Golf club with adjustable weight assembly
The golf club head with a recessed channel and sliding weight assembly enables precise adjustment of CG and MOI, addressing the need for secure and adjustable weight placement to enhance flight characteristics and performance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ACUSHNET CO
- Filing Date
- 2022-04-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-08
AI Technical Summary
Existing golf clubs lack adjustable weight assemblies that securely attach and allow selective movement of weights to improve flight characteristics such as CG and MOI, requiring improvements for enhanced performance.
A golf club head with a recessed channel and a weight assembly that includes a sliding weight, a cover, and fasteners, allowing the weight to be selectively positioned and secured within the channel, enabling adjustment of CG and MOI without direct engagement of the fastener with the weight, thereby improving retention and reducing unwanted movement.
The weight assembly allows for precise adjustment of CG and MOI, enhancing golf club performance by improving flight characteristics like fade, draw, launch angle, ball spin, and velocity, while reducing component loss and misplacement during adjustments.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 32,488, filed on June 29, 2021, which is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 222,774, filed on April 5, 2021, which is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 122,887, filed on December 15, 2020, which is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 843,640, filed on April 8, 2020 (now U.S. Patent No. 10,918,917), which is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 708,255, filed on December 9, 2019, which is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 535,844, filed on August 8, 2019 (now U.S. Patent No. 10,926,143), which is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 387,859, filed on April 18, 2019 (now U.S. Patent No. 10,695,628), and all of them are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In appropriate ranges, this application claims the priority of the applications referenced above.
Background Art
[0002] The flight characteristics of a golf ball after being struck by a golf club depend not only on the swing of the club but also on the club itself. For example, the flight characteristics of a golf ball (such as fade, draw, launch angle, ball spin, and velocity) are influenced by the design of the golf club. By adjusting one or more design characteristics of the golf club, it is possible to improve the flight characteristics of the golf ball, thereby improving the performance of the golf club. In some cases, adjusting the center of gravity (CG) and / or moment of inertia (MOI) of the golf club head through selective weight placement affects the flight characteristics of the golf ball. However, these adjustable weights must be securely attached to the golf club head and selectively movable. Therefore, improvements to adjustable weight assemblies for golf club heads are desired. [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]
[0003] In one embodiment, the technology relates to a golf club head, the golf club head comprising: a body having an outer surface; a recessed channel defined within the outer surface of the body; a weight assembly; a weight configured to be at least partially disposed within the recessed channel and to slide therein; and a cover adapted to releasably secure the weight within the recessed channel; the cover comprising a first end and a second end on the opposite side; and a rabbet extending at least partially between the first end and the second end, the rabbet being formed by at least two wall portions to at least partially receive the weight and to allow the weight to slide therein. The golf club head includes a ravet; a fastener receiver disposed on the opposite side of the ravet; and a weight assembly comprising a fastener connecting the cover to the body in the fastener receiver, the fastener configured to move the cover between at least two positions, namely between a first position and a second position, in which the weight is selectively slidable relative to the body, in which position the weight is fixed relative to the body.
[0004] In one example, the retaining rib includes a first rib and a second rib separated by a gap, the gap configured to allow the weight to be at least partially received in the ravet. In another example, the gap is located close to the first end of the cover. In yet another example, a slit is formed in the weight, the slit slidably engaging with the retaining rib. In yet another example, the retaining rib extends from the outer wall portions of at least two wall portions of the cover. In one example, the retaining rib is located close to the distal end of the outer wall portion. In yet another example, both the first and second ends of the cover define end wall portions, the end wall portions of the first and second ends lack projections.
[0005] In another embodiment, the technology includes a golf club head, the golf club head comprising: a body having an outer surface; a recessed channel defined within the outer surface of the body; a weight assembly; a weight at least partially disposed within the recessed channel and configured to slide therein, the weight having a slit defined within the weight; and a cover adapted to releasely secure the weight within the recessed channel; the cover comprising a first end and a second end on the opposite side; and a rivet at least partially extending between the first end and the second end, the rivet being at least The golf club head includes a ravet formed by the outer wall portion of the cover, the retaining rib extending from the outer wall portion and configured to slidably engage with a slit in the weight; and a fastener receiver disposed on the opposite side of the ravet; and the weight assembly also includes a fastener connecting the cover to the body portion in the fastener receiver, the fastener configured to move the cover between at least two positions, namely between a first position and a second position, in the first position the weight is selectively slidable relative to the body portion, and in the second position the weight is fixed relative to the body portion.
[0006] In one example, the retaining ribs and fastener receivers are arranged on opposite sides of the cover. In another example, the retaining ribs include at least two separate sections. In yet another example, at least one hollow section is defined within the weight on the opposite side of the slit. In yet another example, at least one hollow section includes a hollow section fully defined within the weight and a hollow section partially defined within the weight. In one example, the ravet engages with the weight so that the weight moves with the cover between at least two positions. In yet another example, the fastener is the only component of the weight assembly that extends into the internal cavity of the main body.
[0007] In another embodiment, the technology relates to a golf club head, the golf club head comprising: a body having an outer surface; a recessed channel defined within the outer surface of the body; a weight assembly; a weight configured to be at least partially disposed within the recessed channel and to slide therein; and a cover adapted to releasably secure the weight within the recessed channel; the cover comprising an outer surface and an opposite inner surface; a first end and an opposite second end, the end wall portion defined at both the first end and the second end; and a rivet extending at least partially between the first end and the second end, the rivet being configured to at least partially receive the weight and the weight therein The golf club head includes a ravet; a fastener receiver disposed on the opposite side of the ravet; and a weight assembly comprising a fastener connecting the cover to the body in the fastener receiver, the fastener being configured to move the cover between at least two positions, namely between a first position and a second position, in which the weight is selectively slidable relative to the body, and in which position the weight is fixed relative to the body.
[0008] In one example, the retaining rib configured to engage with the weight extends from at least one of the end walls. In another example, the retaining rib configured to engage with the weight extends from both end walls. In yet another example, the retaining rib has a square cross-section. In yet another example, the retaining rib is discontinuous, with a gap formed within it. In one example, the length of the ravet is approximately three times the length of the gap in the retaining rib.
[0009] This “Summary of the Invention” is provided in a simplified form to introduce the selection of concepts further described below in the “Modes for Carrying Out the Invention.” This “Summary of the Invention” is not intended to identify any important or essential mechanism of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0010] A non-restrictive and non-inclusive example is illustrated with reference to the following diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0011] [Figure 1] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with an exemplary weight assembly. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head along line 2-2 in Figure 1, where the weight assembly is in a locked configuration. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 3-3 in Figure 2. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head along line 2-2 in Figure 1, with the weight assembly in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 5-5 in Figure 4. [Figure 6] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with a separate weight assembly. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 7-7 in Figure 6. [Figure 8] A perspective view of a golf club head with a separate weight assembly. [Figure 9] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with a separate weight assembly. [Figure 10] Figure 9 shows a top view of a golf club head with a portion of the crown removed. [Figure 11]A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 11-11 in FIG. 9. [Figure 12] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 12-12 in FIG. 9. [Figure 13] A cross-sectional view of another weight assembly. [Figure 14] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 15] A cross-sectional view of a golf club head along line 15-15 in FIG. 14 showing the weight assembly. [Figure 16] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 16-16 in FIG. 14. [Figure 17] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 17-17 in FIG. 14. [Figure 18] An exploded perspective view of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 19] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 19-19 in FIG. 18. [Figure 20] A partial perspective cross-sectional view of another weight assembly. [Figure 21] Another cross-sectional view of the weight assembly shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly in a locked configuration. [Figure 23] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 23-23 in FIG. 22. [Figure 24] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with the weight assembly shown in FIG. 22 in an unlocked configuration. [Figure 25] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 25-25 in FIG. 24. [Figure 26] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 27]A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 27-27 in FIG. 26. [Figure 28] An exploded perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 29] A cross-sectional view of the weight assembly shown in FIG. 28. [Figure 30] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 31] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 31-31 in FIG. 30. [Figure 32] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 33] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 34] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 35] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 36] A perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with another weight assembly. [Figure 37] An exploded perspective view of the weight assembly shown in FIG. 36. [Figure 38] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly along line 38-38 in FIG. 36. [Figure 39] An inner surface view of the cover of the weight assembly shown in FIG. 36. [Figure 40] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly in a weight sliding configuration along line 40-40 in FIG. 36. [Figure 41] A cross-sectional view of a weight assembly in a weight removal configuration along line 40-40 in FIG. 36. [Figure 42] A perspective view of the sole of another golf club head with another weight assembly in a lock configuration. [Figure 43] Figure 42 is a perspective view of the sole of a golf club head with the weight assembly shown in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 44] Figure 42 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head with a weight assembly along line 44-44. [Figure 45] This is a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 44-44 in Figure 42. [Figure 46] This is a bottom view of a golf club head with a separate weight assembly. [Figure 47] Figure 46 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a golf club head with a weight assembly along line 47-47 in Figure 46. [Figure 48] This is a perspective view of a different golf club head. [Figure 49] Figure 48 is a bottom view of the club head, which has a separate weight assembly. [Figure 50] This is a cross-sectional view of another weight assembly. [Figure 51] Figure 50 is a schematic diagram of the weight assembly shown. [Figure 52] Figure 50 is a top view of the cover of the weight assembly shown. [Figure 53] Figure 50 is a side view of the cover of the weight assembly shown. [Figure 54] This is a bottom view of another golf club head with a different weight assembly. [Figure 55] This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 54-54 in Figure 54. [Figure 56] This is a cross-sectional view of the cover along line 54-54 in Figure 54. [Figure 57] Figures 55 and 56 show perspective views of the weights in the weight assembly. [Figure 58] Figure 57 is a schematic top view of the weight shown. [Figure 59]This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary test mule with a different weight assembly. [Figure 60] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 60-60 in Figure 59. [Figure 61] This is another cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 61-61 in Figure 59. [Figure 62] This is a schematic perspective view of another test mule with a different weight assembly. [Figure 63A] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 63-63 in Figure 62, showing the weights in various different positions. [Figure 63B] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 63-63 in Figure 62, showing the weights in various different positions. [Figure 63C] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 63-63 in Figure 62, showing the weights in various different positions. [Figure 63D] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 63-63 in Figure 62, showing the weights in various different positions. [Figure 63E] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 63-63 in Figure 62, showing the weights in various different positions. [Figure 64] This is another cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 64-64 in Figure 62. [Figure 65] This is a partial perspective view of an exemplary recessed channel within the main body of the test mule. [Figure 66] Figure 65 shows another partial perspective view of the recessed channel. [Figure 67] This is a schematic perspective view of another test mule with a different weight assembly. [Figure 68] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly in the first configuration, along line 67-67 in Figure 67. [Figure 69]This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly in the second configuration, along line 67-67 in Figure 67. [Figure 70] This is a schematic perspective view of another test mule with a different weight assembly. [Figure 71] Figure 70 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the weight assembly in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 72] This is a partial cross-sectional view of the weight assembly shown in Figure 70 in the locking configuration. [Figure 73] This is a cross-sectional view of another weight assembly that may be used with the test mule shown in Figure 70. [Figure 74] This is a disassembled perspective view of another test mule with a different weight assembly. [Figure 75] This is a perspective view of the sole of another golf club head with a different weight assembly. [Figure 76] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 76-76 in Figure 75. [Figure 77] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 77-77 in Figure 75. [Figure 78] Figure 75 is an exploded view of the cover of the weight assembly shown. [Figure 79] Figure 75 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the locking configuration. [Figure 80] Figure 75 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 81] Figure 75 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the weight removal configuration. [Figure 82] This is a perspective view of the sole of another golf club head with a different weight assembly. [Figure 83] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 83-83 in Figure 82. [Figure 84] Figure 82 is a perspective view of the cover of the weight assembly shown. [Figure 85] Figure 82 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the lock configuration. [Figure 86] Figure 82 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 87] Figure 82 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the weight removal configuration. [Figure 88] This is a perspective view of the sole of another golf club head with a different weight assembly. [Figure 89] A perspective view of the sole of a different golf club head with a different weight assembly in a lock configuration. [Figure 90] Figure 89 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 91] Figure 89 is a perspective view of the weight assembly in the weight adjustment configuration. [Figure 92] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 92-92 in Figure 91. [Figure 93] This is a perspective view of the sole of another golf club head with a different weight assembly. [Figure 94] Figure 93 is a perspective view of the weight assembly shown. [Figure 95] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 93-93 in Figure 93 in the lock configuration. [Figure 96] This is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly along line 93-93 in Figure 93 in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 97] This is a bottom view of the sole of a golf club head with a separate weight assembly. [Figure 98] This is a perspective cross-sectional view of a golf club head with a locking mechanism, along line 97-97 in Figure 97. [Figure 99] This is another perspective cross-sectional view of a golf club head in an unlocked configuration, along line 97-97 in Figure 97. [Figure 100] Figure 97 is another bottom view of the sole of the golf club head. [Figure 101] Figures 97 to 99 show the inner surface views of the cover and weights of the weight assembly. [Figure 102] Figure 101 is a side view of the cover and weight. [Figure 103] This is another inner surface view of the cover shown in Figure 101. [Figure 104] This is a cross-sectional view of the cover along line 104-104 in Figure 103. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0012] The technology described herein envisions a golf club head (such as a fairway metal, driver, or other golf club head) that includes an adjustable weight assembly. Through the weight balance of the golf club head, the flight characteristics of the golf ball can be improved, thereby enhancing the performance of the golf club. In the examples described herein, the weight assembly allows the CG and / or MOI of the golf club head to be adjusted through selective weight placement, influencing the flight characteristics of the golf ball (such as fade, draw, launch angle, ball spin, and velocity). Additionally or alternatively, the weight assembly allows the swing weight of the golf club head to be adjustable (increasing or decreasing the weight of the club head).
[0013] In an example, the technology provides a golf club head in which a recessed channel is defined. A sliding weight is at least partially disposed within the channel and secured therein by a cover and fasteners. The cover is configured to indirectly hold the weight within the channel, and the fasteners are configured not to engage with the weight. This configuration allows the size, shape, and / or density of the weight to be defined, and the CG and MOI of the golf club head to be finely adjusted. In addition, the cover includes an additional mechanism, which improves the retention of the weight within the channel and reduces unwanted rattle or movement during the golf club swing. Furthermore, the weight assembly described herein allows the weight to be adjusted quickly and easily without requiring any component to be completely removed from the club head. This reduces the loss or misplacement of components during club head adjustment. In one embodiment, the weight is engaged with the cover, and the two components are configured to move together relative to the golf club head. In addition, the weight is configured to limit tilting relative to the cover, thereby reducing or preventing the weight from being constrained within the channel.
[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with an exemplary weight assembly 104. The golf club head 100 is a metal wood type golf club head having a body 106, the body 106 including a striking face 108, the striking face 108 being positioned toward the front of the club head 100 and having a lower edge 110 and an upper edge 112 (shown, for example, in Figure 8) extending between the toe 114 and heel 116 of the club head 100, respectively. The sole 102 extends from the lower edge 110 on the bottom side of the club head 100, and the crown 118 extends from the upper edge 112 on the top of the club head 100. The sole 102, the striking face 108, and the crown 118 are connected together to define the outer surface 120 of the body 106, which includes an internal cavity 122 (shown in Figure 2) formed therein. The hosel 124 is positioned on the heel 116 and configured to connect to the shaft (not shown). In some examples, a skirt 126 (shown in Figure 8) may form part of the club head 100 and be positioned between the crown 118 and the sole 102. In such examples, and for the purposes of this application, the crown 118 may still be considered to be attached to or connected to the sole 102 via the skirt 126. Furthermore, the body 106 may form any type of club head (such as an iron-type club head or a hybrid-type club head) as needed or desired.
[0015] During operation, the sole 102 generally provides the underside surface of the clubhead 100 when the clubhead 100 is in the address position. The clubhead 100 defines the center of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MOI), which affect the flight characteristics of the golf ball (not shown) when struck by the striking face 108. The weight assembly 104 is attached to the clubhead 100 so that the CG and / or MOI of the clubhead 100 can be selectively adjusted as needed or desired. In an example, the weight assembly 104 includes a movable weight 128, a cover 130 configured to secure the weight 128 in place, and fasteners 132 for attaching the weight assembly 104 to one or more other parts of the clubhead 100. In some examples, the weight 128 may be made of tungsten. In an example, the weight 128 may be between approximately 2 grams and 15 grams. In some specific examples, the weight 128 may be approximately 9 grams.
[0016] A recessed, elongated channel 134 is formed within the outer surface 120 of the club head 100. More specifically, the channel 134 is substantially linear and defined within the sole 102 of the club head 100. In other examples, the channel 134 may be defined elsewhere on the body 106 (e.g., the crown 118 or skirt 126) as needed or desired. The channel 134 is sized and shaped to accommodate at least a portion of a weight 128, allowing the weight 128 to slide within it. In this example, the channel 134 extends substantially linearly in the toe 114-heel 116 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the club head 100 to be adjusted for a fade bias or a draw bias (by selectively moving the weight 128). The channel 134 may be angularly offset from the plane of the striking face 108, as illustrated in Figure 1. In other examples, the channel 134 may extend substantially parallel to the striking face 108. In one example, the fastener 132 is positioned close to the heel side of the channel 134. In other examples, the fastener 132 may be positioned at any other location relative to the channel 134 to allow the weight assembly 104 to function as described herein. For example, it may be positioned approximately midway along the channel 134, or close to the toe side of the channel 134, as described with reference to Figure 26.
[0017] During operation and through the use of the fastener 132, the cover 130 is connected to the main body 106 and extends at least partially over the channel 134, selectively securing the weight 128 to the club head 100. Additionally, the cover 130 covers at least a portion of the channel 134, reducing the accumulation of dust and dirt within it. However, the fastener 132 is separate from the weight 128 and secures the weight 128 to the club head 100 only indirectly (for example, via the cover 130). In this example, the fastener 132 and the cover 130 are adapted to hold the weight 128 in the channel 134 only by contact with the cover 130, so that the fastener 132 never engages with the weight 128. As described herein, when the fastener 132 indirectly holds the weight 128, the fastener 132 is never directly engaged with the weight 128, and it is a separate component (e.g., the cover 130) that directly engages with the weight 128 for securing it to the club head 100.
[0018] The cover 130 can be loosened or completely removed from the club head 100 via the fastener 132, allowing the weight 128 to slide within the channel 134, and enabling selective adjustment of CG and MOI as needed or desired. Because the weight 128 is selectively movable, the weight assembly 104 (e.g., the fastener 132, the weight 128, and the cover 130) allows the weight 128 to move, but also secures the weight 128 to one or more parts of the club head 100 so that undesirable movement (e.g., during a club swing) is reduced or prevented. By separating the fastener 132 from the weight 128, the size, shape, and / or density of the weight 128 can be configured so that the CG and MOI of the club head 100 can be more finely adjusted, thereby improving the performance of the golf club head 100. The weight assembly 104 is described further below.
[0019] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 100 along line 2-2 in Figure 1, showing the weight assembly 104 in the locking configuration 136. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 104 along line 3-3 in Figure 2. Referring to Figures 2 and 3 together, when the weight assembly 104 is in the locking configuration 136, the cover 130 is disposed within the channel 134, and the weight 128 is fixed within the channel 134 so as to restrict its movement. In some examples, to lock the cover 130 to the body 106, the fastener 132 may be a threaded bolt, which threads into a nut 138 positioned within the heel end of the channel 134. In some examples, the nut 138 may be integrally formed within the body 106.
[0020] When the cover 130 is in the lock configuration 136, the outer surface 140 of the cover 130 is substantially aligned with (e.g., coplanar) the outer surface 120 of the main body 106. Additionally, the fastener 132 defines a fastener axis 142. In the example, the fastener axis 142 is positioned at an angle 144 with respect to a plane 146, which is perpendicular to the outer surface 140 of the cover 130 adjacent to the fastener 132. The angle 144 defines an orientation in which the cover 130 may move relative to the main body 106. The angle 144 can be between approximately 0° (e.g., aligned with plane 146) and approximately 88°. In the example, the angle 144 can be between approximately 20° and 50°. In one example, the angle 144 can be approximately 45°.
