Golf club head with dynamic back weighting

Abstract

The wood-type golf club head includes an angled weight assembly with an adjustable weight disposed within a weight channel. The adjustable weight assembly is angled relative to the ground plane to reduce and redirect flex of the golf club head upon impact. The reduced flex and redirection reduces and redirects stresses on the weight channel upon impact, reducing vibrations in the weight channel and allowing for less support material for the weight assembly and increasing discretionary mass.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to golf club heads, and more particularly to golf club heads having adjustable weighting systems. [Background technology]

[0002] The weighting of a golf club head can have a significant effect on key performance indicators such as golf ball trajectory and impact transmission. More specifically, how weight is distributed in a golf club head can directly affect the center of gravity and moment of inertia. Weight assemblies can be used in the club head to create discrete, localized areas of concentrated mass. Some weight assemblies are movable within weight channels, allowing a user to adjust key parameters of the golf club head, such as the center of gravity, moment of inertia, trajectory, and golf ball spin.

[0003] For example, weights can be repositioned within the channel closer to the sole of the club head, closer to the striking face of the club head, and / or closer to the toe and heel ends of the club head, thereby changing the center of gravity and / or moment of inertia of the club head. Changing the club head's moment of inertia can change the forgiveness of the golf club. Weight location also affects the golf ball's flight direction and / or golf ball flight angle. To optimally increase launch angle, spin, trajectory, and MOI, the desired golf club head CG location is low and rearward of the striking face. Additionally, moving the CG location closer to the toe or heel ends of the golf club head can further influence the side spin of the golf ball. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Upon impact with a golf ball, a golf club head experiences reaction forces that cause portions of the club head to deform or flex. Flexibility is greatest at areas of stress concentration and / or structural weakness. Movable weights can be reinstated through weight channels, which are typically voids formed on the exterior surface of the club head, creating stress concentrations and weak spots that can exacerbate flexing of the club head, induce vibration of the weight assembly, and increase the risk of club head failure. There is a need in the art for a weight channel that addresses the problem of short, heavy weight channels while maintaining a low, rearward center of gravity with a high moment of inertia and stabilizing the weight channel.

[0005] The patent or application file contains at least one color drawing. Copies of this patent or patent application publication containing color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a prior art wood-type club head.

[0007] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0008] [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a top view of the golf club head.

[0009] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the club head of FIG. 3.

[0010] [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the club head according to the first embodiment.

[0011] [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a weight channel according to a first embodiment.

[0012] [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a weight channel according to a first embodiment.

[0013] [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0014] [Figure 8] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the weight channel of FIG. 6A.

[0015] [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0016] [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0017] [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0018] [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0019] [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0020] [Figure 14A] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0021] [Figure 14B] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0022] [Figure 14C] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0023] [Figure 15A] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0024] [Figure 15B] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0025] [Figure 15C] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0026] [Figure 16] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 5.

[0027] [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head according to a second embodiment.

[0028] [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a weight channel according to a second embodiment.

[0029] [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to a second embodiment.

[0030] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a side view of the weight assembly of FIG. 19.

[0031] [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is a side view of the weight assembly of FIG. 19.

[0032] [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a side view of the weight assembly of FIG. 19.

[0033] [Figure 23] FIG. 20 is a side view of the weight assembly of FIG. 19.

[0034] [Figure 24A]FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0035] [Figure 24B] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0036] [Figure 24C] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0037] [Figure 25A] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0038] [Figure 25B] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0039] [Figure 25C] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0040] [Figure 26] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 17.

[0041] [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head according to a third embodiment.

[0042] [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a weight channel according to a third embodiment.

[0043] [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a weight assembly according to a third embodiment.

[0044] [Figure 30A] FIG. 2 is a stress diagram of the first vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 1;

[0045] [Figure 30B] FIG. 2 is a stress diagram of a second vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 1.

[0046] [Figure 31A] FIG. 30 is a stress diagram of the first vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 29.

[0047] [Figure 31B] FIG. 30 is a stress diagram of a second vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 29.

[0048] [Figure 32A] FIG. 10 is a stress diagram of the first vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 9.

[0049] [Figure 32B] FIG. 10 is a stress diagram of a second vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 9.

[0050] [Figure 33A] FIG. 20 is a stress diagram of the first vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 19.

[0051] [Figure 33B] FIG. 20 is a stress diagram of a second vibration of the weight assembly of FIG. 19.

[0052] [Figure 34] 10 is a graph showing the Y displacement of the weight over time.

[0053] [Figure 35] 10 is a graph showing Z displacement of a weight over time.

[0054] (definition) As used herein, the words "comprise" and "have," and variations thereof, are used to mean non-exclusive inclusion, and a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus consisting of a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or that are inherent in such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0055] When terms such as "first," "second," "third," and "fourth" are used in the specification and claims, they are used to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a particular sequence or chronological order. It is to be understood that such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, such as when the embodiments described herein are capable of operating in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprise" and "have," and any variations thereof, are used herein to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, and a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus consisting of a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0056] As used herein and in the claims, terms such as "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "above," "below," and the like are used for convenience of description and are not necessarily used to describe permanent relative positions. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, such as when embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and / or articles of manufacture described herein are operable in orientations other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0057] The terms "connect," "connected," "connecting," and the like should be understood broadly and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals electrically, mechanically, and / or otherwise.

[0058] As used herein, a "driver golf club head" refers to one with a loft angle of less than about 16 degrees, less than about 15 degrees, less than about 14 degrees, less than about 13 degrees, less than about 12 degrees, less than about 11 degrees, or less than about 10 degrees. Additionally, in many embodiments, a "driver golf club head" as used herein has a volume greater than about 400 cc, greater than about 425 cc, greater than about 445 cc, greater than about 450 cc, greater than about 455 cc, greater than about 460 cc, greater than about 475 cc, greater than about 500 cc, greater than about 525 cc, greater than about 550 cc, greater than about 575 cc, greater than about 600 cc, greater than about 625 cc, greater than about 650 cc, greater than about 675 cc, or greater than about 700 cc. In some embodiments, the volume of the driver may be about 400cc to 600cc, 425cc to 500cc, about 500cc to 600cc, about 500cc to 650cc, about 550cc to 700cc, about 600cc to 650cc, about 600cc to 700cc, or about 600cc to 800cc.

[0059] The golf club heads described in this disclosure may be formed from a metal, a metal alloy, a composite material, or a combination of a metal and a composite material. For example, but not limited to, the golf club head may be formed from steel, a steel alloy, a stainless steel alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, cobalt, a cobalt alloy, a titanium alloy, an amorphous metal alloy, or other similar materials. By way of further example, and without limitation, the golf club head may be formed from C250 steel, C300 steel, C350 steel, 17-4 stainless steel, 15-5 stainless steel, 13-8 stainless steel, 431 stainless steel, 8620 stainless steel, 4140 stainless steel, 4340 stainless steel, 4130 stainless steel, 4330 stainless steel, 4335 stainless steel, T9s+ titanium, Ti6-4 titanium, HST-220 titanium, TSG1 titanium, TSG2 titanium, TSG3 titanium, Ti6-22-22 titanium, Ti10-2-3 titanium, Ti6-6-2 titanium, Ti15-5-3 titanium, Ti15-3-3-3 titanium, Beta-C titanium, SJ721 titanium, Super TiX-51AF titanium, SSAT-2041 titanium, and SP700 titanium.

[0060] As used herein, the term "geometric center point" may refer to the geometric center point of the striking face perimeter, which may be the midpoint of the face height of the striking face. In the same or other examples, the geometric center point may be centered relative to an engineered impact zone, which may be defined by a groove area on the striking face. Alternatively, the geometric center point of the striking face may be located according to a definition by a golf governing body, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0061] As used herein, the term "ground contact" may refer to a reference plane relative to the surface on which a golf ball rests. The ground contact may be the horizontal plane that contacts the sole at address.

[0062] As used herein, the term "face height" may refer to the distance measured parallel to the loft plane between the top of the striking face perimeter and the bottom of the striking face perimeter.

[0063] As used herein, the term "lie angle" may refer to the angle between the hosel axis extending through the hosel and the ground plane. The lie angle is measured looking forward.

[0064] As used herein, the "loft plane" of a driver-type golf club head is a plane tangent to the geometric center of the striking face. The loft plane forms a loft angle with the ground plane.

[0065] As used herein, the term "loft angle" may refer to the angle measured between the loft plane and the XY plane.

[0066] The "depth" of the driver-type golf club head in this specification may be defined as the dimension of the driver-type golf club head in the front-to-rear direction.

[0067] The "height" of a driver-type golf club head herein may be defined as the dimension from the crown to the sole of the driver-type club head. In many embodiments, the height of the club head may be measured in accordance with a golf governing body, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0068] The "length" of a driver-type golf club head herein may be defined as the heel-to-toe dimension of the driver-type club head. In many embodiments, the length of the club head 100 may be measured according to a golf governing body, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0069] The "face height" of a driver-type golf club head herein may be defined as the height measured parallel to the loft plane between the top of the striking face perimeter near the crown and the bottom of the striking face perimeter near the sole. In these embodiments, the striking face perimeter may be located along the outer edge of the striking face where the curvature deviates from the bulge and / or roll of the striking face.

[0070] The "geometric center" of a driver-type golf club head herein is the geometric center point of the perimeter of the striking face. Alternatively, the geometric center of the striking face may be located according to the definition of a golf governing body, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0071] The "geometric center height" of a driver-type golf club head in this specification is the height measured perpendicularly from the ground surface toward the geometric center of the driver-type club head.

[0072] The "leading edge" of a driver-type golf club head herein may be considered to be the portion of the striking face periphery closest to the sole, for example, the leading edge of a driver-type golf club head is the transition from the roll and bulge of the striking face to the sole of the driver-type golf club head.

[0073] The "XYZ" coordinate system of the golf club head herein is based on the geometric center of the striking face. Dimensions of the golf club head used herein may be measured based on the coordinate system defined below. The geometric center of the striking face defines a coordinate system with an origin at the geometric center of the striking face. This coordinate system defines an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis. The X-axis extends through the geometric center of the striking face in a heel-to-toe direction for a fairway-type club head. The Y-axis extends through the geometric center of the striking face in a crown-to-sole direction for the golf club head. The Y-axis is perpendicular to the X-axis. The Z-axis extends through the geometric center of the striking face in a front-to-back direction for the golf club head. The Z-axis is perpendicular to both the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0074] As used herein, the term or phrase "center of gravity location" or "CG location" refers to the location of the center of gravity (CG) of a club head relative to a secondary coordinate system, where the CG location is characterized by its location along the X', Y', and Z' axes. The term "CGx" may refer to the CG location along the X' axis measured from the origin. The term "CG height" may refer to the CG location along the Y' axis measured from the origin. The term "CGy" may be synonymous with CG height. The term "CG depth" may refer to the CG location along the Z' axis measured from the origin. The term "CGz" may be synonymous with CG depth.

[0075] As used herein, the term or phrase "moment of inertia" (hereinafter "MOI") is a value measured relative to the CG. As used herein, the term "MOIxx" is the MOI measured in the heel-to-toe direction parallel to the X-axis. As used herein, the term "MOIyy" is the MOI measured in the sole-to-crown direction parallel to the Y-axis. As used herein, the term "MOIzz" is the MOI measured in the front-to-back direction parallel to the Z-axis. The MOI values MOIxx, MOIyy, and MOIzz determine the club head's forgiveness for off-center impacts with a golf ball.

