Fairway wood golf club heads with low CG

Abstract

We provide fairway-type golf club heads made of different materials, each possessing unique mass properties. [Solution] The present invention relates to a fairway-type golf club head 2000, which comprises (or includes) a combination of features selected from the group consisting of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202 having weight reduction characteristics, a high-density sole insert 530, a removable, adjustable, and interchangeable rear weight assembly 1111, or a combination thereof, thereby enabling a low center of gravity for the club head, thereby increasing forgiveness, reducing spin, and positioning the center of gravity on or near the line of force impact point axis of the fairway-type golf club head.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 217,695, filed on 1 July 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 076,766, filed on 10 September 2020, all of which are incorporated in their entirety.

[0002] This disclosure relates to golf equipment, and more specifically to fairway-type golf clubs made of different materials having unique mass properties. [Background technology]

[0003] When using a driver, golfers can adjust the tee height to their preference, thereby adjusting the ball height to match their swing. When using a fairway-type club, golfers strike the ball from any existing ground lie. The leading edge of the fairway-type golf club head, relative to the existing lie of the golf ball, is what the ball "sees" at the time of impact. In other words, the bounce depth of the sole of a fairway-type club is essentially below the actual ground surface where the golf ball is resting, because the bounce scrapes the topsoil and creates divots. The optimal impact is essentially constant in terms of the height of the golf ball as it is positioned, and therefore, essentially, does not change with the bounce depth and face height of various fairway-type golf club heads.

[0004] This then means that the best force application lies along a certain axis of the fairway-type golf club head, an axis that is not model-specific but is derived from the geometric form of the golf ball lie, as well as from maximizing the impact force at a specific point on the golf ball. Therefore, by positioning the center of gravity (CG) of the fairway-type golf club head on or as close as possible to that axis, the force transmitted to the golf ball at impact is maximized.

[0005] This invention does not apply to driver-type golf club heads because the impact point of a driver-type golf club head is variable when the golf ball is positioned on a tee. This invention does not apply to hybrid-type golf club heads because hybrid-type golf club heads lack sufficient depth in front-to-back measurements. Similarly, this invention does not apply to iron-type club heads because iron-type golf club heads lack sufficient depth in front-to-back measurements. Furthermore, this invention does not apply to putter-type club heads. This embodiment relates to a fairway-type golf club head having a heterogeneous construction that increases or maximizes the transmission of force to the golf ball by positioning the CG of the fairway-type club head at a low and rearward body position along a force axis perpendicular to the striking face at the expected and optimal impact position. When the golf ball is struck there, most of the energy is transferred to the golf ball. Because fairway-type golf club heads are used to hit a golf ball that is directly on the turf rather than teed up, the point of impact is always at a certain distance above the turf or ground surface. Furthermore, the desirable position is also approximately near the center of the clubface. Therefore, the point of impact where most of the force is transferred to the golf ball is the line of force impact (FLIP). The axis extending backward from the FLIP and perpendicular to the clubface is the FLIP axis. The FLIP axis is derived from the geometric form of the fairway-type club head and coincides with the force vector that most efficiently transfers force to the golf ball. The position of the CG of the fairway-type club head with respect to this FLIP axis results in higher / lower ball velocities, higher / lower launch angles, and higher / lower spin.Furthermore, if the center of gravity (CG) is aligned with the FLIP axis but positioned relatively closer to the striking face, a fairway-type golf club head will have a lower total moment of inertia (MOI). If the CG is aligned with the FLIP axis but positioned relatively further away towards the rear, a fairway-type golf club head will have a higher total moment of inertia (MOI). To achieve this optimized CG position, the components of a fairway-type club head are formed from various materials and carefully arranged to position the CG on or near the FLIP axis.

[0006] Various design parameters of fairway-type golf club heads, such as volume, center of gravity, and moment of inertia, affect impact performance characteristics (e.g., spin, launch angle, velocity, forgiveness). Improving the performance of one aspect of a fairway-type club head design often affects other performance characteristics. An improvement in one performance characteristic may negatively impact others. Therefore, in this technology, there is a need for fairway-type club heads that possess improved yet balanced impact performance characteristics. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1A] This shows a side view of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0008] [Figure 1B] This shows an example of a front view of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0009] [Figure 1C] The image shows the ground surface along with an example of a side view of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0010] [Figure 2A]This example shows a top view of a section of the main body of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0011] [Figure 2B] This diagram illustrates the sole of the main body of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0012] [Figure 2C] This diagram illustrates a side view of the rear weight support structure of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0013] [Figure 3A] This image shows a front view of the face cup of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0014] [Figure 3B] This image shows an example of a top view of the face cup of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0015] [Figure 3C] This diagram illustrates the cross-sectional view of the face cup and adjustable striking face of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0016] [Figure 4A] This diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of the crown insert and wrap-around section of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0017] [Figure 4B] This image shows a top view of the crown insert of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0018] [Figure 4C] This image shows a rear view of the crown insert of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0019] [Figure 5A]This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0020] [Figure 5B] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0021] [Figure 5C] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0022] [Figure 5D] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0023] [Figure 5E] This shows an example of a front view of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0024] [Figure 5F] This diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0025] [Figure 6A] This diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of the rear weight of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0026] [Figure 6B] This diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of the rear weight of a fairway-type golf club head.

[0027] [Figure 7A] This image illustrates a top view of the sole insert of a fairway-type golf club head that has a window.

[0028] [Figure 7B] This shows an example of a bottom view of the sole insert of a fairway-type golf club head that has a window.

[0029] [Figure 7C] This image shows a front view of the sole insert of a fairway-type golf club head, which has a variable thickness.

[0030] [Figure 8A] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0031] [Figure 8B] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0032] [Figure 8C] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head, which has parallel positioning of the CG (Center of Gravity) of the club head and the CG (Center of Gravity) of the sole insert.

[0033] [Figure 8D] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0034] [Figure 8E] This diagram illustrates a side view of a fairway-type golf club head that has a crown insert and a sole insert.

[0035] [Figure 9A] This shows an example of a bottom view of the sole insert of a fairway-type golf club head that has a window.

[0036] [Figure 9B]This image illustrates a top view of the sole insert of a fairway-type golf club head that has a window.

[0037] [Figure 9C] This image shows a front view of the sole insert of a fairway-type golf club head, which has a variable thickness.

[0038] [Figure 10A] This diagram illustrates the disassembled and assembled state of a fairway-type golf club head that has mounting means for a sole insert.

[0039] [Figure 10B] This shows a side view of a fairway-type golf club head. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0040] definition A fairway-type golf club head comprises a main body, a face cup, a crown insert, a sole insert, and a rear weight, or a combination thereof. Various embodiments of a fairway-type golf club head exist that achieve a low and rearward CG on the FLIP axis. The crown insert and main body are preferably formed from a low-density material to provide additional arbitrary mass to be redistributed to the lower part of the golf club head. The main body and face cup may include metallic materials such as titanium alloy, or the main body may include composite materials such as fiber-reinforced polymer or fiber-reinforced composite. The crown insert may include composite materials such as carbon composite material, fiber-reinforced polymer material, natural fiber composite, or any other suitable low-density material. The club head may have a large, high-density sole insert that moves the CG downward and closer to the sole. The sole insert may have a mass pad or thickened region that balances the position of the CG on the line of force in the front-to-back direction. The sole insert can improve the CG by allocating a large percentage of the clubhead mass to the central part of the sole, and the sole insert can further improve the MOI by extending toward the outer perimeter of the clubhead and upward along the main body. The clubhead may also feature a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight having a mass between 1 gram and 35 grams, which can further lower the CG and balance the CG along the FLIP axis. The sole insert and rear weight may include high-density metallic materials such as titanium or steel.

[0041] The combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof, provides a golf club head that has forgiveness and a low center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a club head without a sole insert. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances the CG 172 along the FLIP axis 195 using the high-density sole insert 430, the lightweight crown insert 800, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof. I.General terms

[0042] Features and aspects will become clear upon consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Before any embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail, it should be understood that this disclosure does not limit its uses to the arrangement of construction details and components as specified in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. This disclosure can support other embodiments and can be implemented or performed in various ways. It should be understood that the description of specific embodiments is not intended to limit this disclosure to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that the freigology and terminology used herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0043] If any, the terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “up,” “down,” “up,” “forward,” “backward,” etc., used herein and in the claims are for descriptive purposes only and are not necessarily intended to describe permanent relative positions. Terms used in this manner should be understood to be interchangeable in appropriate contexts, such as when the manufacturing apparatus, manufacturing method, and / or embodiments of the manufactured articles described herein are operable in orientations other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. For consistency and clarity, all references to orientation used herein assume that the fairway-type golf club head described is placed on a horizontally flat ground surface so that the predetermined loft and lie angles of the club head are achieved. The “front” or “forward portion” of a fairway-type golf club head generally refers to the side of the fairway-type golf club head that includes the striking surface (when viewed perpendicular to the ground surface). Conversely, the rear portion of the club head is opposite the striking surface and may include all of the area behind the striking surface and / or the portion that follows the striking surface at impact.

[0044] "One (A)", "One (an)", "the foregoing", "at least one", and "one or more" are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the items described herein exists, and that there may be more such items unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. All numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification, including in the appended claims, should be understood to be modified in all cases by the term "about," whether or not "about" actually appears before the numerical value. "About" indicates that the stated numerical value allows for a degree of imperfection (some degree of approach to the exactness of the value, near the value, or reasonably close to the value; approximately). Where the imperfection provided by "about" is not understood in the art in this ordinary sense, "about" as used herein indicates at least the variation that may arise from the ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. Also, disclosures of ranges include all values ​​and further subdivided ranges within the whole range. Each value within a range and the endpoints of a range are all disclosed herein as separate embodiments. The terms “equipped,” “possessing,” “included,” and “possessed” are inclusive and therefore identify the presence of the listed item but do not exclude the presence of other items. As used herein, the term “or” includes any combination of one or more of the listed items and all combinations thereof. When terms such as 1st, 2nd, 3rd are used to distinguish different items from one another, these names are merely for convenience and do not limit the items.

[0045] Where applicable, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” “fifth,” etc., in this specification and the claims are used to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe a particular order or chronological order. Terms used in this way are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances. For example, embodiments described herein may operate in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, terms such as “includes,” “having,” and any variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusions, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus comprising a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements and may include other elements not descriptively listed in such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus. II. Fairway-type clubheads A “fairway-type golf club head” as defined herein is a club head having specific loft, volume, and dimensions that can be defined by a specific range of dimensions. In particular, a fairway-type club head as described in relation to this invention disclosed herein includes loft angle, volume, length, depth, height, and face height within the ranges defined below. The following specified ranges limit this fairway-type golf club head to a certain type of fairway-type club head. In other words, a fairway-type golf club head cannot be a driver-type, hybrid-type, iron-type, or putter-type golf club head. A fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below has features selected from the group consisting of a main body, face cup, crown insert, sole insert, and rear weight. Figures 1A and 1B illustrate a fairway-type golf club head 100 having a body 102 and a striking face 104. The body 102 of the club head 100 includes a front end 108, a rear end 110 opposite the front end 108, a crown 116, a sole 118 opposite the crown 116, a heel 120, and a toe 122 opposite the heel 120. The body 102 further includes a skirt or end edge 128 positioned between the crown 116 and the sole 118 and adjacent to the crown 116 and the sole 118, the skirt being continuous from near the heel 120 to near the toe 122 of the club head 100.

[0046] As used herein, a fairway-type golf club head has a loft angle of less than about 35 degrees, less than about 34 degrees, less than about 33 degrees, less than about 32 degrees, less than about 31 degrees, or less than about 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the loft angle of the fairway-type golf club head is greater than about 12 degrees, greater than about 13 degrees, greater than about 14 degrees, greater than about 15 degrees, greater than about 16 degrees, greater than about 17 degrees, greater than about 18 degrees, greater than about 19 degrees, or greater than about 20 degrees. For example, in other embodiments, the loft angle of the fairway-type golf club head can range between 14 degrees and 35 degrees, between 15 degrees and 35 degrees, between 20 degrees and 35 degrees, or between 12 degrees and 30 degrees.

[0047] As used herein, a fairway-type club has a volume less than about 170 cm 3 , less than about 180 cm 3 , less than about 190 cm 3 , or less than about 200 cm 3 . However, the volume of the fairway-type club cannot be less than 170 cm 3 . In some embodiments, the volume of the fairway-type club head ranges from about 150 cm 3 to 200 cm 3 , from about 160 cm 3 to 170 cm 3 , from about 160 cm 3 to 180 cm 3 , or from about 170 cm 3 to 190 cm 3 . The volume of the fairway-type club cannot exceed 200 cm 3 . In one exemplary embodiment, the volume of the fairway-type club is 169 cm 3 .

[0048] The "fairway-type club head depth" 160 of a fairway-type golf club described herein may be defined by the front-to-rear dimensions of the fairway-type golf club head. Referring to Figure 5F, the depth 160 of a fairway-type club head may be measured as the furthest range from the front end 108 to the rear end 110 of the club head along a direction parallel to the Z-axis 1072. The depth 160 can range between 3.00 inches and 4.00 inches. In some embodiments, the depth 160 can range between 3.00 inches and 3.40 inches, between 3.25 inches and 3.40 inches, between 3.30 inches and 3.50 inches, or between 3.50 inches and 4.00 inches. The depth 160 cannot exceed 4.00 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the depth 160 is 3.363 inches.

[0049] In this specification, the “fairway type golf club height” 164 of a fairway type golf club head may be defined as the crown-sole dimension of the fairway type club head. Referring to Figure 5E, the height of the fairway type golf club head 100 may be measured as the furthest distance from the crown 116 to the sole 118 of the club head 100 along a direction parallel to the Y-axis 1062 when viewed from the front view. In many embodiments, the height 164 of the club head 100 may be measured according to the standards of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, the height 164 of the club head 100 can be determined according to the USGA's procedure for measuring the club head size of wood clubs (USGA-TPX3003, Rev. 1.0.0, November 21, 2003) (available at https: / / www.usga.org / content / dam / usga / pdf / Equipment / TPX3003-procedure-for-measuring-the-club-head-size-of-wood-clubs.pdf) ("Procedure for Measuring the Club Head Size of Wood Clubs"). The height 164 can range from 1.25 inches to 2.00 inches. In some embodiments, the height 164 can range from 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, from 1.30 inches to 1.50 inches, from 1.35 inches to 1.75 inches, from 1.45 inches to 1.80 inches, or from 1.50 inches to 2.00 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the club head height 164 is 1.424 inches. The height 164 is not greater than 2.00 inches.

[0050] The “fairway type club head length” 162 of a fairway type golf club head described herein may be defined as the heel-toe dimension of the fairway type club head. Referring to Figure 5E, the length 162 of a fairway type golf club head 100 may be measured as the furthest distance from the heel 120 to the toe 122 of the club head 100 along a direction parallel to the X-axis 1052 when viewed from the front view. In many embodiments, the length 162 of the club head 100 may be measured according to the standards of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, the length of the club head can be determined according to the USGA's procedure for measuring the club head size of wood clubs (USGA-TPX3003, Rev. 1.0.0, November 21, 2003) (available at https: / / www.usga.org / content / dam / usga / pdf / Equipment / TPX3003-procedure-for-measuring-the-club-head-size-of-wood-clubs.pdf) ("Procedure for Measuring the Club Head Size of Wood Clubs"). The length 162 can range from 3.00 inches to 4.60 inches. In some embodiments, the length 162 can range from 3.00 inches to 4.00 inches, from 4.00 inches to 4.40 inches, from 4.25 inches to 4.40 inches, or from 4.30 inches to 4.40 inches. The length is not greater than 4.60 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the length 162 is 4.384 inches.

[0051] The “fairway-type face height” 144 of a fairway-type golf club head described herein may be defined as the height measured between the upper end of the striking face perimeter 142 near the crown 116 and the lower end of the striking face perimeter 142 near the sole 118, parallel to the loft plane 1010 (see Figure 3A). In these embodiments, the striking face perimeter 142 may be located along the outer edge of the striking face 104 where the curved surface deviates from the bulge and / or undulation of the striking face 104. The face height 144 can range from 1.00 inches to 1.50 inches. In some embodiments, the face height 144 can range from 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, from 1.00 inches to 1.15 inches, from 1.15 inches to 1.35 inches, or from 1.15 inches to 1.50 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the face height 144 is 1.110 inches.

[0052] The “geometric center” 140 of a fairway-type golf club head as described herein is the geometric center point of the outer perimeter of the striking face. Alternatively, the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104 can be determined based on the definition of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, the geometric center of the striking face can be determined according to Section 6.1 of the USGA’s Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Club Head (USGA-TPX3004, Rev. 1.0.0, May 1, 2008) (available at http: / / www.usga.org / equipment / testing / protocols / Procedure-For-Measuring-The-Flexibility-Of-A-Golf Club-Head / ) (“Flexibility Procedure”).