[0021] In this example, only a single fastener 132 is used to connect the cover 130 to the main body 106, and the fastener 132 is positioned at the heel end of the weight assembly 104. Thus, to connect the toe end of the cover 130 to the main body 106, the cover 130 may include one or more projections 148 extending from the toe end. The projections 148 are sized and shaped to be received in one or more corresponding chambers 150 defined at the toe end of the channel 134. When the weight assembly 104 is in the locked configuration 136, the projections 148 are at least partially received in the chambers 150 and engaged with the chambers 150. By engaging the cover 130 with the main body 106 at a position opposite to the fastener 132, the cover 130 still allows the weight 128 to be fixed in the channel 134 when the weight 128 is positioned away from the fastener 132, reducing or preventing movement of the weight 128 in the locking configuration 136. In the example, the projection 148 extends in the toe-heel direction of the cover 130 and includes at least one oblique surface 152, the at least one oblique surface 152 engaging by friction with the corresponding at least one oblique surface 154 of the chamber 150. In some examples, the oblique surfaces 152, 154 may be substantially parallel to the fastener axis 142. In other examples, the oblique surfaces 152, 154 may be oriented at a different angle from the fastener axis 142 (for example, at a steeper or shallower angle). As an addition or alternative, the projection 148 and chamber 150 may extend substantially perpendicular to the toe-heel direction (for example, in and out of the page in Figure 2).
[0022] Furthermore, the cover 130 may engage with the body portion 106 at one or more intermediate positions between the fastener 132 and the opposite end. The seat 156 may protrude into the channel 134 at a location between the toe end and the heel end (for example, close to the midpoint location of the channel 134). The seat 156 is sized and shaped to be received into a corresponding notch 158 defined within the cover 130. When the weight assembly 104 is in the locking configuration 136, the seat 156 is at least partially received into the notch 158 and engaged with the notch 158. This engagement between the cover 130 and the body portion 106 at a position away from the fastener 132 also secures the weight 128 in the channel 134 and reduces or prevents movement of the weight 128 in the locking configuration 136. In the example, sheet 156 extends in the toe-heel direction of channel 134 and includes at least one oblique surface 160, the at least one oblique surface 160 which is frictionally engaged with the corresponding at least one oblique surface 162 of notch 158. In some examples, the oblique surfaces 160, 162 may be substantially parallel to the fastener axis 142. In other examples, the oblique surfaces 160, 162 may extend at an angle with respect to the bottom of channel 134 between about 3° and 88°. In one example, the oblique surfaces 160, 162 may extend at an angle with respect to the bottom of channel 134 of about 30°.
[0023] Additionally, the cam 164 may protrude into the channel 134 at a location between the toe end and the heel end (for example, between the seat 156 and the chamber 150). The cam 164 is sized and shaped to receive into a corresponding cutout 166 defined within the cover 130. When the weight assembly 104 is in the locked configuration 136, the cam 164 is at least partially received into the cutout 166. The cam 164 and the cutout 166 are further described below with reference to Figure 4.
[0024] In this example, the cover 130 is substantially L-shaped, with long legs 168 and short legs 170. In the lock configuration 136, the long legs 168 form the outer surface 140, and the short legs 170 extend into the channel 134. The channel 134 is formed from two opposing sidewalls 172, 174 and a bottom track 176, the bottom track 176 being offset from the outer surface 120 of the main body 106. The long legs 168 of the cover 130 are opposite the track 176 of the channel 134, and the short legs 170 of the cover 130 are adjacent to one of the sidewalls 172. The seat 156 and cam 164 may protrude from the sidewall 172 of the channel 134, and the corresponding notches 158 and cutouts 166 may be defined within the short legs 170 of the cover 130. When the weight 128 is fixed in the channel 134 and in the lock configuration 136, the weight 128 is compressed between the cover 130 and one or more walls of the channel 134 (e.g., side wall 174 and / or track 176). Thus, the weight 128 is frictionally secured by the weight assembly 104 to one or more parts of the club head 100.
[0025] Additionally, the weight 128 may be slidably connected to the cover 130. The long legs 168 of the cover 130 may include flanges 178 extending from them. The flanges 178 are sized and shaped to at least partially receive into corresponding grooves 180 defined within the weight 128. In the locking configuration 136, a portion of the weight 128 is not covered by the cover 130 and is exposed within the channel 134, so as to form part of the outer surface 120 of the main body 106. This allows the location of the weight 128 within the channel 134 to be easily determined by visual inspection.
[0026] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the club head 100 along line 2-2 in Figure 1, showing the weight assembly 104 in the unlock configuration 182. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 104 along line 5-5 in Figure 4. Referring to Figures 4 and 5 together, when the weight assembly 104 is in the unlock configuration 182, at least a portion of the cover 130 is lifted and raised out of the channel 134, allowing the weight 128 to selectively slide within the channel 134 (for example, along the toe-heel direction 184). In this example, the fastener 132 may be connected to the cover 130 (for example, by a lock washer 186 (shown in Figure 16)) so that the cover 130 moves along the fastener axis 142 (shown in Figure 2) as the fastener 132 rotates. The cover 130 and fastener 132 may be completely removed from the body 106 as needed or desired, so as to completely remove the weight 128 from the channel 134. However, in the example, moving the weight assembly 104 between the lock configuration 136 (shown in Figures 2 and 3) and the unlock configuration 182 does not require the weight assembly 104 to be detached from the body 106. Thus, in the unlock configuration 182, the cover 130 may remain attached to the body 106, reducing the likelihood of components being lost or misplaced. In some examples, the fastener 132 and / or nut 138 may include a hard stop (not shown) which, if necessary or desired, prevents the fastener 132 from being completely disengaged from the screw-type engagement with the club head 100.
[0027] Since only a single fastener 132 is used to connect the cover 130 to the body 106, and the fastener 132 is positioned at the heel end of the weight assembly 104, the cam 164 may be used to assist the toe end of the cover 130 in the unlock configuration 182 in the channel 134. This allows the weight 128 to slide more easily to a position away from the fastener 132. In the example, the cam 164 extends in the toe-heel direction of the channel 134 and includes at least one cam surface 188, the at least one cam surface 188 slidably engaged with a corresponding cam surface 190 of the cutout 166. As the cover 130 moves from the lock configuration 136 (where the cam 164 is received in the cutout 166) toward the unlock configuration 182, the cam surfaces 188, 190 slide relative to each other, lifting the toe end of the cover 130. In some examples, when the weight assembly 104 is in the unlocked configuration 182, a portion of the cover 130 may be supported on the cam 164. The cam surfaces 188, 190 may be substantially parallel to the fastener axis 142.
[0028] Additionally, in the unlock configuration 182, the notch 158 may lift away from the seat 156, disengaging the slanted surfaces 160, 162 (shown in Figure 2). In the unlock configuration 182, the notch 158 may lift partially or completely away from the seat 156. Also, the projection 148 may lift away from the chamber 150. However, the projection 148 may remain at least partially engaged with the chamber 150, preventing the weight 128 from sliding out of the tow end of the cover 130 and remaining in the channel 134 in the unlock configuration 182. Furthermore, since the weight 128 is engaged with the cover 130 (e.g., the flange 178 and groove 180), the weight 128 moves with the cover 130 between the lock configuration 136 and the unlock configuration 182. This allows the weight 128 to slide more easily in the unlock configuration 182.
[0029] In some examples, one or more of the weight 128, cover 130, and channel 134 may include complementary mechanisms (e.g., a corresponding detent 192 on cover 130 and a corresponding recess on weight 128 (not shown)) that index the location of weight 128 to channel 134 and / or cover 130. These complementary indexing mechanisms may provide tactile and / or audible feedback when weight 128 is moved. Additionally, the complementary indexing mechanisms may also provide increased resistance to relative movement between weight 128 and channel 134 and / or cover 130 when weight assembly 104 is in a locked configuration 136.
[0030] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of the golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 200. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 200 along line 7-7 in Figure 6. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 6 and 7 together, the weight assembly 200 includes a recessed channel 202 defined in the sole 102 of the body 106 of the club head 100, however, the channel 202 extends substantially linearly in the front-to-back direction so that the CG and MOI of the club head 100 can be adjusted for a launch angle bias. The channel 202 can be substantially orthogonal to the striking face 108, as illustrated in Figure 6. In other examples, the channel 202 may extend at either an acute or obtuse angle to the striking face 108. The weight assembly 200 also includes a sliding weight 204, a cover 206, and fasteners 208. In this example, the fastener 208 is positioned close to the rear of the channel 202, opposite the striking face 108. In other examples, the fastener 208 may be positioned at any other location relative to the channel 202, allowing the weight assembly 200 to function as described herein. For example, it may be positioned approximately midway along the channel 202, or close to the striking face 108 side of the channel 202.
[0031] In this example, the channel 202 is formed by two opposing sidewalls (cover sidewall 210 and undercut sidewall 212) and a bottom track 214, the bottom track 214 being offset from the outer surface 120 of the main body 106. A partial wall 216 also extends from the bottom track 214. Here, the cover 206 is positioned adjacent to the cover sidewall 210 and includes an angled surface 218. Thus, when the weight assembly 200 is in a locked configuration (e.g., Figure 7), the cover 206 generates a compressive force 220 along the angled surface 218, which acts both downward and transversely, securing the weight 204 between the cover 206 and the undercut sidewall 212. The weight 204 is thus secured by friction to one or more parts of the club head 100 by the weight assembly 200, at least partially below the angled surface 218 and the undercut sidewall 212. The weight 204 is at least partially trapezoidal in cross-sectional shape, and the side wall 212 and the undercut of the cover 206 are designed to help hold the weight 204 in the channel 202. Additionally, the cover 206 engages with the partial wall 216, restricting the portion of the cover 206 away from the fastener 208 from moving (e.g., bending or flexing) within the channel 202 toward the undercut side wall 212. Furthermore, the partial wall 216 is substantially parallel to the fastener axis (not shown) of the fastener 208, guiding the cover 206 between the locked and unlocked configurations. In some examples, the weight assembly 200 may include a sheet / notch interface as described above, which further engages with the cover 206 in the channel 202, improving the fixation of the weight 204 to one or more portions of the club head 100.
[0032] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 300. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. In this example, the club head 100 includes a skirt 126, which is positioned between the crown 118 and the sole 102 on the opposite side of the striking face 108. The weight assembly 300 includes a recessed channel 302 defined within the skirt 126 of the body 106 of the club head 100, extending along the rear circumference of the club head 100, so that the channel 302 has a curved shape. The weight assembly 300 also includes a sliding weight 304, a cover 306, and a fastener 308. In this example, the fastener 308 is connected to the heel 116 side of the body 106. In other examples, the fastener 308 may be connected to the toe 114 side of the body 106 as needed or desired. The weight assembly 300 may include one or more of the weight assembly mechanisms described herein, allowing the CG and MOI of the club head 100 to be adjustable for a fade-draw bias while the weight 304 is fixed in a locking configuration (as shown in Figure 8).
[0033] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of the golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 400. Figure 10 is a top view of the golf club head 100 shown in Figure 9 with a portion of the crown 118 removed. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 9 and 10 together, the weight assembly 400 includes a recessed channel 402 defined in the sole 102 of the body 106 of the club head 100, which extends substantially linearly in the toe 114-heel 116 direction. The weight assembly 400 also includes a sliding weight 404, a cover 406, and a fastener 408. The channel 402 includes a bottom track 410, and the weight 404 is slidable on the bottom track 410. In this example, the fastener 408 (and also the nut 412 to which the fastener 408 connects) is offset from the track 410 and positioned toward the rear of the body 106. By offsetting the fastener 408 from the track 410, the length of the track 410 can be extended in the toe-heel direction, allowing the weight 404 to be positioned at a greater number of locations on the sole 102. In other examples, the fastener 408 may be offset from the track 410 and positioned toward the front of the body 106 and toward the striking face 108 as needed or desired.
[0034] In this example, one or more support ribs 414 may extend from the channel 402 into the internal cavity 122 of the main body 106. The support ribs 414 are substantially perpendicular to the length of the channel 402. The support ribs 414 provide structural strength to the channel 402, allowing the channel 402 to resist deformation when the cover 406 compresses the weight 404 within it. In some examples, the support ribs 414 may extend within the internal cavity 122 over the entire distance between the sole 102 and the crown 118.
[0035] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 400 along line 11-11 in Figure 9. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 400 along line 12-12 in Figure 9. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 11 and 12 together, the weight assembly 400 is shown in a locking configuration in which the weight 404 is fixed into the channel 402. In this example, the weight 404 comprises an elastomer material 416 (e.g., a rubber-based material), the elastomer material 416 engages with the channel 402 and / or cover 406, further improving the fixation of the weight 404 in the locking configuration. Additionally, the elastomer material 416 reduces the rattle of the weight 404 in the channel 402 during the swing of the club head.
[0036] In this example, the channel 402 is formed from two opposing sidewalls 418, 420 and a track 410. One sidewall 420 may include an elongated fin 422 extending into the channel 402. The weight 404 is sized and shaped to be at least partially received into the channel 402 and includes a bottom surface 424 positioned adjacent to the track 410 and a slot 426 that engages with the fin 422. Additionally, on the opposite side of the slot 426, the weight 404 includes a groove 428, which engages with the flange 430 of the cover 406. The elastomer material 416 may be coupled to the weight 404 so that the material 416 extends from the bottom surface 424 and also extends into the slot 426. In one example, the elastomer material 416 may be a unitary piece extending through one or more holes in the weight 404. In other examples, the elastomer material 416 may be attached to one or more external surfaces of the weight 404. In yet another example, at least a portion of the elastomer material 416 may form the weight 404 itself.
[0037] During operation, when the cover 406 is in the locked configuration, the flange 430 engages with the groove 428 of the weight 404, compressing the weight 404 into the channel 402. Thus, the elastomer material 416 may engage with the track 410 and fin 422 of the channel 402. Engaging the elastomer material 416 in two or more locations improves the fixation of the weight 404 within the channel 402. This reduces undesirable movement and rattle of the weight 404 within the channel 402. In some examples, the elastomer material 416 may deform when compressed within the channel 402. Because the cover 406 engages with only a portion of the weight 404, when the cover 406 is lifted for the unlocked configuration (not shown), the weight 404 is able to rotate 434 within the channel 402, allowing the elastomer material 416 to disengage from the track 410 and fin 422. This rotational movement 434 allows the weight 404 to slide more easily within the channel 402 while in the unlocked configuration. This is because the elastomer material 416 is positioned at least partially away from the channel surface. In some examples, the elastomer material 416 extending from the bottom surface 424 may be in close proximity only to the groove 428, thereby increasing the rotational movement 434 of the weight 404.
[0038] The cover 406 is substantially L-shaped in cross-section (see Figure 12) and receives at least a portion of the weight 404 therein. The cover includes a first leg 436 having a flange 430 and a second leg 438 adjacent to the side wall portion 418 of the channel 402. The flange 430 may be substantially parallel to the second leg 438 and is designed to increase the structural rigidity of the cover 406 in the longitudinal direction. The second leg 438 may at least partially extend into a recess 440 of the track 410 and is designed to reduce bending of the cover 406 while in the locked configuration. Additionally, in this example, a projection 442 of the cover 406 may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The projection 442 is received in a corresponding cylindrical chamber 444. The structure of this projection 442 and chamber 444 increases the engagement between the cover 406 and the body portion 106 in the locked configuration (as illustrated in Figure 11). In some examples, the projection axis 446 of the projection 442 may be substantially parallel to the fastener axis 448. This orientation guides the movement of the cover 406 between the locked and unlocked configurations. In some examples, the projection 442 may include a tapered nose. In this example, the weight 404 and channel 402 may include a complementary mechanism 450, which indexes the location of the weight 404 to the channel 402.
[0039] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of another weight assembly 500. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 9 to 12, in this example the weight assembly 500 includes a recessed channel 502 defined within the body portion 106 of the club head. The weight assembly 500 also includes a sliding weight 504 and a cover 506. The cover 506 is shown in a locked configuration, and a slot 508 of the weight 504 engages with a fin 510 of the channel 502. However, in this example the bottom surface 512 of the weight 504 is positioned directly against the track 514 of the channel 502. In addition, in this example the bottom surface 512 of the weight 504 includes a hollow portion 516. The hollow portion 516 reduces the frictional sliding force on the weight 504 when the weight assembly 500 is in an unlocked configuration (not shown). Furthermore, the hollow portion 516 allows the size and shape of the weight 504 to be formed while maintaining the required or desired mass and / or density of the weight 504. In some examples, an elastomer material (not shown) may be at least partially disposed within the hollow portion 516.
[0040] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with a separate weight assembly 600. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. The weight assembly 600 includes a recessed channel 602 defined within the sole 102 of the body 106 of the club head 100. The channel 602 has a shape that is substantially curved in the toe 114-heel 116 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the club head 100 to be adjustable for a fade-draw bias. In some examples, the curve of the channel 602 matches the rear perimeter of the body 106, where the sole 102 and crown 118 are connected together. The weight assembly 600 also includes a sliding weight 604, a cover 606, and fasteners 608.
[0041] In this example, the fastener 608 is positioned within a concave area of the curved channel 602, toward the striking face 108 of the main body 106. This position allows the weight 604 to be positioned adjacent to the rear perimeter of the main body 106, increasing the adjustability of the CG and MOI of the clubhead 100 compared to having the fastener 608 positioned within a convex area of the curved channel 602, and the weight 604 closer to the striking face 108. Additionally, the weight 604 may slide completely from the toe 114 side to the heel 116 side, and may be positioned at any position in the channel 602, even adjacent to the fastener 608. In other examples, the fastener 608 may be positioned within a convex area of the curved channel 602 as needed or desired. Alternatively, the fastener 608 may be positioned approximately midway along the channel 602. In other examples, the fasteners 608 may be offset from the midpoint of the channel 602, or two or more fasteners 608 may be used to connect the cover 606 to the main body 106 (for example, at each end of the channel 602).
[0042] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the club head 100 along line 15-15 in Figure 14, showing the weight assembly 600. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 600 along line 16-16 in Figure 14. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 600 along line 17-17 in Figure 14. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 15 to 17 simultaneously, the weight assembly 600 is shown in a locking configuration, and the weight 604 includes a bottom surface 610 and a groove 612. A tab 614 is disposed adjacent to the groove 612. In addition, the weight 604 includes an elastomer material 614. In this example, the elastomer material 614 is attached to the weight 604 and extends from the bottom surface 610 and also extends into the groove 612. The elastomer material 614 is oversized relative to the channel 602 (for example, an overlap of 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm) so that the material 614 may deform while being compressed within the channel 602. In other examples, the elastomer material 614 may adhere to the outer surface of the weight 604. In yet another example, the elastomer material 614 may form at least partially the weight 604 itself.
[0043] The cover 606 is substantially C-shaped with a flange 616, which engages with a groove 612 in the weight 604. Additionally, the cover 606 includes an upper leg 618 and a side leg 620, the side leg 620 being on the opposite side of the flange 616. The upper leg 618 has a greater thickness than the flange 616 and the side leg 620, and is designed to increase the structural rigidity of the cover 606 in the longitudinal direction. The fastener 608 is connected to the cover 606 by a lock washer 186, which allows the fastener 608 to rotate relative to the cover 606, while the cover 606 moves along the fastener axis 622, allowing the cover 606 to be raised and lowered relative to the channel 602.
[0044] During operation, when the cover 606 is in the locked configuration, the flange 616 of the cover 606 engages with the groove 612 of the weight 604. This compresses the weight 604 between the cover 606 and the bottom track 624 of the channel 602. In the locked configuration, the elastomer material 614 engages with both the cover 606 and the channel 602, improving the fixation of the weight 604 to one or more parts of the club head 100. In some examples, multiple grooves 626 are defined within the track 624, allowing the elastomer material 614 to deform into the grooves 626, facilitating the fixation of the weight 604 within the channel 602. Additionally, the tab 614 of the weight 604 may be positioned close to the outer surface 120 of the body 106, so that the position of the weight 604 may be visible. When the weight assembly 600 is in an unlocked configuration (not shown), the cover 606 is at least partially lifted out of the channel 602, allowing the weight 604 to selectively slide in and out of it, for example, via the tab 614.
