lower connecting screw 180.

[0055] FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of golf club 100, illustrating a selection of hosel shaft connector 140 assembled with shaft tips 132 and 132', a selection of upper adjustment spacers 150 of different lengths 252, 352 and 452, a hosel 120 assembled with a pair of lower hosel spacers 160, and additional selections of hosels of different lengths including a longer hosel 320 and a shorter hosel 220 with an intermediate length provided at the head with the pair of lower hosel adjustment spacers, and an optional lower hosel length adjustment spacer 162 with net adjustment lengths when assembled of 262 1 / 16" high, 362 1 / 4" high and 462 1 / 2" high.

[0056] As described, the adjustment spacers come in different lengths and different increments and can be stacked or used alone, allowing the club to adjust the loft and lie angle independently or in combination. The orientation of the angled side of the adjustment spacer determines the specification change to the assembled golf club. For example, a degree of angle change from horizontal positioned toward the toe 116 will change the shaft angle vertically by 1 degree. A 2 degree spacer oriented toward the face will be more effective at 2 degrees. As can be seen in FIG. 4A, the preferred embodiment includes a selection of spacers including one square lower adjustment spacer 162, one 0.5 (1 / 2) increment lower adjustment spacer 164, one degree (1°) 166, and two degrees (2°) 168 lower adjustment spacers. Other increments are possible, such as 0.25 degrees (1 / 4°), 0.75 degrees (3 / 4°) or 1.5 degrees or 3 degrees (3.0°). By stacking the adjustment spacers in the same direction, it is possible to increase the adjustment.

[0057] The shaft may be connected directly to the golf club with a standard or specialized tip section that is either formed as part of the shaft or attached or connected to the shaft tip. The shaft tip or tip section may then be connected to the head or with the hosel, with an optional upper or lower adjustable modular spacer between the shaft tip or shaft tip connector and the head or hosel. The optional hosel section may be modular and interchangeable with the head as taught in Billings '276, '604 and '991, providing an additional level of customization, fitting options and adjustments.

[0058] FIG. 8A shows a golf club 100 with a shaft tip 132, a hosel shaft connector piece 144, a pair of cylindrical lower hosel adjustment spacers 160, a head 110 and a flange 115. FIG. 8B shows an exploded view of the same club, showing the same components and their relationship to each other, plus the optional addition of a gasket. FIG. 8C shows the same club in an assembled cutaway view from closer to the heel. FIG. 8D shows an alternative embodiment of a center-shafted putter design with a hosel shaft connector 140, a pair of upper adjustment spacers 150, an upper connecting screw 170, a hosel mid-section 129, a pair of lower adjustment spacers 160, a head 110 and a flange 115 and a lower connecting screw 180. FIG. 8E shows yet another embodiment showing an optional longer hosel mid-section 129. The alternative embodiment replaces the upper screw 170 and the lower screw 180 with a long bolt connecting the head 110 to the hosel shaft connector piece 140. It is envisioned that the hosel mid-section can take many forms to provide different hosel geometries, including curves, to provide more offset, lie angle and balance adjustments. In such a case, the top thread can be made of a flexible steel cable with a threaded end and a driver head end permanently secured, for example, by welding.

[0059] FIG. 9A shows an alternative embodiment of a set of cylindrical adjustment spacers 150 with locating pins 156 on the bottom wall of each spacer. The degree of angular change can be seen in indicia 159 on the side of the spacer where the angular change is oriented. The pins 156 engage with pin ports 158 to allow precise positioning of the spacers relative to the golf club and other modular hosel components and help lock the entire system in place for use. FIG. 9B shows a single spacer from 9A, where features including the pin ports, in this case four pin ports 158, can be more easily seen. FIG. 9C shows the underside of the same spacer, where the locating pins 156 can be more clearly seen. FIG. 9D shows another alternative embodiment of adjustment spacers 155, where recesses or indentations 255 are formed in the interior side walls of the spacers that engage with, for example, hosel shaft connector pieces. FIG. 9E shows a suitable alternative embodiment hosel shaft connector piece 240 featuring an exterior rib 340 of the hosel shaft connector stalk 242 that connects with and overlaps the interior of the curvilinear notch 255 in the adjustment spacer 155 shown in FIG. 9D.

[0060] FIG. 10A shows a close-up cutaway view of the hosel in a head port configuration, showing the hosel shank 123, hosel lower shank 122, hosel lower shank flat 222, optional pair of lower adjustment spacers 160, head hosel port 190, optional lower connection screw retaining ring 172 (cutaway), hosel port connection screw through hole 318, washer 182 and lower connection screw 180.