[0053] The “geometric center height” 146 of a fairway-type golf club head described herein is the height measured vertically from the ground surface 1000 to the geometric center of the fairway-type club head. The geometric center height 146 can be in the range of 0.40 inches to 0.75 inches. For example, the geometric center height 146 can be in the range of 0.40 inches to 0.60 inches, 0.50 inches to 0.70 inches, or 0.65 inches to 0.75 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the geometric center height 146 is 0.661 inches.

[0054] The "leading edge" 114 of a fairway-type golf club head as described herein can be identified as the most sole-oriented portion of the outer perimeter 142 of the striking face. For example, the leading edge 114 of a fairway-type golf club head is the transition portion of the fairway-type golf club head from the bulge and contours of the striking face to the sole.

[0055] The "force line impact point" (or FLIP) 190 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a point on the striking face 104 at which the force of the fairway-type golf club stroke is most efficiently transferred to the golf ball.

[0056] The "FLIP height" 192 of a fairway-type golf club head as described herein may be the height measured vertically from the ground surface 1000 to the FLIP 190 of the fairway-type club head. The FLIP height 192 is in the range of 0.55 inches to 0.75 inches. The FLIP height 192 may be approximately 0.55 inches, approximately 0.56 inches, approximately 0.57 inches, approximately 0.58 inches, approximately 0.59 inches, approximately 0.60 inches, approximately 0.61 inches, approximately 0.62 inches, approximately 0.63 inches, approximately 0.64 inches, approximately 0.65 inches, approximately 0.66 inches, approximately 0.67 inches, approximately 0.68 inches, approximately 0.69 inches, approximately 0.70 inches, approximately 0.71 inches, approximately 0.72 inches, approximately 0.73 inches, approximately 0.74 inches, or approximately 0.75 inches.

[0057] The "force line impact point axis" (or FLIP axis) 195 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is an axis that occurs at the FLIP 190 and extends backward from the striking face 104 and perpendicular to the striking face 104 at the FLIP 190.

[0058] The "periphery" 112 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein includes a transition from the upper portion 152 of the club head to the lower portion 156 of the club head. The periphery 112 is defined by a series of points around the golf club head, each of which has a tangent to a line drawn perpendicular to the ground surface 1000 when the fairway-type golf club head 100 is in the address position. The periphery of the fairway-type golf club head 100 is the set of all these points. The upper portion 152 of the fairway-type golf club head 100 is defined as the portion of the fairway-type golf club head above the periphery, excluding the striking face 104. The lower portion 156 of the fairway-type golf club head 100 is defined as the portion of the fairway-type golf club head below the periphery, excluding the striking face 104.

[0059] The "main body" 202 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below provides mounting parts and mechanical structures to which a crown insert, face cup, sole insert, and rear weight are attached to form a fairway-type golf club head 100. Referring to Figures 2A to 2C, the main body 202 of a fairway-type golf club head comprises a main body front portion 214, a main body rear portion 212, a main body toe portion 222, a main body heel portion 220, a sole 218, and a crown return 216. The main body heel portion 220 as defined herein and used below comprises a heel return 224, a heel striking face portion 226, and a hosel 230. The main body front portion 214 as defined herein and used below comprises a front window 210, a main body toe portion 222, a heel return 224, a heel striking face portion 226, a sole 218, and a crown return 216.

[0060] The “sole” 218 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below is the lower, ground-facing portion of the main body and comprises an outer sole surface 219, a sole toe-direction portion 211, a sole heel-direction portion 215, and a sole center portion 221. The sole 218 includes a sole insert recess 240. The sole 218 further includes a rear weight recess 250. The sole center portion 221 is generally parallel to the ground surface 1000 in the heel-toe direction. The sole toe-direction portion 211 curves upward along the crown direction from the sole center portion 221. The sole heel-direction portion 215 curves upward along the crown direction from the sole center portion 221.

[0061] The “sole insert recess” 240 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below is a recess whose outermost surface extends inward from the outer sole surface 219. The sole insert recess 240 occupies most of its area within the central portion 221 of the sole. The sole insert recess 240 further comprises a sole insert recess floor 241, a sole insert fastener recess 243, a sole insert fastener window 247, and a sole insert front mass pad recess 248. The mass pad recess 248 can be located at different positions within the sole insert recess 240. The sole insert has a sole insert recess floor depth 242 measured inward from the outer sole surface 219. The sole insert front mass pad recess 248 further comprises a front mass pad recess depth 249 (not shown) measured inward from the sole insert recess floor 241. The mass pad recess depth 249 corresponds to the sole insert thickness 448. The sole 218 further comprises a shaft mounting recess 290 and a shaft fastener window 292.

[0062] A “rear sole weight recess” 250 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below is an inward recess in the rear portion of the sole 218 configured to receive a rear weight, having a sole rear weight recess depth 251 measured inward from the nearby outer sole surface 219. The sole rear weight recess 250 comprises a weight recess rear ledge 252, which has a ledge depth 254 measured inward from the nearby outer sole surface 219 and less than the weight recess depth 251. The rear weight recess 250 comprises a rear weight fastener window 255.

[0063] The “sole insert” 430 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a high-density insert configured to be received within a sole insert recess 250. Referring to Figure 7A, the sole insert 430 comprises an outer perimeter 420 having a front edge 454, a rear edge 456, a heel edge 458, and a toe edge 460, a top surface 462, and a bottom surface 464. The sole insert 430 is configured to be received within the sole insert recess 240 such that the top surface 462 contacts the floor 241 of the sole insert recess, and the bottom surface 464 forms part of the outer sole surface 219. The sole insert 430 can be relatively large so as to define a substantial portion of the outer sole surface 219. The outer perimeter 420 of the sole insert is used to define the dimensions of the sole insert 430, such as length, width, and thickness.

[0064] The “sole insert depth” 446 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is measured across the sole insert from the front edge 454 to the rear edge 456 in the front-to-back direction (see Figure 7B). The sole insert depth 446 can be uniform across the sole insert 430 in the heel-toe direction. Alternatively, the depth 446 can vary across the sole insert 430 in the heel-toe direction. The sole insert depth 446 can range between 0.5 inches and 2.00 inches. The depth 446 can be greater than 1.3 inches, greater than 1.4 inches, greater than 1.5 inches, greater than 1.6 inches, greater than 1.7 inches, or greater than 1.8 inches. Alternatively, the depth 446 can be in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 inches, 0.6 to 1.8 inches, 1.3 to 1.6 inches, 1.5 to 1.8 inches, 1.7 to 1.8 inches, or 1.7 to 2.0 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the maximum depth 446 is 1.76 inches. The sole insert depth 446 is selected to lower the CG by bringing a large mass near the sole 118 while remaining within the occupied space of the main body sole 218.

[0065] The “sole insert length” 447 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below is measured from the heel edge 458 of the sole insert to the toe edge 460 of the sole insert (see Figure 7B). The sole insert length 447 can be uniform in the front-to-back direction across the sole insert 430. Alternatively, the length 447 can vary in the front-to-back direction across the sole insert 430. The sole insert length 447 can range between 1.00 inch and 4.00 inch. The length 447 can be greater than 2.2 inches, greater than 2.3 inches, greater than 2.4 inches, greater than 2.5 inches, greater than 2.6 inches, or greater than 2.7 inches. Alternatively, the length 447 can be in the range of 1.0 to 2.6 inches, 2.2 to 2.6 inches, 2.4 to 2.7 inches, 2.5 to 2.8 inches, or 2.7 to 3.0 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the maximum length 447 is 2.54 inches.

[0066] The “sole insert thickness” 448 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is measured from the top surface 462 of the sole insert to the bottom surface 464 of the sole insert (see Figure 7C). The sole insert 430 can be thinned or thickened over different sections to balance the CG172 of the club head. The thickness 448 can vary across the sole insert 430 in the front-to-back and / or heel-toe directions. Alternatively, the sole insert thickness 448 can be uniform across the sole insert 430 in the front-to-back and / or heel-toe directions. The sole insert thickness 448 can range from 0.050 inches to 0.30 inches. A thickness of 448 is greater than 0.050 inches, greater than 0.055 inches, greater than 0.060 inches, greater than 0.065 inches, greater than 0.070 inches, greater than 0.075 inches, greater than 0.080 inches, greater than 0.085 inches, greater than 0.090 inches, greater than 0.095 inches, greater than 0.10 inches, greater than 0.11 inches, greater than 0.12 inches, greater than 0.13 inches, greater than 0.14 inches, and 0.15 It can be greater than an inch, greater than 0.16 inches, greater than 0.17 inches, greater than 0.18 inches, greater than 0.19 inches, greater than 0.20 inches, greater than 0.21 inches, greater than 0.22 inches, greater than 0.23 inches, greater than 0.24 inches, greater than 0.25 inches, greater than 0.26 inches, greater than 0.27 inches, greater than 0.28 inches, greater than 0.29 inches, or greater than 0.30 inches. Alternatively, the thickness 448 can be in the range of 0.050 inches to 0.10 inches, 0.075 inches to 0.20 inches, or between 0.075 inches and 0.20 inches. The sole insert thickness 448 is selected to provide substantial mass near the sole 118 while maintaining balance of the club head CG172 in the front-to-back and heel-to-toe directions.

[0067] A “crown window” 234 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, comprises an upper apex opening surrounded and defined by a main body toe portion 222, a main body heel portion 220, a sole 218, a crown return 216, and a main body rear portion 212. The crown window 234 comprises a toe recess 260 and a heel recess 262, each of which extends the crown window 234 from the upper portion of the fairway-type golf club head 100 to the lower portion of the fairway-type golf club head 100, beyond the transition. The outer periphery of the crown window further comprises a crown flange 217, a rear flange 228, a toe-crown window toe recess flange 261, and a crown window heel recess flange 263. The crown flange 217 is recessed inward from the crown return 216 and has an upward-oriented outer surface. The rear flange 228 is recessed inward from the trailing edge 213 of the main body rear portion and has an outer surface oriented towards the rear and upward. The toe recess flange 261 is recessed inward from the outer surface of the toe portion 222 and the outer surface of the sole 218. The outer surface of the toe recess flange 261 is oriented in the toe direction and downward. The heel recess flange 263 is recessed inward from the heel portion 220 and the sole 218. The outer surface of the heel recess flange 263 is oriented in the heel direction and downward. The outer surfaces of the crown flange 217, rear flange 228, toe recess flange 261, and heel recess flange 263 are further provided with a plurality of flange spacers 270. The flange spacers 270 extend outward from the outer surface of each flange and provide a gap when the crown insert 800 is adhesively attached into the crown window 234.

[0068] The “joint depth” of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is the distance at which the crown flange 217, rear flange 228, toe flange 261, and heel flange 263 are recessed inward from the outermost surface of the main body 202. The joint depth is measured from the outer surface of the main body 202 to the outer surfaces of each flange 217, 228, 261, and 263. The joint depth can range from 0.010 inches to 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the joint depth is between 0.010 inches and 0.030 inches, between 0.020 inches and 0.040 inches, or between 0.025 inches and 0.050 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the joint depth is 0.030 inches.

[0069] The “front window” 210 of a fairway-type golf club head as defined herein and used below is a front opening surrounded and defined by the main body toe portion 222, heel return 224, heel striking face portion 226, sole 218, and crown return 216. The front window 210 defines a front window surface 280 that is generally parallel to the loft plane 1010. The front window surface 280 is offset rearward from the loft plane 1010 by a front window surface offset distance 282.

[0070] A “rear weight support structure” 299 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a thickened section of the sole center portion 221 located at the far rear of the fairway-type golf club head. Referring to Figures 2A to 2C, the support structure 299 comprises a rear flange 228, a rear weight recess 250, and support material surrounding the rear weight recess 250. The support structure has a structural length 283 measured front to back, ranging from 1.50 inches to 0.75 inches. The support structure length 283 is measured from the rearmost outer point on the fairway-type golf club head to the frontmost inner wall of the rear weight recess 250. The support structure 299 has a support structure height 293 measured from the bottom outer surface of the golf club head to the uppermost point of the rear flange 228. The support structure height 293 can range from 0.30 inches to 1.50 inches. The ledge depth 254, measured inward from the nearby outer sole surface 219, can be in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches. The weight recess rear ledge 252 is open to the rear of the fairway-type golf club head and to the bottom of the fairway-type golf club head. The weight recess rear ledge 252 is configured to receive the rear weight rear projection. The rear flange 228 has a rear flange height 291 and a rear flange length measured from the toe side to the heel side of the rear flange 228. The rear flange 228 is configured to receive the rearmost portion of the crown insert 800, thereby supporting the lower rear edge of the crown insert 800. Thus, the rear flange 228 is offset inward from the rear outer surface of the fairway-type golf club head 100 to form a support structure inset 284. The support structure inset 284 has a bond line depth for the adhesive bond line, in addition to an inset depth 285 that is in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.25 inches, corresponding to the crown insert thickness at this position.Because the support structure height 293 must encompass the rear weight recess depth 251, the height of the rear weight fastener window 255, and the rear flange height 291, the support structure 229 has a relatively large support structure mass. The support structure mass is in the range of 0.1 grams to 50.0 grams. Furthermore, when the rear weight 1111 is received in the rear weight recess 250, the mass of the support structure 229 and the weight is 25 grams or more.

[0071] The "crown insert" 800 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a lightweight component configured to be received within the crown window 234 of the main body 202. Referring to Figures 4A to 4C, the crown insert 800 extends toward the sole 118 of the club head, covering the toe recess 260 and the toe recess flange 261, forming part of the outer surface of the club head. Similarly, the crown insert heel wing 812 extends toward the sole 118 of the club head, covering the heel recess 262 and the heel recess flange 263, forming part of the outer surface of the club head. The upper portion 834 of the crown insert forms part of the crown 116 of the fairway-type golf club head and overlaps the crown flange 217. The rear wing 816 of the crown insert extends downward toward the sole 118 of the club head at the rear 110 of the fairway-type golf club head 100, covering the rear flange 228 and forming part of the outer surface of the club head. The upper portion 834 of the crown insert is the part of the crown insert that is positioned above the outer circumference of the fairway-type golf club head. The lower portion 836 of the crown insert is the part of the crown insert 800 that is positioned below the outer circumference 112 of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0072] A “face cup” 300 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a component configured to be permanently fixed to the main body front window 210. Referring to Figures 1C, 2A, 2B, and 3A-3C, the face cup 300 comprises a face cup front portion 310, a face cup toe portion 311, a face cup striking face portion 304, a face cup crown return 316, a face cup sole return 318, and a face cup heel portion 315. The face cup 300 is configured to be received within the main body front window 210 and permanently fixed to the main body front window 210 to form the front portion 108 of the golf club head 100. Once the face cup 300 is fixed to the main body, the main body striking face portion 226 and the face cup striking face portion 304 combine to form the striking face 104 of the fairway-type golf club head. The crown return 316, sole return 318, and toe portion 311 of the face cup 300 surround the face cup striking face portion 304. The face cup 300 has a face cup rear edge 381 which forms the rear outer circumference of the face cup. The face cup rear edge 381 encompasses the entire rear edge of the face cup 300 and also encompasses the heel-direction edge of the face cup 300. The face cup rear edge 381 is configured to contact the front edge 281 of the main body when the face cup 300 is fixed to the main body 100. The rearmost point on the face cup crown return 316 and the rearmost point on the face cup sole return 318 define the face cup rear surface 380. The face cup rear surface 380 is parallel to the loft plane 1010.

[0073] The "face thickness" 330 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is measured from the surface before impact to the surface after impact. Referring to Figure 3C, the face thickness 330 can vary in the toe-heel and crown-sole directions. The face thickness 330 can be in the range of 0.020 inches to 0.050 inches.

[0074] In this specification and as used below, the "face area" of a fairway-type golf club head refers to the total surface area of ​​the face. The face area is 2.00 in. 2 From 3.00in 2 The range can be as follows: The hitting face area is approximately 2.00 in. 2 Approximately 2.05 inches 2 Approximately 2.10 inches 2 Approximately 2.15 inches 2 Approximately 2.20 inches 2 , about 2.25in 2 , about 2.30in 2 Approximately 2.35 inches 2 Approximately 2.40 inches 2 Approximately 2.45 inches 2 Approximately 2.50 inches 2 Approximately 2.55 inches 2 Approximately 2.60 inches 2 Approximately 2.65 inches 2 Approximately 2.70 inches 2 , about 2.75in 2 Approximately 2.80 inches 2 Approximately 2.85 inches 2 Approximately 2.90 inches 2 Approximately 2.95 inches 2 , or approximately 3.00 in 2 This can be achieved. In one exemplary embodiment, the striking face area is approximately 2.345 in. 2 That is the case.

[0075] A “rear weight assembly” 1100 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable weight assembly comprising a rear weight 1111, a rear weight threaded fastener 1160, and a rear weight washer 1170. Referring to Figures 2A-2C and 6A, the rear weight recess 250 is enclosed by a rear weight support structure 299.