[0076] Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Before describing embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details or to the embodiments and arrangements of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. It is to be understood that the description of particular embodiments is not intended to limit the disclosure to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes and should not be regarded as limiting. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0077] Described herein are various embodiments of driver-type golf club heads having weight assemblies that include weight ports and / or channels that are angled to reduce upward flexing of the club head upon impact, thereby mitigating stress and associated vibration in weight channels containing heavy weights positioned more perpendicular to the Z-axis. In some embodiments, the weight assembly is oriented along an assembly axis that extends obliquely relative to the ground plane and extends upward from the rear region toward the striking face. Reducing flexing by orienting the weight assembly upward reduces or eliminates the need for ribs and / or support structures, thereby increasing discretionary mass that can be redistributed as desired in the club head and preventing vibration in the weight channel. This increased discretionary mass can be used to improve various golf club head parameters, such as CG, MOI, spin, and stress tuning, leading to increased durability.

[0078] The CG and MOI of a golf club head affect the club's performance. For example, a higher moment of inertia makes the club head more forgiving of off-center hits. A low and rearward center of gravity (i.e., toward the rear of the club head, toward the sole) advantageously increases the moment of inertia, reducing backspin and increasing the launch angle of the golf ball at impact. Furthermore, adjusting the center of gravity alters the ball's trajectory. These parameters are important in golf club design to achieve desired performance characteristics. As described below, various embodiments of golf club heads with tilted weight assemblies improve the durability of the club head by reducing undesirable flexing at impact. Furthermore, tilted weight assemblies improve the stability of driver-type club heads upon impact with a golf ball. These embodiments increase discretionary mass that can be redistributed elsewhere in the club head, improving golf club head parameters such as CG location and MOI.

[0079] Described herein are various embodiments of driver-type golf club heads 200, 300 having angled weight assemblies 214, 314. The driver-type golf club heads 200, 300 may include a crown 202, 302, a sole 203, 303 opposite the crown 202, 302, a striking face 204, 304, a rear region 205, 305 opposite the striking face 204, 304, a heel end 206, 306, and a toe end 207, 307 opposite the heel end 206, 306. The striking face 204, 304, the crown 202, 302, the sole 203, 303, the heel end 206, 306, the toe end 207, 307, and the rear region 205, 305 together form a closed, hollow interior of the club head 200, 300. The club head 200, 300 may further include a weight assembly 214, 314 located in the rear region 205, 305 of the club head 200, 300.

[0080] 8, 9, 18, and 19, the weight assembly 214, 314 may include a weight port and / or weight channel 210, 310, a weight member 211, 311, and a fastener 213, 313. Furthermore, the weight channel 210, 310 may be constructed of a support material. The weight port 226, 326 and / or weight channel 210, 310 may be configured to receive a weight member. A heavy weight member (i.e., greater than 25 g, 30 g, 35 g, or 40 g) placed within a shallow weight channel can reduce vibration of the weight channel 210, 310 in the y-axis direction, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for support material and / or ribs in the golf club head. The weight member 211, 311 may include an opening 212, 312 configured to receive the fastener 213, 313. The fasteners 213, 313 may be used as a means to secure the weight members 211, 311 to one of a number of attachment points 245, 345 within the weight channels 210, 310, as described below.

[0081] Reducing vibration can improve sound and durability. Furthermore, reducing or eliminating support material and / or reducing the thickness of the weight channel increases the discretionary mass of the club head 200, 300. While increasing discretionary mass, the mass, performance characteristics, and durability are maintained, resulting in improved feel and sound. The weight assembly 214, 314 is angled upward from the rear to the front of the club head at an angle of 5 to 50 degrees relative to the ground plane 1010, which shifts the center of gravity (CG) toward the rear and lower portion of the golf club head. Redistributing discretionary mass to the rear region 205, 305 of the club head 200, 300 can reduce and / or eliminate vibration of the weight assembly 214, 314, resulting in a more favorable launch angle and spin. A first angle 240, 340 may be formed between the first face plane 239, 339 and the ground surface 1010, a second angle 243, 343 may be formed between the second face plane 242, 342 and the ground surface 1010, and a rearward angle 236, 336 may be formed between the rearward face plane 235, 335 and the ground surface 1010. The first angle 240, 340 may be 5 to 55 degrees, the second angle 243, 343 may be 15 to 70 degrees, and the rearward angle 236, 336 may be 100 to 140 degrees. Adjusting the first angle 240, 340, the second angle 243, 343, and the rearward angle 236, 336 of the weight channel 210, 310 can reduce vibration of the weight assembly 214, 314. The embodiments described herein may have 20-35% more discretionary mass that can be redistributed to prevent vibration compared to prior art clubs. The sloped and shallow weight channels allow for the use of heavier weight members, which can move the CG further back and lower. In some embodiments, the weight channels 210, 310 may be located solely within the rear region 205, 305 of the golf club head, and the weight channels 210, 310 are sized to receive the weight members 211, 311 and fasteners 213, 313. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the weight channels 210, 310 are located within the skirts 208, 308 of the golf club heads 200, 300.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 5 , the weight channel 210, 310 may extend across the periphery of the rear region 205, 305 from the heel end 206, 306 to the toe end 207, 307. The weight channel 210, 310 may be configured to allow the weight member 211, 311 to slide, translate, rotate, or otherwise move within the weight channel 210, 310. The golf club head 200, 300 does not include multiple channels. By moving the weight member 211, 311 within the weight channel 210, 310, a user can adjust the CG as desired. For example, moving the CG toward the heel end 206, 306 or toe end 207, 307 of the golf club head can cause the golf ball to fly with a fade or draw, which may help improve the golfer's shot.

[0083] Continuing to refer to FIG. 5 , the weight channel 210, 310 may be defined by multiple surfaces. In some embodiments, the weight channel 210, 310 may be defined by a channel rear surface 219, 319, a channel first surface 215, 315, a channel second surface 216, 316, a channel toe side 217, 317, and a channel heel side 218, 318. The channel first surface 215, 315 may be proximate the crown 202, 302. The channel second surface 216, 316 may be proximate the sole 203, 303. The channel toe side 217, 317 may be proximate the toe end 207, 307. The channel heel side 218, 318 may be proximate the heel end 206, 306. In some embodiments, the channel toe side 217, 317 and the channel heel side 218, 318 may have a shape that matches the weight member 211, 311.

[0084] The weight channel 210, 310 may have a weight channel length. The weight channel length may be defined as a straight line between the heel-most position of the weight channel 210, 310 and the toe-most position of the weight channel 210, 310. In some embodiments, the weight channel length may be constant throughout the weight channel 210, 310. In some embodiments, the weight channel length may vary from the crown 202, 302 to the sole 203, 303. In some embodiments, the weight channel length may be between 1.5 inches and 3.5 inches. In some embodiments, the weight channel length may be between 1.5 inches and 2.0 inches, between 2.0 inches and 2.5 inches, between 2.5 inches and 3.0 inches, or between 3.0 inches and 3.5 inches. The weight channel length allows the weight member 211, 311 to be adjusted toward the heel end 206, 306 or the toe end 207, 307, thereby shifting the CG of the golf club head so that the user can more easily hit shots, such as fade or draw shots.

[0085] The weight channel 210, 310 may have a weight channel depth. The weight channel depth may be measured from the outermost position of the channel first surface 215, 315 to the channel rear surface 219, 319. In some embodiments, the depth may be constant throughout the weight channel 210, 310. In some embodiments, the depth may vary from the heel end 206, 306 to the toe end 207, 307. In some embodiments, the weight channel depth may be shallow enough to allow the weight member 211, 311 to protrude from the weight channel 210, 310 and position the CG low and rearward. In some embodiments, the weight channel depth may be between 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, the weight channel depth can be between 0.1 inches and 0.2 inches, between 0.2 inches and 0.3 inches, between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches, between 0.4 inches and 0.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches, between 0.6 inches and 0.7 inches, between 0.7 inches and 0.8 inches, between 0.8 inches and 0.9 inches, between 0.9 inches and 1.0 inches, between 1.0 inches and 1.1 inches, between 1.1 inches and 1.2 inches, between 1.2 inches and 1.3 inches, between 1.3 inches and 1.4 inches, between 1.4 inches and 1.5 inches, between 1.5 inches and 1.6 inches, between 1.6 inches and 1.7 inches, between 1.7 inches and 1.8 inches, between 1.8 inches and 1.9 inches, or between 1.9 inches and 2.0 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the depth is constant. In one such embodiment, the depth is 0.45 inches. In another embodiment, the depth is 0.41 inches.

[0086] Additionally, the weight channel 210, 310 may have a weight channel height measured from the channel first surface 215, 315 to the channel second surface 216, 316. In some embodiments, the weight channel height may be constant throughout the weight channel in the direction from the heel end 206, 306 to the toe end 207, 307. In some embodiments, the weight channel height may vary along the weight channel length. In some embodiments, the weight channel height may be between 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, the weight channel height can be between 0.1 inches and 0.2 inches, between 0.2 inches and 0.3 inches, between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches, between 0.4 inches and 0.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches, between 0.6 inches and 0.7 inches, between 0.7 inches and 0.8 inches, between 0.8 inches and 0.9 inches, between 0.9 inches and 1.0 inches, between 1.0 inches and 1.1 inches, between 1.1 inches and 1.2 inches, between 1.2 inches and 1.3 inches, between 1.3 inches and 1.4 inches, between 1.4 inches and 1.5 inches, between 1.5 inches and 1.6 inches, between 1.6 inches and 1.7 inches, between 1.7 inches and 1.8 inches, between 1.8 inches and 1.9 inches, or between 1.9 inches and 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, the height is constant. In such an embodiment, the height is 0.32 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the height is 0.38 inches.

[0087] In another embodiment, the weight channel height may vary, with the height varying from the heel end 206, 306 to the toe end 207, 307. The uneven weight channel height may secure the weight member 211, 311 within the weight channel 210, 310 by preventing the weight member 211, 311 from sliding laterally throughout the weight channel 210, 310. This may reduce uncertainty a golfer may have regarding how to adjust their shot shape and / or trajectory by limiting the number of discrete positions at which the golfer can secure the weight member 211, 311.

[0088] In some embodiments, the channel second surface 216, 316 can be located within 0.10 to 0.20 inches from the sole 203, 303. In some embodiments, the distance between the channel second surface 216, 316 and the sole 203, 303 can be 0.10 inches to 0.11 inches, 0.11 inches to 0.12 inches, 0.12 inches to 0.13 inches, 0.13 inches to 0.14 inches, 0.14 inches to 0.15 inches, 0.15 inches to 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches to 0.18 inches, 0.18 inches to 0.19 inches, or 0.19 inches to 0.20 inches.

[0089] The channel rear surface 219, 319 may include a plurality of discrete attachment points 245, 345. The attachment points 245, 345 allow the weight member 211, 311 to be moved within the weight channel to adjust desired performance characteristics (e.g., forgiveness, spin, trajectory). To change position, the weight member 211, 311 is removed from the weight channel 210, 310 and placed at a different attachment point 245, 345 within the weight channel 210, 310. Moving the weight member 211, 311 toward the toe end 207, 307 or heel end 206, 306 of the club head moves the CG, changing the shape of the golf ball's flight when struck with the club head.