[0045] Each end of the cover 606 may include a substantially cylindrical projection 628, which is received in a corresponding cylindrical chamber 630 of the channel 602. The projection 628 extends along a projection axis 632, which is substantially parallel to the fastener axis 622. This orientation guides the movement of the cover 606 between the locked and unlocked configurations. In some examples, the projection 628 may include a tapered nose. Additionally, the chamber 630 may open into an internal cavity 122 of the main body 106, as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16. In other examples, the chamber 630 may be sealed off from the internal cavity 122. Also, one or more support ribs 634 may extend from the track 624 into the internal cavity 122, as needed or desired.
[0046] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 700. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 14–17, in this example the weight assembly 700 includes a recessed channel 702 defined within the body portion 106 of the club head 100, the channel 702 having a shape substantially curved in the toe 114–heel 116 direction. In some examples the curve of the channel 702 matches the rear circumference of the body portion 106, where the sole 102 and crown 118 are connected together. The weight assembly 700 also includes a sliding weight 704, a cover 706, and fasteners 708. At each end of the cover 706, projections 710 may extend for engagement within the channel 702.
[0047] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 700 along line 19-19 in Figure 18. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. The weight assembly 700 is shown in Figure 19 in a locked configuration, with the bottom surface 712 of the weight 704 positioned directly against the track 714 of the channel 702. Additionally, in this example, the bottom surface 712 of the weight 704 includes a hollow section 716. The hollow section 716 reduces the frictional sliding force on the weight 704 when the weight assembly 700 is in an unlocked configuration (not shown). The hollow section 716 also allows the size and shape of the weight 704 to be formed while maintaining the required or desired mass and / or density of the weight 704. In some examples, an elastomer material (not shown) may be disposed at least partially within the hollow section 716.
[0048] In addition, the cover 706 includes an angled surface 718 that contacts the weight 704. Thus, when the weight assembly 700 is in a locked configuration (for example, Figure 19), the cover 706 generates a compressive force 720 along the angled surface 718, which acts both downward and transversely, securing the weight 704 between the cover 706 and the undercut sidewall portion 722 of the channel 702. Thus, the weight 704 is secured by friction to one or more portions of the club head 100 by the weight assembly 700.
[0049] Figure 20 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view of another weight assembly 800. Figure 21 is another cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 800. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 20 and 21 together, the cross-sectional view is substantially along the front-to-back direction of the golf club head, similar to the example described above with reference to Figures 16 and 17, for example. The weight assembly 800 includes a recessed channel 802 defined within the body portion 106. The weight assembly 800 also includes a sliding weight (not shown), a cover 804, and fasteners 806. In this example, the channel 802 is defined by a bottom track 808 and two opposing side wall portions 810, 812. The bottom track 808 includes an elastomer material 814 connected thereto, which extends at least partially into the channel 802. The elastomer material 814 engages with the weight and further improves the fixation of the weight within the channel 802 in the locking configuration. Additionally, the elastomer material 814 reduces the rattle of the weight during the swing of the club head. As an addition or alternative, the elastomer material 814 may be connected to one or more of the sidewalls 810, 812 as needed or desired. In yet another example, the elastomer material 814 may be connected to the cover 804.
[0050] In this example, the elastomer material 814 extends along the longitudinal length of the channel 802. At each end 816 of the elastomer material 814, a portion of the material may extend into an undercut area 818 within the channel 802, thereby securing the elastomer material 814 within the channel 802. In other examples, the elastomer material 814 may be attached to the channel 802 or the cover 804 as needed or desired. The ends 816 of the elastomer material 814 may be offset 820 from the projection 822 of the cover 804 so that the elastomer material 814 does not interfere with the movement of the cover 804 between the locked and unlocked configurations as described herein.
[0051] Figure 22 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 900 in a locking configuration. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 900 along line 23-23 in Figure 22. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 22 and 23 together, the weight assembly 900 is shown in a locking configuration and includes a recessed channel 902 defined within the sole 102 of the body 106 of the club head 100. The channel 902 has a shape that is substantially curved in the toe 114-heel 116 direction so that the CG and MOI of the club head 100 may be adjustable for a fade-draw bias. In some examples, the curve of the channel 902 matches the rear perimeter of the body 106, where the sole 102 and crown 118 are connected together. The weight assembly 900 also includes a toe-side sliding weight 904, a heel-side sliding weight 906, a toe-side cover 908, a heel-side cover 910, and fasteners 912.
[0052] In this example, the fastener 912 is positioned within the channel 902, dividing the weight assembly 900 in approximately half. Positioning the fastener 912 within the channel 902 reduces the size of the weight assembly 900 on the club head 100. Additionally, the mass of the fastener 912 is positioned further back from the striking face 108 than in the examples described above. The weights 904 and 906 extend from the inward convex sides of the covers 908 and 910, as illustrated in Figure 22. In other examples, the weights 904 and 906 may extend from the outward concave sides of the covers 908 and 910, as needed or desired. In this example, two sliding weights 904 and 906 are described because the fastener 912 prevents the weights from sliding completely from the toe side to the head side of the channel 902 and from returning to their original position. In some examples, the weight assembly 900 may contain only one sliding weight, and the fasteners 912 and covers 908, 910 are configured to allow the weight to pass between the toe 114 side and the heel 116 side. In other examples, the weight assembly 900 may contain only one sliding weight, which requires the assembly to be completely disassembled to move the weight from the toe side to the head side and back. In yet another example, the weights 904, 906 may be completely removable from the channel 902 as needed or desired.
[0053] One end of each cover 908, 910 is engaged with channel 902 by a projection / channel interface, for example, as described herein, while the other opposite end of each cover 908, 910 is engaged with fastener 912. In this example, fastener 912 includes a washer 914 disposed below the head. The washer 914 is a substantially cylindrical flange extending from a threaded shaft, which engages with both corresponding grooves 916 in the covers 908, 910. When the weight assembly 900 is in a locked configuration, the covers 908, 910 are disposed within channel 902 and secured in place by fastener 912 via grooves 916, so that the weights 904, 906 cannot slide within channel 902 and are locked in place. Additionally, the covers 908, 910 are coplanar with the outer surface 120 of the main body 106. In some examples, the portions of the covers 908, 910 defining the groove 916 may extend all the way to the bottom track 918 of the channel 902, thereby reducing or preventing overtightening of the fasteners 912.
[0054] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with a weight assembly 900 shown in an unlocked configuration. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 900 along line 25-25 in Figure 24. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily described further. Referring to Figures 24 and 25 together, the weight assembly 900 is illustrated in an unlocked configuration. When the weight assembly 900 moves out of the locked configuration (shown in Figures 22 and 23), the fastener 912 is rotated so as to be lifted at least partially out of the channel 902. This movement of the fastener 912 also lifts at least partially out of the channel 902 the ends of the covers 908, 910 which are engaged with the washer 914, allowing the weights 904, 906 to slide within the channel 902. In some examples, the weights 904 and 906 can engage with their respective covers 908 and 910 and be raised away from the track 918 to facilitate movement.
[0055] In some examples, the covers 908, 910 and fasteners 912 can be completely removed from the main body 106 as needed or desired, and the weights 904, 906 can be completely removed from the channel 902. However, moving the weight assembly 900 between the locked and unlocked configurations does not require the weight assembly 900 to be detached from the main body 106. Thus, in the unlocked configuration, the covers 908, 910 remain attached to the main body 106, reducing the likelihood of components being lost or misplaced.
[0056] In this example, when covers 908, 910 are in the unlocked configuration, the ends of covers 908, 910 (which are on opposite sides of the fastener 912 and engaged with channel 902 (e.g., with the projection / channel interface)) may remain engaged with channel 902, forming a pivot point around which covers 908, 910 rotate. In other examples, the ends of covers 908, 910 opposite each other of the fastener 912 may be lifted at least partially out of channel 902, as described herein. For example, this may be done through a cam and cutout interface as described above.
[0057] Figure 26 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1000. Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1000 along line 27-27 in Figure 26. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 26 and 27 together, the weight assembly 1000 includes a substantially linear recessed channel 1002 defined within the sole 102. The weight assembly 1000 also includes a sliding weight 1004, a cover 1006, and a fastener 1008. In this example, the fastener 1008 may be positioned approximately midway in the channel 1002 and offset toward the rear of the club head 100. Positioning the fastener 1008 at the midway location reduces the distance between the fastener 1008 and the far end of the cover 1006, thereby improving the engagement between the cover 1006 and the channel 1002 for securing the weight 1004.
[0058] Similar to the examples described above with reference to Figures 6 and 7, the channel 1002 is formed by two opposing sidewalls (cover sidewall 1010 and undercut sidewall 1012) and a bottom track 1014, the bottom track 1014 being offset from the outer surface 120 of the main body 106. A partial wall 1016 also extends from the bottom track 1014. The cover 1006 is located adjacent to the cover sidewall 1010 and includes an angled surface 1018. Thus, when the weight assembly 1000 is in a locked configuration (e.g., Figure 27), the cover 1006 generates a compressive force along the angled surface 1018, which acts both downward and transversely, securing the weight 1004 between the cover 1006 and the undercut sidewall 1012. Therefore, the weight 1004 is secured by friction by the weight assembly 1000 and at least partially beneath the angled surface 1018 and the undercut sidewall portion 1012. In addition, the cover 1006 fully engages with the partial wall portion 1016 via the groove portion 1020, so that the portion of the cover 1006 away from the fastener 1008 is restricted from moving (e.g., bending or flexing) in the channel 1002 toward the undercut sidewall portion 1012. Furthermore, the partial wall portion 1016 is substantially parallel to the fastener axis (not shown) of the fastener 1008, so that the cover 1006 guides movement between the locked and unlocked configurations.
[0059] Figure 28 is an exploded perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1100. Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1100. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 28 and 29 together, the weight assembly 1100 includes a substantially linear recessed channel 1102 defined within the sole 102. The weight assembly 1100 also includes a sliding weight 1104, a cover assembly 1106, and a fastener 1108. In this example, the fastener 1108 is positioned approximately midway through the channel 1102 and may be offset toward the rear of the club head 100. As described above, when the cover assembly 1106 is in the locked configuration, the cover assembly 1106 is coupled to the body 106 so that the weight 1104 is fixed within the weight assembly 1100 without movement or rattle. In this example, the cover assembly 1106 is an assembly consisting of four parts, including a fastener member 1110, two opposing longitudinal members 1112, and a transverse member 1114.
[0060] As the cover assembly 1106 is moved toward a locking configuration (for example, Figure 29), the fastener 1108 is tightened to the main body 106. The fastener 1108 engages with the fastener member 1110, moving the fastener member 1110 into the channel 1102 along the fastener axis (not shown). The fastener member 1110 has a tapered surface, which engages with both longitudinal members 1112, so that when the fastener member 1110 is pulled down in the channel 1102, the longitudinal members 1112 are also pulled down in the channel 1102, generating a compressive force 1116 along the angled surface 1118. The compressive force 1116 acts on the transverse member 1114 both downward and transversely, positioning the transverse member 1114 within the channel 1102 and compressing the weight 1104 between the transverse member 1114 and the side wall portion 1120 of the channel.
[0061] Additionally, to reduce or prevent the pull-out of the weight assembly 1100 from the main body 106, the transverse member 1114 may engage with the undercut 1122 of the channel 1102. A compressive force 1116 from the longitudinal member 1112 is designed to lock the transverse member against the undercut 1122 and prevent movement. Additionally or alternatively, a portion of the weight 1104 may engage with the side wall portion 1120 of the channel 1102, thereby reducing the pull-out of the weight assembly 1100 from the main body 106. Additionally, the fastener member 1110 may also push the longitudinal member 1112 away from the fastener 1108 (for example, arrow 1124), so that the end 1126 of the member 1112 can engage with the corresponding chamber 1128 in the channel 1102, and further reduce the pull-out of the weight assembly 1100 from the main body 106.
[0062] Figure 30 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1200. Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1200 along line 31-31 in Figure 30. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 30 and 31 together, the weight assembly 1200 is shown in an unlocked configuration and includes a recessed channel 1202, a sliding weight 1204, a cover 1206, and a fastener 1208. The structure, size, shape, and orientation of the channel 1202, weight 1204, and fastener 1208 may be similar to any of the examples described above. However, in this example, the width 1210 of the cover 1206 extends toward the striking face 108 so that the cover 1206 forms a larger portion of the sole 102 and not just cover a portion of the channel 1202.
[0063] In some cases, the cover 1206 may form more than 75% of the surface area of the sole 102. In other cases, the cover 1206 may form more than 50% of the surface area of the sole 102. In yet another case, the cover 1206 may form more than 25% of the surface area of the sole 102. In yet another case, the cover 1206 may be between approximately 10% and 90% of the surface area of the sole 102. In yet another case, the cover 1206 may be between approximately 25% and 75% of the surface area of the sole 102.
[0064] By enlarging the cover 1206 of the weight assembly 1200, the golf club head structure forming the sole 102 of the body 106 can be reduced. In some examples, the cover 1206 can be manufactured from a material lighter than the material from which the body 106 is manufactured (e.g., composite material, plastic, etc.). Thus, the weight saved by the configuration of the sole structure can be used elsewhere on the club head 100 as needed or desired, allowing for further adjustment of the CG and MOI of the club head 100 to improve the golf ball flight characteristics. In some examples, the weight saved by the sole structure can be incorporated back into a sliding weight 1204. For example, the cover 1206 may reduce the weight of the sole structure by only 11 grams or more, and some or all of its mass can then be incorporated into the weight 1204, at least partially.
[0065] The cover 1206 may include projections 1212 extending therefrom, which are configured to engage with corresponding chambers 1214 in each end of the channel 1202 to increase the structural rigidity of the cover 1206 connection, as described in the above example. In one example, the projections 1212 may be substantially cylindrical and parallel to the fastener axis 1216. On the opposite side of the cover 1206 from the fastener 1208, the cover 1206 includes a brace 1218 adjacent to an extended edge 1220, which engages with the remaining sole 102 of the club head 100 by friction, securing the edge 1220 to the body 106. In some examples, the brace 1218 may extend at an angle substantially parallel to the fastener axis 1216 and is configured to guide the movement of the cover 1206 between the locked and unlocked configurations, as described herein. The brace 1218 may include one or more brackets 1222 to increase the structural rigidity of the brace 1218.
[0066] Figure 32 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1300. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 30 and 31, the weight assembly 1300 includes an enlarged cover 1302, which selectively secures a sliding weight 1304 to one or more parts of the club head 100. However, in this example, the fastener 1306 is positioned adjacent to the extended edge 1308 of the cover 1302, more toward the striking face 108. This example improves the securing of the edge 1308 to the body 106 of the golf club head 100. In other examples, the fastener 1306 may be positioned at any other location on the cover 1302 as needed or desired, for example, toward the toe side 114, toward the heel side 116, centered on the cover 1302, etc.
[0067] Figure 33 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1400. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 30–32, the weight assembly 1400 includes an enlarged cover 1402, which selectively secures a sliding weight 1404 to one or more parts of the club head 100. However, in this example, the cover 1402 has a substantially V-shaped extended edge 1406. In addition, the cover 1402 is symmetrical in the toe 114–heel 116 direction. In other examples, the cover 1402 may be asymmetrical in the toe 114–heel 116 direction as needed or desired.
[0068] Figure 34 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1500. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 30–33, the weight assembly 1500 includes an enlarged cover 1502, the cover 1502 selectively fastens a sliding weight 1504 to one or more parts of the club head 100. However, in this example, the cover 1502 is asymmetrical in the toe-side direction 114. In other examples, the cover 1502 may be asymmetrical in the heel-side direction 116, as needed or desired.
[0069] Figure 35 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of a golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1600. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 30–34, the weight assembly 1600 includes an enlarged cover 1602, which selectively secures a sliding weight 1604 to one or more parts of the club head 100. However, in this example, the cover 1602 has a substantially C-shaped extended edge 1606. In addition, the cover 1602 is symmetrical in the toe 114–heel 116 direction. In other examples, the cover 1602 may be asymmetrical in the toe 114–heel 116 direction as needed or desired.
[0070] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the sole 102 of the golf club head 100 with another weight assembly 1700. Figure 37 is an exploded perspective view of the weight assembly 1700. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. Referring to Figures 36 and 37 together, a recessed channel 1702 is defined within the sole 102 of the body 106 of the club head 100. The channel 1702 has a shape that is substantially curved in the toe 114-heel 116 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the club head 100 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias (e.g., the "F" and "D" markings on the cover 1706 of the weight assembly 1700). In this example, the curve of the channel 1702 substantially corresponds around the rear outer circumference of the body 106 (where the sole 102 and crown 118 are connected together) and on the opposite side of the striking face 108. The weight assembly 1700 includes a slidable weight 1704, a cover 1706, and a fastener 1708.
[0071] In this example, the cover 1706 is substantially U-shaped and has a toe end 1710 and an opposite heel end 1712. A fastener 1708 is attached to the cover 1706 by a lock washer 1714 (e.g., a retainer clip), which is positioned on the inner recessed side of the cover 1706 at approximately the midpoint between the ends 1710 and 1712. The fastener 1708 is a threaded bolt, which screw-engages with a nut 1716 formed in the sole 102 of the body 106. The lock washer 1714 allows the cover 1706 to move linearly M (e.g., up and down) along the fastener axis 1718 (shown in Figure 38) relative to the recessed channel 1702 as the fastener 1708 rotates. The fastener 1708 is offset from the recessed channel 1702 toward the front of the body 106 and toward the striking face 108. By offsetting the fastener 1708 from the recessed channel 1702, the length of the recessed channel 1702 can be extended in the toe-heel direction, allowing the weight 1704 to be positioned at a greater number of locations on the sole 102. Additionally, by positioning the fastener adjacent to the inner recessed side of the cover 1706, the weight 1704 is positioned closer to the outer perimeter of the body 106, allowing the weight 1704 to increase the adjustability of the CG and MOI of the club head 100.
[0072] Each end 1710, 1712 of the cover 1706 includes projections 1720 extending therefrom. The projections 1720 are sized and shaped to be received in corresponding chambers 1722 defined at the ends of recessed channels 1702 and in the soles 102 of the body 106. The projections 1720 may be substantially cylindrical in shape to increase the engagement between the cover 1706 and the body 106 and to limit movement or rattle when the weight 1704 is fixed in the recessed channel 1702 by the cover 1706. The projection axis 1724 of the projection 1720 (shown in Figure 38) is substantially parallel to the fastener axis 1718 to facilitate the movement of the cover 1706 relative to the recessed channel 1702.
[0073] During operation, the weight assembly 1700 is selectively movable between at least three configurations, allowing the CG and MOI of the club head 100 to be adjustable. More specifically, in the first configuration or the locked configuration, the cover 1706 is at least partially disposed within a recessed channel 1702, so that the weight 1704 is fixed within the channel 1702 and its movement is restricted. This locked configuration is illustrated in Figure 36. When the weight assembly 1700 is in the locked configuration, the projection 1720 is at least partially received within the chamber 1722 and engaged with the chamber 1722. When the weight 1704 is positioned away from the fastener 1708 by engaging the cover 1706 with the body portion 106 at its ends 1710, 1712, the cover 1706 still allows the weight 1704 to be fixed within the channel 1702, reducing or preventing the movement of the weight 1704 in the locked configuration. The lock configuration is used when swinging a 100-degree golf club head.
[0074] Additionally, the weight assembly 1700 can be positioned into at least two other configurations, at least two of which allow the weight 1704 to selectively slide within the recessed channel 1702, and at least two other configurations which allow the weight 1704 to be completely removed from the weight assembly 1700 and the club head 100. In the second configuration or weight-moving configuration, the cover 1706 is partially raised out of the recessed channel 1702, allowing the position of the weight 1704 to be adjusted. However, the weight 1704 is still held within the weight assembly 1700 and cannot be completely removed from the club head 100. This configuration is illustrated in Figure 40 and further described below. In the third configuration or weight-removing configuration, the cover 1706 is positioned so that the weight 1704 can be completely removed, and different weights (e.g., having different masses) can be used with the club head 100 to adjust the swing weight. This configuration is illustrated in Figure 41 and further described below. However, in each of the three configurations, the cover 1706 remains connected to the main body 106, so that the cover 1706 does not need to be completely removed. However, in some examples, the weight assembly 1700 may include a fourth configuration (not shown) in which the cover 1706 can be completely removed from the main body 106 as needed or desired.