[0076] A “rear weight” 1111 of a fairway-type golf club head, as defined herein and used below, is a removable weight component configured to be at least partially received within a rear weight recess 250. Referring to Figures 5D, 6A, and 6B, the rear weight comprises a rear way height 1112, a rear weight width 1114 (not shown), a rear weight length 1116, a rear weight top surface 1120, a rear weight bottom surface 1124, a rear weight outer peripheral surface 1128 between the top and bottom surfaces, a rear weight projection 1130, a top washer recess 1140, a rear weight fastener window 1150, and a rear weight window shoulder 1154 within the fastener window 1150. The threaded fastener 1160 is inserted upward from the bottom surface 1124 into the fastener window 1150 until the head of the threaded fastener 1160 abuts against the window shoulder 1154. A portion of the threaded fastener 1160 extends beyond the top surface 1120. The weight washer 1170 is received directly above the threaded fastener 1160, and the weight washer 1170 is also received within the top washer recess 1140. Once fully assembled, this rear weight assembly can be received within the rear weight recess 250, and the threaded fastener 1160 is screw-receivable into the rear weight fastener window 255. The rear weight bottom surface 1124 is exposed to the outside of the bottom of the fairway-type golf club head. The rear weight projection 1130 is exposed to both the outside of the bottom and the rear of the fairway-type golf club head. III. Coordinate Systems

[0077] Two coordinate systems applicable to fairway-type club heads are described below to provide various center of gravity, FLIP axis, and fairway-type club head dimensions that describe the present invention.

[0078] The "XYZ" coordinate system for fairway-type golf club heads described herein is based on the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104. The dimensions of fairway-type club heads described herein can be measured based on the coordinate system defined below. The geometric center 140 of the striking face 104 defines a coordinate system having an origin located at the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104. This coordinate system has an X-axis 1052, a Y-axis 1062, and a Z-axis 1072. The X-axis 1052 extends through the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104 in the direction from the heel 120 to the toe 122 of the fairway-type club head 100. The Y-axis 1062 extends through the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104 in the direction from the crown 116 to the sole 118 of the fairway-type club head 100. The Y-axis 1062 extends perpendicular to the X-axis 1052. The Z-axis 1072 extends from the front end 108 to the rear end 110 of the fairway-type club head 100, passing through the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104. The Z-axis 1072 extends perpendicular to the X-axis 1052 and the Y-axis 1062.

[0079] The XYZ coordinate system for the fairway-type golf club head described herein defines an XY plane extending through the X-axis 1052 and the Y-axis 1062. This coordinate system defines an XZ plane extending through the X-axis 1052 and the Z-axis 1072. This coordinate system further defines a YZ plane extending through the Y-axis 1062 and the Z-axis 1072. The XY plane, XZ plane, and YZ plane are all perpendicular to each other and intersect at the origin of the coordinate system, which is located at the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104. The XY plane extends parallel to the hosel axis 132 and is positioned at an angle corresponding to the loft angle from the loft plane 1010 of the fairway-type club head 100. In these or other embodiments, the fairway-type club head 100 is visible from the front view (Figure 1B) when the striking face 104 is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the XY plane. Furthermore, in these or other embodiments, the fairway-type club head 100 is visible from a side view or side cross-sectional view (Figure 1A) when the heel 120 is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the YZ plane.

[0080] The xyz coordinate system for the fairway-type golf club head described herein is based on the centroid of the fairway-type club head CG172. The xyz coordinate system is different from the XYZ coordinate system based on the geometric center 140. The fairway-type club head CG172 defines the origin of a coordinate system having x-axis 1050, y-axis 1060, and z-axis 1070. The y-axis 1060 extends through the head CG172 in the direction from the crown 116 to the sole 118 of the fairway-type club head 100. The x-axis 1050 extends through the head CG172 from the heel 120 to the toe 122, perpendicular to the y-axis 1060 and parallel to the XY plane when viewed from the front. The z-axis 1070 extends through the head CG172 from the front end 108 to the rear end 110, perpendicular to the x-axis 1050 and y-axis 1060. In many embodiments, the x-axis 1050 extends through the head CG 172 from the heel 120 to the toe 122, parallel to the x-axis 1052. The y-axis 1060 extends through the head CG 172 from the crown 116 to the sole 118, parallel to the y-axis 1062. The z-axis 1070 extends through the head CG 172 from the front end 108 to the rear end 110, parallel to the z-axis 1072.

[0081] In the fairway-type golf club head described herein, the "loft plane" 1010 is the plane tangent to the geometric center 140 of the striking face 104. The loft plane 1010 forms a loft angle with respect to the ground surface 1000. IV. Method for determining the position of CG

[0082] The CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert can be described based on the positions of components of different fairway-type golf club heads. Several methods have been devised to describe the desired positions of CG172 and CG472, as described below. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert can be described using any combination of these methods. Each method establishes a "virtual volume" or volume within the fairway-type club head 100 where CG172 would be optimally positioned. Figures 5A-5D and 8A-8E illustrate this volume within the fairway-type club head 100 as a two-dimensional area (not drawn to scale). The two-dimensional area can be idealized as a three-dimensional volume (not shown) within the fairway-type club head. CG172 and CG472 can be limited to the specified area or volume. The offsets described below may be absolute values ​​or offsets in any direction from a specified point. For example, CGX1 could be an offset from the Y-axis 1062 in the heel direction or the toe direction.

[0083] The "geometric center method" for determining the positions 172 and 472 of the CG, as defined herein and used below, is described with reference to the XYZ coordinate system that occurs at the geometric center 140 of the face. The geometric center method can be used to position the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head is positioned at offset (CGX1)173, offset (CGY1)176, and offset (CGZ1)174. The CG472 of a sole insert is positioned at offset (CGX1)473, offset (CGY1)476, and offset (CGZ1)474. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert can be described similarly using this method, but the values ​​obtained for the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the values ​​obtained for the CG472 of a sole insert may be the same or different. In other words, CGZ1174, CGY1176, and CGX1173 are related to CG172 of the fairway-type club head, and CGZ1474, CGY1476, and CGX1473 are related to CG472 of the sole insert. Referring to Figures 5A and 8A, CG172 and 472 are located at offsets (CGZ1) 174 and 474 measured backward from the geometric center 140 parallel to the Z-axis 1072. CG172 and 472 are further located at offsets (CGY1) 176 and 476 measured perpendicular to the Z-axis 1072 from CG172 and 472. CG172 and 472 can be above or below the geometric center 140. In other words, CGY1 is the absolute value from the Z-axis 1072. The CGs are further positioned at offsets (CGX1) 173 and 473 (not shown) measured parallel to the X-axis 1052 from the geometric center 140. CG172 and 472 can be in the heel direction or toe direction relative to the geometric center 140. In other words, CGX1173 and 473 are absolute values ​​from the Y-axis 1062.Using a geometric centering method, separate virtual boxes can be defined around CG172 of a fairway-type club head and CG472 of the sole insert, based on the minimum and maximum CGX1, CGY1, and CGZ1 values. CGX1173 and 473 can define boxes in the heel-toe direction, CGY1176 and 476 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ1174 and 474 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual boxes can define the optimal range of CG172 and 472 values. The virtual box drawn around CG172 of a fairway-type club head can be positioned closer to the crown and striking face than the virtual box drawn around CG472 of the sole insert.

[0084] A “leading edge method” for determining the positions 172 and 472 of the CG, as defined herein and used below, is described with reference to the leading edge 114 of a fairway-type club head. The leading edge method can be used to position the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head is positioned at offset (CGX1) 173, offset (CGY2) 180, and offset (CGZ2) 181. The CG472 of a sole insert is positioned at offset (CGX1) 473, offset (CGY2) 480, and offset (CGZ2) 481. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert can be similarly described using this method, but the values ​​obtained for the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the values ​​obtained for the CG472 of a sole insert may be the same or different. In other words, CGZ2181, CGY2180, and CGX1173 are related to CG172 of the fairway-type club head, and CGZ2481, CGY2480, and CGX1473 are related to CG472 of the sole insert. Referring to Figures 5B and 8B, CG172 and 472 are located at offsets (CGY2) 180 and 480 measured perpendicular to the ground surface 1000. CG172 and 472 are further located at offsets (CGZ2) 181 and 481 measured parallel to the ground surface 1000 and posteriorly to CG172 and 472. CG is further located at offsets (CGX1) 173 and 473 (not shown) measured parallel to the X-axis 1052 from the geometric center 140. CG172 and 472 can be located in the heel or toe direction relative to the geometric center 140. In other words, CGX1173 and 473 are absolute values ​​from the Y-axis 1062. When viewing a fairway-type clubhead from the front, the leading edge is idealized as a point along the Y-axis 1062.Therefore, the positions of CG172 and CG472 in the X-axis direction 1062 are based on the geometric center 140. Using the leading edge method, separate virtual boxes can be defined around CG172 of the fairway-type club head and CG472 of the sole insert by the minimum and maximum CGX1, CGY2, and CGZ2 values. CGX1173 and CG473 can define boxes in the heel-toe direction, CGY2180 and CG480 can define boxes in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ2181 and CG481 can define boxes in the front-to-back direction. The virtual boxes can define the optimal range of values ​​for CG172 and CG472. The virtual box drawn around CG172 of the fairway-type club head can be positioned closer to the crown and striking face than the virtual box drawn around CG472 of the sole insert.

[0085] The “exit point method” for determining the positions 172 and 472 of the CG, as defined herein and used below, is described with reference to the FLIP axis exit point 196. The exit point method can be used to position the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head is positioned at offset (CGX2) 179, offset (CGY2) 180, and offset (CGZ3) 187. The CG472 of a sole insert is positioned at offset (CGX2) 479, offset (CGY2) 480, and offset (CGZ3) 487. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert can be similarly described using this method, but the values ​​obtained for the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the values ​​obtained for the CG472 of a sole insert may be the same or different. In other words, CGZ3187, CGY2180, and CGX2179 correspond to CG172 of the fairway-type club head, and CGZ3487, CGY2480, and CGX2479 correspond to CG472 of the sole insert. Referring to Figures 5C and 8C, CG172 and 472 are located at offsets (CGY2) 180 and 480 measured perpendicular to the ground surface 1000. CG172 and 472 are further located at offsets (CGZ3) 187 and 487 measured forward from the exit point 196 parallel to the ground surface 1000. CG is further located at offsets (CGX2) 179 and 479 (not shown) measured parallel to the X-axis 1052 from the FLIP axis 195. CG172 and 472 can be located in the heel or toe direction relative to FLIP190. In other words, CGX2179 and 479 are absolute values ​​from the FLIP axis 195.Using the exit point method, separate virtual boxes can be defined around CG172 of a fairway-type club head and CG472 of the sole insert, based on the minimum and maximum CGX2, CGY2, and CGZ3 values. CGX2179 and 479 can define boxes in the heel-toe direction, CGY2180 and 480 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ3187 and 487 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual boxes can define the optimal range of CG172 and 472 values. The virtual box drawn around CG172 of a fairway-type club head can be positioned closer to the crown and striking face than the virtual box drawn around CG472 of the sole insert.

[0086] The "FLIP axis method" for determining the positions 172 and 472 of the CG, as defined herein and used below, will be described with reference to the FLIP axis 195. The FLIP axis method can be used to position the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head is positioned at offset (CGF1) 186 and offset (CGF2) 182. The CG472 of a sole insert is positioned at offset (CGF1) 486 and offset (CGF2) 482. The CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the CG472 of a sole insert can be described similarly using this method, but the values ​​obtained for the CG172 of a fairway-type club head and the values ​​obtained for the CG472 of a sole insert may be the same or different. In other words, CGF2182 and CGF1186 relate to CG172 of the fairway-type club head, and CGF2482 and CGF1486 relate to CG472 of the sole insert. Referring to Figures 5D and 8D, CG172 and 472 are positioned at offsets (CGF1) 186 and 486 measured perpendicular to the FLIP axis 195 from CG172 and 472. CG172 and 472 can be above or below the FLIP axis 195. In other words, CGF1186 and 486 are absolute values ​​from the FLIP axis 195 and define the radial distance from the FLIP axis 195. CG172 and 472 are further positioned at offsets (CGF2) 182 and 482 measured along planes 1020 and 1030 that pass through CG172 and are parallel to the FLIP axis 195. By using the FLIP axis method and defining ranges for the CGF1 and CGF2 values, a separate virtual cylinder can be defined around CG172 of the fairway-type club head and CG472 of the sole insert. The values ​​CGF1186 and 486 can define the radius of this cylinder, and the values ​​CGF2182 and 482 can define the height of this cylinder along the FLIP axis 195.The virtual cylinder can define the optimal range of CG172 and CG472 values. The virtual cylinder drawn around CG172 on a fairway-type club head can be positioned closer to the crown and striking face than the virtual box drawn around CG472 on a sole insert.

[0087] A “relative method” for determining the position CG 472 of the sole insert, as defined herein and used below, is described with reference to the coordinate system that occurs at CG 172 of a fairway-type club head. Referring to Figure 8E, CG 472 of the sole insert is located at an offset (CGY4) 477 measured perpendicular to the z-axis 1070 from CG 472 of the sole insert. CG 172 and 472 are further located at an offset (CGZ5) 475 measured perpendicular to the y-axis 1060 from CG 472 of the sole insert. CG 472 of the sole insert can be located below and behind CG 172 of the fairway-type club head. CG is further located at an offset (CGX3) 483 measured parallel to the x-axis 1052 from CG 172 of the fairway-type club head to CG 472 of the sole insert (not shown). Using a relative method, a virtual box can be defined around CG472 of the sole insert by the minimum and maximum CGX3, CGY4, and CGZ5 values. CGX3483 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, the CGY4477 value can define the box in the crown-sole direction, and the CGZ5475 value can define the box in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG472 values.

[0088] The combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, and a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100 provides a fairway-type golf club head that is more forgiving and has a lower center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a fairway-type club head without a sole insert. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances the CG 172 along the FLIP axis 195 using the high-density sole insert 430, the lightweight crown insert 800, and the removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100.

[0089] Various embodiments of the fairway-type golf club head 100 exist that achieve a low and rearward CG 172 on the FLIP axis 195. The main body 202 and face cup 300 may include metallic materials such as titanium alloy, or the main body 202 may include composite materials such as fiber-reinforced polymer or fiber-reinforced composite. The sole insert 430 and rear weight 1111 may include high-density metallic materials such as titanium or steel. The crown insert 800 may include composite materials such as carbon composite material, fiber-reinforced polymer material, natural fiber composite, or any other suitable low-density material.

[0090] Various embodiments of the club head may have varying loft angles and volumes. Other embodiments may include club heads having loft angles and volumes different from those described herein. Detailed explanation I. Impact points and axes of force lines

[0091] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the fairway-type golf club head 100 has a series of structures that ensure the CG is near or above the line of force, leading to the maximization of the force transmitted when the golf ball is struck. The line of force impact point (FLIP) 190 is the point where the force of the fairway-type golf club stroke is most efficiently transmitted to the golf ball. The most efficient transmission occurs while maximizing the force transmitted to the golf ball and without expending any force in the lateral vector. Therefore, the FLIP axis 195 is the axis that coincides with the force vector that does not position the side / top / or bottom spin vector on the golf ball at impact. FLIP 190 is the impact point, which is the intersection of the FLIP axis 195 on the striking face 104, and is created from the average and optimal impact position of a golf ball resting on the ground. In other words, FLIP 190 is the point that defines the starting point of the FLIP axis 195. The average and optimal impact point on a golf ball is approximately the point on the golf ball where the roll radius / face curvature of a fairway-type golf club head 100 makes contact with the golf ball at the moment of impact. This impact point does not change in essence due to the bounce angle of the fairway-type golf club, because the bounce portion of the sole of the fairway-type golf club is actually designed to be below the ground level where the ball is resting at impact (and thus take a divot). This desired impact point also does not change in essence due to the striking face height, because the physical dimensions of the golf ball do not increase or decrease in proportion to changes in the dimensions of the fairway-type golf club head. Therefore, the golf clubs described herein are not driver-type golf clubs, hybrid-type golf clubs, iron-type golf clubs, or putter-type golf clubs.

[0092] Therefore, this desired or optimal static line of force impact point (FLIP 190) is a relative invariant point on the striking face 104 of a fairway-type golf club head (essentially unchanging with respect to the bounce angle and depth of the sole of the fairway-type golf club, or the height of the striking face), and is located at the endpoint of the force vector that is most efficient for impacting the golf ball on the striking face. Consequently, if CG 172 is positioned directly above the FLIP axis 195, CG 172 will respond to this impact force along this FLIP axis 195, and this response will be in a manner that does not lose any impact force with respect to the lateral vector that would waste some of the impact force to impart top / bottom / sidespin to the golf ball. Referring to Figure 1A, the FLIP (line of force impact point) 190 is located on the striking face in the YZ plane at a FLIP height 192 above the ground surface 1000. The FLIP height 192 is in the range of 0.55 inches to 0.75 inches. The FLIP height of 192 can be approximately 0.55 inches, 0.56 inches, 0.57 inches, 0.58 inches, 0.59 inches, 0.60 inches, 0.61 inches, 0.62 inches, 0.63 inches, 0.64 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.66 inches, 0.67 inches, 0.68 inches, 0.69 inches, 0.70 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, or 0.75 inches.