[0090] The multiple attachment points 245, 345 may include a variety of features, including protrusions, openings, recesses, ports capable of receiving fasteners, notches, tabs, cutout areas, ribs or grooves, pegs, hooks, magnets, programmable magnets, or any other suitable attachment means. In some embodiments, the multiple attachment points 245, 345 may include multiple threaded recesses 227, 327 configured to receive the fasteners 213, 313. As shown in FIGS. 5, 8, and 18, the multiple threaded recesses may include three threaded recesses: a toe recess, a center recess, and a heel recess. As described further below, the fasteners 213, 313 may be used at each attachment point 245, 345 as a means for removably securing the weight member 211, 311 within the weight channel 210, 310. The multiple threaded recesses 227, 327 allow the weight member 211, 311 to remain secure throughout the swing.

[0091] The channel rear surface 219, 319 allows the weight member 211, 311 to be flush with the outer surface of the club head, ensuring a visually smooth appearance to the customer. In some embodiments, the multiple attachment points may include two to six attachment points. The multiple attachment points may include two, three, four, five, or six attachment points. In most embodiments, the attachment points are evenly spaced apart. In other embodiments, the attachment points may be unevenly spaced apart within the channel rear surface 219, 319. In one exemplary embodiment, the weight channel 210, 310 may include three attachment points spaced apart along the channel rear surface 219, 319, with the centers of each attachment point spaced 0.5 inches to 0.6 inches from the adjacent attachment point.

[0092] Additionally, in most embodiments, the shape of the channel rear surface 219, 319 complements the shape of the front surface 224, 324 of the weight member 211, 311. In exemplary embodiments, the channel rear surface 219, 319 is convex, complementing the concave weight front surface 224, 324. The weight channel 210, 310 may be open toward the rear region 205, 305 and / or sole 203, 303 of the golf club head such that at least a portion of the weight rear surface 225, 325 is visible when viewed from the bottom with the weight member 211, 311 retained within the weight channel 210, 310.

[0093] 5, the positioning of the weight members moves the CG lower and rearward, promoting flexion of the club head during forward and downward motion at impact. Additionally, the weight members 211, 311 can be moved toward the heel end 206, 306 or the toe end 207, 307 of the golf club head to alter the resulting golf ball flight profile, whether it is a fade or a draw. The weight members 211, 311 are configured to be removably attached to the weight channels at each of a plurality of attachment points such that the front weight surface is exposed in the rear region and the second weight surface is at least partially exposed in the sole.

[0094] The location of the weight members 211, 311 on the perimeter of the golf club allows the CG to be moved lower and rearward, which increases MOI and improves shot parameters such as launch angle and spin rate. However, in prior art clubs, the addition of large masses in small channels oriented in this manner on the perimeter of the golf club head, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, causes undesirable vibration of the weight members 211, 311 at impact. However, the angled weight channels described herein reduce vibration, thereby improving sound and durability.

[0095] 6A and 6B, the weight member 211, 311 may include a weight first surface 220, 320, a weight second surface 221, 321, a weight heel surface 223, 323, a weight toe surface 222, 322, a weight front surface 224, 324, and a weight rear surface 225, 325. The weight member 211, 311 may further include dimensions similar to the weight channel 210, 310 to provide a seamless transition between the weight channel 210, 310, the weight member 211, 311, and the rear region 205, 305.

[0096] The weight member 211, 311 may have a weight width measured from the front weight surface 224, 324 to the rear weight surface. In some embodiments, the weight width may be between 0.3 inches and 1.0 inches. In some embodiments, the weight width may be between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches, between 0.4 inches and 0.5 inches, between 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches, between 0.6 inches and 0.7 inches, between 0.7 inches and 0.8 inches, between 0.8 inches and 0.9 inches, or between 0.9 inches and 1.0 inches. In some embodiments, the weight width may be less than 1.0 inches, less than 0.75 inches, or less than 0.50 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the weight width is 0.45 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the weight width is 0.42 inches.

[0097] Additionally, the weight member 211, 311 may have a weight length measured from the weight heel surface 223, 323 to the weight toe surface 222, 322. In some embodiments, the weight length may be between 0.7 inches and 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the weight length may be between 0.7 inches and 0.8 inches, between 0.8 inches and 0.9 inches, between 0.9 inches and 1.0 inches, between 1.0 inches and 1.1 inches, between 1.1 inches and 1.2 inches, between 1.2 inches and 1.3 inches, between 1.3 inches and 1.4 inches, or between 1.4 inches and 1.5 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the weight length is 1.65 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the weight length is 1.12 inches.

[0098] Additionally, the weight member 211, 311 may have a weight height measured from the weight first surface 220, 320 to the weight second surface 221, 321. In some embodiments, the weight height may be between 0.1 inches and 0.6 inches. In some embodiments, the weight height may be between 0.1 inches and 0.2 inches, between 0.2 inches and 0.3 inches, between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches, between 0.4 inches and 0.5 inches, or between 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches. The weight height may be less than 0.6 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the weight height is 0.35 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the weight height is 0.41 inches.

[0099] In many embodiments, the weight member 211, 311 can have a weight mass. The weight mass can be between 18 g and 48 g. In some embodiments, the weight mass 211, 311 can be between 18.0 g and 20.0 g, 20.0 g and 22.0 g, 22.0 g and 24.0 g, 24.0 g and 26.0 g, 26.0 g and 28.0 g, 28.0 g and 30.0 g, 30.0 g and 32.0 g, 32.0 g and 34.0 g, 34.0 g and 36.0 g, 36.0 g and 38.0 g, 38.0 g and 40.0 g, 40.0 g and 42.0 g, 42.0 g and 44.0 g, 44.0 g and 46.0 g, or 46.0 g and 48.0 g. In some embodiments, the mass of the weight member 211, 311 may be greater than 20 g, greater than 25 g, greater than 30 g, greater than 35 g, greater than 40 g, or greater than 45 g.

[0100] In many embodiments, the weight assembly 214, 314 may have a weight assembly mass. As described above, the weight assembly 214, 314 may include a weight member 211, 311, a fastener, and a weight channel 210, 310 including a support material that defines the weight channel. The weight assembly mass may be between 22 grams and 50 grams. In some embodiments, the mass of the weight assembly 214, 314 may be between 22.0g and 24.0g, between 24.0g and 26.0g, between 26.0g and 28.0g, between 28.0g and 30.0g, between 30.0g and 32.0g, between 32.0g and 34.0g, between 34.0g and 36.0g, between 36.0g and 38.0g, between 38.0g and 40.0g, between 40.0g and 42.0g, between 42.0g and 44.0g, between 44.0g and 46.0g, between 46.0g and 48.0g, or between 48.0g and 50.0g. The weight assembly mass and its location on the golf club head perimeter can play a significant role in moving the CG to a lower and rearward position.

[0101] The weight members 211, 311 may have a mass sufficient to affect the performance of the golf club head. In some embodiments, the mass of the weight members 211, 311 is at least 18.0 grams. In other embodiments, the combined mass of the weight members 211, 311 and fasteners 213, 313 is at least 22.0 grams. Given the limitations on movement imposed on the weight members 211, 311 by the size and location of the weight channels 210, 310, a lesser mass of the weight members 211, 311 or the weight members 211, 311 and fasteners 213, 313 may be insufficient to significantly affect the performance of the golf club head.

[0102] In some embodiments, the weight member 211, 311 may have an asymmetrical shape, in which case the cross-sectional shape of the weight member 211, 311 is non-uniform in the direction from the heel end 206, 306 to the toe end 207, 307. In some embodiments, the weight member 211, 311 may have a generally rectangular shape. In other embodiments, the weight member 211, 311 may have any shape. For example, the shape of the weight member 211, 311 may be a circle, an oval, a triangle, a rectangle, an octagon, or any other polygon or shape having at least two curved sides. As described above, the weight member 211, 311 may have a shape that fits into the weight channel 210, 310.

[0103] The weight members 211, 311 may be composed of a single material or multiple different materials. The weight members 211, 311 may be composed of any material, such as metal, polymer (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer), composite material, or any combination thereof. The weight members 211, 311 may be injection molded polymers with different amounts of high-density material (e.g., metal powder) or materials of different densities to achieve different back weight masses while maintaining the same volume. Injection molded weight members with different densities can provide a wide range of weight members with the same volume and geometric shape.

[0104] In some embodiments, two or more weight members 211, 311 may be attached to the golf club head 200, 300. In some embodiments, one or more weight members 211, 311 may have different masses. In other embodiments, only one weight member 211, 311 may be attached to the golf club head 200, 300 at a time. In such embodiments, the shape and size of the one or more weight members 211, 311 may be the same or different, such that the one or more weight members 211, 311 have the same or different masses.

[0105] As described above, in some embodiments, the weight members 211, 311 are movable to each attachment point. Each attachment point is spaced from an adjacent attachment point by an attachment point separation distance. The attachment point separation distance may be between 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches. The attachment point separation distance may be 0.5 inches or 0.6 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the attachment point separation distance is 0.6 inches. Moving the weight members 211, 311 from one attachment point to another shifts the significant mass of the weight members 211, 311, shifting the overall CG of the golf club head. Moving the weight members can produce shot shapes from 5 to 15 yards left to right or 5 to 15 yards right to left.

[0106] In one embodiment, the weight member 211, 311 may be configured to be positioned within the weight channel 210, 310 in a neutral position for hitting a straight golf shot. Centralizing the weight member 211, 311 within the weight channel 210, 310 provides a highly balanced center of gravity (CG) for the entire golf club head, resulting in a generally straight ball flight.

[0107] In another embodiment, the weight member 211, 311 may be configured to be positioned in a heel position within the weight channel 210, 310 to hit a fade type golf shot. Positioning the weight member 211, 311 in the weight channel 210, 310 in a heel position shifts the CG of the overall golf club head from the center toward the heel end 206, 306 of the golf club head, resulting in a generally left-to-right ball flight (or a right-to-left ball flight for a left-handed golfer).

[0108] In another embodiment, the weight member 211, 311 may be configured to be positioned in a toe position within the weight channel 210, 310 to hit a draw type golf shot. Positioning the weight member 211, 311 in a toe position within the weight channel 210, 310 shifts the CG of the overall golf club head from the center toward the toe end 207, 307 of the golf club head, resulting in a generally right-to-left ball flight (or left-to-right ball flight for a right-handed golfer).