[0075] A partial wall 1726 is disposed within a recessed channel 1702. The weight 1704 has a corresponding recess 1728 (shown in Figure 38) that allows the weight 1704 to slide along the partial wall 1726. The partial wall 1726 at least partially prevents the weight 1704 from being completely removed when the weight assembly 1700 is in a weight-moving configuration. In some examples, the weight 1704 may include at least one positioning mechanism 1730 (Figure 37). The mechanism 1730 is sized and shaped to engage with one or more positioning lugs 1732 (shown in Figure 39) extending from the cover 1706 when the weight assembly 1700 is in a locked configuration. The positioning lugs 1732 and the mechanism 1730 facilitate positioning the weight 1704 at a specific location within the recessed channel 1702. In one example, the positioning lug 1732 is substantially truncated cone-shaped, and the positioning mechanism 1730 has a corresponding recessed shape. In other examples, the lug 1732 and mechanism 1730 may have any other shape and / or size that allows the cover 1706 and weight 1704 to function as described herein.
[0076] Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1700 along line 38-38 in Figure 36. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. As described above, the weight 1704 is secured by the cover 1706 in a recessed channel 1702. A fastener 1708 positions and secures the cover 1706 to the body 106 of the golf club head, and therefore the fastener 1708 only indirectly holds the weight 1704. In some examples, a washer (not shown) may be positioned on the fastener 1708 between the body 106 and the cover 1706. The recessed channel 1702 is formed in cross-section by a bottom track wall 1734 and side walls 1736, which are arranged in a substantially L-shape configuration with a corner 1738. In some examples, the corner 1738 has an angle of 90° or less. In another embodiment, the corner 1738 has an angle of less than 90°, so that the side wall 1736 is undercut. In this way, when the weight assembly 1700 is in the locked configuration, the cover 1706 wedge the weight 1704 into the corner 1738 against the side wall 1736, and secures the weight 1704 by friction into the recessed channel 1702 and at least partially beneath the side wall 1736.
[0077] Adjacent to the corner 1738 and above the bottom track wall 1734, the partial wall 1726 extends upward and has a height H1. The weight 1704 has a corresponding recess 1728, which receives at least a portion of the partial wall 1726. The partial wall 1726 at least partially accommodates the weight 1704 within the weight assembly 1700 when in the locked configuration and the weight sliding configuration. The weight 1704 also includes a tail 1740, which protrudes from a recessed channel 1702 and also from below the cover 1706. The tail 1740 of the weight 1704 provides a structure for the user to grip and slide the weight 1704 as needed or desired. The tail 1740 is also visible on the outer surface of the club head so that its position can be easily determined by visual inspection. In this example, the tail 1740 corresponds at least partially to the shape of the bottom track wall 1734 of the recessed channel 1702. In other examples, the tail 1740 can have any other size and / or shape as needed or desired.
[0078] Figure 39 is a view of the inner surface 1742 of the cover 1706 of the weight assembly 1700 (shown in Figures 36-38). The cover 1706 is substantially U-shaped with recessed sides that receive fasteners in the aperture 1744. Adjacent to the convex sides, the inner surface 1742 has a plurality of positioning lugs 1732, which are configured to engage with a positioning mechanism 1730 (shown in Figure 37) in the weight 1704. When engaged (for example, in the first locked configuration), the cover 1706 wedge the weight into the corner of the recessed channel against the side wall. However, when the cover 1706 is raised out of the recessed channel, the positioning lugs 1732 are disengaged from the weight, allowing the weight to be moved (for example, in a weight sliding configuration) or to be completely removed (for example, in a weight removal configuration).
[0079] Each end 1710, 1712 of the cover 1706 includes a projection 1720, which, in addition to fasteners, secures the cover 1706 to the body of the club head. In the example, the projection 1720 engages with the chamber 1722 (shown in Figure 37) in all three configurations of the weight assembly (e.g., the locking configuration, the weight transfer configuration, and the weight removal configuration). Furthermore, the projection 1720 also defines each of the three configurations at least partially. The projection 1720 is substantially cylindrical in shape and is configured to extend through the sole of the body into the internal cavity of the club head via the chamber 1722. In the example, the projection 1720 includes a plurality of flexible arms 1746, which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction to form a substantially cylindrical projection 1720. As illustrated, the projection 1720 includes three individual flexible arms 1746. In other examples, the projection 1720 may include any other number of flexible arms 1746 (e.g., two, four, five, etc.) as needed or desired.
[0080] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1700 along line 40-40 in Figure 36, and has a weight sliding configuration. The projection 1720 has a distal end 1748 (relative to the inner surface 1742 of the cover 1706), the distal end 1748 is formed as a tapered nose, allowing the cover 1706 to be press-fitted into the body 106 of the golf club head and extend completely through the chamber 1722 into the internal cavity 122. For example, the flexible arm 1746 is capable of flexing radially and extending through the chamber 1722 to snap into place. This connection allows the cover 1706 to be fixed to the body 106 and completely removed as needed or desired. However, the cover 1706 does not need to be removed to adjust the weight 1704. The distal end 1748 includes at least one stop 1750, the at least one stop 1750 extending radially outward on the projection 1720. In this example, the stop 1750 is formed as part of a tapered nose. The projection 1720 also has a proximal end 1752 (relative to the inner surface 1742 of the cover 1706), the proximal end 1752 is formed as a substantially cylindrical post. The proximal end 1752 engages with the chamber 1722 by friction when the cover 1706 is in a locked configuration. This engagement facilitates the cover 1706 securing the weight 1704 in the recessed channel 1702 (in addition to fasteners). Additionally, at least one rib 1754 extends radially on the projection 1720. Rib 1754 is positioned between the distal end 1748 and the proximal end 1752, and is offset by a distance D1 from stop 1750.
[0081] To move the weight assembly 1700 from a locked configuration (shown in Figure 36) (when the cover 1706 holds the weight 1704 in the recessed channel 1702) to a weight-moving configuration (shown in Figure 40) (which allows the weight 1704 to slide in the recessed channel 1702), the threaded fastener 1708 is rotated so that the cover 1706 rises out of the recessed channel 1702. Further movement of the cover 1706 is restricted when the rib 1754 engages with the end wall portion 1756 of the chamber 1722, and the cover 1706 rises to a height H2 relative to the body portion 106 of the club head. Thus, the cover 1706 indicates that the weight assembly 1700 is in the weight-moving configuration. To move the weight assembly 1700 past the weight transfer configuration to the weight removal position, an additional force is guided into the weight assembly 1700 (for example, via the rotation of the fastener 1708) until the flexible arm 1746 bends, thereby overcoming the engagement between the rib 1754 and the chamber 1722, and allowing the cover 1706 to rise further out of the recessed channel 1702.
[0082] Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1700 along line 40-40 in Figure 36, in a weight-removal configuration. When the engagement of the rib 1754 and the end wall portion 1756 is forcibly overcome (for example, via the rotation of the fastener 1708 that drives the movement of the cover 1706), the weight assembly 1700 can move from the weight-moving configuration (shown in Figure 40) to the weight-removal configuration. In the weight-removal configuration, the weight 1704 can be completely removed from the recessed channel 1702 as the cover 1706 is further raised out of the recessed channel 1702. Further movement of the cover 1706 is restricted when the stop 1750 is engaged with the end wall portion 1756 of the chamber 1722, and the cover 1706 is raised to a height H3. Height H3 is greater than the height H2 in the previous weight-sliding configuration (shown in Figure 40). Therefore, the cover 1706 indicates that the weight assembly 1700 is in a weight removal configuration and that the weight 1704 can be completely removed. In some examples, the weight assembly 1700 can be moved past the weight removal configuration, allowing the cover 1706 to be completely removed. In this case, an additional force is guided into the weight assembly 1700 until the flexible arm 1746 bends, overcoming the engagement between the stop 1750 and the chamber 1722, and allowing the cover 1706 to be completely removed. In the example, the stop 1750 is radially larger than the rib 1754, so that the force required to completely remove the cover 1706 is greater than the force required to move it between the weight moving configuration and the weight removal configuration.
[0083] Since the rib 1754 at least partially defines a weight movement configuration and the stop 1750 at least partially defines a weight removal configuration, the distance D1 (shown in Figure 40) between the rib 1754 and the stop 1750 defines the height to which the cover 1706 rises between two different configurations H2 and H3. In one embodiment, the distance D1 may be about 5 millimeters. Additionally, in the example, the distance D1 may be at least equal to the height H1 (shown in Figures 37 and 38) of the partial wall 1726, so that in the weight removal configuration, the weight 1704 can be lifted from the partial wall 1726 and removed from the weight assembly 1700. In other examples, either the rib 1754 or the stop 1750 may be completely removed from the cover 1706, so that the cover 1706 moves between only the two configurations as needed or desired.
[0084] Figure 42 is a perspective view of the sole 1802 of another golf club head 1800 with another weight assembly 1804 in a lock configuration. The golf club head 1800 is a fairway metal type golf club head having a body 1806, which includes a striking face 1808 with a lower edge 1810 and an upper edge 1812 (shown in Figure 43), each extending between the toe 1814 and the heel 1816. The sole 1802 extends from the lower edge 1810 on the bottom side of the club head 1800, and the crown 1818 extends from the upper edge 1812 on the top of the club head 1800. The sole 1802, the striking face 1808, and the crown 1818 are connected together to define the outer surface 1820 of the body 1806, which has an internal cavity 1822 (shown in Figure 44) formed therein. The hosel 1824 is positioned on the heel 1816 and configured to connect to the shaft (not shown). The functions of the components of the fairway metal type club head 1800 (e.g., sole, striking face, crown, hosel, etc.) are similar to those of the components described above in the example of a metal wood type golf club head in Figures 1 to 41. However, the fairway metal type golf club head 1800 may strike the golf ball directly from the ground surface, thereby requiring or desiring a substantially smooth outer surface 1820 of the sole 1802 without any protrusions. As illustrated in Figure 42, the club head 1800 is a fairway metal type club head, however, the body 1806 may, if necessary or desired, form any type of club head, such as an iron type club head, a hybrid type club head, or a metal wood type club head (e.g., the examples illustrated in Figures 1 to 41). Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 1804 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein, as an addition or alternative, as needed or requested.
[0085] In this example, a recessed channel 1826 is defined within the sole 1802 of the body 1806 of the clubhead 1800. The channel 1826 extends in the toe 1814-heel 1816 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead 1800 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias (e.g., the "F" and "D" markings on the cover 1830 of the weight assembly 1804). The weight assembly 1804 includes a sliding weight 1828 at least partially disposed within the channel 1826, a cover 1830 at least partially extending over the channel 1826, and a fastener 1832 configured to connect the cover 1830 to the body 1806. The fastener 1832 indirectly holds the weight 1828 within the recessed channel 1826 via the cover 1830, allowing the weight 1828 to be used to adjust the CG and MOI of the clubhead 1800. In this example, the weight assembly 1804 and the recessed channel 1826 are located in the front section of the golf club head 1800. The “front section” means that the weight 1828 is closer to the striking face 1808 than the rearmost outer circumference of the body 1806 (where the sole 1802 and crown 1818 are joined together furthest from the striking face 1808).
[0086] As illustrated in Figure 42, the weight assembly 1804 is in a locked configuration, with the cover 1830 at least partially positioned within a recessed channel 1826, and the weight 1828 fixed within the channel 1826 with restricted movement. When the cover 1830 and weight assembly 1804 are in the locked configuration, the weight 1828 is fully positioned within the channel 1826, and no portion of the weight 1828 extends above the outer surface 1820 of the body 1806. Additionally, the cover 1830 has an outer surface 1834, and when the cover 1830 and weight assembly 1804 are in the locked configuration, the outer surface 1834 of the cover 1830 aligns with the outer surface 1820 of the body 1806, and no portion of the cover 1830 extends above the outer surface 1820 of the body 1806. The weight assembly 1804 is fully positioned within the recessed channel 1826 and is at least aligned with (or below) the outer surface 1820 of the main body 1806, thereby maintaining the smoothness of the outer surface 1820 of the club head 1800 and promoting good ground interaction.
[0087] Figure 43 is a perspective view of the sole 1802 of a golf club head 1800 with a weight assembly 1804 in an unlocked configuration. Certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. By rotation of the fastener 1832, the cover 1830 can be raised at least partially out of the recessed channel 1826 to be in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the weight 1828 is selectively slidable within the channel 1826 to adjust the CG and MOI as needed or desired. In this example, the weight 1828 is engaged with the cover 1830 and is configured to move with the cover 1830 between the unlocked and locked configurations, and is configured to rise at least partially out of the recessed channel 1826 when in the unlocked configuration. Figures 42 and 43 illustrate and describe the weight assembly 1804 in two different configurations (locked and unlocked), but it will be understood that the weight assembly 1804 may be movable between three or more configurations as needed or desired. For example, the weight assembly 1804 may be movable between at least three configurations (locked, weight-moving, and weight-removing configurations), as described above with reference to Figures 36 to 41.
[0088] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 1800 with a weight assembly 1804 along line 44-44 in Figure 42. Figure 45 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1804 along line 44-44 in Figure 42. Referring to Figures 44 and 45 together, certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. The fastener 1832 is a threaded bolt, which screw-engages with a nut 1836 formed in the sole 1802 of the body 1806. The fastener 1832 is connected to the cover 1830 by a lock washer 1838 so that linear movement (e.g., via rotation of the fastener 1832) is transmitted to the cover 1830 so that the cover 1830 can move in and out of the recessed channel 1826 as described herein.
[0089] In this example, the channel 1826 is defined by a bottom track 1840 and two opposing sidewalls 1842 and 1844. The first sidewall 1842 is adjacent to the striking face 1808, and the second sidewall 1844 is adjacent to the rear of the sole 1802. The cover 1830 is substantially L-shaped, with a long leg 1846 and a short leg 1848. The short leg 1848 includes a portion that connects to a fastener 1832, and both the short leg 1848 and the fastener 1832 are positioned adjacent to the second sidewall 1844. The short leg 1848 also includes a flange 1850. The weight 1828 includes a groove 1852, which is sized and shaped to receive the flange 1850. The weight 1828 is slidably engaged with the cover 1830 and also slidably engaged with the flange 1850, which is at least partially received in the groove 1852. This engagement between the cover 1830 and the weight 1828 allows the weight 1828 to move with the cover 1830 (for example, rising out of the channel 1826 and descending back into the channel 1826) between the locked configuration (shown in Figure 42) and the unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 43), while also allowing the weight 1828 to slide relative to the cover 1830 in the toe-heel direction when the weight assembly is in the unlocked configuration. When the cover 1830 is in the locked configuration, the long leg 1846 also substantially covers the weight 1828, thereby increasing the smoothness of the outer surface 1820 of the club head 1800.
[0090] The bottom track 1840 includes a plurality of bosses 1854 extending into the channel 1826. In this example, there are three bosses 1854, each corresponding to the fade bias position of the weight 1828, the draw bias position of the weight 1828, and the center neutral position of the weight 1828, respectively. Additionally, the first side wall portion 1842 includes a plurality of dimples 1856, the plurality of dimples 1856 corresponding to the plurality of bosses 1854. The weight 1828 includes a hollow portion 1858 sized and shaped to receive the bosses 1854, and a position indicator 1860 sized and shaped to receive within the dimples 1856. During operation, when the weight assembly 1804 is in the unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 43), the weight 1828 is raised above the boss 1854, allowing it to be selectively moved between the bosses 1854 and the dimples 1856 of the channel 1826. Once the weight 1828 is positioned, the weight assembly 1804 can be moved to the locked configuration (shown in Figure 42), so that the selected boss 1854 is at least partially received in the hollow portion 1858 of the weight 1828, and the position indicator 1860 is at least partially received in the selected dimple 1856.
[0091] In this example, when the weight assembly 1804 is in the locked configuration, at least a portion of the position indicator 1860 for the weight 1828 is visible on the outer surface 1820 of the club head 1800. This allows the user to easily visually confirm the position of the weight 1828 on the club head 1800. Although three bosses 1854 and dimples 1856 are illustrated and described, it will be understood that any other number of boss and dimple positioning mechanisms may be provided to define the position of the weight 1828 within the recessed channel 1826. For example, five sets of bosses and dimples may be provided. In addition, the position indicator 1860 has a cutout so that when the cover 1830 is raised to the unlock configuration (shown in Figure 43), the position indicator 1860 can slide completely out of the dimple 1856 and move above the first sidewall portion 1842 to adjust the position of the weight 1828.
[0092] The cover 1830 may also include one or more projections 1862, which are sized and shaped to be received in the corresponding chambers 1864 of the recessed channel 1826. The projections 1862 are configured to increase the engagement between the cover 1830 and the body 1806, and to limit movement or rattle when the weight 1828 is fixed in the recessed channel 1826 by the cover 1830. In some examples, the projections 1862 are similar to the projections described above with reference to Figures 36 to 41 and may include one or more flexible arms, tapered noses, stops, and at least one rib.
[0093] Figure 46 is a bottom view of the golf club head 1800 with another weight assembly 1900. Figure 47 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the golf club head 1800 with the weight assembly 1900 along line 47-47 in Figure 46. Referring to Figures 46 and 47 together, certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily described further. Similar to the examples described in Figures 42-45, the weight assembly 1900 includes a cover 1902, which selectively secures a sliding weight 1904 in a recessed channel 1906. The weight 1904 is engaged with the cover 1902, so that the weight 1904 moves with the cover 1902 between two or more configurations. However, in this example, when the cover 1902 is in the locked configuration, the cover 1902 completely covers the weight 1904 in the channel 1906. The cover 1902 can be formed from a material that is at least partially transparent, so that the position of the weight 1904 is visible to the user.
[0094] Figure 48 is a perspective view of another golf club head 2000. Figure 49 is a bottom view of the club head 2000 with another weight assembly 2002. Referring to Figures 48 and 49 together, the golf club head 2000 is an iron-type golf club head, and an iron-type golf club head includes a striking face 2004 configured to strike a golf ball. The striking face 2004 is connected to a topline portion 2006, a toe portion 2008, and a heel portion 2010. The toe portion 2008 and the heel portion 2010 are also connected at least partially to the topline portion 2006. The heel portion 2010 is connected to a hosel 2012, which is configured to connect to a shaft (not shown). The striking face 2004 is also connected to a sole 2014. Furthermore, the golf club head 2000 includes a back portion 2016, which is at least partially attached to the sole 2014, the topline portion 2006, the toe portion 2008, and the heel portion 2010.
[0095] The components of the golf club head 2000 (such as the striking face 2004, topline portion 2006, toe portion 2008, heel portion 2010, and back portion 2016) may be made of a metal material (such as steel). The components of the golf club head 2000 may be formed through a casting process. Some of the components may be cast as a single piece, and the remaining parts of the components may be attached after the casting process. For example, the sole 2014, topline portion 2006, toe portion 2008, heel portion 2010, and back portion 2016 may be cast as a single piece. The striking face 2004 may then be attached to that single piece via welding or other suitable process for attaching two club head components to each other. In such an example, the striking face 2004 may be an insert.
[0096] During operation, the sole 2014 generally provides the underside surface of the clubhead 2000 when the clubhead 2000 is in the address position. The clubhead 2000 defines the center of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MOI), which affect the flight characteristics of the golf ball when struck by the striking face 2004. The weight assembly 2002 is attached to the clubhead 2000 so that the CG and / or MOI of the clubhead 2000 can be selectively adjusted as needed or desired. In this example, the weight assembly 2002 includes a movable weight 2018, a cover 2020 configured to secure the weight 2018 in place, and fasteners 2022 for attaching the weight assembly 2002 to one or more parts of the clubhead 2000. A recessed elongated channel 2024 is formed within the sole 2014 of the clubhead 2000 and is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the weight 2018. Similar to the example described above, the fastener 2022 is fitted to hold the weight 2018 in the channel 2024 only indirectly by the cover 2020. Additionally, the cover 2020 can be loosened or completely removed via the fastener 2022, allowing the weight 2018 to slide in the channel 2024, as well as allowing selective adjustment of CG and MOI as needed or desired.
[0097] In this example, the fastener 2022 is positioned at the toe end of the weight assembly 2002 and aligned with the channel 2024. In other examples, the fastener 2022 may be positioned at the heel end of the weight assembly 2002 as needed or desired.