[0093] The fairway-type golf club head as defined above features selected elements from the group consisting of a crown insert, face cup, high-density sole insert, and rear weight. This configuration results in a mass distribution that enables a desirable position of the CG of the fairway-type golf club head, which is on or near the FLIP axis and optimally positioned and measured in the front-to-back direction. Specifically, the selection of specific materials for each component supports a higher percentage of mass in the lower portion of the fairway-type golf club head. Furthermore, the overall shape of the fairway-type golf club head also supports the desired position of the CG. Specifically, the relative height of the striking face and club head described below also supports a lower CG positioning. Lower CG positioning allows the CG to be on or near the FLIP axis, while also allowing it to be positioned further towards the rear of the fairway-type golf club head. Combining one or more of the structures and structural relationships disclosed herein results in a more optimal positioning of the CG of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0094] To demonstrate the relationships between the dimensions of the components of a fairway-type golf club head, various ratios of the fairway-type club head can be created. The ratios discussed below apply to a fairway-type club head 100. These ratios do not apply to driver-type, hybrid-type, iron-type, or putter-type club heads. A fairway-type club head 100 can be described using one or more of the following relationships.

number

[0095] The first ratio (1) creates the relationship between the fairway-type clubhead height 164 and the geometric center height 146. The clubhead height 164 must be between 1.25 inches and 2.00 inches when measured perpendicular to the ground surface 1000, and the geometric center height 146 must be between 0.40 inches and 0.75 inches. A fairway-type clubhead 100 can be described as having a first ratio (1) less than 2.30. In one exemplary embodiment, a fairway-type clubhead 100 has a first ratio (1) of 2.15.

[0096] The second ratio (2) creates the relationship between the clubhead height 164 and the face height 144. The clubhead height 164 must be between 1.25 inches and 2.00 inches when measured perpendicular to the ground surface 1000, and the face height 144 must be between 1.00 inches and 1.50 inches when measured parallel to the loft plane 1010 extending through the geometric center 140 of the face. A fairway-type clubhead 100 can be described as having a second ratio (2) less than 1.50. In one exemplary embodiment, a fairway-type clubhead 100 has a second ratio (2) of 1.28.

[0097] Using the dimensions of a fairway-type golf club head, a relationship can be created between the geometric form of the club head and the position of the FLIP axis 195. For example, a fairway-type golf club head can be described using the following relationship:

number

[0098] The third ratio (3) creates the relationship between the FLIP height 192 and the height 146 of the geometric center of the face. The FLIP height 192 must be between 0.55 inches and 0.75 inches, and the geometric center height 146 must be between 0.40 inches and 0.75 inches. The third ratio (3) is limited to the specified range to ensure that the FLIP 190 and the geometric center 140 are located near each other. In other words, the third ratio (3) limits the club head 100 to a fairway type club head. In one exemplary embodiment, the club head 100 has a third ratio of 0.98.

[0099] The fourth ratio (4) creates the relationship between the FLIP height 192 and the clubhead height 164. When measured perpendicular to the ground surface 1000, the FLIP height 192 must be between 0.55 inches and 0.75 inches, and the clubhead height 164 must be between 1.25 inches and 2.00 inches. The fourth ratio (4) limits the FLIP height 192 to approximately half, or slightly less than half, of the clubhead height 164, within the specified range. Thus, the fourth ratio (4) further establishes that the clubhead 100 is a fairway-type clubhead. In one exemplary embodiment, the clubhead 100 has a fourth ratio (4) of 0.45.

[0100] The fifth ratio (5) creates the relationship between the FLIP height 192 and the face height 144. The FLIP height 192 must be between 0.55 inches and 0.75 inches, and the face height 144 must be between 1.00 inches and 1.50 inches when measured parallel to the loft plane 1010 extending through the geometric center 140 of the face. The fifth ratio (5) is limited to the specified range, limiting the FLIP height 192 to approximately half the face height 144. Thus, the fifth ratio (5) further establishes that the club head 100 is a fairway type club head. In one exemplary embodiment, the club head 100 has a fifth ratio (5) of 0.58. V. Center of gravity of the club head

[0101] The specified scope in the following and above definitions of CG172 for fairway-type golf club heads limits this club head to fairway-type club heads. In other words, a fairway-type golf club head cannot be a driver-type, hybrid-type, iron-type, or putter-type golf club head. As shown in Figures 5A to 5D, a fairway-type golf club head 100 defines a low and optimally positioned center of gravity (CG) 172 located on or near the FLIP axis 195. Each method establishes the volume within the club head 100 in which CG172 would be optimally positioned. The position of CG 172 of the club head can be described using any combination of these methods. A. Geometric center method

[0102] A combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof, provides a golf club head that has forgiveness and a low center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a club head without a sole insert. The components of these fairway-type golf club heads provide the basis for the position of CG172 as described herein. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances CG172 along the FLIP axis 195 with features selected from the group consisting of a high-density sole insert 430, a lightweight crown insert 800, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, and combinations thereof. The range of CG172 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0103] Using a geometric centering method, a virtual box can be defined around the CG172 of the clubhead by the minimum and maximum CGX1, CGY1, and CGZ1 values. CGX1173 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, CGY1176 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ1174 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG172 values.

[0104] According to the geometric centering method, CGZ1174 can range from 1.00 inches to 1.50 inches, CGY1176 can range from 0.10 inches to 0.40 inches, and CGX1173 can range from 0.005 inches to 0.030 inches. For example, CGZ1174 can be between 1.00 inches and 1.25 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.40 inches, or between 1.25 inches and 1.50 inches. CGZ1174 can be approximately 1.00 inches, approximately 1.05 inches, approximately 1.10 inches, approximately 1.15 inches, approximately 1.20 inches, approximately 1.25 inches, approximately 1.30 inches, approximately 1.35 inches, approximately 1.40 inches, approximately 1.45 inches, or approximately 1.50 inches. Furthermore, CGY1176 can be in the range of 0.10 inches to 0.30 inches, 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches, 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches, or 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches. CGY1176 can be 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, or 0.40 inches. The CGX1173 can be in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.020 inches, 0.010 inches to 0.020 inches, or 0.015 inches to 0.030 inches.The CGX1173 can be 0.005 inches, 0.006 inches, 0.007 inches, 0.008 inches, 0.009 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.026 inches, 0.027 inches, 0.028 inches, 0.029 inches, or 0.030 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, CGZ1174 is 1.200 inches behind the geometric center 140, CGY1176 is 0.286 inches below the Z axis 1072, and CGX1173 is 0.015 inches in the tow direction from the Y axis 1062. B. Leading Edge Method

[0105] A combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof, provides a golf club head that has forgiveness and a low center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a club head without a sole insert. The components of these fairway-type golf club heads provide the basis for the position of CG172 as described herein. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances CG172 along the FLIP axis 195 with features selected from the group consisting of a high-density sole insert 430, a lightweight crown insert 800, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, and combinations thereof. The range of CG172 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0106] Using the leading edge method, a virtual box can be defined around the CG172 of the club head by the minimum and maximum CGX1, CGY2, and CGZ2 values. CGX1 173 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, CGY2 180 can define the box in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ2 181 can define the box in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG172 values. According to the leading edge method, CGY2 180 can be in the range of 0.20 inches to 0.50 inches. For example, CGY2 180 can be in the range of 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches, 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches, 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches, 0.35 inches to 0.40 inches, or 0.35 inches to 0.50 inches. CGY2180 can be approximately 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.40 inches, 0.41 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.49 inches, or 0.50 inches. The CGZ2181 can be in the range of 1.00 inches to 1.50 inches. For example, the CGZ2181 can be in the range of 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, 1.10 inches to 1.40 inches, or 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches. The CGZ2181 can be 1.00 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.45 inches, or 1.50 inches.The CGX1173 can be in the range of 0.005 inches to 0.020 inches, 0.010 inches to 0.020 inches, or 0.015 inches to 0.030 inches. The CGX1173 can be 0.005 inches, 0.006 inches, 0.007 inches, 0.008 inches, 0.009 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.026 inches, 0.027 inches, 0.028 inches, 0.029 inches, or 0.030 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, CGY2180 is 0.376 inches above the ground surface, CGZ2181 is 1.330 inches behind the leading edge, and CGX1173 is 0.015 inches from the Y-axis 1062 in the tow direction. C. Exit point method

[0107] A combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof, provides a golf club head that has forgiveness and a low center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a club head without a sole insert. The components of these fairway-type golf club heads provide the basis for the position of CG172 as described herein. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances CG172 along the FLIP axis 195 with features selected from the group consisting of a high-density sole insert 430, a lightweight crown insert 800, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, and combinations thereof. The range of CG172 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0108] Using the exit point method, a virtual box can be defined around the CG172 of the clubhead by the minimum and maximum CGX2, CGY2, and CGZ3 values. CGX2179 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, CGY2180 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ3187 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG172 values.

[0109] According to the exit point method, CGZ3187 can be in the range of 1.00 inches to 1.50 inches. For example, CGZ3187 can be in the range of 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, 1.10 inches to 1.40 inches, or 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches. CGZ3187 can be approximately 1.00 inches, approximately 1.05 inches, approximately 1.10 inches, approximately 1.15 inches, approximately 1.20 inches, approximately 1.25 inches, approximately 1.30 inches, approximately 1.35 inches, approximately 1.40 inches, approximately 1.45 inches, or approximately 1.50 inches. CGY2180 can be in the range of 0.20 inches to 0.50 inches. For example, CGY2180 can be in the range of 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches, 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches, 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches, 0.35 inches to 0.40 inches, or 0.35 inches to 0.50 inches. CGY2180 can be approximately 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.40 inches, 0.41 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.49 inches, or 0.50 inches. The CGX2179 can be between 0.00 inches and 0.020 inches. For example, the CGX2179 can be in the range of 0.00 inches to 0.005 inches, 0.005 inches to 0.015 inches, or 0.010 inches to 0.020 inches.CGX2179 can be 0.000 inches, 0.001 inches, 0.002 inches, 0.003 inches, 0.004 inches, 0.005 inches, 0.006 inches, 0.007 inches, 0.008 inches, 0.009 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, or 0.020 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, CGY2180 is 0.376 inches above the ground surface, CGZ3187 is 1.10 inches ahead of exit point 196, and CGX2179 is 0.016 inches heel from exit point 196. D.FLIP axis method

[0110] A combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof, provides a golf club head that has forgiveness and a low center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a club head without a sole insert. The components of these fairway-type golf club heads provide the basis for the position of CG172 as described herein. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances CG172 along the FLIP axis 195 with features selected from the group consisting of a high-density sole insert 430, a lightweight crown insert 800, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, and combinations thereof. The range of CG172 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0111] By using the FLIP axis method and defining ranges for the CGF1 and CGF2 values, a virtual cylinder can be defined around the CG172 of the club head. The value of CGF1186 can define the radius of this cylinder, and the value of CGF2182 can define the height of this cylinder along the FLIP axis 195. The virtual cylinder can define the optimal range of CG172 values.

[0112] According to the FLIP axis method, the CGF2182 can be in the range of 1.00 inch to 1.50 inch. For example, the CGF2182 can be in the range of 1.00 inch to 1.25 inch, 1.10 inch to 1.40 inch, or 1.25 inch to 1.50 inch. The CGF2182 can be approximately 1.00 inch, approximately 1.05 inch, approximately 1.10 inch, approximately 1.15 inch, approximately 1.20 inch, approximately 1.25 inch, approximately 1.30 inch, approximately 1.35 inch, approximately 1.40 inch, approximately 1.45 inch, or approximately 1.50 inch. The CGF1186 can be between 0.00 inch and 0.25 inch. For example, CGF1186 can be in the range of 0.00 inches to 0.040 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.040 inches, 0.035 inches to 0.040 inches, 0.040 inches to 0.050 inches, 0.040 inches to 0.075 inches, 0.050 inches to 0.10 inches, 0.075 inches to 0.10 inches, 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. CGF1186 can be 0.000 inches, 0.001 inches, 0.002 inches, 0.003 inches, 0.004 inches, 0.005 inches, 0.006 inches, 0.007 inches, 0.008 inches, 0.009 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, or 0.020 inches. CGF1186 can be 0.000 inches, 0.001 inches, 0.002 inches, 0.003 inches, 0.004 inches, 0.005 inches, 0.006 inches, 0.007 inches, 0.008 inches, 0.009 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.011 inches, 0.012 inches, 0.013 inches, 0.014 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.016 inches, 0.017 inches, 0.018 inches, 0.019 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.021 inches, 0.022 inches, 0.023 inches, 0.024 inches, or 0.025 inches.In one exemplary embodiment, CGF2182 is 1.233 inches behind FLIP190 along FLIP axis 195, and CGF1186 is 0.038 inches.

[0113] The specified range for CG172 ensures that CG172 is positioned on the FLIP axis 195, low and rearward relative to the front portion of the fairway-type golf club head. Carefully positioning the club head's CG172 on the FLIP axis 195 and as low as possible allows for optimal force transfer to the golf ball. Therefore, CGZ1174 can be less than 1.50 inches, CGY1176 can be less than 0.40 inches, and CGF1186 can be less than 0.25 inches. Limiting the club head's CG172 to the range discussed above ensures that the club head's CG172 is positioned on or near the FLIP axis 195. Positioning the head's CG172 along the FLIP axis 195 results in optimal force transfer and reduced spin. Additionally, CGY2180 can be less than 0.50 inches, and CGF2182 can be greater than 1.00 inches. The importance of material selection and its impact on CG placement.

[0114] The combination of a lightweight crown insert 800, a main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof, provides a golf club head that has forgiveness and a low center of gravity that reduces golf ball spin compared to a club head without a sole insert. The fairway-type golf club head 100 described herein balances the CG 172 along the FLIP axis 195 using the high-density sole insert 430, the lightweight crown insert 800, a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100, or a combination thereof.

[0115] Because the FLIP axis 195 is essentially perpendicular to the loft plane 1010 of the golf club head 100, it inevitably slopes as it moves towards the rear 110 of the golf club head 100, getting closer to the sole 118. Therefore, the further rearward the CG 172 is moved, the lower it must be positioned to be above or near the FLIP axis 195. This requires careful selection and positioning of the material of the golf club head 100. Ideally, the crown 116 and main body 102 of the golf club have low density, and a very large portion of the total mass of the golf club head is positioned very low in the golf club head 100. However, there is a limit to how much of the total mass of the golf club head 100 can be moved downward toward the sole 118 to lower the CG 172. Furthermore, this requires carefully positioning and moving the CG172 of the golf club head 100 somewhat forward toward the front 108, with the aim of maximizing the total club head MOI by bringing the CG172 as close as possible to the FLIP axis while simultaneously moving it as far away as possible toward the rear 110.

[0116] The selection of geometric form and specific material for each component contributes to a high percentage of mass in the lower portion of the golf club head. The effects of the mass and configuration of each component and system are cumulative. The fairway-type golf club heads described herein may have features selected from any or all of the described components. Each of the main body, face cup, crown insert, rear weight assembly, and support structure, as well as the sole insert, has a geometric form and material and mass properties that can be configured to contribute to the desired positioning of the CG of the golf club head. VI. Main Body

[0117] It is desirable that the main body 202 provides a strong and rigid framework while minimizing the mass allocated to the main body. The main body 202 can be made of a metallic material such as a titanium alloy or an aluminum alloy. The titanium alloy can be selected from the group consisting of Ti-8-1-1, Ti6-4, Ti9-1-1, and TI140C. The main body 202 can also be made of a fiber-reinforced polymer or fiber-reinforced composite. Steel alloys are less desirable as a material for the main body compared to titanium alloys, aluminum alloys, fiber-reinforced polymers, or fiber-reinforced composites because they have a higher specific mass. The main body 202 acts as an anchor for the combination of components of the fairway-type golf club head, while simultaneously improving the position and / or MOI of the CG172 of the fairway-type club head 100 by reducing structural mass that can be redistributed throughout the club head as needed. VII. High-density sole insert (430)

[0118] The fairway-type golf club head 100 may further include a high-density sole insert 430. More specifically, the main body sole 218 may further include a high-density sole insert 430 (or sole insert) received in a sole insert recess 240. The sole insert 430 may be removablely received in the sole recess by one or more threaded fasteners 435. The sole insert 430 may define a window 445 in which the threaded fasteners 435 can be received. In another embodiment, the sole insert 430 may be permanently fixed in the sole insert recess. In this alternative embodiment, the sole insert 430 may be welded into the sole insert recess. In yet another alternative embodiment, the sole insert 430 may be cast integrally with the main body 102 of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0119] The high-density sole insert 430 may include a steel alloy having a higher density than the crown 116 and main body 102 (which works to move more mass lower and into the sole 118). More preferably, the high-density sole insert 430 may include a tungsten alloy or pure tungsten material (which moves an even larger portion of the total mass of the fairway-type golf club head closer to the sole 118). The sole insert 430 is configured to be as low and flat as possible so that the CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head can be moved as far as possible toward the sole 118.