[0061] As can be seen in the close-up cutaway view of FIG. 10A, the counter bore 196 is preferably made with an end mill, and the cutting edges of the tool extend further at the ends to be shallower toward the middle, which is typical for these tools, thus creating a convex top wall 198 for the counter bore 196. Some putters have a hosel connection screw port counter bore that is deeper on the outside of the counter bore and shallower toward the central through hole. This creates a semi-convex surface for the screw head or washer to contact, facilitating the various angles at which the screw can be positioned as angled spacers change the axis of the hosel and shaft, and providing a larger surface area and less load bearing stress for the screw head and shank and / or washer or locking washer.

[0062] 10B shows an alternative embodiment using a screw 280 inserted into or formed with the hosel shank 122 shown inside the hosel port 172 in the head, and an optional adjustment spacer 160. An optional washer 182 or locking washer (not shown) with a nut or locking nut used to complete the assembly for use may be used in the configuration. An alternative to the bolt 181 or screw 180 is a hosel shaft connector piece or portion at the shaft end that is stepped and threaded and replaces the reverse bolt, but is still combined with a nut, locking nut, nut and locking washer, etc.

[0063] Alternatively, a pin, set screw or key may be inserted from the outside, such as the face, back or heel, or from an adjacent location on the sole to orient and secure the hosel in a redundant manner from the main central threaded connection. Alternatively, the shank may be secured against movement with a latch or tab, one or more locating pins, one or more set screws, with or without the use of a flat channel or rib associated with or in the mortise section between the shank and the head hosel port section.

[0064] As an alternative to a modular hosel, shaft, or optional shaft tip connector, there may be a female "over-shaft" version that connects to a male spud or stud formed as part of the head or affixed or connected to the head. With the latter connection version, the stud may be connected from the side or underneath the head and may be interchangeable in length, for example, offering similar benefits to a hosel connected through a port in the heel of the head as described above.

[0065] The addition of additional spacer sections to the upper and / or lower hosel portions is performed with specialized tools as dictated by the Rules of Golf in a "fixed" manner that may be considered compliant with the Rules of Golf. A small amount of epoxy may be placed on the thread tips after any changes to the component configuration are made to ensure that the assembly complies with the current Rules of Golf as implemented by the USGA and R&A and is fixed in place to reduce the chance of the threads weakening due to continued play. Alternatively, a thread locking compound, such as Locktite® brand thread locker, may be placed on the thread tips. For additional strength and durability, epoxy may be used inside the lower hosel and / or upper hosel ports to provide a semi-permanent configuration. Some customers may prefer this solution if all specifications are met and the customer does not intend to make any adjustments later. However, these epoxy bonds can later be heated and broken down if desired.

[0066] Referring again to FIG. 3A, an embodiment is shown with a modified design of the lower hosel shank 122 that provides a user adjustable configuration, where the hosel can only be assembled in the correct orientation with the head. This is required by the rules of golf, which require that all forms of adjustment, including the orientation of the hosel relative to the striking face, particularly the tilt of the shaft, be in compliance with the specifications if the part is user adjustable. In particular, the rules do not allow the shaft of the club to be tilted forward or backward by more than 10 degrees. Thus, flats, ribs, keys, pins, threads, channels or other similar features limit the orientation of the hosel to only the correct alignment, while still allowing the optional spacer to be assembled, rotated and adjusted within limits.

[0067] The outer rounded square matches closely visually with the traditional hosel square or rectangular shank shape. The rounded square makes it easier to mill the inner section with a large flat surface to connect with the male shank and resist twisting. Alternative means for positioning and assembling the hosel section inside the head, such as keys, tabs, pins, set screws, bolt(s), screw(s), especially if a bent neck, plumber neck, etc. is selected, and for USGA compliance for user adjustability, can also be used. As an alternative to the rounded square spacer, a rectangular mortise joint can be used. However, the rectangular solution is not as efficient as the adjustment spacers that must be made differently for loft and lie adjustment because they cannot be oriented in all four directions for stronger or weaker loft or for vertical or horizontal lie angles.

[0068] One embodiment is to manufacture the upper hosel shaft tip connector from a lightweight aerospace quality alloy, such as 6061, 2024 or 7075 aluminum alloy, that is preferably heat treated and then anodized after manufacture for added strength and durability. Other materials such as steel, titanium, titanium alloys, bronze, aluminum bronze, graphite composites, tungsten, ceramic, metal matrix composites or magnesium or other material compositions may be used for their weight and strength advantages.