[0109] Furthermore, with the weight member 211, 311 positioned within the weight channel 210, 310, the weight member 211, 311 slopes downward from the channel rear surface 219, 319 toward the rear region 205, 305 of the club, distributing much of the mass of the weight member 211, 311 toward the rear region 205, 305 and sole 203, 303 of the golf club head. This moves the overall center of gravity of the club head lower and rearward, reducing upward bending of the club head during impact. I. Wait channel position

[0110] As described above, the weight assembly 214, 314 may be tilted relative to the contact surface 1010 at an angle known as the assembly angle. The assembly angle may be formed by one or more of several reference features and / or planes described below. For example, the assembly angle may be the angle formed between the contact surface 1010 and the recess axis 229, 329, between the contact surface 1010 and the first face plane 239, 339, between the contact surface 1010 and the second face surface 242, 342, between the contact surface 1010 and the rear face plane 235, 335, or any combination thereof. The tilt of the weight channel 210, 310 may prevent vibration of the weight channel 210, 310 by reducing the stress experienced by the entire weight channel 210, 310. More specifically, the slope of the weight channels 210, 310 reduces the upward bending motion of the club head and / or redirects the bending motion downward and forward at impact, thereby better distributing stress throughout the golf club head, promoting stress distribution across the rear portion, reducing cyclic fatigue from repeated use, lowering the risk of breakage over time, and preventing undesirable increased stress in the weight channels perpendicular to the Z axis.

[0111] By reducing and distributing the stresses on the weight channels 210, 310 during impact, it is possible to reduce or eliminate support material in the weight channels, as described below, as well as eliminate one or more ribs. This allows for increased discretionary mass that can be redistributed as desired throughout the golf club head, improving MOI, CG, or other golf club head parameters. The recess axis 229, 329 may be defined as an axis passing through the geometric center of one of the attachment points on the ZY plane. In one embodiment, the recess axis 229, 329 may be defined as passing through the central attachment point on the ZY plane.

[0112] The recess axis 229, 329 may form a recess contact angle 228, 328 with respect to the ground surface 1010. In some embodiments, the recess contact angle 228, 328 may be between 5 degrees and 55 degrees. In some embodiments, the recess contact angle 228, 328 may be between 5 degrees and 15 degrees, between 15 and 25 degrees, between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, between 35 degrees and 45 degrees, or between 45 degrees and 55 degrees. In some embodiments, the recess contact angle 228, 328 may be less than 10 degrees, less than 20 degrees, less than 30 degrees, less than 40 degrees, or less than 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the recess contact angle may be 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, or 55 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the recess contact angle 228, 328 is approximately 15 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the recess contact angle 228, 328 is approximately 45 degrees. The tilted recess axis 229, 329 causes the club head 210, 310 to flex downward rather than upward during impact, thereby reducing the amount of stress placed on the weight channel 210, 310 at impact. More specifically, the tilted weight channel reduces and redirects flex at the rear portion at impact. This reduced flex and redirection reduces vibration in the weight assembly, allowing for the use of heavier weight members to move the CG further back and lower while reducing overall vibration in the weight channel.

[0113] 11 , the channel first surface 215, 315 may further define a first surface plane 239, 339. The first surface plane 239, 339 may form a first angle 240, 340 with respect to the ground plane 1010. In some embodiments, the first angle 240, 340 may be between 5 degrees and 55 degrees. In some embodiments, the first angle 240, 340 may be between 5 degrees and 15 degrees, between 15 degrees and 25 degrees, between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, between 35 degrees and 45 degrees, or between 45 degrees and 55 degrees. In some embodiments, the first angle 240, 340 may be less than 100 degrees, less than 20 degrees, less than 30 degrees, less than 40 degrees, or less than 50 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the first angle 240, 340 is approximately 15 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the first angle 240, 340 is approximately 45 degrees. The first surface plane 239, 339 may be approximately parallel to the recess axis 229, 329. The first angle 240, 340 may be approximately parallel to the recess ground plane 228, 238.

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 22 , the channel second surface 216, 316 can further define a second surface plane 242, 342. The second surface plane 242, 342 can form a second angle 243, 343 with respect to the ground plane 1010. In some embodiments, the second angle 243, 343 can be between 15 degrees and 70 degrees. In some embodiments, the second angle 243, 343 can be between 15 degrees and 25 degrees, between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, between 35 degrees and 50 degrees, or between 50 degrees and 70 degrees. In some embodiments, the second angle 243, 343 can be greater than 15 degrees or greater than 45 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the second angle 243, 343 is approximately 21 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the second angle 243, 343 is approximately 50 degrees.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 23 , the channel rear surface 219, 319 can further define a rear plane 235, 335. The rear plane 235, 335 can be perpendicular to the recess axis 229, 329. The rear plane 235, 335 can form a rearward angle 236, 336 with respect to the ground plane 1010. In some embodiments, the rearward angle 236, 336 can be between 100 degrees and 140 degrees. In some embodiments, the rearward angle 236, 336 can be between 100 degrees and 110 degrees, between 110 degrees and 120 degrees, between 120 degrees and 130 degrees, or between 130 degrees and 140 degrees. In some embodiments, the rearward angle 236, 336 can be greater than 100 degrees, greater than 110 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, or greater than 130 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the rearward angle 236, 336 is approximately 107 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the rearward angle 236, 336 is approximately 136 degrees.

[0116] 14A and 24A, recess axis 229, 329 may form recess loft angle 231, 331 with respect to loft plane 1015. In some embodiments, recess loft angle 231, 331 may be between 85 degrees and 135 degrees. In some embodiments, recess loft angle 231, 331 may be between 85 degrees and 95 degrees, between 95 degrees and 105 degrees, between 105 degrees and 115 degrees, between 115 degrees and 125 degrees, or between 125 degrees and 135 degrees. In some embodiments, recess loft angle 231, 331 may be greater than 85 degrees, greater than 95 degrees, greater than 105 degrees, greater than 115 degrees, or greater than 125 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, recess loft angle 231, 331 is 96 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, recess loft angle 231, 331 is 125 degrees.

[0117] 14B and 24B, the channel first surface plane 239, 339 may form a first loft angle 241, 341 with respect to the loft plane 1015. In some embodiments, the first loft angle 241, 341 may be between 85 degrees and 135 degrees. In some embodiments, the first loft angle 241, 341 may be between 85 degrees and 95 degrees, between 95 degrees and 105 degrees, between 105 degrees and 115 degrees, between 115 degrees and 125 degrees, or between 125 degrees and 135 degrees. In some embodiments, the first loft angle 241, 341 may be greater than 90 degrees, greater than 110 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, or greater than 130 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the first loft angle 241, 341 is 93 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the first loft angle 241, 341 is 122 degrees.

[0118] 14C and 24C, the channel second surface plane 242, 342 may form a second loft angle 244, 344 with respect to the loft plane. In some embodiments, the second loft angle 244, 344 may be between 85 degrees and 135 degrees. In some embodiments, the second loft angle 244, 344 may be between 85 degrees and 95 degrees, between 95 degrees and 105 degrees, between 105 degrees and 115 degrees, between 115 degrees and 125 degrees, or between 125 degrees and 135 degrees. In some embodiments, the second loft angle 244, 344 may be greater than 85 degrees, greater than 95 degrees, greater than 105 degrees, greater than 115 degrees, or greater than 125 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the second loft angle 244, 344 is 99 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the second loft angle 244, 344 is 128 degrees.

[0119] Further, in embodiments where the multiple attachment points comprise multiple threaded recesses 227, 327, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 25A, the recess axis 229, 329 may form a first recess angle 232, 332 with respect to the first surface 215, 315. In some embodiments, the first recess angle 232, 332 is between 0 and 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the first recess angle 232, 332 may be between 0 and 1 degree, between 1 and 2 degrees, between 2 and 3 degrees, between 3 and 4 degrees, between 4 and 5 degrees, between 5 and 6 degrees, or between 6 and 7 degrees. In some embodiments, the first recess angle 232, 332 may be less than 5 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the first recess angle 232, 332 is approximately 3 degrees. In some embodiments, the first recess angle 232, 332 may be the same among the multiple recesses 227, 327. In some embodiments, the first recess angle 232, 332 may vary between the recesses 227, 327.

[0120] As shown in FIGS. 15B and 25B , the recess axis 229, 329 may form a second recess angle 233, 333 with respect to the channel second surface plane 242, 342. In some embodiments, the second recess angle 233, 333 may be between 0 and 6 degrees. In some embodiments, the second recess angle 233, 333 may be between 0 and 1 degree, between 1 and 2 degrees, between 2 and 3 degrees, between 3 and 4 degrees, between 4 and 5 degrees, or between 5 and 6 degrees. In some embodiments, the second recess angle 233, 333 may be less than 5 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the second recess angle 233, 333 is approximately 3 degrees. In some embodiments, the second recess angle 233, 333 may be the same among multiple recesses 227, 327. In some embodiments, the second recess angle 233, 333 may vary among multiple recesses 227, 327.

[0121] As shown in FIGS. 15C and 25C , the recess axis 229, 329 may form a rear recess angle 234, 334 with respect to the channel rear surface plane 235, 335. In some embodiments, the recess axis 229, 239 may be perpendicular to the rear surface plane 235, 335. In some embodiments, the rear recess angle 234, 334 may be between 80 degrees and 100 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear recess angle 234, 334 may be between 80 degrees and 82 degrees, between 82 degrees and 84 degrees, between 84 degrees and 86 degrees, between 86 degrees and 88 degrees, between 88 degrees and 90 degrees, between 90 degrees and 92 degrees, between 92 degrees and 94 degrees, between 94 degrees and 96 degrees, between 96 degrees and 98 degrees, or between 98 degrees and 100 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear access angle may be 8 degrees, 85 degrees, 90 degrees, 95 degrees, or 100 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the rear recess angle 234, 334 is approximately 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the rear recess angle 234, 334 can be the same among the recesses 227, 327. In some embodiments, the rear recess angle 234, 334 can vary among the recesses 227, 327.

[0122] Further, the recess axis 229, 329 may intersect the ground plane 1010. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 26 , an RG point 247, 347 may be defined at the intersection of the recess axis 229, 329 and the ground plane 1010. A distance may be defined between the RG point 247, 347 and the center of gravity (hereinafter referred to as the "RGCG distance"). In some embodiments, the RGCG distance may be between 2.75 inches and 4.25 inches. In some embodiments, the RGCG distance may be between 2.75 inches and 3.00 inches, between 3.00 inches and 3.25 inches, between 3.25 inches and 3.50 inches, between 3.50 inches and 3.75 inches, between 3.75 inches and 4.00 inches, or between 4.00 inches and 4.25 inches. In some embodiments, the RGCG distance may be less than 6.0 inches or less than 5.0 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the RGCG distance is 4.04 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the RGCG distance is 3.19 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the RGCG distance is 2.46 inches.

[0123] Additionally, a distance may be defined between the RG and the leading edge of the club head (hereinafter referred to as "RGLE"). In some embodiments, the RGLE distance may be between 4.6 inches and 6.0 inches. In some embodiments, the RGLE distance may be between 4.6 inches and 4.8 inches, between 4.8 inches and 5.0 inches, between 5.0 inches and 5.2 inches, between 5.2 inches and 5.4 inches, between 5.4 inches and 5.6 inches, between 5.6 inches and 5.8 inches, or between 5.8 inches and 5.0 inches. In some embodiments, the RGLE distance may be less than 6.0 inches or less than 5.0 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the RGLE distance is 5.80 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the RGLE distance is 4.94 inches.

[0124] The angled weight assembly 214, 314 reduces and redirects downward and forward bending of the golf club head 200, 300 upon impact. This improved bending reduces stress on the golf club head 200, 300, and more specifically on the weight channels 210, 310. Reducing stress on the weight channels 210, 310 allows for less or no support material to be required, thereby increasing discretionary mass that can be redistributed throughout the golf club head 200, 300.