[0120] Referring to Figure 7A, the front edge 454 and the rear edge 456 can be generally parallel to each other or generally parallel to the X-axis 1052. Alternatively, portions of the front edge 454 or the rear edge 456 can be non-parallel to the rear edge 456 and non-parallel to the X-axis 1052. The heel edge 458 and the toe edge 460 can be parallel to each other and non-parallel to the X-axis 1052 and the Z-axis 1072. In some embodiments, the heel edge 458 may include at least a portion that is parallel to the toe edge 460. The sole insert 430 further includes a top surface 462 and a bottom surface 464. The sole insert 430 is configured to be received in the sole insert recess 240 such that the top surface 462 is in contact with the sole insert recess floor 241, and the bottom surface 464 forms part of the sole 118.

[0121] The sole insert 430 can be relatively large so as to define a substantial portion of the sole 118 of a fairway-type golf club head. The sole insert 430 extends substantially in the front-to-back direction across the sole 118 such that the maximum sole insert depth 446 is greater than 50% of the depth 160 of the fairway-type golf club head. The sole insert 430 extends substantially in the heel-toe direction across the sole 118 such that the maximum sole insert length 447 is greater than 50% of the length 162 of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0122] The sole insert length 447 is carefully selected to balance the CG172 and MOI of the fairway type golf club head. A wider insert 430 follows the curvature of the fairway type golf club head 100 and begins to form part of the outer peripheral region 112. A wider insert 430 allows for an increased MOI and provides a more forgiving fairway type golf club head. However, a wider insert 430 will position more mass higher on the fairway type golf club head 100, raising the CG172 of the fairway type golf club head. Conversely, a narrower insert can lower the CG172 of the fairway type golf club head, but may reduce the MOI of the fairway type golf club head, resulting in a less forgiving club. Therefore, the sole insert length 447 is selected to be sufficiently large to bring substantial mass near the sole 118 while remaining within the sole portion 118, thereby optimizing the CG and MOI of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0123] As discussed above, the dimensions of the sole insert 430 are carefully selected to balance the CG172 and MOI of the fairway-type golf club head. The depth 446 and length 447 of the sole insert are selected so that the insert 430 extends over the sole 118 and defines a substantial portion of the sole 118. The bottom surface 464 of the sole insert defines the visible surface area from the outside of the fairway-type golf club head 100. The surface area is 2.50 in. 2 Larger than 2.75in 2 Larger than 3.00in 2 Larger than 3.25in 2 Larger than, or 3.50 inches 2 It can be made larger than that. Alternatively, the surface area is 2.50 in. 2 From 3.00in 2 During, 2.75in 2 From 3.25in 2 Between, or 3.00in 2 From 3.50in 2 It can be in the range of . In one exemplary embodiment, the visible surface area is 3.135 in 2 The surface area is defined by the sole insert depth of 446 and length of 477.

[0124] The depth 446 and length 447 of the sole insert can be limited to ensure that the sole insert 430 generally remains within the central sole portion. Additionally, the sole insert 430 can be positioned offset 449 from the striking face 104 to further ensure that the sole insert 430 remains near the central portion of the sole 118. In other words, the sole insert 430 is configured to form only a portion of the sole 418 and not a portion of the outer perimeter 112 of the fairway-type golf club head or the striking face 104. This arrangement of the sole insert 430 works to position the CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head 100 further inward in order to be located on or near the FLIP axis 195. If the design consisted of a sole insert 430 that formed part of the outer perimeter, the CG 172 would rise, making it more difficult to position it on or near the FLIP axis 195. Therefore, the sole insert can have a depth of 446 less than 2.0 inches, a length of 447 less than 3.0 inches, a thickness of 448 less than 0.30 inches, and a visible surface area of ​​3.50 in. 2 It is possible for it to be less than [a certain value].

[0125] As discussed above, the fairway-type golf club head 100 defines an outer perimeter, which defines an upper portion 152 and a lower portion 156 of the fairway-type golf club head 100. The lower portion 152 includes the sole 118 and a portion of the outer perimeter region 112. The lower portion 156 has an outer surface, and the sole insert bottom surface 464 can define between 15% and 40% of the outer surface. For example, the bottom surface 464 can define between 15% and 30%, between 18% and 23%, or between 25% and 40% of the outer surface. In one exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface 464 defines 21.68% of the lower portion. The dimensions of the sole insert 430 are carefully selected to result in a low insert CG that allows for a CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head near the FLIP axis 195.

[0126] The sole insert bottom surface 464 defines a curvature that generally follows the curvature of the fairway-type golf club head 100. The sole insert 430 defines the heel-side radius of curvature (ROC), measured along the bottom surface 464 from the lowest point of the sole insert 430 to the heel-side edge 458, and the toe-side radius of curvature (ROC), measured from the lowest point of the sole insert 430 to the toe-side edge 460. In some embodiments, the heel-side ROC can be smaller than the toe-side ROC. For example, in one embodiment, the heel-side ROC is 4.50 inches and the toe-side ROC is 5.75 inches. Referring to Figure 7C, the sole insert ROC 430 can follow the ROC of the sole 118, and the sole insert 430 can further define the heel-side maximum height 492 and the toe-side maximum height 494. The maximum heel height 492 and the maximum toe height 494 can be the same in some embodiments and different in other embodiments. In one exemplary embodiment, the heel height 492 and the toe height 494 are 0.287 inches. The maximum heights 492 and 494 can define an insert surface parallel to the ground surface 1000, so that at least 70% of the fairway-type golf club head mass 100 is below the insert surface. The sole insert 430 can further include a mass pad 478 or thickened area to allow the CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head positioned on or near the FLIP axis 195. Referring to Figure 7A, in some embodiments, the mass pad can be positioned near the front edge 454 and the heel edge 458. However, in other embodiments, the mass pad 478 can be positioned closer to the toe edge 460 or the rear edge 456. The sole insert 430 can be divided into four quadrants through the approximate midline of its depth 446 and length 447: namely, the front heel quadrant, the front toe quadrant, the rear toe quadrant, and the rear heel quadrant. The four quadrants help illustrate the mass distribution of the sole insert 430.

[0127] In some sole inserts 430 equipped with a forward heel-side mass pad 478, more than 40% of the mass is located in the front heel quadrant, and more than 70% of the mass is located in the front heel quadrant and front toe quadrant. In some embodiments, the front heel quadrant can comprise 30 to 45 grams, the front toe quadrant can comprise 20 to 30 grams, the rear toe quadrant can comprise 5 to 10 grams, and the rear heel quadrant can comprise 5 to 10 grams. In other embodiments, the front heel quadrant can comprise 35 to 40 grams, the front toe quadrant can comprise 24 to 38 grams, the rear toe quadrant can comprise 7 to 10 grams, and the rear heel quadrant can comprise 7 to 10 grams. The forward heel-side mass pad 478 can position the fairway-type golf club head CG close to the FLIP axis 195.

[0128] The CG 472 of the sole insert is influenced by the depth 446, length 447, and thickness 448 of the sole insert 430. Certain portions of the sole insert 430 can be thickened to adjust the CG as other components of the fairway-type golf club head 100 are adjusted. For example, a fairway-type golf club head 100 with an aluminum face cup would have less mass toward the front 108 and would require the sole insert 430 to have more mass toward the front 110. In such an embodiment, the sole insert 430 may further include a mass pad or thickened region 478 near the front edge 454. In contrast, a fairway-type golf club head 600 with a steel face cup would have more mass toward the front 608 and would require the sole insert 630 to have more mass toward the rear 610. In such an embodiment, the sole insert 630 may include a mass pad or thickened region 678 positioned at a certain offset from the front edge 654.

[0129] The sole insert 430 is 8g / cm². 3 A material having the above density can preferably be provided. The density of the sole insert 430 is 8 g / cm³. 3 , 9g / cm³ 3 , 10g / cm 3 , 11 g / cm³ 3 , 12g / cm³ 3 13g / cm³ 3 , 14g / cm³ 3 15g / cm³ 3 , 16g / cm³ 3 18g / cm³ 3 19g / cm³ 3 , or 20g / cm³ 3 It can be done that way. The density of the sole insert 430 is 8 g / cm³. 3 From 15g / cm³ 3 During that time, 12 g / cm³ 3 From 19 g / cm³ 3 During or 15 g / cm³ 3 From 19 g / cm³ 3 It can be within the range of [value]. Preferably, the sole insert 430 has a density greater than or equal to that of the cup face 490 material.

[0130] The sole insert 430 defines a total mass that is relatively large and can range between 70 grams and 90 grams. In some embodiments, the total mass can be in the range of 70 to 75 grams, 72 to 80 grams, 75 to 85 grams, 75 to 90 grams, 80 to 85 grams, or 83 to 90 grams. Alternatively, the total mass can be at least 75 grams, at least 80 grams, at least 82 grams, at least 84 grams, at least 86 grams, or at least 88 grams. In one exemplary embodiment, the mass is 81.1 grams.

[0131] Because the mass sole insert has such a significant impact on the overall CG of the fairway-type golf club head, the position of the sole insert's center of gravity (CG of the sole insert) 472 is crucial to the performance of the described fairway-type golf club head. As shown in Figures 8A–8C, the sole insert 430 further defines a low and optimally positioned center of gravity (CG) 472. The CG of the sole insert 472 is carefully positioned to allow for the position of the CG of the fairway-type golf club head along the FLIP axis 195. The position of the CG of the sole insert 472 can be described using any combination of the methods described herein. A. Geometric center method

[0132] The geometric centering method discussed above for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type golf club head can be adapted to positioning CG472 of the sole insert of a fairway-type club head 100 equipped with a sole insert 430. The geometric centering method for positioning CG472 of the sole insert can be the same as the geometric centering method for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type club head. However, CG472 of the sole insert is a characteristic of the sole insert 430 and therefore results in a different range of positions than CG172 of the club head. While CG472 of the sole insert affects the position of CG172 of the club head, CG472 of the sole insert is never positioned together with CG172 of a fairway-type club head.

[0133] Using a geometric centering method, a virtual box can be defined around the CG430 of the sole insert by the minimum and maximum CGX1, CGY1, and CGZ1 values. CGX1473 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, CGY1476 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ1474 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG472 values. The range of CG472 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0134] According to the geometric centering method, CGZ1474 can be in the range of 1.00 inches to 1.50 inches, CGY1476 can be in the range of 0.25 inches to 0.75 inches, and CGX1473 can be in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.25 inches. For example, CGZ1474 can be between 1.00 inches and 1.25 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.40 inches, or between 1.25 inches and 1.50 inches. CGZ1474 can be 1.00 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.45 inches, or 1.50 inches. CGY1476 can range from 0.25 inches to 0.60 inches, from 0.50 inches to 0.60 inches, from 0.50 inches to 0.75 inches, or from 0.55 inches to 0.70 inches. CGY1476 can be approximately 0.25 inches, approximately 0.30 inches, approximately 0.35 inches, approximately 0.40 inches, approximately 0.45 inches, approximately 0.50 inches, approximately 0.55 inches, approximately 0.60 inches, approximately 0.65 inches, approximately 0.70 inches, or approximately 0.75 inches. CGX1473 can range from 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches, from 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches, or from 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. CGX1473 can be approximately 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, CGZ1474 is 1.245 inches behind the geometric center 140, CGY1476 is 0.556 inches below the Z axis 1072, and CGX1473 is 0.146 inches to the tow from the Y axis 1062. B. Leading Edge Method

[0135] The leading edge method discussed above for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type golf club head can be adapted to position CG472 of the sole insert of a fairway-type club head 100 equipped with a sole insert 430. The leading edge method for positioning CG472 of the sole insert can be the same as the leading edge method for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type club head. However, CG472 of the sole insert is a characteristic of the sole insert 430 and therefore results in a different range of positions than CG172 of the club head. While CG472 of the sole insert affects the position of CG172 of the club head, CG472 of the sole insert is never positioned together with CG172 of a fairway-type club head.

[0136] Using the leading edge method, a virtual box can be defined around CG472 of the sole insert by the minimum and maximum CGX1, CGY2, and CGZ2 values. CGX1473 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, CGY2480 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ2481 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG472 values. The range of CG472 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0137] According to the leading edge method, CGY2480 can be in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.25 inches. For example, CGY2480 can be in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.01 inches to 0.25 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. CGY2480 can be approximately 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches. CGZ2481 can range from 1.00 inches to 1.50 inches. For example, CGZ2481 can be in the range of 1.00 inches to 1.25 inches, 1.10 inches to 1.40 inches, 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, or 1.40 inches to 1.50 inches. CGZ2481 can be 1.00 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.45 inches, or 1.50 inches. CGX1473 can be in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.25 inches. For example, CGX1473 can be in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches, 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. The CGX1473 can be approximately 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches.In one exemplary embodiment, CGY2480 is 0.105 inches above the ground surface 1000, CGZ2481 is 1.365 inches behind the leading edge 114, and CGX1473 is 0.146 inches from the Y-axis 1062 in the tow direction. C. Exit point method

[0138] The exit point method discussed above for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type golf club head can be adapted to position CG472 of the sole insert of a fairway-type club head 100 equipped with a sole insert 430. The exit point method for positioning CG472 of the sole insert can be the same as the exit point method for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type club head. However, CG472 of the sole insert is a characteristic of the sole insert 430 and therefore results in a different range of positions than CG172 of the club head. While CG472 of the sole insert affects the position of CG172 of the club head, CG472 of the sole insert is never positioned together with CG172 of a fairway-type club head.

[0139] Using the exit point method, a virtual box can be defined around CG472 of the sole insert by the minimum and maximum CGX2, CGY2, and CGZ3 values. CGX2479 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, CGY2480 in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ3487 in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG472 values. The range of CG472 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0140] According to the exit point method, CGY2480 can be in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.25 inches. For example, CGY2480 can be in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.01 inches to 0.25 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. CGY2480 can be 0.01 inches, 0.02 inches, 0.03 inches, 0.04 inches, 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches. CGZ3487 can range from 0.90 inches to 1.10 inches. For example, CGZ3487 can range from 0.90 inches to 1.10 inches, from 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches, from 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches, from 0.95 inches to 1.00 inches, or from 1.00 inches to 1.10 inches. CGZ3487 can be 0.90 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, 1.00 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, or approximately 1.11 inches. CGX2479 can be between 0.00 inches and 0.25 inches. For example, CGX2479 can be in the range of 0.00 to 0.005 inches, 0.01 to 0.010 inches, or 0.10 to 0.25 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, CGY2480 is 0.105 inches above the ground surface 1000, CGZ3487 is 1.057 inches ahead of the exit point 196, and CGX2479 is 0.146 inches heel from the exit point 196. D.FLIP axis method

[0141] The FLIP axis method discussed above for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type golf club head can be adapted to position CG472 of the sole insert of a fairway-type club head 100 equipped with a sole insert 430. The FLIP axis method for positioning CG472 of the sole insert can be the same as the FLIP axis method for positioning CG172 of a fairway-type club head. However, CG472 of the sole insert is a characteristic of the sole insert 430 and therefore results in a different range of positions than CG172 of the club head. While CG472 of the sole insert affects the position of CG172 of the club head, CG472 of the sole insert is never positioned together with CG172 of a fairway-type club head.

[0142] By using the FLIP axis method to define ranges for the CGF1 and CGF2 values, a virtual cylinder can be defined around CG472 of the sole insert. The value of CGF1486 can define the radius of this cylinder, and the value of CGF2482 can define the height of this cylinder along the FLIP axis 195. The virtual cylinder can define the optimal range of CG472 values. The range of CG472 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0143] According to the FLIP axis method, the CGF2482 can be in the range of 1.00 inch to 1.50 inch. For example, the CGF2482 can be in the range of 1.00 inch to 1.25 inch, 1.10 inch to 1.40 inch, or 1.25 inch to 1.50 inch. The CGF2482 can be approximately 1.00 inch, approximately 1.05 inch, approximately 1.10 inch, approximately 1.15 inch, approximately 1.20 inch, approximately 1.25 inch, approximately 1.30 inch, approximately 1.35 inch, approximately 1.40 inch, approximately 1.45 inch, or approximately 1.50 inch. The CGF1486 can be between 0.01 inch and 0.25 inch. For example, CGF1486 can be in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. CGF1486 can be approximately 0.05 inches, approximately 0.06 inches, approximately 0.07 inches, approximately 0.08 inches, approximately 0.09 inches, approximately 0.10 inches, approximately 0.11 inches, approximately 0.12 inches, approximately 0.13 inches, approximately 0.14 inches, approximately 0.15 inches, approximately 0.16 inches, approximately 0.17 inches, approximately 0.18 inches, approximately 0.19 inches, approximately 0.20 inches, approximately 0.21 inches, approximately 0.22 inches, approximately 0.23 inches, approximately 0.24 inches, or approximately 0.25 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, CGF2482 is 1.346 inches behind FLIP190 along FLIP axis 195, and CGF1486 is 0.212 inches. E. Relative Methods

[0144] The relative method for positioning CG can be used to position the CG 472 of the sole insert of a fairway-type club head 100 equipped with a sole insert 430. The relative method assumes that the sole insert 430 is received within the main body 202. The CG 472 of the sole insert is a characteristic of the sole insert 430 and therefore results in a different range of positions than the CG 172 of the club head. The CG 472 of the sole insert affects the position of the CG 172 of the club head, but the CG 472 of the sole insert is never positioned together with the CG 172 of the fairway-type club head. Therefore, the relative method can be used to describe the different positions of the CG 472 of the sole insert and the CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head relative to each other.