[0098] Figure 50 is a cross-sectional view of another weight assembly 2100. Figure 51 is a schematic diagram of the weight assembly 2100. Referring to Figures 50 and 51 together, the recessed channel 2102 is defined within the body portion 2104 of the club head (for example, the club heads 100, 1800, and / or 2000 described above). The weight assembly 2100 includes a sliding weight 2106 and a cover 2108. Fasteners (not shown) are used to hold the weight 2106 in the channel 2102. In this example, the cover 2108 includes an inner surface 2110, which engages with at least a portion of the weight 2106 when the weight 2106 is fixed in the channel 2102. In this example, at least a portion of the inner surface 2110 of the cover 2108 includes a friction material liner 2112. The friction material 2112 is configured to engage with the weight 2106 by friction when the cover 2108 is in a locked configuration. By engaging the weight 2106 with the cover 2108 by friction, the weight 2106 is fixed in the channel 2102 while reducing or preventing rattling of the weight 2106 within it. In this example, the friction material may be a soft metal material (such as brass).
[0099] The friction material 2112 may include a number of grooves 2114 on the mating surface with the weight 2106. In this example, the grooves 2114 may be triangular in shape, but other shapes are also contemplated herein. When a clamping load 2116 is applied to the friction material 2112, the material flexes (as shown in Figure 51) to hold the weight 2106 in place and match a specific surface combination of the channel 2102, the weight 2106, and the cover 2108. Once deformation occurs and contact stress is established, the friction material 2112 will not deform further. By engaging the weight 2106 with the cover 2108 by friction, the weight 2106 can be positioned at any location within the channel 2102, and an indexing mechanism does not need to be included. Additionally, by eliminating the indexing mechanism, the weight 2106 and the channel 2102 have more substantially flat surfaces, which improves manufacturing efficiency.
[0100] In this example, the cover 2108 may also include one or more protruding notches 2118, one or more of which engage with corresponding cavities 2120 in the body 2104. The notches 2118 may be substantially circular in shape. The notches 2118 and cavities 2120 are described further below with reference to Figures 52 and 53. The friction material 2112 is illustrated as being coupled to the cover 2108, but it will be understood that the friction material 2112 may be coupled to the weight 2106 as an addition or alternative.
[0101] Figure 52 is a top view of the cover 2108 of the weight assembly 2100 (shown in Figure 50). Figure 53 is a side view of the cover 2108. Referring to Figures 52 and 53 together, certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily described further. The cover 2108 includes a plurality of protruding notches 2118, which engage with corresponding cavities 2120 in the body 2104. By engaging the cover 2108 in multiple locations, the cover 2108 is limited or prevented from becoming disaligned with the outer surface of the body 2104 when the weights are secured. As illustrated in Figure 53, the side cavities may be tapered to receive a cover 1206 that slides at a predetermined angle.
[0102] Figure 54 is a bottom view of another golf club head 2200 with another weight assembly 2202 in a lock configuration. The golf club head 2200 includes a body 2204 having a sole 2206, with the weight assembly 2202 positioned on top of the sole 2206. The body 2204 also includes a striking face and a crown (both not shown), and the body 2204 is configured to have an outer surface 2208. In one embodiment, the golf club head 2200 can be a fairway metal type golf club head, however, the body 2204 can form any type of club head, such as an iron type club head, a hybrid type club head, or a driver or other metalwood type club head (for example, one or more of the examples shown in Figures 1 to 53). In addition, the functions of the components of the club head 2200 (e.g., sole, striking face, crown, hosel, etc.) are similar to the component functions described above in Figures 1 to 53. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 2202 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein, either additionally or as an alternative, and may be used as needed or upon request.
[0103] In this example, a recessed channel 2210 is defined within the sole 2206 of the body 2204 of the clubhead 2200. The recessed channel 2210 extends in the toe-heel direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead 2200 to be adjusted (for example, for a fade-draw bias). The weight assembly 2202 includes a sliding weight 2212 at least partially disposed within the channel 2210, a cover 2214 at least partially extending over the channel 2210, and a fastener 2216 configured to connect the cover 2214 to the body 2204. The fastener 2216 indirectly holds the weight 2212 within the recessed channel 2210 via the cover 2214, allowing the weight 2212 to be used to adjust the CG and MOI of the clubhead 2200.
[0104] As illustrated in Figure 54, the weight assembly 2202 is in a locked configuration, with the cover 2214 at least partially positioned within the recessed channel 2210, and the weight 2212 fixed within the channel 2210 to restrict its movement. When the cover 2214 and weight assembly 2202 are in the locked configuration, at least a portion of the weight 2212 is visible between the body 2204 and the cover 2214. This configuration allows the user to more easily determine the placement of the weight 2212 within the recessed channel 2210. The weight assembly 2202 can also be moved to an unlocked configuration, as described herein. For example, by rotating the fastener 2216, the cover 2214 can be at least partially raised out of the recessed channel 2210, allowing the weight 2212 to be repositioned.
[0105] In this example, weight 2212 is overlapping and engaged with cover 2214, so that both move together between locked and unlocked configurations. Furthermore, this engagement reduces or prevents twisting and tilting relative to cover 2214 as weight 2212 moves up and down relative to recessed channel 2210. Thus, weight 2212 is prevented from being constrained within recessed channel 2210 during weight adjustment, thereby improving the performance of weight assembly 2202.
[0106] Figure 55 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2202 along line 54-54 in Figure 54. Figure 56 is a cross-sectional view of the cover 2214 along line 54-54 in Figure 54. Referring to Figures 55 and 56 together, the cover 2214 has a shelf portion 2218, which is configured to slidably engage with the weight 2212. In this example, the shelf portion 2218 faces the striking face of the club head and opens away from the fastener 2216. Additionally, the shelf portion 2218 extends in the toe-heel direction within the cover 2214. However, it should be understood that the shelf portion 2218 can be defined in any other orientation and / or direction within the cover 2214 as needed or desired to achieve adjustable weight functionality as described herein. When the cover 2214 is in the unlocked position, the weight 2212 is raised relative to the club head, allowing the weight 2212 to selectively slide within the shelf 2218 and the recessed channel 2210 (shown in Figure 54). Conversely, when the cover 2214 is in the locked position, the weight 2212 is at least partially positioned and fixed within the recessed channel 2210 and the shelf 2218, restricting or preventing the movement of the weight 2212. In this example, the shelf 2218 provides an overlap of the cover 2214 with respect to the weight 2212, reducing the constraint on the weight 2212 within the recessed channel.
[0107] The shelf section 2218 includes an outer wall section 2220 and an inner wall section 2222 on the opposite side. As described herein, the outer and inner walls of the shelf section 2218 relate to the internal cavity of the club head body section 2204 (shown in Figure 54). Thus, the outer wall section 2220 is positioned close to the outer surface 2224 of the cover 2214. The weight 2212 is configured to be at least partially slidably received between the outer wall section 2220 and the inner wall section 2222 of the shelf section 2218, against the inner wall section 2226 of the shelf section 2218. The three walls of the shelf section 2218 hold the weight 2212 within the cover 2214 and restrict or prevent the position of the weight 2212 from tilting relative to the cover 2214 when it is moved between the locked and unlocked configurations. This configuration restricts the weight 2212 from being constrained within the weight assembly 2202, and therefore improves the performance of the weight assembly 2202.
[0108] In the example, this position of the weight 2212 within the cover 2214 can be measured by an inclination angle 2228, which is defined as the angular position of the weight 2212 relative to the outer wall portion 2220 of the shelf portion 2218. In one embodiment, the inclination angle 2228 is substantially the same in both the unlocked and locked configurations. In another embodiment, the inclination angle 2228 is substantially parallel to the outer wall portion 2220 of the shelf portion 2218 in both the unlocked and locked configurations. The weight 2212 has an outer surface 2230, which, when received within the shelf portion 2218, is positioned directly opposite the outer wall portion 2220, the inner wall portion 2222, and the inner wall portion 2226 of the cover 2214. Therefore, the outer surface 2230 of the weight 2212 maintains its position in direct opposition to the wall of the shelf 2218 in both the unlocked and locked configurations.
[0109] The weight 2212 includes a position indicator 2232, which extends at least partially outward from the shelf portion 2218. The position indicator 2232 can be used to selectively slide the weight 2212 when the weight assembly 2202 is in an unlocked configuration. When in a locked configuration, the position indicator 2232 is visible between the cover 2214 and the body of the club head, allowing the user to easily determine the weight characteristics of the club head. Additionally, the position indicator 2232 can be disposed within a dimple in a recessed channel (e.g., dimple 1856 shown in Figure 45). The weight 2212 also includes a hollow portion 2234, which is sized and shaped to receive a boss in a recessed channel (e.g., boss 1854 shown in Figure 45). In this example, the hollow portion 2234 is disposed adjacent to the inner wall portion 2222 of the shelf portion 2218.
[0110] The cover 2214 may also include one or more projections 2236, which are sized and shaped to be received in corresponding chambers (not shown) of recessed channels. The projections 2236 are configured to increase the engagement between the cover 2214 and the golf club head body, limiting movement or rattle when the weight 2212 is secured in the recessed channel by the cover 2214. The projections 2236 are also used to limit the removal of the cover 2214 from the body 2204 (shown in Figure 54), allowing for a soft stop before the cover 2214 is completely unscrewed and removed from the body. In some examples, the projections 2236 may be similar to the projections described above with reference to Figures 36-41 and may include one or more flexible arms, tapered noses, stops, and at least one rib.
[0111] In the example, the width 2238 of the outer wall 2220 relative to the inner wall 2226 is greater than the width 2240 of the inner wall 2222. This configuration allows the weight 2212 to be held in the shelf 2218 without being tilted and constrained within the weight assembly 2202. Additionally, the weight 2212 includes a hollow portion 2234 and a position indicator 2232, the position indicator 2232 being able to extend outward from the shelf 2218 and enable the functionality of the weight assembly 2202 as described herein. For example, the inner wall 2226 allows the hollow portion 2234 of the weight 2212 to engage with the corresponding structure in a recessed channel. In one embodiment, the width of the outer wall is approximately 2 to 4 times the width of the inner wall. In another embodiment, the ratio of the width 2238 of the outer wall 2220 to the width 2240 of the inner wall 2222 is 2:1 or greater. In yet another embodiment, the ratio of the width 2238 of the outer wall portion 2220 to the width 2240 of the inner wall portion 2222 is 3:1 or greater. In yet another embodiment, the ratio of the width 2238 of the outer wall portion 2220 to the width 2240 of the inner wall portion 2222 is approximately between 2:1 and 4:1. It will also be understood that other ratio values are contemplated herein and may not be explicitly listed above.
[0112] Figure 57 is a perspective view of the weight 2212. Figure 58 is a schematic top view of the weight 2212. Referring to Figures 57, 58, and 54 together, when the weight assembly 2202 is in the locked configuration, at least a portion of the weight 2212 is exposed and visible between the outer surface of the cover 2214 and the outer surface 2208 of the body portion 2204. That is, a gap is formed at least partially between a portion of the cover 2214 and the body portion 2204, and the weight 2212 at least partially fills this gap. For example, the position indicator 2232 may be exposed and visible on the golf club head 2200. This configuration allows the position of the weight 2212 to be easily determined. However, the weight 2212 is not fully exposed and visible. By reducing the portion of the weight 2212 exposed on the golf club head 2200, the smoothness between the outer surface 1820 of the club head 2200 and the cover 2214 is increased. Therefore, the golf club head 2200 has improved performance (for example, the ability to strike a golf ball directly from the ground surface, aerodynamic performance, etc.), including a weight-adjustable function via the weight assembly 2202 as described herein.
[0113] In the example, approximately 0% to 30% of the weight 2212 is visible exposed between the outer surface 2208 of the body 2204 and the outer surface of the cover 2214 in the lock configuration. In one embodiment, approximately 10% to 20% of the weight 2212 is exposed between the outer surface 2208 of the body 2204 and the outer surface of the cover 2214 in the lock configuration. In yet another embodiment, approximately 16% of the weight 2212 is exposed. It will be understood that other percentage values are contemplated herein and may not be expressly listed above. Although not shown in the figures, the weight 2212 can be made completely invisible without departing from the scope and content of the present invention.
[0114] Referring to Figure 57, the percentage of the visible and exposed weight 2212 (e.g., portion 2242) may be based on the outer surface area 2230 of the weight 2212. As used herein, the outer surface 2230 of the weight 2212 includes two or more sides of the weight shape and the entire outer perimeter, as illustrated in Figure 57. For example, in one embodiment, approximately 0% to 30% of the outer surface 2230 of the weight 2212 is exposed between the outer surface 2208 of the body portion 2204 and the outer surface of the cover 2214 in the lock configuration. In another embodiment, approximately 10% to 20% of the outer surface 2230 of the weight 2212 is exposed between the outer surface 2208 of the body portion 2204 and the outer surface of the cover 2214 in the lock configuration. In yet another embodiment, approximately 16% of the outer surface 2230 of the weight 2212 is exposed. It will also be understood that other percentage values are intended herein and may not be explicitly listed above.
[0115] Referring to Figure 58, the percentage of the visible and exposed weight 2212 (e.g., portion 2244) may be based on the planar surface area 2246 of the weight 2212. As used herein, the planar surface area 2246 is the surface area on only one protruding side of the weight shape (e.g., the upper planar area). While the upper planar area is illustrated in Figure 58, other weight sides (e.g., the right planar area, the left planar area, etc.) are also contemplated herein. For example, in one embodiment, approximately 0% to 30% of the planar surface area 2246 of the weight 2212 is exposed between the outer surface 2208 of the body portion 2204 and the outer surface of the cover 2214 in the lock configuration. In another embodiment, approximately 10% to 20% of the planar surface area 2246 of the weight 2212 is exposed between the outer surface 2208 of the body 2204 and the outer surface of the cover 2214 in the lock configuration. In yet another embodiment, approximately 16% of the planar surface area 2246 of the weight 2212 is exposed. It will be understood that other percentage values are contemplated herein and may not be expressly listed above.
[0116] Figure 59 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary test mule 2300 with another weight assembly 2302. Figure 60 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2302 along line 60-60 in Figure 59. Figure 61 is another cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2302 along line 61-61 in Figure 59. Referring to Figures 59 to 61 together, the test mule 2300 represents a golf club head as described herein and can be used to test and develop the mechanism of the weight assembly 2302 as needed or requested. The club head represented by the test mule 2300 can be any type of club head described herein, including but not limited to metalwood type golf club heads, fairway metal type club heads, iron type club heads, or hybrid type club heads, as needed or requested. In one embodiment, the club head represented by the test mule 2300 is a metal wood type club head comprising a striking face, a sole extending from the lower edge of the striking face, and a crown extending from the upper edge of the striking face (not all three components are shown in Figures 59–60). In one embodiment, the transition area where the sole and crown are joined together on the opposite side of the striking face is known as the skirt of the club head, and the weight assembly 2302 is at least partially disposed on the skirt. Thus, the weight assembly 2302 is disposed around the rear of the club head, in close proximity to where the sole and crown are joined together. In one embodiment, the weight assembly 2302 is disposed substantially on the rear portion of the club head on the opposite side of the striking face. One example of a weight assembly disposed on the skirt of a golf club head is shown in Figure 8 and described above. In the example, the test mule 2300 includes a body portion 2304 having an outer surface 2306, which represents the body portion of the club head.Additionally, bracket 2307 is connected to the main body 2304 to facilitate testing and development, and bracket 2307 does not represent the club head. In one embodiment, bracket 2307 is substantially triangular in shape.
[0117] In this example, a recessed channel 2308 is defined within the outer surface 2306 of the main body 2304. The channel 2308 generally extends along a curve in the toe-heel direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead to be adjusted via a weight assembly 2302. The weight assembly 2302 includes a weight 2310 at least partially disposed within the channel 2308 and configured to slide within it, a cover 2312 at least partially extending above the channel 2308, and a fastener 2314 configured to connect the cover 2312 to the main body 2304. The fastener 2314 is configured to indirectly hold the weight 2310 within the recessed channel 2308 via the cover 2312, allowing the weight 2310 to be used to adjust the CG and MOI of the clubhead.
[0118] Similar to the examples described above, the weight assembly 2302 is configured to move between at least a locked configuration (shown in Figures 59 and 61) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 60). In the locked configuration, the cover 2312 is at least partially disposed within a recessed channel 2308, and the weight 2310 is fixed within the channel 2308 with restricted movement. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 2314 allows the cover 2312 to move along the fastener axis, and the weight 2310 to slide relative to the cover 2312 and the body 2304. In one embodiment, from the locked configuration, the fastener 2314 may rotate about 2 to 3 turns, releasing the cover 2312 from the locked configuration and allowing the weight 2310 to slide at least partially within the recessed channel 2308. In another embodiment, the fastener 2314 may rotate about 2.5 turns, allowing the weight 2310 to slide within the weight assembly 2302.
[0119] The cover 2312 has a first end 2316 and a second end 2318 on the opposite side. A fastener 2314 is connected to the cover 2312 and the first end 2316 (for example, via a lock washer), and the fastener 2314 is used to attach the cover 2312 to the main body 2304. The second end 2318 of the cover 2312 includes a projection 2320. The projection 2320 of the second end 2318 is configured to engage with a corresponding chamber 2322 defined at the end of a recessed channel 2308. In the locked configuration, the fastener 2314 secures the first end 2316 of the cover 2312 to the body 2304, while the projection 2320 of the second end 2318 engages with the chamber 2322 of the channel 2308, so that the position of the weight 2310 in the recessed channel 2308 is held between the first end 2316 and the second end 2318 of the cover 2312. When the weight assembly 2302 is moved toward the unlock configuration, the fastener 2314 is used to move the cover 2312 along the fastener axis, raising the cover 2312 at least partially out of the recessed channel 2308. This configuration allows the weight 2310 to slide and reposition on the body 2304 of the golf club head. In this example, the projection 2320 extends substantially parallel to the fastener axis, allowing the cover 2312 to rise uniformly out of the recessed channel 2308. In one embodiment, the chamber 2322 is formed as an undercut in the side wall of the recessed channel 2308, which engages with the projection 2320 of the cover 2312. The fastener 2314 is located at the opposite end of the undercut.
[0120] To assist in positioning the weight 2310 at a pre-selected location within the recessed channel 2308, the cover 2312 includes at least one positioning lug 2324 extending from the inner surface of the cover 2312. The weight 2310 includes a corresponding hollow portion 2326 that is shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the positioning lug 2324. As illustrated in Figure 60, the cover 2312 has three spaced-apart positioning lugs 2324, and the hollow portion 2326 is capable of selectively engaging with the lugs 2324 at three distinct locations within the recessed channel 2308. In one embodiment, the positioning lugs 2324 do not have to be symmetrical; for example, one side of the lug 2324 may have a steeper angled side than the opposite, shallower-angled side. Furthermore, in this example, the weight 2310 has a first angled surface 2332 at one end, adjacent to the side of the hollow section 2326, and a second angled surface 2334 at the opposite end. The first and second angled surfaces 2332, 2334 are different and configured to engage with one of the steeper or shallower angled sides of the positioning lug 2324. This configuration allows the weight 2310 to be positioned between the two positioning lugs 2324 and to engage with them selectively. Thus, and as illustrated in Figure 60, the weight 2310 can engage with the cover 2312 at two further distinct locations within the recessed channel 2308 and between the pair of positioning lugs 2324. When the positioning lugs 2324 are engaged with the weight 2310, the weight 2310 is held more tightly within the cover 2312, reducing or preventing rattling and further movement of the weight 2310 in the locked configuration. Additionally, one or more of the positioning lugs 2324 can define the position of the weight 2310 on the golf club head. In other embodiments, the cover 2312 may have five positioning lugs 2324 spaced apart. Other numbers of positioning lugs 2324 are also contemplated herein.Furthermore, it should be understood that in other examples, positioning lugs 2324 may be provided at all individual locations of the weights 2310 as needed or requested.
[0121] In this example, the weight 2310 is slidably engaged with a body portion 2304 in a recessed channel 2308. The body portion 2304 includes a partial wall portion 2328 disposed within the recessed channel 2308. The partial wall portion 2328 extends from the bottom of the recessed channel 2308, and the weight 2310 includes a recess 2330, which is shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the partial wall portion 2328. By slidably engaging the partial wall portion 2328 with the recess 2330 of the weight 2310, the weight 2310 does not move with the cover 2312 when the cover is moved toward the unlock configuration. This retention of the weight 2310 within the recessed channel 2308 allows the positioning lug 2324 of the cover 2312 to disengage from the weight 2310, allowing the weight 2310 to slide and change position. Additionally, the orientation of the weight 2310 within the recessed channel 2308 can be held by the partial wall portion 2328 when the cover 2312 is in the unlocked configuration, allowing the weight 2310 to slide more easily to different positions.