[0125] Reducing or eliminating ribs can provide several advantages. By directing the flexion motion downward and forward, rather than upward and forward, the mass of the internal ribs can be reduced or eliminated entirely. In the golf club head 200, 300, the ribs may be oriented radially along the crown 202, 302. The club head may include one or more ribs. In some embodiments, there may be one rib, two ribs, three ribs, four ribs, five ribs, six ribs, seven ribs, or eight ribs. In one exemplary embodiment, the golf club head 200, 300 includes six ribs.

[0126] Additionally, the mass removed from the rib support structure can be redistributed to other areas, such as weighting, to improve other club head characteristics, such as the center of gravity and moment of inertia. By shifting the center of gravity, club characteristics such as launch angle and spin rate can be improved. By improving launch angle and spin rate, the static loft of a wood-type golf club can be lowered. The aforementioned characteristics can be achieved by tilting the weight channel.

[0127] The weight assembly 214, 314 may further comprise a support material. A mass structure may be internally positioned around the weight assembly 214, 314 to provide additional support as the angle of the weight assembly changes. The mass structure may also move the CG lower and further back. II. Relationships

[0128] Weight channels perpendicular to the z-axis favorably maintain the CG low and rearward, but are unstable during impact. Weight channels parallel to the z-axis provide more stability during impact by using additional support material to move the CG forward toward the striking face. Weight channels tilted at 5-50 degrees strike a balance between stabilizing the weight channel during impact and maintaining the CG low and rearward. The position of the weight members 211, 311 can directly affect golf club head parameters such as CG and MOI. The weight members 211, 311 may be positioned behind the CG with respect to the z-axis, below the CG with respect to the y-axis, or heelward with respect to the x-axis. The position of the weight members 211, 311 relative to the CG may be adjusted by the user as the weight members 211, 311 are moved from one attachment point 245, 345 to another.

[0129] The flexing of the weight channel can directly relate to the displacement of the weight during and after impact. In particular, the Y-displacement can change the amount of stress on the weight channel. The angled weight channel can reduce and redirect the flexing of the golf club head at impact, further reducing stress and Y-displacement. In many embodiments, the club head 200, 300 satisfies one or more of the following relationships to reduce the y-displacement of the golf club head:

number

[0130] As described above, the weight member 211, 311 may be positioned a distance from the club head CG relative to the x-axis (hereinafter referred to as DWX). DWX may be defined as the distance from the club head CG to the weight CG relative to the x-axis. In some embodiments, DWX may be between -0.155 inches and -0.115 inches. In some embodiments, DWX may be between -0.155 inches and -0.145 inches, between -0.145 inches and -0.135 inches, between -0.135 inches and -0.125 inches, or between -0.125 inches and -0.115 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, DWX is -0.142 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, DWX is -0.120 inches. The DWX of a tilted weight port is longer than that of one perpendicular to the z-axis.

[0131] As described above, the weight member 211, 311 may be positioned a distance from the club head CG relative to the y-axis (hereinafter referred to as DWY). DWY may be defined as the distance from the club head CG to the weight CG relative to the y-axis. In some embodiments, DWY may be between -0.620 inches and -0.440 inches. In some embodiments, DWY may be between -0.620 inches and -0.600 inches, -0.600 inches and -0.580 inches, -0.580 inches and -0.560 inches, -0.560 inches and -0.540 inches, -0.540 inches and -0.520 inches, -0.520 inches and -0.500 inches, -0.500 inches and -0.480 inches, -0.480 inches and -0.460 inches, or -0.460 inches and -0.440 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the DWY is -0.610 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the DWY is -0.459 inches. Maximizing the DWY is desirable because a larger DWY increases the MOI along the y-axis. Additionally, a larger DWY results in a lower and rearward CG position, which improves shot parameters such as launch angle and spin rate. The DMY of a canted weight port is longer when compared to one perpendicular to the z-axis.

[0132] As described above, the weight member 211, 311 may be positioned a distance from the club head CG relative to the z-axis (hereinafter referred to as the DWZ). The DWZ may be defined as the distance from the club head CG to the weight CG relative to the z-axis. In some embodiments, the DWZ may be between -2.625 and -2.500 inches. In some embodiments, the DWZ may be between -2.625 and -2.600 inches, between -2.600 and -2.575 inches, or between -2.575 and -2.550 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the DWZ is -2.643 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the DWZ is -2.612 inches. The DMZ of a slanted weight port is longer than that perpendicular to the z-axis.

[0133] Additionally, the weight member 211, 311 may be positioned a distance (hereinafter referred to as DFX) from the geometric center of the striking face relative to the x-axis. DFX may be defined as the distance from the geometric center of the striking face 204, 304 relative to the x-axis to the weight CG. In some embodiments, DFX may be between -0.210 inches and -0.150 inches. In some embodiments, DFX may be between -0.210 inches and -0.200 inches, -0.200 inches and -0.190 inches, -0.190 inches and -0.180 inches, -0.180 inches and -0.170 inches, -0.170 inches and -0.160 inches, or -0.160 inches and -0.150 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, DFX is -0.198 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, DFX is -0.176 inches. When comparing the DFX of the inclined weight port with that perpendicular to the z-axis, the DFX is longer.

[0134] As discussed above, the weight member 211, 311 may be positioned a distance from the geometric center of the striking face relative to the y-axis (hereinafter referred to as DFY). DFY may be defined as the distance from the geometric center of the striking face 204, 304 relative to the y-axis to the weight CG. In some embodiments, DFY may be between -0.850 inches and -0.650 inches. In some embodiments, DFY may be between -0.850 inches and -0.825 inches, between -0.825 inches and -0.800 inches, between -0.800 inches and -0.775 inches, between -0.775 inches and -0.750 inches, between -0.750 inches and -0.725 inches, between -0.700 inches and -0.675 inches, or between -0.675 inches and -0.650 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, DFY is -0.820 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the DFY is -0.668 inches. The DFY for a tilted weight port compared to one perpendicular to the z-axis is longer. As discussed above, the weight member 211, 311 may be positioned a distance from the geometric center of the striking face relative to the z-axis (hereinafter referred to as the DFZ). The DFZ may be defined as the distance from the geometric center of the striking face 204, 304 relative to the z-axis to the weight CG. In some embodiments, the DFZ may be between -4.450 inches and -4.300 inches. In some embodiments, the DFZ may be between -4.450 inches and -4.425 inches, between -4.425 inches and -4.400 inches, between -4.400 inches and -4.375 inches, between -4.375 inches and -4.350 inches, between -4.350 inches and -4.325 inches, or between -4.325 inches and -4.300 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the DFZ is -4.388 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the DFZ is -4.349 inches. When comparing the DFZ of the inclined weight port with that perpendicular to the z-axis, the DFZ is longer. III.MOI / CG

[0135] As discussed above, the position and angle of the weight assemblies 214, 314 can affect the CG position, which in turn can affect the forgiveness of the golf club, the direction of golf ball flight, and / or the angle of golf ball flight.

[0136] As noted above, the CGx of the above-described tilted weight assembly can be defined as the CG position along the x-axis measured from the origin. In some embodiments, the CGx can be between -0.075 inches and -0.005 inches. In some embodiments, the CGx can be between -0.075 inches and -0.065 inches, between -0.065 inches and -0.055 inches, between -0.055 inches and -0.045 inches, between -0.045 inches and -0.035 inches, between -0.035 inches and -0.025 inches, between -0.025 inches and -0.015 inches, or between -0.015 inches and -0.005 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the CGx is -0.056 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the CGx is -0.057 inches.

[0137] As noted above, the CGy of the above-described tilted weight assembly can be defined as the CG position along the y-axis measured from the origin. In some embodiments, the CGy can be between 0.835 inches and 0.851 inches. In some embodiments, the CGy can be between 0.835 inches and 0.837 inches, 0.837 inches and 0.839 inches, 0.839 inches and 0.841 inches, 0.841 inches and 0.843 inches, 0.843 inches and 0.845 inches, 0.845 inches and 0.847 inches, 0.847 inches and 0.849 inches, or 0.849 inches and 0.851 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the CGy is 0.842 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the CGy is 0.844 inches.

[0138] As noted above, the CGz of the above-described tilted weight assembly can be defined as the CG position along the z-axis measured from the origin. In some embodiments, the CGz can be between -1.950 inches and -2.000 inches. In some embodiments, the CGz can be between -1.950 inches and -1.960 inches, between -1.960 inches and -1.970 inches, between -1.970 inches and -1.980 inches, between -1.980 inches and -1.990 inches, or between -1.990 inches and -2.000 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the CGz is -1.961 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the CGz is -1.989 inches.

[0139] As mentioned above, the MOI determines the forgiveness of a golf club head. A higher MOI means greater forgiveness for impacts off-center of the striking face. MOI is a characteristic of the club head's perimeter mass distribution. Generally, the club head's discretionary mass is strategically distributed throughout the club head to maximize the moment of inertia about the CGx axis (Ixx) and the moment of inertia about the CGy axis (Iyy). As mentioned above, the tilt of the weight assemblies 214, 314 neutralizes the bending behavior of the club head upon impact with the ball. Inclining the weight assemblies 214, 314 upward from the sole 203, 303 improves control of bending rotation. This reduced bending allows for the reduction or elimination of support material, such as by eliminating ribs or channel material, thereby increasing the discretionary mass that can be redistributed throughout the club head. A tilted weight assembly maintains a similar MOI to a weight assembly perpendicular to the z axis, but is more stable during impact. The following describes desirable moment of inertia values that result in high forgiveness.

[0140] The golf club head 200, 300 may have an MOI (Ixx) relative to the x-axis. In some embodiments, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx is about 3000 g / cm 2 Over 3250g / cm 2 Over 3500g / cm 2 Over 3750g / cm 2 Over 4000g / cm 2 Over 4250g / cm 2 Over 4500g / cm 2 Over 4750g / cm 2 Over or about 5000g / cm 2 In another embodiment, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx is 4000 to 6000 g / cm 2 In another embodiment, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx may be 4000 to 5000 g / cm 2 , or 5000 to 6000 g / cm 2In some embodiments, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx may be 4000, 4100, 4200, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, 5000, 5100, 5200, 5300, 5400, 5500, 5600, 5700, 5800, 5900, or 6000 g / cm 2 In one exemplary embodiment, Ixx may be about 4043 g / cm 2 In another exemplary embodiment, Ixx is about 4414 g / cm 2 is.

[0141] The golf club head 200, 300 may further have an MOI (Iyy) about the y-axis. In some embodiments, the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy is about 4500 g / cm 2 Over 4750g / cm 2 Over 5000g / cm 2 Over 5250g / cm 2 Over 5500g / cm 2 Over 5750g / cm 2 Over or about 6000g / cm 2 In another embodiment, the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy may be greater than 5000 to 7500 g / cm 2 In another embodiment, the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy may be 4500 to 5200 g / cm 2 , or 5200 to 6000 g / cm 2 In some embodiments, the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy can be 5000, 5100, 5200, 5300, 5400, 5500, 5600, 5700, 5800, 5900, 6000, 6100, 6200, 6300, 6400, 6500, 6600, 6700, 6800, 6900, 7000, 7100, 7200, 7300, 7400, or 7500 g / cm 2 In one exemplary embodiment, Iyy may be about 5182 g / cm 2 In another exemplary embodiment, Iyy is about 5651 g / cm 2 is.