[0145] Using a relative method, a virtual box can be defined around CG472 of the sole insert by the minimum and maximum CGX3, CGY4, and CGZ5 values. CGX3483 can define the box in the heel-toe direction, the CGY4477 value can define the box in the crown-sole direction, and the CGZ5475 value can define the box in the front-to-back direction. The virtual box can define the optimal range of CG472 values. The range of CG472 positions defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0146] According to the relative method, CGY4477 can range from 0.10 inches to 0.50 inches, CGZ5475 can range from 0.010 inches to 0.25 inches, and CGX3483 can range from 0.05 inches to 0.25 inches. For example, CGY4477 can range from 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches, from 0.25 inches to 0.35 inches, from 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches, or from 0.35 inches to 0.50 inches. CGY4477 can be approximately 0.10 inches, approximately 0.15 inches, approximately 0.20 inches, approximately 0.25 inches, approximately 0.30 inches, approximately 0.35 inches, approximately 0.40 inches, approximately 0.45 inches, or approximately 0.50 inches. The CGZ5475 can be in the range of 0.01 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.025 inches to 0.05 inches, 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches, or 0.15 inches to 0.25 inches. CGZ5475 can be approximately 0.010 inches, 0.02 inches, 0.03 inches, 0.04 inches, 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches. CGX3483 can be in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.10 inches, 0.10 inches to 0.15 inches, or 0.10 inches to 0.25 inches. The CGX3483 can be approximately 0.05 inches, 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches.In one exemplary embodiment, CGY4477 is 0.271 inches below the fairway-type golf club head CG172, CGZ5475 is 0.044 inches behind the fairway-type golf club head CG172, and CGX3483 is 0.130 inches in the toe direction of the fairway-type golf club head CG172.

[0147] The relative method establishes the importance of designing the sole insert 430 in balancing the CG of a fairway-type golf club head. The sole insert 430 is limited to a specified range under the relative method, because these ranges position the CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head along the FLIP axis 195. In other words, the sole insert 430 is designed with certain characteristics, such as dimensions or the inclusion of a mass pad, to maintain the CG of the fairway-type golf club head along the FLIP axis 195.

[0148] The careful positioning of the CG472 in the sole insert allows for the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head to be aligned with the FLIP axis, which enables optimal force transfer to the golf ball. Therefore, the CGZ1474 can be less than 1.50 inches, the CGY1476 less than 0.75 inches, the CGZ5475 less than 0.50 inches, the CGY4477 less than 0.50 inches, and the CGF1486 less than 0.25 inches. By limiting the CG472 of the sole insert to the range discussed above, it is possible to ensure that the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head is positioned on the FLIP axis 195. Positioning the CG172 of the head along the FLIP axis 195 results in optimal force transfer and reduces spin. If the CG of the sole insert falls outside the specified range, the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head may move further away from the FLIP axis 195. For example, if the CG472 of the sole insert is positioned at CGZ1474, which is larger than 1.50 inches, the fairway-type golf club head 100 will require additional mass towards the front 108 to balance the further rearward CG472 of the sole insert. While this allows the CG of the fairway-type golf club head to be positioned along the FLIP axis 195, this additional mass may reduce the MOI benefit for the fairway-type golf club head 100. Additionally, CGY2480 can be less than 0.25 inches, and CGF2482 can be greater than 1.00 inch. By further limiting the CG472 of the sole insert within these ranges, a low and rearward CG can be ensured, which benefits MOI and launch characteristics.

[0149] The sole insert 430 is formed of a high-density material to maintain a low CG 472 of the sole insert. Therefore, the sole insert 430 helps maintain a low CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head. The relationship between the CG of the fairway-type golf club head and the CG of the sole insert of any of the embodiments of the sole insert described herein can be described using various ratios. This relationship can satisfy one or more of the following requirements:

number

[0150] The sixth CG ratio (6) establishes the relationship between the fairway-type golf club head CGY2180 and the sole insert CGY2480. The sixth CG ratio (6) is based on the leading edge method for positioning CG172 and 472. The sixth CG ratio (6) demonstrates the lower positioning of CG172 and 472 relative to the ground surface 1000, in addition to the sole insert mass 430. The sole insert 430 brings substantial mass to the sole 118, which lowers the overall CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head. The fairway-type golf club head CGY2180 can be between 0.01 inches and 0.25 inches, and the sole insert CGY2480 can be between 0.20 inches and 0.50 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the fairway-type golf club head 100 has a sixth CG ratio (6) of 22.64.

[0151] The seventh CG ratio (7) establishes the relationship between the sole insert CGY1476 and the fairway-type golf club head CGY1176. The seventh CG ratio (7) is based on a geometric centering method for positioning CG172 and 472. In other words, the seventh CG ratio (7) demonstrates the relationship between the CG472 of the sole insert and the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head relative to the geometric center 140. The seventh CG ratio (7) further demonstrates the relationship between CG172 and 472 and the sole insert mass 430. The sole insert CGY1476 can be between 0.25 inches and 0.75 inches, and the fairway-type golf club head CGY1176 can be between 0.10 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the fairway-type golf club head 100 has a seventh CG ratio (7) of 157.66.

[0152] The relationship between the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head and the CG472 of the sole insert can be limited to these CG ratios in order to allow the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head to be aligned with the FLIP axis 195. In addition to satisfying one or more of the above CG ratios, the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head can be positioned closer to the front 108 than the CG472 of the sole insert. In other words, the sole insert CGZ1474 is larger than the fairway-type golf club head CGZ1174. In some embodiments, the sole insert CGZ1474 can be at least 10%, at least 20%, or at least 30% larger than the fairway-type golf club head CGZ1174. Referring to Figures 8A to 8B, the sole insert CGZ1474 helps to maintain the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head above the FLIP axis 195. F. Sole insert with extension section (530)

[0153] Figure 9A illustrates one embodiment of a sole insert 530 configured to maintain the CG of a fairway-type golf club head on the FLIP axis 195. The sole insert 530 may have elements similar to those of the sole insert 430 described in a previous embodiment. The sole insert 530 comprises a main body flange 570, a heel extension 566, and a toe extension 568. The heel extension 566 and the toe extension 568 are positioned near the front of the sole insert 554 and extend outward from the main body flange 570. The heel extension 566 forms part of the heel edge 558, and the toe extension 568 forms part of the toe edge 560. The heel extension 566 and the toe extension 568 are positioned near the front of the insert 554, allowing more than 50 percent of the mass of the sole insert 530 to be located in front of the midline of the sole insert 530. The range of positions for CG172 as defined herein requires a high-density sole insert having a mass in the range of 70 grams to 90 grams.

[0154] The front edge of the heel-direction extension 566 is inclined rearward from the heel-direction inflection point 590. The front edge of the toe-direction extension 568 is inclined rearward from the toe-direction inflection point 592. The heel-direction extension 566 has a maximum length measured in the heel-toe direction from the heel-direction inflection point 590 to the point furthest towards the heel of the heel-direction extension. The toe-direction extension 568 has a maximum length measured in the heel-toe direction from the toe-direction inflection point 592 to the point furthest towards the toe of the toe-direction extension. The maximum extension lengths for each of the heel-direction extension 566 and the toe-direction extension 568 are in the range of 0.600 inches to 0.700 inches.

[0155] This arrangement of mass in the sole insert 530 (which has more mass towards the front) with a higher density steel face cup works to position the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head 100 further forward than if the mass of the sole insert 530 were distributed more toward the rear 110 of the golf club 100, or if the face cup were made of a less dense material. Remember that the further back the CG172 is moved, the lower it must be positioned to be on or near the FLIP axis 195. Moving the CG172 somewhat further forward makes it easier to position the CG on or near the FLIP axis 195, at a greater height above the sole 118, than if the CG were positioned further toward the rear 110 of the golf club 100. The position of the CG172 can be moved lower or higher, or further forward or further back, by varying the mass distribution of the sole insert 530.

[0156] Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, the sole insert 530 comprises an outer periphery 520 having a front edge 554, a rear edge 556, a heel edge 558, and a toe edge 560. A portion of the front edge 554 and a portion of the rear edge 556 are generally parallel to each other, while the toe edge 560 and the heel edge 558 are non-parallel to each other. The sole insert 530 further has a top surface 562 and a bottom surface 564, the top surface 562 facing the internal void, and the bottom surface 564 forming part of the sole 118.

[0157] The sole insert 530 can be removably received within the sole recess by one or more threaded fasteners 435. The sole insert 530 may define a window 545 into which the threaded fasteners 435 can be received.

[0158] The sole insert 530 can be relatively large so as to define the substantial portion of the sole 118 of a fairway-type golf club head. The outer circumference 520 of the fairway-type golf club head is used to define the important dimensions of the insert 530, such as length, width, and thickness. The depth 546 is measured from the front edge 554 to the rear edge 556, the length 547 is measured from the heel edge 558 to the toe edge 560, and the thickness 548 is measured from the top surface 562 to the bottom surface 564. The dimensions of the sole insert 530 can be the same as those of the sole insert 430 as previously described, and further, can be within the ranges specified below.

[0159] The sole insert 530 can extend substantially across the sole 118 so that its depth 546 is greater than 52% of the depth 160 of a fairway-type golf club head. The sole insert depth 546 varies across the sole insert 430 in the heel-toe direction. The sole insert depth 546 can range between 0.50 inches and 2.00 inches. The sole insert 530 further specifies a maximum depth 546, which is greater than 1.50 inches. The maximum depth 546 can range between 1.50 inches and 2.00 inches.

[0160] The sole insert 530, as well as its depth, can extend substantially across the sole 118 in the heel-toe direction, such that its length 547 is greater than 58% of the length 162 of a fairway-type golf club head. The sole insert length 547 varies in the front-to-back direction across the sole insert 530. The sole insert length 547 can range between 0.90 inches and 2.70 inches. The sole insert 530 further specifies a maximum length 547, which is greater than 2.40 inches. The maximum length 547 can range between 2.40 inches and 2.70 inches.

[0161] The sole insert thickness 548 varies in the front-to-back and heel-toe directions across the sole insert 530. The thickness 4548 can range between 0.080 inches and 0.20 inches. The sole insert 530 further defines a maximum thickness 548, which is greater than 0.15 inches. The maximum thickness 548 can range between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches.

[0162] The dimensions of the sole insert 530 are carefully selected to balance the CG172 and MOI of the fairway-type golf club head. The depth 546 and length 547 of the sole insert are selected so that the insert 530 extends over the sole 118 and defines a substantial portion of the sole 118. The bottom surface 564 of the sole insert defines the surface area visible from the outside of the fairway-type golf club head 100. The surface area is 3.00 in. 2 It is possible to have a larger surface area than that. Alternatively, the surface area is 3.00 in. 2 From 3.50in 2 It is possible that it is between 3.135 in. In one exemplary embodiment, the visible surface area is 3.135 in. 2 The surface area is determined by the depth 546 and length 577 of the sole insert.

[0163] The depth 546 and length 547 of the sole insert can be limited to ensure that the sole insert 430 generally remains within the central sole portion. Additionally, the sole insert 530 can be positioned offset 549 from the striking face 104 to further ensure that the sole insert 530 remains near the central portion of the sole 118. In other words, the sole insert 430 is configured to form only a portion of the sole 518 and not a portion of the outer perimeter 112 or striking face 104 of the fairway-type golf club head. This arrangement of the sole insert 530 works to position the CG 172 of the golf fairway-type golf club head 100 further inward in order to be located on or near the FLIP axis 195. If the design consisted of a sole insert 430 that formed part of the outer perimeter, the CG 172 would rise, making it more difficult to position it on or near the FLIP axis 195. Therefore, the maximum sole insert depth 546 can be less than 2.0 inches, the maximum length 547 can be less than 2.70 inches, the thickness 548 can be less than 0.20 inches, and the visible surface area is 3.50 in. 2 It is possible for it to be less than [a certain value].

[0164] The sole insert 530 specifies a total mass that is relatively large and can be in the range of 80 to 85 grams. In one exemplary embodiment, the mass is 81.1 grams. The sole insert 530 is preferably 19 g / cm³. 3 It is possible to include materials having the above density.

[0165] Referring to Figure 9B, the sole insert 530 further includes a front mass pad 578 positioned near the front edge 554 and the heel side edge 558. The front mass pad 578 is further positioned such that a portion of the front mass pad 578 is located within the main body flange 570 and a portion is located within the heel-direction extension 566.

[0166] The mass pad 578 is positioned to allow the CG 172 of a fairway-type golf club head located on or near the FLIP axis 195. The sole insert 530 can be divided into four quadrants: the front heel quadrant, the front toe quadrant, the rear toe quadrant, and the rear heel quadrant. The four quadrants help to illustrate the mass distribution of the sole insert 530. These quadrants are separated by a first imaginary line drawn over the depth 546 of the sole insert 530 at approximately the midline of length 547, and by a second imaginary line drawn over length 547 through the points of the nearest heel-direction extensions and toe-direction extensions 568 of the trailing edge 566.

[0167] The mass pad 578 positions the majority of the sole insert mass 530 within the front portion of the sole insert 530. More specifically, more than 45% of the mass is located in the front heel quadrant, and more than 75% of the mass is located in the front heel quadrant and the front toe quadrant. The front heel quadrant can be between 35 and 40 grams, the front toe quadrant can be between 25 and 30 grams, the rear toe quadrant can be between 5 and 10 grams, and the rear heel quadrant can be between 5 and 10 grams. The mass pads 578 in the front and heel directions can position the CG 172 of a fairway-type golf club head near the FLIP axis 195.

[0168] As discussed above, the golf fairway type golf club head 100 defines an outer perimeter, which defines an upper portion 152 and a lower portion 156 of the fairway type golf club head 100. The lower portion 156 includes the sole 118 and a portion of the outer perimeter region 112. The lower portion 156 has an outer surface, and the sole insert bottom surface 564 can define between 15% and 20% of the outer surface. In one exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface 564 defines 21.68% of the lower portion 156. The dimensions of the sole insert 530 are carefully selected to result in a low insert CG472 that allows for a CG172 of the fairway type golf club head near the FLIP axis 195.

[0169] The sole insert 530 further defines a low and optimally positioned center of gravity (CG) 472. A similar method is applied to position the CG 472 of the sole insert 530 with wings compared to the sole insert 430. According to the geometric center method, CGZ 1474 can be in the range of 1.10 inches to 1.30 inches, CGY 1476 can be in the range of 0.50 inches to 0.70 inches, and CGX 1473 can be in the range of 0.10 inches to 0.20 inches. According to the leading edge method, CGY 1480 can be in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches, CGZ 2481 can be in the range of 1.30 inches to 1.40 inches, and CGX 1473 can be in the range of 0.10 inches to 0.20 inches. According to the exit point method, CGZ3487 can be between 0.90 inches and 1.10 inches, CGY1480 can be within the range of 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches, and CGX2479 can be within the range of 0.10 inches and 0.20 inches. According to the FLIP axis method, CGF2482 can be within the range of 1.30 inches and 1.40 inches, and CGF1486 can be within the range of 0.15 inches and 0.25 inches. According to the relative method, CGY4477 can be within the range of 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, CGZ5475 can be within the range of 0.030 inches and 0.050 inches, and CGX3483 can be within the range of 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches.

[0170] The careful positioning of the CG472 in the sole insert allows for the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head to be aligned with the FLIP axis, enabling optimal power transfer to the golf ball. Therefore, the CGZ1474 can be less than 1.30 inches, the CGY1476 less than 0.70 inches, the CGZ5475 less than 0.50 inches, the CGY4477 less than 0.30 inches, and the CGF1486 less than 0.25 inches. By limiting the CG472 of the sole insert to the range discussed above, it can be ensured that the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head is positioned on the FLIP axis 195. Positioning the CG172 of the head along the FLIP axis 195 results in optimal power transfer and reduced spin. If the CG of the sole insert falls outside the specified range, the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head may move further away from the FLIP axis 195. For example, if the CG472 of the sole insert is positioned at CGZ1474, which is greater than 1.50 inches, the fairway-type golf club head 100 will require additional mass towards the front 108 to balance the CG472 of the sole insert further back. While this allows the CG of the fairway-type golf club head to be positioned along the FLIP axis 195, this additional mass may reduce the MOI benefit for the fairway-type golf club head 100. Additionally, CGY1480 can be less than 0.25 inches, and CGF2482 can be greater than 1.30 inches. By further limiting the CG472 of the sole insert within these ranges, a low and rearward CG can be ensured, which benefits MOI and launch characteristics. VIII. Face Cup

[0171] Facecup 300 may contain titanium alloy. Facecup 300 may contain steel alloy. Facecup 300 may contain other metal alloys. Facecup 300 may contain fiber-reinforced polymer or fiber-reinforced composite.