[0069] The upper spacer adjuster section is preferably turned on a precision lathe, such as a tool room or engine lathe, or most preferably a CNC lathe. Bar stock raw material, such as 303 stainless steel, can be used, with the outer diameter being the same net size as the finished product, with the stepped section turned on the lathe and then separated. Live tooling may be used to cut the inner mortise sections, or these may be cut in a secondary operation, for example, by hand or with a CNC mill. Alternatively, the upper hosel adjustable spacer may be extruded into a hollow tube or hollow bar stock with a round or other exterior and a square or other interior shape with rounded corners, which is then cut or lathed into the final shape. Another alternative manufacturing process may be to precision cast the part.

[0070] The lower spacer adjuster section is preferably milled in a milling center, e.g., a CNC vertical or horizontal machining center, and commonly available bar stock is used to make many adjustment spacers at once in a vice or special fixture at the machining center. Bar stock raw material, e.g., 303 stainless steel, can be used when the outer dimensions are near the net to maximum dimensions of the finished product, minimal machining time is required, and less waste and less chips are recycled. By milling the flat top surface of all squares, all changes can be made in the second and final operation, limiting setup and downtime. Alternatively, the sides of the female mortise joint and / or the sides of the male tenon section can be machined with a slight taper to promote a snug fit between the parts when screws or other fastening connection mechanisms are used. Alignment marks can be engraved during the final milling to permanently identify the angular orientation of the outer surfaces of the various components.

[0071] Alternatively, the lower adjustment spacers can be lathed on a lathe or CNC lathe. If the outer diameter of the raw round bar stock is the same net size as the corners of the rounded shape of the finished product, the flat side sections can be milled with live tooling on a lathe and separated. Live tooling can be used to cut the inner mortise sections, or these can be cut in a secondary operation, for example, by hand or on a CNC mill.

[0072] Alignment markings, graphics and other information and designs may be engraved, laser engraved, stamped or printed on the exterior surfaces of the various components in the assembly. Paint may be applied to the stamped or engraved parts to make them more visible.

[0073] While the subject matter has been described with reference to certain of its preferred embodiments, it should be noted that the disclosed embodiments are illustrative in nature rather than limiting, and that a wide range of changes, modifications, variations, and substitutions are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure, and in some cases, some features of the disclosure may be employed without the corresponding use of other features. Many such variations and modifications may be deemed apparent and desirable by those of skill in the art upon review of the foregoing description of the preferred embodiments. Accordingly, it is preferred that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A golf club assembly comprising: a separate head portion having a hosel port; a replaceable modular hosel portion having a hosel cup at an upper end thereof; a shaft having an axis and a grip portion; a first separate upper hosel adjustment spacer portion positioned along said axis between said upper end of said hosel cup and said shaft and grip portion; a second separate lower hosel adjustment spacer portion positioned between the replaceable modular hosel portion and the separate head portion; In combination, a golf club assembly, wherein the replaceable modular hosel portion is adapted to accessibly and adjustably receive and retain the first and second separate hosel adjustment spacer portions.

2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first separate hosel adjustment spacer portion has a space length different than a length of the second separate hosel adjustment spacer portion.

3. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said first separate hosel adjustment spacer portion has a spacing length and angle different than a length and angle of said second separate hosel adjustment spacer portion.

5. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first separate hosel adjustment spacer portion is formed of a material having a length different than a length of the second separate hosel adjustment spacer portion.

6. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the separate head portion is associated with one of a putter-type club head, an iron-type club head, a hybrid wood-iron type club head, and a wood-type club head.

7. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first and second separate hosel adjustment spacer portions includes one of a different length and a different shaft axis to head offset.

8. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first separate hosel adjustment spacer portion has a different characteristic than a characteristic of the second separate hosel adjustment spacer portion, the characteristic being one of an axis angle, a length, a material, a weight, and a marking.

9. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first and second separate hosel adjustment spacer portions includes a square exterior with rounded corners having a mortise and tenon joint and a round internal through port.

10. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first separate hosel adjustment portion has an upper female mortise recess, the upper female mortise recess having an opening along a first plane and a male tenon section, the male tenon section having an opening along a second plane.

11. The assembly of claim 11 , wherein the first plane and the second plane are parallel or non-parallel.

12. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the shaft and grip portions are interchangeable.

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