[0142] The golf club head 200, 300 may further have a composite MOI. The composite MOI may be defined as the sum of the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx and the heel-sole moment of inertia Iyy. In some embodiments, the composite MOI is 8000 g / cm 2 Over 8500g / cm 2 Over 9000g / cm 2 Over 9500g / cm 2 Over 10,000g / cm 2 Over 11000g / cm 2 Over 11500g / cm 2 Over 12000g / cm 2 In other embodiments, the combined MOI may be greater than 8000 g / cm 2 ~12000g / cm 2 In some embodiments, the combined MOI may be 8000 g / cm 2 ~8250g / cm 2 , 8250g / cm 2 ~8500g / cm 2 , 8500g / cm 2 ~8750g / cm 2 , 8750g / cm 2 ~9000g / cm 2 , 9000g / cm 2 ~9250g / cm 2 , 9250g / cm 2 ~9500g / cm 2 , 9500g / cm 2 ~9750g / cm 2 , 9750g / cm 2 ~10000g / cm 2 , 10000g / cm 2 ~10250g / cm 2 , 10250g / cm 2 ~10500g / cm 2 , 10500g / cm 2 ~10750g / cm 2 , 10750g / cm 2 ~11000g / cm 2 , 11000g / cm 2 ~11250g / cm 2, 11250g / cm 2 ~11500g / cm 2 , 11500g / cm 2 ~11750g / cm 2 , or 11750 g / cm 2 ~12000g / cm 2 It may be.

[0143] The golf club head 200, 300 may further have an MOI (Izz) about the z-axis. In some embodiments, the front-to-rear moment of inertia Izz is about 2000 g / cm 2 Over 2250g / cm 2 Over 2500g / cm 2 Over 2750g / cm 2 Over or about 3000g / cm 2 In another embodiment, the front-to-rear moment of inertia Izz is 2000 to 3500 g / cm 2 In some embodiments, the front-to-rear moment of inertia Izz may be 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600, 2700, 2800, 2900, 3000, 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, or 3500 g / cm 2 In one exemplary embodiment, Izz may be about 2541 g / cm 2 In another exemplary embodiment, Izz is about 2483 g / cm 2 is. IV. Embodiment 1

[0144] In one exemplary embodiment, the golf club head 200 includes a sloped weight channel 210 (hereinafter alternatively referred to as the "weight channel" or "channel"). The golf club head 200 may further include a crown 202, a sole 203 opposite the crown 202, a striking face 204, a rear region 205 opposite the striking face 204, a heel end 206, and a toe end 207 opposite the heel end 206. The striking face 204, the crown 202, the sole 203, the heel end 206, the toe end 207, and the rear region 205 together form a closed, hollow interior of the club head. The club head 200 may further include the sloped weight channel 210 configured to receive a weight assembly 212. The weight channel 210 may be located in the rear region 205 of the golf club head 200.

[0145] The weight channel 210 may be defined by multiple surfaces. The weight channel 210 may be defined by a channel rear surface 219, a channel first surface 215, a channel second surface 216, a channel toe side surface 217, and a channel heel side surface 218. The weight channel 210 is open toward the rear of the golf club head and the sole 203 such that, with the weight member 211 held within the weight channel 210, at least a portion of the rear surface 225 of the weight member is visible when viewed from the bottom and rear.

[0146] The weight channel 210 further defines a weight channel depth, a weight channel height, and a weight channel length. The weight channel depth is constant. The weight channel depth is between 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches. The weight channel height is variable. The weight channel height is between 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches. The weight channel length varies from the crown to the sole. The weight channel length is variable from 1.5 inches to 3.5 inches.

[0147] As described above, the weight channel 210 includes a channel second surface 216. The channel second surface 216 is proximate to the sole 203. The channel second surface is located at a distance from the sole 203 of the golf club head. The distance between the channel second surface 216 and the sole 203 varies and may be between 0.10 inches and 0.20 inches.

[0148] Additionally, rear surface 219 includes a plurality of attachment points 227. Plurality of attachment points 227 includes a plurality of threaded recesses configured to receive fasteners 213. Plurality of attachment points 227 includes three attachment points equally spaced along the channel. Each attachment point in the plurality of attachment points is spaced 0.6 inches from each other. Additionally, weight channel 210 includes a center attachment point, a heel attachment point, and a toe attachment point. Each of the toe attachment point, center attachment point, and heel attachment point has a circular cross-section and an attachment point center.

[0149] As described above, the plurality of attachment points 227 comprise threaded recesses configured to receive the fasteners 213. The fasteners 213 removably secure the weight member 211 to the desired attachment points. The weight member 211 may further have a weight width, a weight length, and a weight height. The weight width, weight length, and weight height are similar to the weight channel width, weight channel length, and weight channel height to ensure a seamless transition between the weight channel, the weight member, and the golf club head. The weight width is 0.45 inches. The weight length is 1.65 inches. The weight height is 0.35 inches.

[0150] The weight member 211 may further have a weight mass between 22 grams and 48 grams. The weight assembly may have a weight assembly mass between 27 grams and 48 grams.

[0151] Not only the mass of the weight member 211, but also its position directly affects the MOI and CG. CGx is -0.056 inches. CGy is 0.842 inches. CGz is -1.961 inches. Ixx is approximately 4043 g / cm 2 Iyy is approximately 5182g / cm 2 Izz is approximately 2541g / cm 2 is.

[0152] The weight assemblies may be positioned diagonally. The recess contact angle is 15 degrees. The first angle is 15 degrees. The second angle is 21 degrees. The rearward angle is 107 degrees. The recess loft angle is 96 degrees. The first loft angle is 93 degrees. The second loft angle is 99 degrees. The first recess angle is 3 degrees. The second recess angle is 3 degrees. The rearward recess angle is 90 degrees. The RGCG distance is 4.04 inches. The RGLE distance is 5.80 inches. DWX is -0.142. DWY is -0.610. DWZ is -2.643 inches. DFX is -0.198. DFY is -0.820. DFZ is -4.388 inches. V. Embodiment 2

[0153] In one exemplary embodiment, the golf club head 300 includes a sloped weight channel 310 (hereinafter alternatively referred to as the "weight channel" or "channel"). The golf club head 300 may further include a crown 302, a sole 303 opposite the crown 302, a striking face 304, a rear region 305 opposite the striking face 304, a heel end 306, and a toe end 307 opposite the heel end 306. The striking face 304, the crown 302, the sole 303, the heel end 306, the toe end 307, and the rear region 305 together form a closed, hollow interior of the club head. The club head 300 may further include the sloped weight channel 310 configured to receive a weight assembly 312. The weight channel 310 may be located in the rear region 305 of the golf club head 300.

[0154] The weight channel 310 may be defined by multiple surfaces. The weight channel 310 may be defined by a channel rear surface 319, a channel first surface 315, a channel second surface 316, a channel toe side 317, and a channel heel side 318. The weight channel 310 is open toward the rear of the golf club head and the sole 303 such that, with the weight member 311 held within the weight channel 310, at least a portion of the rear surface 325 of the weight member is visible when viewed from the bottom and rear.

[0155] The weight channel 310 further defines a weight channel depth, a weight channel height, and a weight channel length. The weight channel depth is constant. The weight channel has a weight depth between 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches. The weight channel height varies. The weight channel height varies between 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches. The weight channel length varies from crown to sole. The weight channel length varies between 1.5 inches and 3.5 inches.

[0156] As described above, the weight channel 310 includes a channel second surface 316. The channel second surface 316 is adjacent to the sole 303. The channel second surface 316 is positioned at a distance from the sole 303 of the golf club head. The distance between the channel second surface 316 and the sole 303 is variable and is between 0.10 inches and 0.20 inches.

[0157] Additionally, rear surface 319 includes a plurality of attachment points 327. Plurality of attachment points 327 includes a plurality of threaded recesses configured to receive fasteners 313. Plurality of attachment points 327 includes three attachment points equally spaced along the channel. Each attachment point in the plurality of attachment points is spaced 0.6 inches from each other. Additionally, weight channel 310 includes a center attachment point, a heel attachment point, and a toe attachment point. Each of the toe attachment point, center attachment point, and heel attachment point has a circular cross-section and an attachment point center.

[0158] As described above, the plurality of attachment points 327 comprise threaded recesses configured to receive the fasteners 313. The fasteners 313 removably secure the weight member 311 to the desired attachment points. The weight member 311 may further have a weight width, a weight length, and a weight height. The weight width, weight length, and weight height are similar to the weight channel width, weight channel length, and weight channel height to ensure a seamless transition between the weight channel, the weight member, and the golf club head. The weight width is 0.42 inches. The weight length is 1.12 inches. The weight height is 0.41 inches.

[0159] The weight member 311 may further have a weight mass between 22 grams and 48 grams. The weight assembly may have a weight assembly mass between 27 grams and 48 grams.

[0160] Not only the mass of the weight member 311, but also its position directly affects the MOI and CG. CGx is -0.057 inches. CGy is 0.844 inches. CGz is -1.989 inches. Ixx is approximately 4414 g / cm 2 Iyy is approximately 5651g / cm 2 Izz is approximately 2483g / cm 2 is.

[0161] The weight assembly may be positioned diagonally. The recess contact angle is 45 degrees. The first angle is 45 degrees. The second angle is 50 degrees. The rearward angle is 136 degrees. The recess loft angle is 125 degrees. The first loft angle is 122 degrees. The second loft angle is 128 degrees. The first recess angle is 3 degrees. The second recess angle is 3 degrees. The rearward recess angle is 90 degrees. The RGCG distance is 4.04 inches. The RGLE distance is 5.80 inches. DWX is -0.120. DWY is -0.459. DWZ is -2.612 inches. DFX is -0.176. DFY is -0.668. DFZ is -4.349 inches. VI. Examples Example I: Mass property comparison between club heads described herein with weight channels angled at 15 degrees or 45 degrees and control club heads with weight channels angled at 0 degrees or 90 degrees

[0162] Example I provides a comparison between two embodiments of a conventional weight system and two embodiments of the tilted weight system described above. More specifically, Example 1 describes the differences in CG and MOI between the two conventional weight systems and the two embodiments of the tilted weight system described above, as shown in Table 1.

[0163] Hereinafter, a description will be given of a conventional driver-type golf club head 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 with a first conventional weight channel 110 (hereinafter referred to as "control club head 1"), a second conventional weight channel 410 shown in FIGS. 27-29 (hereinafter referred to as "control club head 2"), a first exemplary embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 1") consisting of a driver-type golf club head 200 with an angled weight channel 210 shown in FIGS. 7-16, and a second exemplary embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 2") consisting of a driver-type golf club head 300 with an angled weight channel 310 shown in FIGS. 17-26. The control club head 1 has a weight channel that is not angled (i.e., at 0 degrees) with respect to the ground surface 1010 at the address position. The control club head 2 has a weight channel that is perpendicular (i.e., at 90 degrees) with respect to the ground surface 1010 at the address position. Exemplary club head 1 has a weight channel that is angled 15 degrees relative to the ground surface 1010 at address. Exemplary club head 2 has a weight channel that is angled 45 degrees relative to the ground surface 1010 at address.