[0122] Figure 62 is a schematic perspective view of another test mule 2400 with another weight assembly 2402. Figures 63A–63E are cross-sectional views of the weight assembly 2402 along line 63–63 in Figure 62, where the weights 2410 are in various different positions. Figure 64 is another cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2402 along line 64–64 in Figure 62. Referring to Figures 62–64 simultaneously, and as with the examples described above in Figures 59–61, the test mule 2400 represents a club head, which can be any type of club head described herein as necessary or desired, and in one embodiment the weight assembly 2402 is disposed on the skirt of the club head and also disposed around the rear where the sole and crown are joined together. The test mule 2400 includes a body 2404 having an outer surface 2406 representing the club head, and a bracket 2407. A recessed channel 2408 is defined within the outer surface 2406 of the main body 2404. The weight assembly 2402 includes a weight 2410 configured to be at least partially disposed within the channel 2408 and to slide within it, a cover 2412 extending at least partially above the channel 2408, and a fastener 2414 configured to connect the cover 2412 to the main body 2404. The cover 2412 has a first end 2416 and a second end 2418 on the opposite side. The fastener 2414 is connected to the first end 2416 of the cover 2412 (for example, via a lock washer), and the fastener 2414 is used to attach the cover 2412 to the main body 2404. The second end 2418 of the cover 2412 includes a projection 2420. The projection 2420 of the second end 2418 engages with the corresponding chamber 2422 defined at the end of the recessed channel 2408, thereby securing the second end 2418 to the main body 2404.
[0123] In this example, to assist in positioning the weight 2410 at a pre-selected position within the recessed channel 2408, the body 2404 includes at least one positioning lug 2424 disposed within the recessed channel 2408. In one embodiment, the positioning lug 2424 extends from the back wall of the recessed channel 2408 relative to the outer surface 2406. In another embodiment, the positioning lug 2424 is substantially symmetrical with two similar angled sides. The weight 2410 includes a corresponding hollow portion 2426 that is shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the positioning lug 2424. Furthermore, in this example, the weight 2410 has angled surfaces 2432 at each end, adjacent to the sides of the hollow portion 2426. The angled surfaces 2432 are similar to each other and are configured to engage with the angled sides of the positioning lug 2424. As illustrated in Figures 63A to 63E, the cover 2412 has three spaced-apart positioning lugs 2424, allowing the weight 2410 to be selectively positioned at five distinct locations within the recessed channel 2408. Other numbers of positioning lugs 2424 are also contemplated herein. The positioning lugs 2424 are not uniformly spaced in the heel-toe direction of the club head, but have two different spacing distances. In one example, the positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the fastener 2414 is spaced further apart from the intermediate positioning lug 2424 than the positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the projection 2420. In one embodiment, the spacing between the fastener positioning lug 2424 and the intermediate positioning lug 2424 is approximately twice the spacing between the projection positioning lug 2424 and the intermediate positioning lug 2424. Additionally, in some examples, the positioning lug 2424 can be substantially conical in shape.
[0124] Starting from Figure 63A, the weight 2410 is positioned adjacent to the fastener 2414, and its hollow portion 2426 is engaged with a positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the fastener 2414. Thus, a portion of the weight 2410 is positioned on both sides of the positioning lug 2424. The weight assembly 2402 has a locking configuration to fix the position of the weight 2410 relative to the main body 2404. In some embodiments, the far side of the weight 2410 can be positioned directly against a portion of the end wall of the recessed channel 2408 and / or against a portion of the cover 2412 that connects to the fastener 2414. Next, moving to Figure 63B, the weight assembly 2402 can be moved to an unlocked configuration to reposition the weight 2410 and to adjust the CG and / or MOI of the club head (for example, by raising the cover 2412 at least partially out of the recessed channel 2408, allowing the weight 2410 to slide). Once the weight 2410 is repositioned, the weight assembly 2402 can be moved to a locked configuration (as shown) to fix the position of the weight 2410. In this position, the weight 2410 is positioned between two positioning lugs 2424, such that the hollow portion 2426 does not have a positioning lug 2424 receiving it. Rather, the inclined surface 2432 engages with each of the positioning lugs 2424.
[0125] In Figure 63C, the hollow portion 2426 of the weight 2410 is engaged with the intermediate positioning lug 2424. In this position, one of the inclined surfaces 2432 is also engaged with the positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the projection 2420. In Figure 63D, the hollow portion 2426 of the weight 2410 is engaged with the positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the projection 2420. In this position, one of the inclined surfaces 2432 is engaged with the intermediate positioning lug 2424. Finally, in Figure 63E, the weight 2410 is positioned adjacent to the projection 2420, between the positioning lug 2424 and the end wall of the recessed channel 2408. The hollow portion 2426 does not have a positioning lug 2424 to receive it, and one of the inclined surfaces 2432 is engaged with the positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the projection 2420. In the example, the far side of the weight 2410 can be positioned directly opposite a portion of the end wall of the recessed channel 2408 and / or a portion of the cover 2412 adjacent to the projection 2420. When the positioning lug 2424 is engaged with the weight 2410, the weight 2410 is held more tightly within the recessed channel 2408, reducing or preventing rattling and further movement of the weight 2410 in the locked configuration. Additionally, one or more of the positioning lugs 2424 can define the position of the weight 2410 on the golf club head. In the example, by shifting the positioning lug 2424 adjacent to the projection 2420 inward, the weight 2410 can slide more easily between all positions without being constrained. It will be understood that the spacing of the positioning lugs 2424 can take any other configuration as needed or desired. For example, the recessed channel 2408 may have five spaced-apart positioning lugs 2424, at which point the hollow portion 2426 of the weight 2410 engages with the positioning lug 2424. In another example, three similarly spaced-apart positioning lugs 2424 may be used.
[0126] Additionally, the weight 2410 is slidably engaged with the cover 2412. The cover 2412 includes a flange 2428 extending from the interior of the cover 2412, and the weight 2410 includes a groove 2430, which is shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the flange 2428. By slidably engaging the flange 2428 and the groove 2430 of the weight 2410, the weight 2410 is configured to move with the cover 2412 when moved toward the unlock configuration. This movement of the weight 2410 allows the weight 2410 to disengage from the positioning lug 2424, allowing the weight 2410 to slide and change position.
[0127] Figure 65 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary recessed channel 2500 within the body 2502 of the test mule. Figure 66 is another partial perspective view of the recessed channel 2500. Referring to Figures 65 and 66 together, the body 2502 is schematically illustrated, the test mule represents a club head, and the club head can be any type of club head described herein, as necessary or desired. The recessed channel 2500 is configured to receive a sliding weight 2504, and a cover (not shown) is configured to selectively hold the weight 2504 at different positions. The cover is connected to the body 2502 by fasteners (not shown) that define the fastener axis. The recessed channel 2500 includes a chamber 2506, which is sized and shaped to receive a corresponding projection (not shown) of the cover. Chamber 2506 is defined at the opposite end of the recessed channel 2500 from the fastener location, and both ends of the cover engage with the main body 2502 to improve the retention of the weight 2504.
[0128] In this example, the recessed channel 2500 includes a lip 2508 adjacent to the chamber 2506. The lip 2508 extends into the recessed channel 2500 and is configured to engage with the cover in the corresponding duct (not shown). Thus, when the cover is moved toward an unlock configuration that allows the weight 2504 to slide within the recessed channel 2500, the end of the cover opposite the fastener remains at least partially engaged with the body 2502, reducing or preventing the end of the cover from becoming loose relative to the body 2502. The lip 2508 is elongated in a direction substantially parallel to the fastener axis, allowing the movement of the cover as described herein. The lip 2508 can be positioned on the upper wall of the recessed channel 2500 as shown in Figure 65, or on the bottom wall of the recessed channel 2500 as shown in Figure 66, or both.
[0129] Figure 67 is a schematic perspective view of another test mule 2600 with another weight assembly 2602. Figure 68 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2602 in a first configuration along line 67-67 in Figure 67. Figure 69 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2602 in a second configuration along line 67-67 in Figure 67. Referring simultaneously to Figures 67-69 and, as in the examples described above in Figures 59-64, the test mule 2600 represents a club head, which can be any type of club head described herein as necessary or desired, and in one embodiment the weight assembly 2602 is disposed on the skirt of the club head and also disposed around the rear where the sole and crown are joined together. The test mule 2600 includes a body 2604 having an outer surface 2606 representing the club head, and a bracket 2607. A recessed channel 2608 is defined within the outer surface 2606 of the main body 2604. However, in this example, the weight assembly 2602 includes a cover 2610, which is selectively oriented within the recessed channel 2608 and configured to be fixed to the main body 2604, thereby defining at least partially the weight position of the club head and adjusting the CG and MOI of the club head.
[0130] In this example, the weight assembly 2602 includes a cover 2610, which is removably connected to a body 2604 and is at least partially located within a recessed channel 2608. The cover 2610 has a first end 2612 and a second end 2614 on the opposite side. A fastener 2616 is mounted on the first end 2612 of the cover 2610 (e.g., via a lock washer) and configured to connect to the body 2604. Additionally, a first weight 2618 is disposed on the first end 2612 of the cover 2610. In this example, the first weight 2618 defines the first end 2612 of the cover 2610 itself and is removable from the second end 2614 of the cover 2610, and weights 2618 of different masses are interchangeable so that the cover 2610 can be formed as needed or desired. The second end 2614 of the cover 2610 includes a projection 2620 extending therefrom.
[0131] Each end of the recessed channel 2608 has a chamber 2622 and a fastener receiver 2624. The chamber 2622 is configured to engage with a projection 2620 of the cover 2610, and the fastener 2616 is configured to connect to the fastener receiver 2624. By having symmetrical recessed channels 2608 at each end, the cover 2610 can be selectively connected to the body 2604, and the first weight 2618 can be oriented to either a first configuration (shown in Figure 68) or a second configuration (shown in Figure 69). In the first configuration, the first end 2612 of the cover 2610 is located on the heel side of the club head, and the first weight 2618 is positioned toward the heel side of the body 2604. In this configuration, the fastener 2616 is fixed to the fastener receiver 2624 on the heel side, and the projection 2620 of the cover 2610 engages with the chamber 2622 on the toe side. This leaves the fastener receiver 2624 on the toe side and the chamber 2622 on the heel side unused by the cover 2610. Conversely, in the second configuration, the first end 2612 of the cover 2610 is positioned on the toe side of the club head, and the first weight 2618 is positioned toward the toe side of the main body 2604. In this configuration, the fastener 2616 is fixed to the fastener receiver 2624 on the toe side, and the projection 2620 of the cover 2610 engages with the chamber 2622 on the heel side. This leaves the fastener receiver 2624 on the heel side and the chamber 2622 on the toe side unused by the cover 2610. In this example, the cover 2610 has a dogbone-type shape, and its position within the recessed channel 2608 can be switched as needed or as desired.
[0132] As an addition or alternative, a second weight 2626 may be coupled to a corresponding weight chamber 2628 defined within the main body 2604 and recessed channel 2608. The weight chamber 2628 is positioned at both ends of the recessed channel 2608 adjacent to the fastener receiver 2624 and is covered by the cover 2610 when coupled to the main body 2604. Thus, the second weight 2626 is secured within the weight chamber 2628 by the cover 2610 and indirectly held by the fastener 2616 of the weight assembly 2602. In some embodiments, the second weight 2626 may be screwed at least partially into the weight chamber 2628. It will be understood that the position and use of the second weight 2626 do not necessarily have to correspond to the orientation of the cover 2610 and do not have to be as illustrated in Figures 68 and 69. For example, the second weight 2626 may be used on the opposite side of the first weight 2618 and at least partially held by the second end 2614 of the cover 2610. In another example, only the first weight 2618 may be used, and the second weight 2626 may not be used. In yet another example, a pair of second weights 2626 may be used within a pair of weight chambers 2628. By using two or more weights 2618, 2626, the CG and MOI of the club head can be finer adjusted as needed or desired.
[0133] Figure 70 is a schematic perspective view of another test mule 2700 with another weight assembly 2702. Figure 71 is a partial cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2702 in an unlocked configuration. Figure 72 is a partial cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2702 in a locked configuration. Referring to Figures 70 to 72 together, as well as the examples described above in Figures 59 to 64 and 67 to 69, the test mule 2700 represents a club head, which can be any type of club head described herein, as necessary or desired, and in one embodiment the weight assembly 2702 is disposed on the skirt of the club head and also disposed around the rear where the sole and crown are joined together. The test mule 2700 includes a body portion 2704 having an outer surface 2706, which represents the club head. A recessed channel 2708 is defined within the outer surface 2706 of the body portion 2704. However, in this example, the weight assembly 2702 includes a cover 2710 pivotably connected to the main body 2704 and a sliding weight 2712 for adjusting the CG and MOI of the club head. In one embodiment, the cover 2710 is less dense than the weight 2712, and a larger amount of mass can be used to manipulate the CG and MOI.
[0134] In this example, the cover 2710 has a first end 2714 and a second end 2716 on the opposite side. A fastener 2718 is attached to the first end 2714 of the cover 2710 (for example, via a lock washer) and is configured to secure the first end 2714 to the body 2704 of the club head. The second end 2716 of the cover 2710 is pivotally connected to the body 2704. A weight 2712 is slidably connected to the cover 2710 and is movable between the first end 2714 and the second end 2716. During operation, the cover 2710 is pivotable around its second end 2716, at least between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 70). In the locked configuration, the fastener 2718 secures the first end 2714 of the cover 2710 to the main body 2704, and the weight 2712 is at least partially disposed in a recessed channel 2708 and held therein by the cover 2710. The position of the weight 2712 in the recessed channel 2708 between the first end 2714 and the second end 2716 of the cover 2710 is thereby indirectly held by the fastener 2718. In the unlocked configuration, the first end 2714 of the cover 2710 pivots out of the recessed channel 2708, allowing the weight 2712 to be repositioned as needed or desired (for example, by sliding along the cover 2710). The unlocked configuration is illustrated in Figure 70, in which the weight 2712 moves with the cover 2710.
[0135] The second end 2716 of the cover 2710 may include a hook 2720, which pivotably engages with a post 2722 in the body 2704. The hook 2720 includes a hard stop 2724, which is configured to engage with the body 2704 in the unlocked position, thereby defining the pivot limit of the cover 2710. The hard stop 2724 may be tapered at one end, allowing the second end 2716 of the cover 2710 to be inserted more easily into the body 2704 during assembly. In other examples, the second end 2716 of the cover 2710 may be pivotably connected to the body 2704 by a pin connection (not shown). The recessed channel 2708 may include one or more positioning lugs 2726, which may assist in positioning the weight 2712 as needed or requested. In one embodiment, the weight 2712 may be positionable at two, four, or six separate positions defined at least partially by the positioning lug 2726. In this example, the weight 2712 is slidably engaged with the cover 2710 and pivots with it. In another example, the weight may be slidably engaged with the body and not pivot with the cover. This example is described below with reference to Figure 73.
[0136] Figure 73 is a cross-sectional view of another weight assembly 2750 that can be used with the test mule 2700 (shown in Figure 70). In this example, the weight assembly 2750 includes a pivotable cover 2752 and a sliding weight 2754. However, in this example, the weight 2754 is at least partially slidably engaged in a recessed channel 2708 of the body 2704 so that the weight 2754 does not pivot with the cover 2752. The weight assembly 2750 includes a rail 2756 that fixes the weight 2754 to the body 2704 while still allowing the weight 2754 to slide. In a locking configuration as illustrated in Figure 73, the cover 2752 fixes the position of the weight 2754 relative to the body 2704 via the rail 2756.
[0137] Figure 74 is an exploded perspective view of another test mule 2800 with a separate weight assembly 2802. Similar to the examples described above in Figures 59–64 and 67–72, the test mule 2800 represents a club head, which can be any type of club head described herein, as necessary or desired, and in one embodiment the weight assembly 2802 is disposed on the skirt of the club head and also disposed around the rear where the sole and crown are joined together. The test mule 2800 includes a body portion 2804 having an outer surface 2806 representing the club head, and a bracket 2807. A recessed channel 2808 is defined within the outer surface 2806 of the body portion 2804. However, in this example, the weight assembly 2802 includes a cover 2810, which is connected to the main body 2804 via a fastener 2812, the fastener 2812 being positioned close to the center of the cover 2810. The cover 2810 is configured to hold a sliding weight 2814 in place, while allowing the position of the weight 2814 to be selectively adjusted. The weight 2814 has an elongated U-shape and is designed to accommodate the centrally mounted fastener 2812, with portions of the weight 2814 being positioned on either side of the fastener 2812. The cover 2810 has projections 2816 at each end that engage with recessed channels 2808. The recessed channel 2808 includes a positioning lug 2818 which assists in positioning the weight 2814 and the dimple 2820, the dimple 2820 which accepts at least a portion of the position indicator 2822 of the weight 2814.
[0138] Figure 75 is a perspective view of the sole 2902 of another golf club head 2900 with another weight assembly 2904. Figure 76 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2904 along line 76-76 in Figure 75. Figure 77 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 2904 along line 77-77 in Figure 75. Referring to Figures 75 to 77 simultaneously, the golf club head 2900 is a metal wood type golf club head having a body 2906, the body 2906 including a striking face 2908 with a lower edge 2910 extending between the toe 2912 and heel 2914 and an upper edge (not shown). The sole 2902 extends from the lower edge 2910 on the bottom side of the club head 2900, and the crown 2916 extends from the upper edge on the top of the club head 2900. The sole 2902, striking face 2908, and crown 2916 are connected together and define the outer surface 2918 of the body 2906, which includes an internal cavity 2920 formed therein. The hosel 2922 is positioned at the heel 2914 and is configured to connect to the shaft (not shown). The functions of the components of the metal wood type club head 2900 (e.g., sole, striking face, crown, hosel, etc.) are similar to those of the components described above. The body 2906 may form any type of club head, such as a fairway metal type club head, an iron type club head, or a hybrid type club head, as needed or requested. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 2904 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein, as needed or requested, as an addition or alternative.
[0139] In this example, the recessed channel 2924 is defined within the sole 2902 of the body 2906 of the clubhead 2900. The channel 2924 extends in the toe 2912-heel 2914 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead 2900 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias. In one embodiment, the recessed channel 2924 may be defined within a transition area, where the sole 2902 and crown 2916 are joined together on the opposite side of the striking face 2908, and this is known as the skirt of the clubhead 2900. Thus, the recessed channel 2924 and weight assembly 2904 are positioned around the rear of the clubhead 2900, close to where the sole 2902 and crown 2916 are joined together. In one embodiment, the recessed channel 2924 and weight assembly 2904 are positioned substantially around the rear of the club head 2900, opposite the striking face 2908.
[0140] The weight assembly 2904 includes a sliding weight 2926, a cover 2928, and a fastener 2930, wherein the sliding weight 2926 is at least partially disposed within a recessed channel 2924 and configured to slide therein; the cover 2928 extends at least partially above the channel 2924 and is adapted to releasably secure the weight 2926 within the recessed channel 2924; and the fastener 2930 is configured to connect the cover 2928 to the main body 2906. The fastener 2930 indirectly holds the weight 2926 within the recessed channel 2924 via the cover 2928, so that the weight 2926 can be used to adjust the CG and MOI of the club head. Similar to the example described above, the weight assembly 2904 is configured to move between at least a locked configuration (shown in Figure 79, further described below) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 80, further described below). In the locked configuration, the cover 2928 is at least partially positioned within the recessed channel 2924, and the weight 2926 is fixed within the channel 2924 with its movement restricted. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 2930 allows the cover 2928 to move along the fastener axis 2932, releasing the weight 2926, which can then slide relative to the cover 2928 and the body 2906. Additionally, in this example, the cover 2928 can also be at least partially rotated relative to the recessed channel 2924 and the body 2906 toward a weight removal configuration (shown in Figure 81 and further described below).