[0172] The face cup 300 has a face cup mass in the range of 1.0 gram to 75.0 grams. The mass of the face cup 300 is preferably relatively low compared to the total mass of the fairway-type golf club head 100. A low-mass face cup 300 allows the fairway-type golf club head to have less mass above the FLIP 190, enabling the CG 172 to be adjusted lower (or not moved higher due to the face cup 300 having a higher mass above the FLIP 190). Similarly, a low-mass face cup 300 allows the CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head to be moved further back (or not moved forward due to the face cup 300 having a higher mass). Therefore, the use of a low-density material for the face cup 300 is preferred.

[0173] In some embodiments, the density of the material of the face cup 300 is preferably 5.00 g / cm³. 3 The following applies:

[0174] Furthermore, the face cup striking face portion 304 has a striking face thickness 330 measured from the front outer surface to the rear surface of the striking face 104. The striking face thickness 330 can vary in the toe-heel direction and the crown-sole direction. The striking face thickness 330 can be in the range of 0.020 inches to 0.050 inches. Here again, the constrained thickness of the face cup contributes to having a lower mass in the front portion of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0175] The face cup striking face portion 304 is further 2.00 in 2 From 3.00in 2 It has a striking face area within the range. The face cup striking face portion is 3.00 in 2 It's not any bigger than that.

[0176] The face cup 300 can be permanently fixed to the main body 202 by welding, brazing, adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or other suitable means within the mass constraints discussed above. Once the face cup 300 is permanently fixed to the main body 202, the main body 202 and the face cup 300 form a single, integrated structure. The impact of the striking face 204 is transmitted to the main body 202 through the face cup 300. IX. Crown Insert

[0177] The crown insert 800 is preferably made of a low-density material. The low mass of the crown insert allows fairway-type golf club head designers to achieve a lower CG172 position (or, a lower mass crown insert does not push the center of mass higher in a fairway-type golf club head). The crown insert 800 can be made of a carbon composite material, a fiber-reinforced polymer material, a natural fiber composite, or other suitable low-density material. The crown insert 800 can be made of a composite sandwich material, which has a hollow interstitial void with an upper and lower outer layer.

[0178] The density of the composite material (a composite of resin and fiber) that forms the second component (200) is approximately 1.15 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 2.02 g / cm³ 3 It can be in the range of [value]. In some embodiments, the composite material density is about 1.20 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.90 g / cm³ 3between about 1.25 g / cm 3 to about 1.85 g / cm 3 between about 1.30 g / cm 3 to about 1.80 g / cm 3 between about 1.40 g / cm 3 to about 1.70 g / cm 3 between about 1.30 g / cm 3 to about 1.40 g / cm 3 between, or between about 1.40 g / cm 3 to about 1.45 g / cm 3 can be a range within the above ranges.

[0179] Crown insert 800 can be adhesively and permanently fixed within crown opening 234. Crown insert 800 can be mechanically fixed within crown opening 234. Crown insert 800 can be fixed in crown opening 234 both adhesively and mechanically.

[0180] A crown insert rear weight opening 820 is configured to fit around a rear weight support structure 299 at a rear portion of a fairway type golf club head. Crown insert 800 reduces mass near the upper portion of a fairway type club head 100, allowing more mass to be allocated to rear weight 1111 and rear weight support structure 299. It is desirable to provide more mass to rear weight 1111 and rear weight support structure 299 to lower CG 172 of the fairway type club head and improve launch characteristics. X. Rear Weight Support Structure and Rear Weight Assembly

[0181] The fairway-type golf club head 100 is further equipped with a rear weight support structure 299 and a rear weight 1111 to distribute mass to the lower part of the fairway-type club head 100. Because the support structure height 293 must encompass the rear weight recess depth 251, the height of the rear weight fastener window 255, and the rear flange height 291, the support structure has a support structure mass in the range of 10 grams to 50.0 grams. Furthermore, when the rear weight is received in the rear weight recess, the mass of the support structure and weight is in the range of 25 grams or more. The combined mass of the rear weight support structure 299 and the removable, adjustable, and interchangeable rear weight 1111 can provide a crucial positioning tool for the CG of the fairway-type golf club head, allowing the designer to increase this combined mass to move the CG further inward, and decrease this combined mass to move the CG further forward.

[0182] The support structure mass can be further increased using a permanently fixed tungsten weight (not shown in the figure) positioned above and behind the rear weight recess along the rear edge of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0183] The rear weight 1111 can be made of a tungsten alloy, tungsten, or a polymer material mixed with tungsten powder. The rear weight has a rear weight mass in the range of 1 gram to 35 grams.

[0184] The combined mass of the rear weight 1111 and the rear weight assembly 1110 provides a means to position more fairway-type golf club head masses further rearward. Adjusting the dimensions of the rear weight assembly 1110 and the mass of the rear weight 1111 is one way that allows designers of fairway-type golf club heads to carefully adjust the fore-aft position of the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0185] In an alternative embodiment, the rear weight support structure 229 includes a rear weight channel (not shown) and further comprises a plurality of mounting points for moving and holding the rear weight 1111. The rear weight channel allows the rear weight 1111 to move between a plurality of positions, enabling customization of the weight distribution of the fairway-type golf club head 100.

[0186] The greatest impact on mass distribution and CG positioning is achieved by positioning a large percentage of the fairway-type golf club head mass within the sole. One effective way to increase sole mass is to provide a large, high-density sole insert that can be accommodated within the sole of the fairway-type golf club head. G. Moment of Inertia

[0187] As noted above, the fairway-type golf club head 100 balanced a low and rearward CG 172 relative to the main body 202. Optimizing the position of the CG on or near the FLIP axis is important for increasing the force transmitted to the struck golf ball, but other mass properties also contribute to the desired performance of the fairway-type golf club. Specifically, the moment of inertia (MOI) affects the forgiveness of the fairway-type golf club head when the golf ball is struck off-center. With the position of the CG relative to the FLIP axis optimized, the mass distribution of the fairway-type golf club head can be further optimized to provide the highest possible MOI. A combination of features selected from the group consisting of a lightweight crown insert 800, the main body 202, a high-density sole insert 430, and a removable, adjustable, or interchangeable rear weight assembly 1100 also results in a mass distribution that contributes to a higher CG 172. A lightweight crown insert wraps around to form the underside of a fairway-type golf club head, while a high-density sole insert may have toe and heel extensions that increase the MOI by shifting some mass toward the periphery of the fairway-type golf club head while keeping more mass lower in the club head. Thus, the MOI of the fairway-type golf club head can also fall within a desirable range.

[0188] The fairway-type golf club head 100 has a moment of inertia Ixx about the x-axis (i.e., crown-sole moment of inertia) and a moment of inertia Iyy about the y-axis (i.e., heel-toe moment of inertia), as illustrated in Figure 5C. In many embodiments, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx and the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy are increased or maximized based on various parameters of the fairway-type golf club head, such as volume and loft angle. The crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx is 1000 g·cm 2 From 1500g·cm2 can be within the range, and the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy is 2000 g·cm 2 to 2500 g·cm 2 can be within the range.

[0189] Equation describing the positional relationship between XI.CG and the FLIP axis

[0190] The position of CG 172 is also greatly affected by the shape profile of a fairway-type golf club head. The height of the fairway-type golf club head, or the club face height, affects how far mass can be positioned above the ground surface; the higher mass can be positioned above the ground surface, the more CG 172 is moved to a higher position.

[0191] In order to position CG 172 close to or on the FLIP axis 195, the position of CG 172 should also satisfy the following equation. [[NUM]]Formula

[0192] Equation 1 shows the relationship between CG 172 and face height 144 of a fairway-type golf club head, CG z is the CG depth measured from FLIP 190 and disposed along the FLIP axis 195, CG z must be greater than 1.150 inches. CGY2 180, measured perpendicular to the ground surface 1000, must be less than 0.50 inches. CGF1 186, measured perpendicular to the FLIP axis 195 from CG 172 of the fairway-type golf club head, must be less than 0.25 inches. The face height 144 is measured parallel to the loft surface 1010 between the top end near the crown 116 of the striking face outer periphery 142 and the bottom end near the sole 118 of the striking face outer periphery 142. The face height 144 must be less than 2.00 inches. Examples XII. Example 1: Fairway-type golf club head with a sole insert featuring wings

[0193] A first embodiment of the fairway-type golf club head described above was fabricated, having the features and performance detailed below.

[0194] Referring to Figures 10A to 10B, the first embodiment of the fairway-type golf club described herein had a number of components similar to those described above. The fairway-type golf club head 2000 comprised a main body 202, a face cup 300 attached to the front end of the main body 202, a lightweight crown 800 permanently fixed to the main body 202, a large, high-density sole insert 530, and a removable rear weight 1111. The components of the fairway-type golf club head 2000 were carefully arranged so that the center of gravity (CG) 172 of the fairway-type golf club head 2000 was located on or very close to the line of force impact axis 195, which extends perpendicular to the loft plane at the line of force impact point (FLIP) 190.

[0195] The main body 202 comprised a front main body portion 214, a rear main body portion 212, and a sole 218. The front main body portion 214 defined a front window 210 that was open forward and configured to receive a face cup 300. The rear main body portion 212 defined a crown window 234 configured to receive a crown insert 800. The sole 218 defined a sole insert recess 240 in which a portion of the sole 218 was recessed into the rear main body portion 212. The sole insert recess 240 was configured to receive a sole insert 530. The sole 218 further defined a rear weight recess 250 in which a portion of the sole 218 was recessed into the rear main body portion 212. The rear weight recess 250 was configured to receive a rear weight 1111. The main body 202 contained a titanium alloy.

[0196] The face cup 300 was configured to be received within the main body front window 210 and permanently fixed to the main body front window 210 to form the front portion 2008 of the golf club head 2000. When the face cup 300 was fixed to the main body 203, the main body striking face portion 226 and the face cup striking face portion 304 combined to form the striking face 2004 of the fairway-type golf club head. The face cup 300 had a face cup rear edge 381 which formed the rear outer circumference of the face cup 300. The face cup rear edge 381 encompassed the entire rear edge of the face cup and also encompassed the heel-direction edge of the face cup 300. The face cup rear edge was configured to abut against the main body front edge 281 when the face cup 300 was fixed to the main body 202. The face cup 300 was permanently fixed to the main body 202 by welding. The Facecup 300 contained a titanium alloy. The Facecup 300 had a mass of 26.1 grams.

[0197] The crown insert 800 was received within the crown window 234. The crown insert 800 and a portion of the main body 202 formed the crown 2016. The crown insert 800 contained a lightweight composite material.

[0198] The sole insert 530 was received within the sole insert recess 240 and secured using threaded fasteners. The sole insert 530 was substantially larger and had length, width, and thickness measured similarly to the sole insert 430. The depth of the sole insert was 1.76 inches, the length was 2.54 inches, and the thickness was between 0.082 inches and 0.173 inches.

[0199] The rear weight assembly 1100 was configured to be received in the sole rear weight recess 250. The rear weight assembly comprised a rear weight 1111, a rear weight threaded fastener 1160, and a rear weight washer 1170. The threaded fastener 1160 was inserted upward from the bottom surface 1124 into the fastener window 1150 until the head of the threaded fastener 1160 abutted against the window shoulder 1154. The bottom surface 1124 was exposed to the outside of the bottom of the fairway-type golf club head. The rear weight projection 1130 was exposed to both the outside of the bottom and the outside of the rear of the fairway-type golf club head. The rear weight 1111 contained a tungsten alloy. The rear weight had a mass between 1 gram and 20 grams.

[0200] A virtual triangle was defined by the sole insert CG472, the fairway-type golf club head CG2072, and the rear weight CG. Three legs of this triangle were defined, where the first leg was between the sole insert CG472 and the rear weight CG, the second leg was between the sole insert CG472 and the fairway-type golf club head CG2072, and the third leg was between the fairway-type golf club head CG2072 and the rear weight CG. The length of the first leg was 1.6 inches, the length of the second leg was 0.3 inches, and the length of the third leg was 1.5 inches. A first angle was defined between the first and second legs, and this first angle was 75 degrees. A second angle was defined between the first and third legs, and this second angle was 95 degrees. A third angle was defined between the second and third legs, and this third angle was 10 degrees.

[0201] The fairway-type golf club head 2000 further defined an upper portion 2010 and a lower portion 2012, with the upper portion 2010 visible from a top view and the lower portion visible from the sole view. The transition between the upper portion 2010 and the lower portion 2012 was defined by a line around the outer perimeter 2014 of the fairway-type golf club head 2000. This line was further defined such that, when the fairway-type golf club head was in the address position, several points around the outer perimeter of the fairway-type golf club head were tangent to a line perpendicular to the ground surface. Referring to Figure 10B, the outer perimeter line defined the upper portion 2010 and the lower portion 2012 of the fairway-type golf club head.

[0202] The lower section 2012 included the sole and a portion of the outer perimeter area. The lower section further comprised the sole insert 530, a rear weight, a crown extension, and face cup material. The lower section 2012 defined the visible surface area from the outside of the fairway-type golf club head 2000.

[0203] The sole insert bottom surface 564 defined a visible surface area within the lower portion 2012 of the fairway-type golf club head 2000. In an exemplary embodiment, the visible surface area was 3.256 in. 2 The sole insert bottom surface accounted for 21.68% of the lower portion surface area 2012. The sole insert 530 defined the effective surface area of ​​the lower portion 2012, positioning the mass lower on the fairway-type golf club head and achieving a lower CG 2072 along the FLIP axis 195.

[0204] The Crown Insert 800 also defined the surface area of ​​the lower part 800 of the fairway-type golf club head. The Crown Insert surface area 800 within the lower part was 1.461 in. 2 The crown insert 800 accounted for 9.73% of the lower surface area 2012. The lightweight crown insert 800 formed part of the sole 2018, reducing the mass of the main body 202, which was formed from a denser material. The lightweight crown insert 800 lowered the CG 2072 of the fairway-type golf club head by saving mass that could be allocated to the sole insert 530 or the rear weight 1111. Performance improvements to the sole insert with H-wing

[0205] The fairway-type golf club head 2000 in Example 1 demonstrated improved performance characteristics. The concept of Strokes Gained, described in Mark Broadie's book "Every Shot Counts," outlines the average number of strokes a PGA Tour player takes to complete a hole from a certain distance. Strokes Gained was subdivided into driving, approach shots, short game, and putting. This concept allowed us to better understand the quality of shots. The concept of Strokes Gained quantified the impact of a shot on the score for a hole (for example, what is the cost of a driver shot at the snap leaving 50 yards to the hole, or the cost of hitting a driver shot 20 yards further but ending up 10 yards in the rough?). The concept of strokes earned provides an invariant unit of measurement across all aspects of the golf game, which also makes it possible to analyze and compare the quality of different types of shots within a "same scale" scenario (for example, comparing a 300-yard driver shot to a 30-yard bunker shot).

[0206] The number of strokes gained per shot is calculated by subtracting the average number of strokes from the end of that shot to the end of the hole from the average number of strokes from the starting position to the end of the hole, and then subtracting 1 for the number of strokes spent. For example, if a tee shot from 400 yards leaves 3.99 strokes remaining, and a driver shot is hit on the fairway, finishing 100 yards from the hole, then the number of strokes gained for that driver shot is 3.99 - 2.80 - 1 = 0.19.

[0207] Two-thirds of the score difference between the average tour pro and the top 40 pros was due to the long game (all shots exceeding 100 yards). Approximately 40% of the strokes gained among these best players came from approach shots. These approach shots are typical examples of shots using fairway-type golf club heads.

[0208] Players were hitting the ball further, sacrificing some additional average offline distance, yet still "gaining strokes." Therefore, positioning the CG of the fairway-type golf club head closer to the line-of-force impact axis (FLIP axis) allowed golfers to hit the ball further, and with less harmful spin. This was an improvement for golfers even when the MOI of the fairway-type golf club head was marginally lower, and its forgiveness for mishits was reduced in a non-significant manner.