[0164] Control club head 1, Control club head 2, Example club head 1, and Example club head 2 each have similar body structures, volumes, loft angles, and lie angles. A direct comparison highlighting the differences in CG and MOI between Control club head 1, Control club head 2, Example club head 1, and Example club head 2 is shown in Table 1 below. [Table 1]

[0165] As shown in Table 1, both Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 maintained desirable CG and MOI values while providing improvements in the mass of the materials of construction and the overall mass of the club head (as described in more detail in Example II below). Generally, the CG measurements of Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 were maintained within 6.2% of the CG of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2. Specifically, the CGx of Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 was maintained within 0% to 2% of the CGx of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2. Furthermore, the CGy of Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 was maintained within 0% to 0.2% of the CGy of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2. The CGz of Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 was maintained within 0.2% to 6.2% of the CGz of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2.

[0166] Similar to CG, MOI was also maintained for example club head 1 and example club head 2. The measured MOI for example club head 1 and example club head 2 was maintained within 13% of the MOI for control club head 1 and control club head 2. Specifically, the MOIx for example club head 1 and example club head 2 was maintained within 5.5%-13% of the MOI for control club head 1 and control club head 2. The MOIy for example club head 1 and example club head 2 was maintained within 2.1%-13% of the MOI for control club head 1 and control club head 2. The MOIz for example club head 1 and example club head 2 was maintained within 0.04%-3% of the MOI for control club head 1 and control club head 2. Example II: Mass Comparison Between Club Heads Described Herein with 15 Degree or 45 Degree Inclined Weight Channels and Control Club Heads with 0 Degree or 90 Degree Inclined Weight Channels

[0167] Example II provides a comparison between two embodiments of a conventional weight system and two embodiments of the tilted weight system described above. More specifically, Example II describes the difference in support material mass and total club head mass between the two embodiments of a conventional weight system and the two embodiments of the tilted weight system described above, as shown in Table 2 below.

[0168] This description will discuss a conventional driver-type golf club 100 (hereinafter referred to as "control club head 1") having a first conventional weight channel 110, a second conventional weight channel 410 (hereinafter referred to as "control club head 2"), a first exemplary embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 1") comprising a driver-type golf club head 200 having a sloped weight channel 210, and a second exemplary embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 2") comprising a driver-type golf club head 300 having a sloped weight channel 310. The control club head 1 has a weight channel that is not sloped (i.e., at 0 degrees) with respect to the ground surface 1010 at the address position. The control club head 2 has a weight channel that is perpendicular (i.e., at 90 degrees) with respect to the ground surface 1010 at the address position. The exemplary club head 1 has a weight channel that is sloped 15 degrees with respect to the ground surface 1010 at the address position. The example club head 2 includes a weight channel that is angled 45 degrees relative to the ground surface 1010 at address.

[0169] Control club head 1, Control club head 2, Example club head 1, and Example club head 2 each have similar body structures, volumes, loft angles, and lie angles. A direct comparison highlighting the differences in mass and impact reaction parameters between Control club head 1, Control club head 2, Example club head 1, and Example club head 2 is shown in Table 2 below. [Table 2]

[0170] Referring to Table 2 above, the different weight channel angles of Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 provide additional discretionary mass and result in a more favorable design for manufacturing. The reduction in total club head mass is achieved by reducing the channel wall thickness and minimizing or eliminating support material. Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 are expected to maintain ball speed and maintain or improve launch compared to Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2.

[0171] As shown in Table 2, Example Club Head 1 (weight channel angle 15 degrees) requires significantly less support material, resulting in a reduction in club head mass. Specifically, Example Club Head 1 requires only 5.47 g of total support material, compared to 7.06 g for Control Club Head 1 (weight channel angle 0 degrees) and 21.11 g for Control Club Head 2 (weight channel angle 90 degrees). Example Club Head 1 has a 22.5% reduction in support material mass compared to Control Club Head 1 and a 74% reduction in support material mass compared to Control Club Head 2. This reduction in support material allows for more discretionary mass to be strategically placed to improve performance characteristics.

[0172] As shown in Table 2, Example Club Head 2 (weight channel angle 45 degrees) required more support material mass than Control Club Head 1 (weight channel angle 0 degrees), but less support material mass than Control Club Head 2 (weight channel angle 90 degrees). Example Club Head 2 maintained a support material mass below the high threshold of conventional weight assemblies defined by Control Club Head 2, yet provided desirable stress distribution and weight element trajectories during and after impact with a golf ball, as detailed in Examples III and IV below. Example III: Stress Concentration Comparison Between Club Heads Described Herein with Weight Channels Angled at 15 Degrees or 45 Degrees and Control Club Heads with Weight Channels Angled at 0 Degrees or 90 Degrees

[0173] Example III provides a comparison between two embodiments of a conventional weight system and two embodiments of the tilted weight system described above. More specifically, Example III illustrates the difference in stress concentrations during the first and second oscillations after impact between two embodiments of a conventional weight system and two embodiments of the tilted weight system described above, as shown in Figures 30A-33B below.

[0174] 30A and 30B show the maximum stress areas 150 in the weight channel 110 of the control club head 1 (weight channel angle 0°) caused by the movement of the weight member 111 immediately after impact with a golf ball. FIG. 30A shows the stress concentration during the first vibration of the weight member 111, and FIG. 30B shows the stress concentration areas 150 during the second vibration of the weight member 111. As shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B, stress is highly concentrated in specific areas on the weight channel first surface 115 of the weight channel 110. The lower the stress distribution, the greater the cyclic fatigue caused by repeated use and the higher the risk of breakage over time. FIG. 30B shows that during the second vibration of the weight member, stress is highly concentrated in the exact same areas 150 as during the first vibration. This means that these areas are repeatedly subjected to high levels of stress concentration with each vibration of the weight member 111. This stress concentration further increases the risk of breakage.

[0175] 31A and 31B show the area of maximum stress 450 within the weight channel (weight channel angle 90 degrees) of the control club head 2, resulting from the movement of the weight element immediately after impact with a golf ball. FIG. 31A shows the area of stress concentration 450 during the first oscillation of the weight element 411, while FIG. 31B shows the stress concentration during the second oscillation of the weight element 411. Because the control club head 2 has significantly more support material positioned around the weight element, stress is concentrated not only at the channel first surface 415 but also at the internal structural joints near the club head. While this distribution results in greater stress distribution compared to the control club head 1, thereby reducing the risk of fracture, it also demonstrates that the weight element moves both forward (toward the striking face) and laterally (toward the toe). Lateral oscillations prevent the club head from providing the potential feel and performance benefits of a desirable forward and downward trajectory and can result in vibrations that lead to undesirable sound and feel.

[0176] Because Control Club Head 2 had so much support material positioned around Weight Member 411, stress was concentrated not only at Channel First Surface 415 but also at the adjacent internal structural joints of the club head. While this distribution reduced the risk of fracture due to greater stress distribution compared to Control Club Head 1, it also resulted in the Weight Member moving both forward (toward the striking face) and laterally (toward the toe). Lateral vibration prevented the Club Head from providing the potential feel and performance benefits of a desirable forward and downward trajectory and could potentially create vibrations that lead to an undesirable sound and feel.

[0177] Figures 32A and 32B show the areas of maximum stress within the weight channel of an example club head 1 (weight channel angle 15 degrees) caused by the movement of the weight member 211 immediately after impact with a golf ball. Figure 32A shows the area of stress concentration 250 during the first oscillation of the weight member, and Figure 32B shows the area of stress concentration 250 during the second oscillation of the weight member. Figure 32A shows that the first oscillation of the weight member places the greatest stress on the second channel surface 216 of the weight channel 210.

[0178] In stark contrast to the stress concentrations at the next vibrations of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2, FIG. 32B shows that the second vibration of the weight member places the greatest stress on rear channel surface 219 of weight channel 210. Because the stress is applied intermittently to each region 250, cyclic fatigue is reduced by as much as half, thereby significantly reducing the risk of failure over time.

[0179] 33A and 33B show the areas of maximum stress within the weight channel of an example club head 2 (weight channel angle 45 degrees) resulting from the movement of the weight member 311 immediately after impact with a golf ball. FIG. 33A shows the stress concentration area 350 during the weight member's first oscillation, while FIG. 33B shows the stress concentration during the weight member's second oscillation. FIG. 33A shows that during both the weight member's first and second oscillations, the maximum stress was primarily on the channel rear wall 319 and partially on the second channel surface 316 of the weight channel 310. The stress was widely distributed across the entire second channel surface 316 of the weight channel 310 in the heel-to-toe direction, thereby reducing the risk of failure that could result from highly localized stress concentrations. Furthermore, stress concentrations were relatively avoided on the first channel surface 315 of the weight channel 310, where stress-related failures are most common in practice.

[0180] In conclusion, the varying maximum stress areas for each weight element observed in the analysis of Exemplary Club Head 1 and the widely dispersed maximum stress areas observed in the analysis of Exemplary Club Head 2 reduced the risk of fracture compared to the localized stress concentration on the upper wall observed in the analyses of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2. Example IV: Stress Concentration Comparison Between Club Heads Described Herein with 15 Degree or 45 Degree Inclined Weight Channels and Control Club Heads with 0 Degree or 90 Degree Inclined Weight Channels

[0181] Example IV compares two embodiments of a conventional weight system with two embodiments of the angled weight system described above. More specifically, Example IV illustrates the difference in bidirectional displacement during the initial response within the first 0.00020 seconds after impact with a golf ball between two embodiments of a conventional weight system and two embodiments of the angled weight system described above, as shown below in Figures 34 and 35.

[0182] 34 shows that the immediate response of the weight member 211 of the example club head 1 (with a 15-degree weight channel angle) during impact with a golf ball caused the weight member to move in a direction toward the crown of the club head (see 0.00005 seconds to 0.00010 seconds). This upward trajectory can create stresses in the channel first surface 215, as demonstrated by the analysis of Example III above, but the second oscillation of the weight member 211 shifted the weight member 211 to move downward. This pendulum-like motion creates the intermittent stress concentrations described in the analysis of Example III, reducing cyclic fatigue.

[0183] 34 illustrates that the immediate response of the weight member 311 of the example club head 2 (with a 45-degree weight channel angle) during impact with a golf ball results in the weight member shifting downward. This trajectory results in areas of maximum stress at the rear channel surface 319 and the second channel surface 316, as shown in the analysis of Example III. This downward trajectory may provide a performance advantage by dynamically shifting the center of gravity (CG) forward and lower during impact. As detailed in Example III above, the downward trajectory places the maximum stresses on weight channel walls other than the first channel surface 315, thus placing them away from areas where failure is most likely to occur in reality.

[0184] 34 shows that the weight members of Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2 do not exhibit downward trajectories in either the first or second vibration. In conclusion, the trajectories observed in the first and second movements of the weight members of Example Club Head 1 and Example Club Head 2 reduced stress concentrations and reduced the risk of breakage compared to Control Club Heads 1 and 2.