[0141] The main body 2906 includes a partial wall 2934, which is disposed within a recessed channel 2924. The partial wall 2934 extends from the bottom of the recessed channel 2924, and the weight 2926 includes a recess 2936, which is shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the partial wall 2934. By slidably engaging the partial wall 2934 with the recess 2936 of the weight 2926, the weight 2926 does not move with the cover 2928 when the cover is moved toward the unlock configuration. To assist in positioning the weight 2926 at a pre-selected position within the recessed channel 2924, the cover 2928 includes at least one positioning lug 2938 extending from the inner surface of the cover 2928. The weight 2926 includes a corresponding hollow portion 2940 which is shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the positioning lug 2938. Thus, when the weight 2926 is engaged with the cover 2928, the weight 2926 is held more tightly within the cover 2928, reducing or preventing rattling and further movement of the weight 2926 in the locked configuration. In the example, the inner surface of the cover 2928 includes an oblique surface 2942 which is configured to engage with a corresponding oblique surface 2944 on the weight 2926. The oblique surfaces 2942, 2944 are tapered in a given direction so that their height above the bottom wall of the recessed channel 2924 increases along the direction away from the partial wall 2934. This configuration biases the weight 2926 toward the upper wall of the recessed channel 2924 and induces a compressive force on the weight 2926 between the cover 2928 and the recessed channel 2924 in order to fix the weight 2926 inside the recessed channel 2924.
[0142] In this example, the cover 2928 is formed from a first portion 2946 and a second portion 2948. A fastener 2930 engages with the first portion 2946 via a lock washer (not shown), so that the entire cover 2928 is linearly movable along the fastener axis 2932. The second portion 2948 has a first end 2950 rotatably connected to the first portion 2946 and a second end 2952 on the opposite side having a projection 2954. As in other examples described herein, the projection 2954 is configured to engage with a corresponding chamber 2956 defined within the body portion 2906 and within the recessed channel 2924, so that when the weight assembly 2904 is in a locked configuration, the second end 2952 more tightly secures the weight 2926 within the recessed channel 2924. By allowing the second portion 2948 of the cover 2928 to rotate relative to the first portion 2946 when the second end 2952 is not engaged with the recessed channel 2924, access to the weight 2926 is increased, and the weight 2926 can be removed completely from the club head 2900 as needed or desired, as illustrated in Figure 81.
[0143] Figure 78 is an exploded view of the cover 2928 of the weight assembly 2904 (shown in Figures 75-77). The cover 2928 includes a first portion 2946 and a second portion 2948 that connect to a fastener 2930. In one example, the first portion 2946 and the second portion 2948 may be separate and separable from one another. In another example, the first portion 2946 and the second portion 2948 may be fixed to one another but still rotatable relative to one another. The first portion 2946 has a first end 2958 with a bore, which is shaped and sized to receive and connect to the fastener 2930. The bore extends in a direction along the fastener axis 2932. The first portion 2946 also has a second end 2960 on the opposite side, which is configured to rotatably connect to the second portion 2948. The second end 2960 has a cylinder 2962, which is spaced away from the first end 2958 and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the fastener axis 2932. The cylinder 2962 is rotatably engaged with the second portion 2948 and defines an axis of rotation for the second portion 2948 to rotate relative to the first portion 2946.
[0144] The second portion 2948 extends between the first end 2950 and the second end 2952. The first end 2950 has a hook 2964, which is rotatably engaged with a cylinder 2962 of the first portion 2946, such that the axis of rotation of the second portion 2948 is substantially perpendicular to the fastener axis 2932. In one embodiment, the outer surface 2966 of the hook 2964 is rounded, allowing the second portion 2948 to rotate around the cylinder 2962. The hook 2964 is at least partially formed by an arm 2968, which is elongated and engages with the side wall of the bore of the first portion 2946, so as to partially limit the rotation of the second portion 2948. This configuration allows the second part 2948 to move together with the first part 2946 as the first part 2946 moves linearly along the fastener axis 2932. In some examples, the hook 2964 is capable of snap-fitting around the cylinder 2962, and a separating force is required to separate the two parts 2946, 2948. The second end 2952 of the second part 2948 includes a projection 2954. Extending between the first end 2950 and the second end 2952 of the second part 2948, a cutout 2970 is formed, which is sized and shaped to at least partially accommodate the weight 2926 (shown in Figures 76 and 77). Within the cutout 2970, a positioning lug 2938 and an oblique surface 2942 of the cover 2928 are formed.
[0145] Figure 79 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 2904 in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, a fastener 2930 is tightened to the body portion 2906 of the club head, and the cover 2928 engages with the body portion 2906 and is at least partially located in a recessed channel 2924, thereby fixing the position of the weight 2926 in the recessed channel 2924. In the locked configuration, the fastener 2930 indirectly holds the weight 2926 in the recessed channel 2924 via the cover 2928. The first end of the first portion 2946 of the cover 2928 is fixed to the body portion 2906 by the fastener 2930. The second end of the second portion 2948 of the cover 2928 is fixed to the body portion 2906 via a projection 2954 (shown in Figure 78), which prevents the second portion 2948 from rotating relative to the first portion 2946. Between the first portion 2946 and the second portion 2948, the engagement of the hook 2964 and the cylinder 2962 (shown in Figure 78) restricts portions 2946 and 2948 from separating from each other in the locked configuration. To release the weight 2926 from its fixed position, a fastener 2930 is used to move the weight assembly 2904 toward the unlock configuration described below with reference to Figure 80.
[0146] Figure 80 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 2904 in the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 2930 is loosened relative to the body 2906 of the club head. When the fastener 2930 is loosened, the cover 2928 moves linearly along the fastener axis 2932 (shown in Figure 78) and rises at least partially out of the recessed channel 2924. In the unlocked configuration, the cover 2928 releases the weight 2926, allowing the weight 2926 to slide within the recessed channel 2924. The first end of the first portion 2946 of the cover 2928 remains fixed to the body 2906 by the fastener 2930 in the unlocked configuration.
[0147] In some examples, the second end of the second portion 2948 of the cover 2928 can remain partially engaged with the body portion 2906 via the projection 2954 (shown in Figure 78) in the unlocked configuration, so that rotation of the second portion 2948 relative to the first portion 2946 remains restricted, preventing the weight 2926 from being removed from the recessed channel 2924. However, the weight 2926 can still slide and be repositioned as needed or desired. In this example, to disengage the projection 2954 from the recessed channel 2924, the fastener 2930 is used to further raise the cover 2928 along the fastener axis 2932, positioning the cover 2928 in the weight removal configuration as described below with reference to Figure 81. In other examples, in the unlocked configuration, the cover 2928 is raised so that the projection 2954 is disengaged from the recessed channel 2924 without further movement along the fastener axis 2932. In this example, the cover 2928 is positioned so that it can be moved toward the weight removal configuration without further movement via the fastener 2930, as described below with reference to Figure 81.
[0148] Figure 81 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 2904 in the weight removal configuration. In the weight removal configuration, the first portion 2946 of the cover 2928 is raised at least partially out of the recessed channel 2924, and the projection 2954 of the second portion 2948 is disengaged from the chamber 2956 defined within the recessed channel 2924. This disengagement allows the second portion 2948 of the cover 2928 to open toward the weight removal configuration by rotating relative to the first portion 2946 and by rotating outward relative to the body portion 2906 of the club head. The fastener 2930 does not need to be used to open the second portion 2948 of the cover 2928. The rotation of the second portion 2948 occurs around a rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the fastener axis 2932 (shown in Figure 78). By opening the cover 2928, the weight 2926 can be completely removed from the recessed channel 2924 as needed or desired. Additionally, when the second portion 2948 is rotated relative to the first portion 2946 of the cover 2928, the engagement of the hook 2964 and the cylinder 2962 (shown in Figure 78) limits the separation of portions 2946 and 2948 from each other in the weight removal configuration.
[0149] Figure 82 is a perspective view of the sole 3002 of another golf club head 3000 with another weight assembly 3004. Figure 83 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 3004 along line 83-83 in Figure 82. Referring to Figures 82 and 83 together, the golf club head 3000 includes a body 3006, a striking face 3008, a lower edge 3010, an upper edge (not shown), a toe 3012, a heel 3014, a crown 3016, an outer surface 3018, an internal cavity 3020, and a hosel 3022, the functions of which are similar to those of the components described above. The body 3006 may, if necessary or desired, form any type of club head as described herein, such as a metal wood type club head, a fairway metal type club head, an iron type club head, or a hybrid type club head. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 3004 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein, as an addition or alternative, as needed or requested.
[0150] In this example, the recessed channel 3024 is defined within the sole 3002 and / or within the transition area (e.g., the skirt) where the sole 3002 and the crown 3016 connect together. The channel 3024 extends in the toe 3012-heel 3014 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead 3000 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias. In one embodiment, the recessed channel 3024 and weight assembly 3004 are positioned substantially around the rear of the clubhead 3000, opposite the striking face 3008.
[0151] The weight assembly 3004 includes a slidable weight 3026, a cover 3028, and a fastener 3030, wherein the slidable weight 3026 is at least partially disposed within a recessed channel 3024 and configured to slide therein; the cover 3028 extends at least partially above the channel 3024 and is adapted to releasably secure the weight 3026 within the recessed channel 3024; and the fastener 3030 is configured to connect the cover 3028 to the main body 3006. Similar to the example described above, the weight assembly 3004 is configured to move between at least a locked configuration (shown in Figure 85, further described below) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 86, further described below). In the locked configuration, the cover 3028 is at least partially disposed within the recessed channel 3024, and the weight 3026 is fixed within the channel 3024 with its movement restricted. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 3030 allows the cover 3028 to move along the fastener axis 3032, and the weight 3026 to slide relative to the cover 3028 and the body 3006. Additionally, in this example, the cover 3028 is also at least partially rotatable relative to the recessed channel 3024 and the body 3006 toward a weight removal configuration (shown in Figure 87 and further described below). Additionally, the body 3006 includes a partial wall 3034 which is slidably engaged with the weight 3026, and the cover 3028 includes at least one positioning lug 3036 to facilitate the positioning of the weight 3026.
[0152] Figure 84 is a perspective view of the cover 3028 of the weight assembly 3004 (shown in Figures 82 and 83). Continuing with reference to Figure 83, the cover 3028 has a first end 3038 and a second end 3040 on the opposite side. The second end 3040 has a projection 3042, which is similar to other examples herein, and is configured to engage with a corresponding chamber 3044 defined within the body 3006 and recessed channel 3024. Thus, when the weight assembly 3004 is in a locked configuration, the second end 3040 more tightly secures the weight 3026 to the body 3006. In some examples, a duct 3046 is defined within the cover 3028 and is configured to engage with a corresponding lip (not shown) extending from a recessed channel 3024. This duct and lip mechanism facilitates the sliding engagement of the second end 3040 of the cover 3028 with the recessed channel 3024 in the body 3006, as further described above with reference to Figures 65 and 66. The first end 3038 of the cover 3028 engages with the enlarged head 3048 of the fastener 3030, which is freely rotatable relative to the cover 3028. In this example, the fastener 3030 is not connected to the cover 3028 by a lock washer, and the fastener 3030 lacks a lock washer.
[0153] The first end 3038 of the cover 3028 has a holder 3050, which is defined on the inner surface of the cover 3028 and is shaped and sized to receive the enlarged head 3048 of the fastener 3030. The holder 3050 has an inner surface 3052 that is larger than the enlarged head 3048, so that the enlarged head 3048 can rotate freely within the holder 3050. In one example, the inner surface 3052 has a first sidewall portion 3054 substantially parallel to the fastener axis 3032 and a second sidewall portion 3056 opposite to the fastener axis 3032, which is tapered with respect to the fastener axis 3032. In one embodiment, the second sidewall portion 3056 is oriented such that the gap between the first sidewall portion 3054 and the second sidewall portion 3056 increases toward the outer surface of the cover 3028. When the fastener 3030 is tightened to or loosened from the body portion 3006 of the club head, the enlarged head 3048 is positioned against the first side wall portion 3054 of the inner surface 3052, as illustrated in Figure 83. This configuration aligns the cover 3028 along the fastener axis 3032, allowing the cover 3028 to move linearly along the fastener axis 3032 and engage or disengage the projection 3042 with respect to the chamber 3044. However, when the fastener 3030 is loosened from the body portion 3006 (for example, when the enlarged head 3048 is raised from the body portion 3006 along the fastener axis 3032) and the cover 3028 is disengaged from the body portion 3006, the second end portion 3040 of the cover 3028 can also be angled away from the body portion 3006 via the orientation of the second side wall portion 3056. This movement of cover 3028 allows cover 3028 to rotate at least partially around the fastener axis 3032 toward the weight removal configuration, as illustrated in Figure 87 and further described below.
[0154] Furthermore, the inner surface 3052 of the holder 3050 includes an outer axial wall 3058 substantially perpendicular to the fastener axis 3032. The outer axial wall 3058 axially encloses the enlarged head 3048 within the holder 3050 along the fastener axis 3032, so that when the enlarged head 3048 is loosened and raised relative to the body 3006 of the club head, the corresponding linear movement is guided over the cover 3028 without the use of a lock washer. The outer axial wall 3058 may include an aperture 3060, allowing a tool (not shown) to access the enlarged head 3048. In one embodiment, the aperture 3060 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the enlarged head 3048. The opposite inner axial wall portion 3062 is configured to at least partially engage with the enlarged head 3048 so that when the enlarged head 3048 is tightened against the body portion 3006 and lowered, the corresponding linear movement is guided over the cover 3028 without the use of a lock washer. Additionally, the holder 3050 is a protruding component of the cover 3028 (e.g., via the inner axial wall portion 3062) with an outer surface 3064 that extends at least partially circumferentially around the fastener axis 3032. As such, the outer surface 3064 is curved and at least partially cylindrical in shape. In one embodiment, the outer surface 3064 is curved and extends at least 180° around the fastener axis 3032. The outer surface 3064 facilitates the rotation of the cover 3028 relative to the body 3006 when the cover 3028 is at least partially raised out of the recessed channel 3024.
[0155] In the example, the holder 3050 is accessible from either the top or bottom of the cover 3028, allowing the fastener 3030 to be at least partially inserted into the holder 3050 (e.g., the enlarged head 3048). When the cover 3028 is connected to the body 3006 via the fastener 3030 and at least partially inserted into the recessed channel 3024, the holder 3050 is, since it is a protruding mechanism, at least partially inserted into the recessed channel 3024, and is configured to restrict or prevent the cover 3028 from being detached from the enlarged head 3048 without completely pulling the holder 3050 out of the recessed channel 3024.
[0156] Figure 85 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 3004 in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, a fastener 3030 is tightened to the body 3006 of the club head, and the cover 3028 engages with the body 3006 and is at least partially located in a recessed channel 3024, fixing the position of the weight 3026 within the recessed channel 3024. In the locked configuration, the fastener 3030 indirectly holds the weight 3026 in the recessed channel 3024 via the cover 3028. The first end of the cover 3028 is secured to the body 3006 by the fastener 3030. The second end of the cover 3028 is secured to the body 3006 via a projection 3042 (shown in Figure 83) to prevent the cover 3028 from rotating. To release the weight 3026 from its fixed position, the fastener 3030 is used via access through the aperture 3060 to move the weight assembly 3004 toward the unlock configuration described below with reference to Figure 86.
[0157] Figure 86 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 3004 in the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 3030 is loosened relative to the body 3006 of the club head. When the fastener 3030 is loosened, the cover 3028 moves linearly along the fastener axis 3032 (shown in Figure 83) and also rises at least partially out of the recessed channel 3024 as the fastener head engages with the outer axial wall of the holder 3050. In the unlocked configuration, the cover 3028 releases the weight 3026, allowing the weight 3026 to slide within the recessed channel 3024. The first end of the cover 3028 remains fixed to the body 3006 by the fastener 3030 in the unlocked configuration.
[0158] In some examples, the second end of the cover 3028 can remain partially engaged with the body 3006 via the projection 3042 in the unlocked configuration, so that the rotation of the cover 3028 remains restricted and the weight 3026 cannot be removed from the recessed channel 3024. However, the weight 3026 can still slide and be repositioned as needed or desired. In this example, to disengage the projection 3042 from the recessed channel 3024, the fastener 3030 is used to further raise the cover 3028 along the fastener axis 3032, so that the cover 3028 is positioned in the weight removal configuration, as described below with reference to Figure 87. In other examples, in the unlocked configuration, the cover 3028 is raised so that the projection 3042 is disengaged from the recessed channel 3024 without further movement along the fastener axis 3032. In this example, the cover 3028 is positioned so that it can be moved toward the weight removal configuration without further movement via the fastener 3030, as described below with reference to Figure 87.
[0159] Figure 87 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 3004 in a weight removal configuration. In the weight removal configuration, the first end 3038 of the cover 3028 is raised at least partially outward from the recessed channel 3024, and the projection 3042 of the second end 3040 is disengaged from the chamber 3044 defined within the recessed channel 3024. This disengagement allows the second end 3040 of the cover 3028 to be opened toward the weight removal configuration by angling it away from the body portion 3006 of the club head and by rotating it around the fastener axis of the fastener 3030. For example, the fastener head can be positioned against the second side wall portion 3056 (shown in Figure 83) to angle the second end 3040 away from the body portion 3006, and the second end 3040 can be rotated around the fastener 3030. By opening the cover 3028, the weight 3026 can be completely removed from the recessed channel 3024 as needed or desired. Additionally, the holder 3050 of the fastener 3030 (shown in Figure 83) still protrudes at least partially into the recessed channel 3024, preventing the cover 3028 from being completely removed from the club head body 3006 without further movement of the fastener 3030. This configuration allows both the cover 3028 and the fastener 3030 to remain connected to the body 3006 in the weight removal configuration.
[0160] Figure 88 is a perspective view of the sole 3102 of another golf club head 3100 with another weight assembly 3104. The golf club head 3100 includes a body 3106, a striking face 3108, a lower edge 3110, an upper edge (not shown), a toe (not shown), a heel 3112, a crown 3114, an outer surface 3116, an internal cavity (not shown), and a hosel 3118, the functions of which are similar to those of the components described above. The body 3106 may, as necessary or desired, form any type of club head as described herein, such as a metal wood type club head, a fairway metal type club head, an iron type club head, or a hybrid type club head. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 3104 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein as additional or alternative, as necessary or desired.
[0161] In this example, channel 3120 is defined by body 3106 and is a through-opening extending through body 3106 between toe-side opening 3122 and heel-side opening 3124. In some examples, channel 3120 may be separated from the internal cavity of body 3106 by a channel wall. In other examples, channel 3120 may open at least partially into the internal cavity of body 3106. Channel 3120 may be located within sole 3102 and / or within a transition area (e.g., skirt) where sole 3102 and crown 3114 are connected together. Channel 3120 extends in the toe-heel direction, allowing the CG and MOI of clubhead 3100 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias. In one embodiment, the channel openings 3122 and 3124 are located substantially around the rear of the club head 3100, opposite the front-to-rear centerlines of the striking face 3108 and the club head 3100.
[0162] The weight assembly 3104 includes a slidable weight 3126 slidably engaged with the cover 3128, and a fastener 3130 configured to connect the cover 3128 to the body 3106. The cover 3128 has a first end 3132 and a second end 3134 on the opposite side. The fastener 3130 is connected to the first end 3132 (for example, via a lock washer), and the cover 3128 extends in a direction along the fastener axis. Both the first end 3132 and the second end 3134 of the cover 3128 have outer surfaces, which are shaped and sized to match the outer surface 3116 of the club head 3100 when fixed to the club head 3100, and not to extend beyond the outer surface 3116 of the club head 3100. Similar to the example described above, the weight assembly 3104 is configured to move between at least a locked configuration (not shown) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 88). In the locked configuration, the cover 3128 is inserted into the channel 3120, so that the weight 3126 is fully disposed within the channel 3120 and within the body 3106 of the club head 3100. The position of the weight 3126 on the cover 3128 is fixed within the channel 3120 when the weight assembly 3104 is in the locked configuration. Thus, the fastener 3130 indirectly holds the weight 3126 within the channel 3120 via the cover 3128. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 3130 allows the cover 3128 to be pulled out at least partially along the fastener axis from the channel 3120, so that the weight 3126 can be pulled out at least partially from the channel 3120. When the weight 3126 is removed from the main body 3106, the weight 3126 can slide against the cover 3128 for removal and / or repositioning on the cover 3128. Thus, the position of the weight 3126 on the cover 3128 is adjustable, and the weight assembly 3104 is used to adjust the GC and MOI of the club head 3100.