[0209] The preferred embodiment met all of the above requirements and produced the surprising result of a significant performance improvement. [Table 1]

[0210] The CG172 is positioned close to the FLIP axis 195, which resulted in improvements in ball speed, launch angle, and ball spin. This led to an increase in carry distance of 7 to 10 yards compared to the prior art single-material fairway. Although the overall forgiveness of the preferred embodiment decreased slightly due to the reduced overall MOI of the fairway-type golf club head, this increase in carry distance was designed to compensate for the loss of forgiveness and reduce the number of strokes per golf round for the average golfer. I. CG position of preferred embodiment

[0211] The fairway-type golf club head of Embodiment 1 has a certain CG172 position, and the position of CG172 is 0.193 inches lower than that of a fairway-type golf club head that is identically shaped except that it comprises a single steel alloy, and is further 0.08 inches toward the rear of the fairway-type golf club head 2000.

[0212] In a preferred embodiment, FLIP 190 is disposed approximately 0.650 inches above the ground surface 1000 contacting the lowest point of the sole 2018. The FLIP is within a range of 0.550 inches to 0.750 inches above the ground surface 1000. Furthermore, the position of FLIP 190 varies within a range of ±0.100 inches from the position of the geometric center 140 on the X axis 1052, parallel to the X axis 1052.

[0213] In the embodiment of the first fairway-type golf club head, as the FLIP axis 195 extends rearward from FLIP 190, the desired range of vertical positions of CG 172 is also within a range from 0.050 inches above the FLIP axis 195 to 0.050 inches below the FLIP axis 195. Further, the desired range of the position of CG 172 varies within a range of ±0.100 inches from the FLIP axis 195, parallel to the X axis 1052. Additionally, and referring again to FIG. 5A, CG 172 has a CGF 2182 within the range from 1.15 inches to 1.50 inches. The mass section of the preferred embodiment

[0214] The fairway-type golf club head 2000 of Example 1 was divided by a virtual plane that defines sections for further explaining mass distribution. For example, a fairway-type golf club head was divided into ten equally-spaced horizontal sections parallel to the ground surface. The first section was disposed near the ground surface, and the tenth section was disposed near the apex of the crown. Table 2 illustrates the mass distribution across the entire fairway-type golf club head according to these sections. The lowest 10 percent of the fairway-type golf club head constituted 48.1 percent of the total mass, the lowest 20 percent constituted 66.4% of the total mass, and the lowest 30 percent constituted 73.3% of the total mass. [Table 2]

[0215] Alternatively, a fairway-type golf club head was divided into ten equally-spaced vertical sections perpendicular to the ground surface. The first section was disposed near the hitting face, and the tenth section was disposed near the rear portion. Table 3 illustrates the mass distribution across the entire fairway-type golf club head according to these sections. [Table 3] J. Moment of Inertia

[0216] In the first example embodiment of the fairway-type golf club head, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx is 1196 g·cm 2 , and the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy is 2183 g·cm 2 in this example. In another exemplary embodiment, the crown-sole moment of inertia Ixx is 1203 g·cm², and the heel-toe moment of inertia Iyy is 2191 g·cm². XIII. Example 2: Fairway-type golf club head having a rectangular insert

[0217] A second embodiment of the golf club described herein had multiple components similar to those described above. The fairway-type golf club head 3000 comprised a main body 202, a face cup 300 attached to the front end of the main body 202, a lightweight crown 800 permanently fixed to the main body 202, a large, high-density sole insert 430, and a removable rear weight 1111. The fairway-type golf club head 3000 exhibited a significant change in mass properties compared to a single-material fairway-type golf club head containing a steel alloy, while having the same shape, dimensions, and total mass. The fairway-type golf club head 3000 comprised a titanium alloy main golf club head body 202, a steel alloy face cup 300, a non-metallic crown insert 800, and a tungsten sole insert 430 received in a sole recess 240. The tungsten sole insert had a mass of 80 grams. K. Resulting mass distribution of fairway-type golf club heads

[0218] The mass distribution of the fairway-type golf club head 3000 in Example 2 was compared with the mass distribution of a comparative fairway-type club head. The comparative golf club head was a single-piece fairway-type golf club head made of a single material. In both the comparative fairway-type golf club head and the fairway-type golf club head 3000, when the total mass was 213 grams, the face cup 300 accounted for 12.6% of the total mass, while the face of the comparative fairway-type golf club accounted for 17.6% of the total mass. Similarly, the crown of the comparative fairway-type golf club head accounted for 11.9% of the total mass, while the crown insert 800 accounted for 3.80% of the mass of the fairway-type golf club head 3000. The sole of the comparative fairway-type golf club head constituted 13.1% of the total mass of the comparative golf club head, in contrast to the sole 3018, which accounted for a (much larger) 47.3% of the mass of the golf club head 3000. The tungsten sole insert 430 had a mass of approximately 80 grams, or 37.6% of the mass of the fairway-type golf club head 400 in the preferred embodiment. Therefore, the high-density sole insert 430 significantly contributed to the mass distribution of the fairway-type golf club head 3000 and was necessary to lower CG3072 above or near the FLIP axis 195. [Table 4] XIV. Example 3: Fairway-type golf club head with steel sole insert

[0219] As an alternative construction, the fairway-type golf club head 4000 features sole inserts 430 and 530 made of a steel alloy. The alternative steel sole inserts 430 and 530 are removablely mounted within a sole recess 240, welded into a sole window (not shown), or integrally cast within a steel main body 202. The sole inserts 430 and 530, made of a steel alloy, improve launch characteristics by bringing greater mass near the sole of the fairway-type club head, while reducing manufacturing costs compared to sole inserts 430 and 530 made of a tungsten alloy. XV. Example 4: Fairway type golf club head with steel face cup

[0220] As an alternative construction, the fairway-type golf club head 600 features a face cup 300 made of a steel alloy. The fairway-type golf club head 600 with a steel face cup requires a sole insert 630 that has more mass toward the front 608 and more mass toward the rear 610. In one such embodiment, the sole insert 630 features a mass pad or thickened region 678 positioned at a certain offset from the front edge 654. The mass pad 678 compensates for the additional mass of the steel face cup 300 by positioning more mass toward the rear 610 compared to the titanium face cup 300. The steel face cup 300 provides a strong impact face that allows for increased deformation while reducing manufacturing costs compared to the titanium face cup 300. XVI. Example 5: Fairway-type golf club head without crown extension

[0221] As an alternative construction, the fairway-type golf club head 5000 is equipped with a crown insert 800, which does not extend to the sole 5018. The crown extension does not form part of the sole 518, but only extends into the outer periphery of the golf club head 5000. Compared to the preferred embodiment, the smaller the area occupied by the crown extension, the less impact it has on the position of the CG172 of the fairway-type golf club head 5000, resulting in a slightly higher CG172. However, the lightweight material of the crown insert 800 is therefore not exposed on the sole 5018 and is less susceptible to wear from repeated impacts with the ground during use. Furthermore, the adhesive bond of the crown insert 800 is not subjected to stress from repeated impacts with the ground. XVII. Example 6: Fairway-type golf club head with natural fiber crown insert

[0222] Another alternative embodiment is achieved by changing the material of the crown insert 800 from a composite material to a natural fiber material. The crown insert 800 containing natural fiber material reduces the structural mass near the upper part of the fairway type clubhead, which in turn provides additional arbitrary mass to be distributed to the lower part of the clubhead, further improving performance characteristics. XVIII. Example 7: Fairway-type golf club head with a steel main body

[0223] Another alternative embodiment is achieved by changing the material of the main body 202 from a titanium alloy to a steel alloy. A main body 202 made of a steel alloy provides a strong and rigid framework for attaching various club head components, while reducing manufacturing costs compared to a main body 202 made of a tungsten alloy.

[0224] Clause Clause 1 A fairway type golf club head comprising a club head comprising a front portion having a front opening, a rear portion, a toe portion, a heel portion, a sole defining an insert recess, and a crown return, wherein the rear portion, the toe portion, the heel portion, the sole, and the crown return define a crown window; a face cup receiving within the front opening, comprising a striking face having a geometric center; a sole insert receiving within the insert recess; and a crown insert receiving within the crown window, comprising a crown insert and the main body crown return defining a crown, wherein the club head defines a ground surface in contact with the sole of the club head, a loft surface in contact with the striking face at the geometric center, and a coordinate system having the geometric center of the striking face as the origin and comprising the X, Y, and Z axes. The club head further comprises a YZ plane passing through the geometric center and aligned with the Y and Z axes, and on the striking face, at a vertical distance from the ground surface in the range of 0.55 to 0.75 inches, the impact points are located on the YZ plane. A (FLIP) and a force line impact point (FLIP) axis extending backward from the FLIP and perpendicular to the impact face at the FLIP are defined, and the CG of the club head is located at CGX1, CGY1, and CGZ1, where CGX1 is measured parallel to the X-axis from the geometric center, and CGX1 is in the range of 0.010 inches to 0.020 inches, and CGY1 is measured perpendicular to the Z-axis from the above, and CGY1 is in the range of 0.20 inches to 0.A fairway-type golf club head, wherein CGZ1 is within a range of 30 inches, said CGZ1 is measured rearward from said geometric center parallel to the Z-axis, said CGZ1 is within a range of 1.00 inch to 1.25 inches, said CGX1, said CGY1, and said CGZ1 define a virtual rectangular box, the CG of said club head is disposed within said virtual rectangular box, the CG of said club head is further disposed at CGF1 measured perpendicularly to the FLIP axis from the CG of said club head, and said CGF1 is within a range of 0.000 inch to 0.040 inch..

[0225] Clause 2. The fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 1, wherein said insert recess is recessed toward said crown into said sole portion via an insert recess floor.

[0226] Clause 3. The fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 2, wherein said sole insert comprises: an outer peripheral portion having a leading edge, a trailing edge, a heel-side edge, and a toe-side edge; a main body flange; a heel-direction extension; a toe-direction extension, wherein said heel-direction extension and said toe-direction extension are positioned near said leading edge and extend outward from said main body flange; a top surface; and a bottom surface forming a part of said sole.

[0227] Clause 4. The fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 3, wherein a portion of said leading edge is non-parallel to a portion of said trailing edge, and a portion of said heel-side edge is non-parallel to a portion of said toe-side edge.

[0228] Clause 5. The fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 1, wherein said sole insert has a mass of between 70 grams and 90 grams.

[0229] Clause 6 The fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 5, wherein the sole insert further has a center of gravity (CG) of the sole insert, the CG of the sole insert is located at a sole insert CGY2 measured perpendicular to the ground surface, and the sole insert CGY2 is between 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches.

[0230] Clause 7 The CG of the club head is further positioned at the club head CGY2 measured perpendicular to the ground surface, the club head CGY2 is between 0.30 inches and 0.40 inches, and the first CG ratio between the club head CGY2 and the sole insert CGY2 is given by the following formula:

number

[0231] Clause 8 A fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 1, wherein the vertical distance from the ground surface is 0.65 inches.

[0232] Clause 9: The fairway-type golf club head described in Clause 1, wherein the main body is formed of a titanium alloy.

[0233] Clause 10 The fairway-type golf club head described in Clause 1, wherein the main body is formed of fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0234] Clause 11 The fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 1, wherein the face cup is formed of a steel alloy.

[0235] Clause 12 The fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 1, wherein the crown insert has a density lower than the main body density and the face cup density.

[0236] Clause 13 A fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 1, wherein the crown insert is wrapped around the main body and forms part of the sole.

[0237] Clause 14 A fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 1, further having an outer perimeter defined by a series of points around the golf club head, each of which is tangent to a line drawn perpendicular to the ground surface when the golf club head is in the address position, the outer perimeter being a collection of the series of points, the outer perimeter defining an upper portion and a lower portion of the golf club head, the upper portion being defined as a portion of the golf club head above the outer perimeter, excluding the striking face, and the lower portion being defined as a portion of the golf club head below the outer perimeter, excluding the striking face.

[0238] Clause 15 The fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 14, wherein the lower portion comprises at least three different materials.

[0239] Clause 16 The fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 14, wherein the sole insert covers at least 20% of the lower outer surface.

[0240] Clause 17 The fairway-type golf club head described in Clause 1, wherein the golf club head further comprises a removable rear weight.

[0241] Clause 18 The fairway-type golf club head as described in Clause 17, wherein the rear weight has a mass in the range of 1 gram to 35 grams.

[0242] Clause 19 A fairway-type golf club head according to Clause 1, wherein CGX1 defines the virtual rectangular box in the heel-toe direction, CGY1 defines the virtual rectangular box in the crown-sole direction, and CGZ1 defines the virtual rectangular box in the front-to-back direction.

Claims

1. It is a fairway-type golf club head, It is equipped with a club head, and the club head is The main body portion comprises a front portion having a front opening, a rear portion, a toe portion, a heel portion, a sole defining an insert recess, and a crown return, wherein the rear portion, the toe portion, the heel portion, the sole, and the crown return define a crown window. A face cup that is received within the aforementioned front opening, and comprises a striking face having a geometric center, A sole insert is received in the aforementioned insert recess, A crown insert that is received in the crown window, wherein the crown insert and the main body crown return define the crown, comprising: The aforementioned club head The ground surface in contact with the sole of the club head, The loft plane that contacts the striking face at the geometric center, A coordinate system is defined in which the geometric center of the striking face is the origin, and which has the X, Y, and Z axes. The Z-axis extends parallel to the ground surface in the front-rear direction. The Y-axis extends perpendicular to the Z-axis in the crown-sole direction. The X-axis extends perpendicular to the Y-axis and the Z-axis in the heel-toe direction. The aforementioned club head further, The YZ plane passes through the geometric center and is aligned with the Y axis and the Z axis, On the striking face, at a vertical distance of 0.55 inches to 0.75 inches from the ground surface, there are force line impact points (FLIPs) located on the YZ plane, A line of force impact point (FLIP) axis is defined, extending backward from the FLIP and perpendicular to the impact face at the FLIP. The CG of the aforementioned club head is CGX １ CGY １ , and CGZ １ It is located in Said CGX １ However, it is measured parallel to the X-axis from the geometric center, and the CGX １ However, it is within the range of 0.010 inches to 0.020 inches. The aforementioned CGY １ However, as mentioned above, it is measured perpendicular to the Z-axis, and the CGY １ However, it is within the range of 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches. The aforementioned CGZ １ is measured rearward from said geometric center in parallel with the Z-axis, and said CGZ １ is within the range of 1.00 inch to 1.25 inches. Said CGX １ , the aforementioned CGY １ , and the CGZ １ However, it defines a virtual rectangular box, The CG of the club head is placed within the virtual rectangular box. The CG of the club head is further measured perpendicular to the FLIP axis from the CG of the club head. １ It is located in The aforementioned CIgG １ However, it is within the range of 0.000 inches to 0.040 inches. Fairway-type golf club head.

2. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the insert recess is recessed into the sole portion toward the crown via the insert recess floor.

3. The sole insert, The outer periphery has a front edge, a rear edge, a heel side edge, and a toe side edge, Main body flange and Heel-direction extension, A toe-direction extension, wherein the heel-direction extension and the toe-direction extension are positioned near the leading edge and extend outward from the main body flange, Top surface and, The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 2, having a bottom surface that forms part of the sole.

4. A portion of the aforementioned leading edge is non-parallel to a portion of the aforementioned trailing edge, The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 3, wherein a portion of the heel edge is non-parallel to a portion of the toe edge.

5. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the sole insert has a mass between 70 grams and 90 grams.

6. The sole insert further has a center of gravity (CG) of the sole insert, The CG of the sole insert is measured perpendicular to the ground surface. ２ It is located in The sole insert CGY ２ The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 5, wherein the length is between 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches.

7. The CG of the club head is further measured perpendicular to the ground surface. ２ It is located in The aforementioned club head CGY ２ However, it is between 0.30 inches and 0.40 inches. The aforementioned club head CGY ２ and the sole insert CGY ２ The first CG ratio between and is given by the following formula: [Math 1] A fairway-type golf club head according to claim 6, satisfying the requirements.

8. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the vertical distance from the ground surface is 0.65 inches.

9. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the main body is made of a titanium alloy.

10. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the main body is made of fiber-reinforced plastic.

11. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the face cup is formed of a steel alloy.

12. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the crown insert has a density lower than the main body density and the face cup density.

13. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the crown insert is wrapped around the main body and forms part of the sole.

14. The golf club head further comprises an outer periphery defined by a series of points around it. Each of the aforementioned series of points is tangent to a line drawn perpendicular to the ground surface when the golf club head is in the address position. The outer periphery is a collection of the series of points, The outer periphery defines the upper and lower portions of the golf club head. The aforementioned upper portion is defined as a part of the golf club head, excluding the striking face, above the aforementioned outer circumference. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the lower portion is defined as a part of the golf club head excluding the striking face, below the outer circumference.

15. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 14, wherein the lower portion comprises at least three different materials.

16. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 14, wherein the sole insert constitutes at least 20% of the outer surface of the lower portion.

17. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the golf club head further comprises a removable rear weight.

18. The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 17, wherein the rear weight has a mass in the range of 1 gram to 35 grams.

19. Said CGX １ However, the virtual rectangular box is defined in the heel-toe direction, CGY １ However, the virtual rectangular box is defined in the crown-sole direction, and the CGZ １ The fairway-type golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the virtual rectangular box is defined in the front-to-back direction.

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