[0185] FIG. 35 shows that example club head 1 and example club head 2 have greater forward movement of the weight member than control club head 1 but less than control club head 2. This greater forward movement has both advantages and disadvantages. While a greater displacement can potentially increase stress concentrations on the walls of the weight channel, a greater displacement can also potentially provide performance benefits by dynamically shifting the CG forward at impact, potentially increasing power and launch. Both example club head 1 and example club head 2 fall within the ranges defined by control club heads 1 and 2, potentially providing a better balance between stress concentrations and dynamic CG.

[0186] In conclusion, the weight member displacement demonstrated by the analysis of Example IV can provide similar benefits and reduced risk of failure as the weight member vibration-to-vibration stress distribution described in Example III. The ability of the weight member of Example Club Head II to follow a lower, forward trajectory can provide the performance benefits discussed above. The less forward trajectory of the weight member of Example Club Head I results in a lower stress concentration and a lower risk of failure. (Section)

[0187] (Item 1) A golf club head comprising: a body having a striking face, a rear region, a crown, a sole, a toe end, and a heel end; an XYZ coordinate system having an origin defined at a center point of the leading edge of the club head, the XYZ coordinate system having an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, the horizontal x-axis extending from the heel to the toe, the vertical y-axis extending from the sole to the crown, and the horizontal z-axis extending from the striking face to the rear, the ground contact surface being perpendicular to the y-axis and tangent to the sole at address; and a weight assembly associated with the rear region of the body, the weight assembly comprising: 1. A golf club head comprising: a member; a weight channel sized to receive a weight, the weight channel including a first channel surface, a second channel surface, and a rear channel surface extending between the first channel surface and the second channel surface, the rear channel surface defining a plurality of mounting locations; and a fastener configured to removably mount the weight at each of the mounting locations, the weight assembly defining an assembly angle, and when the weight assembly is mounted at one of the mounting locations, the weight assembly is oriented along the assembly angle, the assembly angle extending at an angle of between 5 and 70 degrees relative to the ground surface.

[0188] (Item 2) The golf club head according to Item 1, wherein the weight assembly is not visible at the address position.

[0189] (Item 3) The golf club head according to Item 1, wherein the weight assembly has a mass of 20 grams to 50 grams.

[0190] (Item 4) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the plurality of attachment locations are three threaded recesses, and the three openings are a toe recess, a central recess, and a heel recess.

[0191] (Item 5) A golf club head as described in Item 4, wherein when the weight assembly is attached to the toe side opening, the weight assembly comprises a toe side fastener shaft, when the weight assembly is attached to the central opening, the weight assembly comprises a central fastener shaft, and when the weight assembly is attached to the heel side opening, the weight assembly comprises a heel side fastener shaft.

[0192] (Item 6) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight channel further comprises a weight channel height measured between the first surface and the second surface.

[0193] (Item 7) The golf club head of item 6, comprising a weight channel length measured between the toe sidewall and the heel sidewall, wherein the weight channel height varies along the weight channel length.

[0194] (Item 8) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight assembly is offset from the ground surface at an angle of 15 degrees.

[0195] (Item 9) The golf club head according to Item 1, wherein the weight assembly is offset from the ground surface at an angle of 10 to 20 degrees.

[0196] (Item 10) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the assembly angle is a recess contact angle.

[0197] (Item 11) The golf club head according to Item 10, wherein the recessed part has a contact angle of 10 to 45 degrees.

[0198] (Item 12) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the assembly angle is a first angle.

[0199] (Item 13) The golf club head according to Item 12, wherein the first angle is 10 to 45 degrees.

[0200] (Item 14) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the assembly angle is a second angle.

[0201] (Item 15) The golf club head according to Item 14, wherein the second angle is 15 to 70 degrees.

[0202] (Item 16) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the striking face defines a loft plane that is tangent to the geometric center of the striking face.

[0203] (Item 17) The golf club head according to Item 16, wherein the channel first surface may form a first loft angle with the loft surface.

[0204] (Item 18) The golf club head according to Item 17, wherein the first loft angle is 85 to 135 degrees.

[0205] (Item 19) The golf club head according to Item 16, wherein the second channel surface may form a second loft angle with the loft surface.

[0206] (Item 20) The golf club head according to Item 19, wherein the second loft angle is 85 to 135 degrees.

[0207] (Item 21) The golf club head of item 4, wherein the striking face defines a loft plane tangent to the geometric center of the striking face, and the recess axis is defined as an axis passing through the geometric center of the central recess.

[0208] (Item 22) The golf club head according to Item 21, wherein the recess axis may form a recess loft angle with the loft surface.

[0209] (Item 23) The golf club head according to Item 22, wherein the loft angle of the recess is 85 to 135 degrees.

[0210] (Item 24) The golf club head according to Item 4, wherein the recess axis is defined as an axis passing through the geometric center of the central recess.

[0211] (Item 25) The golf club head according to item 24, wherein the recess axis may form a first recess angle with the channel first surface.

[0212] (Item 26) The golf club head according to Item 25, wherein the first recess angle may be 0 to 15 degrees.

[0213] (Item 27) The golf club head according to item 24, wherein the recess axis may form a second recess angle with the channel second surface.

[0214] (Item 28) The golf club head according to Item 27, wherein the second recess angle may be 0 to 6 degrees.

[0215] (Item 29) The golf club head according to item 24, wherein the recess axis may form a rear recess angle with the channel second surface.

[0216] (Item 30) The golf club head according to Item 29, wherein the second recess angle may be 80 to 100 degrees.

[0217] (Item 31) The golf club head according to Item 24, wherein the recess axis may intersect with the ground surface to define an RG point.

[0218] (Item 32) The golf club head according to Item 31, wherein the RG point is spaced from the center of gravity by a distance of 2.75 to 4.25 inches.

[0219] (Item 33) The golf club head according to Item 31, wherein the RG point is 4.6 to 6.0 inches away from the leading edge of the club head.

[0220] (Item 34) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DWX from the center of gravity relative to the x-axis.

[0221] (Item 35) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DWY from the center of gravity relative to the y-axis.

[0222] (Item 36) A golf club head as described in Item 1, wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DWZ from the center of gravity relative to the z-axis.

[0223] (Item 37) The golf club head according to Item 34, wherein DWX is −0.155 to −0.115 inches.

[0224] (Item 38) The golf club head according to Item 34, wherein the DWY is −0.620 to −0.440 inches.

[0225] (Item 39) The golf club head according to Item 34, wherein DWZ is −2.625 to −2.500 inches.

[0226] (Item 40) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DFX from the geometric center of the striking face relative to the x-axis.

[0227] (Item 41) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DFY from the geometric center of the striking face relative to the y-axis.

[0228] (Item 41) The golf club head according to item 1, wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as the DFZ from the geometric center of the striking face relative to the z-axis.

[0229] (Item 42) The golf club head according to Item 34, wherein DFX is −0.210 to −0.150 inches.

[0230] (Item 44) The golf club head according to Item 34, wherein DFY is −0.850 to −0.650 inches.

[0231] (Item 43) The golf club head according to Item 34, wherein the DFZ is −4.450 to −4.300 inches.

[0232] (Item 46) A golf club head as described in Item 1, wherein the weight member has an inner surface configured to fit into the channel first surface and the channel second surface, a weight rear surface, a weight front surface, a weight first surface, a weight second surface, a weight toe surface, and a weight heel surface, and the weight member is configured to be removably attached to the weight channel at each of a plurality of attachment points so that the weight front surface is exposed in the rear region and the weight second surface is at least partially exposed in the sole.

[0233] (Item 46) A golf club head according to item 16, wherein the lower surface of the weight member has a recess configured to receive the bottom surface of the slot.

[0234] (Item 48) The golf club head according to Item 24, wherein the channel first surface is parallel to the recess axis.

[0235] The replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes a reconfiguration, not a repair. Furthermore, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with respect to particular embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause or make more pronounced any benefit, advantage, or solution are not to be construed as a critical or essential feature or element of any or all of the claims.

[0236] Because the Rules of Golf are subject to change from time to time (e.g., new Rules may be adopted, and old Rules may be repealed or amended, by golf standards organizations and / or governing bodies, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) or the Royal and American Golf Association (R&A)), golf equipment relating to the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may or may not conform to the Rules of Golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment relating to the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and / or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this respect.

[0237] Furthermore, the embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not available to the public under the doctrine of equivalents if the embodiments and / or limitations (1) are not expressly recited in the claims, and (2) are equivalent or potentially equivalent to the explicit elements and / or limitations recited in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.

[0238] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications are within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention described.

Claims

1. A golf club head, a body having a striking face, a rear region, a crown, a sole, a toe end, and a heel end; an XYZ coordinate system having an origin located at a center point of the leading edge of the golf club head, the XYZ coordinate system including a horizontal x-axis extending from heel to toe, a vertical y-axis extending from the sole to the crown, and a horizontal z-axis extending from the striking face to the rear, wherein a ground contact plane is perpendicular to the y-axis and tangent to the sole at address; a weight assembly associated with the rear region of the body; The weight assembly A weight member; a weight channel sized to receive a weight, the weight channel including a first channel surface, a second channel surface, and a rear channel surface extending between the first channel surface and the second channel surface and defining a plurality of attachment points; a fastener configured to removably attach the weight to each of the plurality of attachment points; the weight assembly defines an assembly angle; the weight assembly is oriented along the assembly angle when attached to one of the plurality of attachment points; the assembly angle extends at an angle of 5 to 70 degrees relative to the ground plane and extends upward from the ground plane in a direction toward the crown; Golf club head.

2. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the weight assembly is not visible at the address position.

3. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the weight assembly has a mass between 20 grams and 50 grams.

4. the plurality of attachment points comprises three threaded recesses; The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the three threaded recesses are a toe recess, a center recess, and a heel recess.

5. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the striking face defines a loft plane tangent to a geometric center of the striking face.

6. The golf club head of claim 5 , wherein the channel first surface may form a first loft angle with respect to the loft plane.

7. 7. The golf club head of claim 6, wherein the first loft angle is between 85 and 135 degrees.

8. the striking face defines a loft plane tangent to a geometric center of the striking face; The golf club head of claim 4 , wherein a recess axis is defined as an axis passing through the geometric center of the central recess.

9. The golf club head of claim 8 , wherein the recess axis may form a recess loft angle with the loft plane.

10. 10. The golf club head according to claim 9, wherein the recess loft angle is between 85 and 135 degrees.

11. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DWX from the center of gravity relative to the x-axis.

12. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DWY from the center of gravity relative to the y-axis.

13. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the weight member may be positioned a distance known as DWZ from the center of gravity relative to the z-axis.

14. 12. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the DWX is −0.155 to −0.115 inches.

15. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein the DWY is −0.620 to −0.440 inches.

16. 14. The golf club head of claim 13, wherein the DWZ is −2.625 to −2.500 inches.

17. The golf club head of claim 4 , wherein a recess axis is defined as an axis passing through the geometric center of the central recess.

18. The golf club head of claim 17 , wherein the recess axis intersects the ground plane at point RG.

19. the golf club head defines a center of gravity; The golf club head of claim 18, wherein the RG point is spaced from the center of gravity by a distance of 2.75 to 4.25 inches.

20. 19. The golf club head of claim 18, wherein the RG point is a distance of 4.6 to 6.0 inches away from the leading edge of the club head.

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