[0163] In this example, the inner surface of the cover 3128 includes at least one positioning lug 3136 spaced along the fastener axis. The weight 3126 includes one or more corresponding hollow portions 3138 shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the positioning lug 3136. Additionally, when the positioning lug 3136 is engaged with the hollow portion 3138, the weight 3126 is held more tightly by the cover 3128, reducing or preventing rattling and further movement of the weight 3126 in the locked configuration. In one embodiment, the cover 3128 may include a shelf portion 3140, and the weight 3126 is supported by the shelf portion 3140. The shelf portion 3140 allows the weight 3126 to be removed from the channel 3120 when the weight assembly 3104 is moved to the unlocked configuration.
[0164] In some examples, the first end 3132 of the cover 3128 may be at least partially engaged with the channel 3120, so that the cover 3128 is connected to the body 3106 of the club head 3100 in an unlocked configuration. In other examples, the cover 3128 may be completely removable from the body 3106 of the club head 3100 as needed or desired. The aerodynamic performance of the outer surface 3116 of the club head 3100 can be improved by fixing a sliding weight 3126 inside the body 3106 of the club head 3100.
[0165] Figure 89 is a perspective view of the sole 3202 of another golf club head 3200 with another weight assembly 3204 in a locking configuration. The golf club head 3200 includes a body 3206, a striking face 3208, a lower edge 3210, an upper edge (not shown), a toe (not shown), a heel 3212, a crown 3214, an outer surface 3216, an internal cavity (not shown), and a hosel 3218, the functions of which are similar to those of the components described above. The body 3206 may, as necessary or desired, form any type of club head as described herein, such as a metal wood type club head, a fairway metal type club head, an iron type club head, or a hybrid type club head. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 3204 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein as additional or alternative, as necessary or desired.
[0166] In this example, channel 3220 is defined by body 3206 to support weight assembly 3204. Channel 3220 may include a first channel 3222 and a second channel 3224 communicating with each other. The first channel 3222 is defined within the sole 3202 of body 3206 and extends in the front-to-back direction of the clubhead 3200 with the striking face 3208 in front of the clubhead 3200. The second channel 3224 is defined within the sole 3202 and / or within a transition area (e.g., skirt) where the sole 3202 and crown 3214 connect together. The second channel 3224 extends in the toe-heel direction so that the CG and MOI of the clubhead 3200 can be adjusted for a fade-to-draw bias. In one embodiment, the second channel 3224 is positioned substantially around the rear of the club head 3200, opposite the striking face 3208. Thus, the first channel 3222 and the second channel 3224 are oriented substantially orthogonal to each other and are oriented on different planes of the club head 3200.
[0167] The weight assembly 3204 includes a slidable weight 3226 (shown in Figure 91) slidably engaged with the cover 3228, and a fastener 3230 configured to connect the cover 3228 to the body 3206. In this example, the cover 3228 includes a fastener tab 3232 and a weight tray 3234. The fastener tab 3232 is sized and shaped to be received in a first channel 3222, and the weight tray 3234 is sized and shaped to be received in a second channel 3224. The fastener 3230 is connected to the fastener tab 3232 (for example, via a lock washer) and the weight tray 3234. The fastener 3230 works in cooperation with both the fastener tab 3232 and the weight tray 3234 to hold and secure the weight 3226 in the body 3206 of the club head 3200. Similar to the example described above, the weight assembly 3204 is configured to move between at least a locked configuration (shown in Figure 89) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 90, which is further described below). In the locked configuration, the cover 3228 is at least partially disposed within the recessed channel 3220, and the weight 3226 is fixed within the body 3206 of the club head 3200 with its movement restricted. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 3230 releases the cover 3228 from the body 3206, allowing the weight assembly 3204 to move toward a weight adjustment configuration (shown in Figure 91, which is further described below). In the weight adjustment configuration, the position of the weight 3226 within the weight tray 3234 can be adjusted as needed or as desired.
[0168] In the locking configuration, both the fastener tab 3232 and the weight tray 3234 are positioned within the body 3206 of the club head 3200 so as not to protrude and are aligned with the outer surface 3216 of the club head 3200. Additionally, the weight 3226 is fully disposed within the body 3206 of the club head 3200 and fixed therein in the locking configuration. The fastener 3230 indirectly holds the weight 3226 in the recessed channel 3220 via the cover 3228, so that the weight 3226 can be used to adjust the CG and MOI of the club head 3200.
[0169] Figure 90 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 3204 in the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 3230 is loosened so that it rises at least partially out of the first channel 3222 along the fastener axis. Since the fastener tab 3232 is connected to the fastener 3230, the fastener tab 3232 also rises at least partially out of the first channel 3222. In this example, the fastener 3230 is positioned toward the front section of the first channel 3222. However, this movement of the fastener 3230 and fastener tab 3232 does not correspond to the movement of the weight tray 3234 within the second channel 3224. Rather, when the weight assembly 3204 is in the unlocked configuration, the user can use the fastener tab 3232 to pull the weight tray 3234 at least partially out of the second channel 3224, as illustrated in Figure 91, and access the weights 3226. In the unlocked configuration, the weight 3226 can still be fully disposed within the main body 3206 of the club head.
[0170] Figure 91 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 3204 in a weight adjustment configuration. Figure 92 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 3204 along line 92-92 in Figure 91. Referring to Figures 91 and 92 simultaneously, the weight tray 3234 has a first end 3236 with a pool 3238, the pool 3238 being sized and shaped to receive a weight 3226, allowing the weight to be selectively positioned therein (for example, by sliding). The second end 3240 of the weight tray 3234 is screw-engaged with a fastener 3230, allowing the fastener 3230 to rotate relative to it. A slot 3242 is defined between a first channel 3222 and a second channel 3224, allowing the fastener 3230 to extend between the two and connect to both the fastener tab 3232 and the weight tray 3234. Slot 3242 extends in the same longitudinal direction as the first channel 3222, allowing the weight assembly 3204 to move linearly backward toward the weight adjustment configuration when the weight assembly 3204 is unlocked (for example, by disengaging the fastener tab 3232 from the first channel 3222).
[0171] During operation, when the weight assembly 3204 is unlocked and then moved toward the weight adjustment configuration, the first end 3236 of the weight tray 3234 protrudes from the main body 3206, making the weight 3226 accessible in the pool 3238 and allowing its position to be adjusted. In some examples, the weight 3226 can be completely removed from the weight assembly 3204 in the weight adjustment configuration, as needed or desired.
[0172] Figure 93 is a perspective view of the sole 3302 of another golf club head 3300 with another weight assembly 3304. Figure 94 is a perspective view of the weight assembly 3304. Referring to Figures 93 and 94 together, the golf club head 3300 includes a body 3306, a striking face 3308, a lower edge 3310, an upper edge (not shown), a toe (not shown), a heel 3312, a crown 3314, an outer surface 3316, an internal cavity (not shown), and a hosel 3318, the functions of which are similar to those of the components described above. The body 3306 may, as necessary or desired, form any type of club head as described herein, such as a metal wood type club head, a fairway metal type club head, an iron type club head, or a hybrid type club head. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 3304 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein as additional or alternative, as necessary or desired.
[0173] In this example, the recessed channel 3320 is defined within the sole 3302 and / or within the transition area (e.g., the skirt) where the sole 3302 and the crown 3314 connect together. The channel 3320 extends in the toe-heel direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead 3300 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias. In one embodiment, the recessed channel 3320 and the weight assembly 3304 are substantially located on the rear periphery of the clubhead 3300 opposite the striking face 3308.
[0174] The weight assembly 3304 includes an insert 3322, which is configured to be inserted into a recessed channel 3320 and connected to the body 3306 of the club head 3300. The insert 3322 has one or more weights connected to it. In this example, a first weight 3324 and a second weight 3326 are connected to the insert 3322. The first weight 3324 may have a different mass from the second weight 3326. Also connected to the insert 3322 is an actuator 3328, positioned between weights 3324 and 3326. In this example, the actuator 3328 is rotatable relative to the insert 3322 and includes an enlarged head 3330 and a lead screw 3332. The enlarged head 3330 is trapped within the insert 3322, and the lead screw 3332 extends away from the insert 3322. However, actuator 3328 is not used to connect the weight assembly 3304 to the body portion 3306 of the club head 3300. Rather, insert 3322 includes a locking member 3334, which is configured to selectively engage with the body portion 3306 of the club head 3300 and secure the weight assembly 3304 within a recessed channel 3320. The locking member 3334 engages with a lead screw 3332 and has a pair of opposing ends 3336 protruding from insert 3322.
[0175] During operation, the weight assembly 3304 is configured to move between a locked configuration (shown in Figure 95 and further described below) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 96 and further described below). In the locked configuration, the insert 3322 is fixed in the recessed channel 3320 via the end 3336 of the locking member 3334, so that the weights 3324 and 3326 are connected to the golf club head 3300. In the unlocked configuration, the end 3336 of the locking member 3334 is disengaged from the body 3306 of the club head 3300, so that the insert 3322 can be removed from the recessed channel 3320. Once the insert 3322 is removed, one or more of the weights 3324 and 3326 can be replaced and exchanged, allowing for adjustment of the weights in the weight assembly 3304. In another example, the insert 3322 can be turned inside out and inserted back into a recessed channel 3320 to adjust the position of the weights 3324 and 3326 inside the golf club head 3300.
[0176] Figure 95 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 3304 along line 93-93 in Figure 93 in the locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the actuator 3328 is rotated so that the locking member 3334 is positioned in a linear orientation substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This position of the locking member 3334, as illustrated in Figure 95, results in the end 3336 protruding from the insert 3322 and engaging with the corresponding chamber 3338 defined in the body 3306 of the club head and in the recessed channel 3320. The locking member 3334, engaged with the body 3306, connects the weight assembly 3304 to the club head and fixes the position and orientation of the weights 3324 and 3326. The actuator 3328 is rotatable and moves the locking member 3334 toward the unlock configuration, as described below, allowing the insert 3322 to be removed and detached from the body 3306 of the club head.
[0177] Figure 96 is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 3304 along line 93-93 in Figure 93 in the unlocked configuration. The locking member 3334 is a flexible member such that when the actuator 3328 is rotated, the rotational movement of the lead screw 3332 guides a corresponding linear movement at the center of the locking member 3334. Thus, the locking member 3334 is curved and is designed to retract its end 3336 into the insert 3322. This retraction of the end 3336 of the locking member 3334 disengages the end 3336 from the chamber 3338, allowing the weight assembly 3304 to be removed from the recessed channel 3320 and the body portion 3306 of the club head. In this example, the end 3336 of the locking member 3334 is stiffer than the middle section, allowing the end 3336 to engage and lock into the recessed channel 3320.
[0178] The unlock configuration allows weights 3324 and 3326 to be replaced, or insert 3322 to be reinserted into the recessed channel 3320 in an inverted position, thereby adjusting the GC and MOI of the clubhead. Insert 3322 may include a pair of stops 3340, which engage with the ends 3336 of the locking member 3334, helping to impart a curve into the locking member 3334 in the unlock configuration. In this example, the weight assembly 3304 may be substantially symmetrical in both the toe-heel and sole-crown directions, so that insert 3322 can be used to reposition weights 3324 and 3326 within the body 3306. Additionally, the shape and size of the recessed channel 3320 allow the locking member 3334 to move as described herein.
[0179] Figure 97 is a bottom view of the sole 3402 of the golf club head 3400 with another weight assembly 3404. Figure 98 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the golf club head 3400 along line 97-97 in Figure 97, in a locked configuration. Figure 99 is another perspective cross-sectional view of the golf club head 3400 along line 97-97 in Figure 97, in an unlocked configuration. Referring to Figures 97 to 99 simultaneously, the golf club head 3400 is a fairway metal type golf club head having a body 3406, the body 3406 including a striking face 3408 with a lower edge 3410 and an upper edge 3412 extending between the toe 3414 and heel 3416. The sole 3402 extends from the lower edge 3410 on the bottom side of the club head 3400, and the crown 3418 extends from the upper edge 3412 on the top side of the club head 3400. The sole 3402, striking face 3408, and crown 3418 are connected together to define the outer surface 3420 of the body 3406, which has an internal cavity 3422 formed therein. The hosel 3424 is positioned at the heel 3416 and is configured to connect to the shaft (not shown). The functions of the components of the fairway metal type golf club head 3400 (e.g., sole, striking face, crown, hosel, etc.) are similar to the functions of the components described above. The body 3406 may form any type of club head, such as a metal wood type club head, an iron type club head, or a hybrid type club head, as needed or requested. Furthermore, the mechanism of the weight assembly 3404 described below may be used in any type of club head described herein, as an addition or alternative, as needed or requested.
[0180] In this example, a recessed channel 3426 is defined within the sole 3402 of the body 3406 of the clubhead 3400. The channel 3426 extends in the toe 3414-heel 3416 direction, allowing the CG and MOI of the clubhead 3400 to be adjusted for a fade-draw bias. The weight assembly 3404 includes a sliding weight 3428, a cover 3430, and a fastener 3432, wherein the sliding weight 3428 is at least partially disposed within the channel 3426 and configured to slide within it; the cover 3430 extends at least partially above the channel 3426 and is adapted to releasably secure the weight 3428 within the channel 3426; and the fastener 3432 is configured to connect the cover 3430 to the body 3406. The fastener 3432 indirectly holds the weight 3428 in the recessed channel 3426 via the cover 3430, allowing the weight 3428 to be used to adjust the CG and MOI of the club head 3400. In this example, the weight assembly 3404 and the recessed channel 3426 are located in the front section of the golf club head 3400.
[0181] Similar to the examples described above, the weight assembly 3404 is configured to move between at least two positions via the fastener 3432 (for example, a locked configuration (shown in Figure 98) and an unlocked configuration (shown in Figure 99)). In the locked configuration, the cover 3430 is at least partially disposed within the recessed channel 3426 in a fixed position, and the weight 3428 is fixed within the channel 3426 with its movement restricted. When the weight assembly 3404 is in the locked configuration, the weight 3428 is fully disposed within the channel 3426, and no portion of the weight 3428 extends above the outer surface 3420 of the body 3406. Because the weight 3428 is fully disposed within the recessed channel 3426 and at least aligned with (or below) the outer surface 3420 of the body 3406, the smoothness of the outer surface 3420 of the club head 3400 is maintained, promoting good ground interaction. In the unlocked configuration, the fastener 3432 allows the cover 3430 to move along the fastener axis toward a raised position, releasing the weight 3428 so that it can slide relative to the cover 3430 and the body 3406. The fastener 3432 is connected to the cover 3430 by a retaining clip 3433. The retaining clip 3433 is configured to connect the fastener 3432 to the cover 3430 so that the fastener 3432 can rotate relative to the cover 3430 around the fastener axis, but the fastener 3432 and the cover 3430 are connected together for corresponding linear movement along the fastener axis. In one embodiment, the retaining clip 3433 includes a locking washer. In this example, the cover 3430 includes a retaining rib 3434, which is configured to slidably engage with a slit 3435 defined in the weight 3428. The retaining rib 3434 improves the retention of the weight 3428 by the cover 3430 when the weight assembly 3404 moves between components. The retaining rib 3434 is described in more detail below.
[0182] Figure 100 is another bottom view of the sole 3402 of the golf club head 3400. The weight assembly 3404 (shown in Figures 97–99) is not shown for clarity. The recessed channel 3426 is defined by a bottom track 3436 and two opposing sidewalls 3438, 3440. The first sidewall 3438 is adjacent to the striking face 3408, and the second sidewall 3440 is adjacent to the rear of the sole 3402. A nut 3442 is formed in the sole 3402 of the body 3406, adjacent to the second sidewall 3440. The nut 3442 is configured to engage with a fastener 3432 so that the cover 3430 (both shown in Figures 97–99) is directly connected to the body 3406. Additionally, the recessed channel 3426 is defined by two opposing end walls 3444, 3446. The toe end wall 3444 is located on the toe side of the club head 3400, and the heel end wall 3446 is located on the heel side of the club head 3400. In this example, no chamber or opening is defined at the end of the recessed channel 3426, and the cover 3430 does not have a corresponding projection. In one embodiment, the fastener 3432 is the only component of the weight assembly 3404, extending, for example, into the internal cavity of the body 3406 via a nut 3442. This configuration of the club head 3400 reduces the accumulation of dirt and debris in the channel 3426 and the body 3406.
[0183] The bottom track 3436 includes a plurality of bosses 3448 protruding into the channel 3426. In this example, there are five bosses 3448 arranged equally spaced in the toe-heel direction. The bosses 3448 are configured to selectively engage with the weight 3428 when in the locked configuration (shown in Figure 98) and to assist in positioning and holding the weight 3428 in the recessed channel 3426, as described herein. In this example, the bosses 3448 can have a substantially truncated conical shape. Additionally, the first sidewall portion 3438 includes a plurality of dimples 3450 corresponding to the plurality of bosses 3448. The dimples 3450 are configured to selectively engage with the weight 3428 when in the locked configuration and to assist in positioning and holding the weight 3428 in the recessed channel 3426, as described herein. In the example, there are five bosses 3448 and five dimples 3450, and the weight 3428 can be selectively positioned at five predefined locations. It will be understood that any other number of predefined locations (e.g., three) may be used as needed or as desired.
[0184] Between the first side wall 3438 and the end walls 3444 and 3446, the recessed channel 3426 is defined by an oblique wall 3452. The oblique wall 3452 is formed at the terminal end of the channel 3426 in the toe-heel direction. Compared to the previous example, the projection and chamber are eliminated from the weight assembly 3404, so the oblique wall 3452 is configured to engage with the cover 3430 and secure the end of the cover 3430 when in the locked configuration.
[0185] Figure 101 is an inner surface view of the cover 3430 and weight 3428 of the weight assembly 3404 (shown in Figures 97-99). Figure 102 is a side view of the cover 3430 and weight 3428. Referring to Figures 101 and 102 together, the cover 3430 has a first end 3454 and a second end 3456 on the opposite side. A ravet 3458 is formed on one side of the cover 3430 and extends at least partially between the first end 3454 and the second end 3456. The ravet 3458 is defined at least by an outer wall portion 3460 and a side wall portion 3462 of the cover 3430, which form the outer surface of the cover 3430. The ravet 3458 is sized and shaped to at least partially receive the weight 3428 and to allow the weight 3428 to slide within it. The end wall portion 3464 is defined at both the first end portion 3454 and the second end portion 3456, defining the terminal end of the ravet 3458. The fastener receiver 3466 is positioned on the opposite side of the ravet 3458 on the cover 3430 and is configured to support the fastener 3432 (shown in Figures 97 to 99) at the aperture 3468. The fastener 3432 connects the cover 3430 to the main body of the club head at the fastener receiver 3466.
[0186] The retaining rib 3434 protrudes from the outer wall portion 3460 into the ravet 3458 and extends elongated in the direction between the first end 3454 and the second end 3456 of the cover 3430. The retaining rib 3434 is configured to engage with the weight 3428 to improve the retention of the weight 3428 to the cover 3430. The retaining rib 3434 is shaped and sized to be at least partially received in the slit 3435 (shown in Figures 98-99) of the weight 3428. This engagement between the weight 3428 and the cover 3430 via the retaining rib 3434 allows the weight 3428 to move with the cover 3430 between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, and allows the weight 3428 to be slidably repositioned when in the unlocked configuration. In this example, the retaining rib 3434 is discontinuous in the elongated direction so that the weight 3428 can be completely removed from the weight assembly as needed or desired.
[0187] In this example, the retaining rib 3434 may comprise two separate sections (a first rib 3470 and a second rib 3472), separated by a gap 3474, which is configured to allow the weight 3428 to be at least partially removably received into the ravet 3458. As shown in Figure 101, the retaining rib 3434 is positioned near the distal end of the outer wall portion 3460, on the opposite side of the cover 3430 from the fastener receiver 3466. Thus, the retaining rib 3434 is positioned at a gap 3476 from the side wall portion 3462 of the cover 3430. The retaining rib 3434 extends from each of the end wall portions 3464, and the gap 3474 is positioned near the second end portion 3456 of the cover 3430. In another embodiment, the gap 3474 may be located near the first end 3454 of the cover 3430, or near the midpoint of the cover 3430. In yet another embodiment, the gap 3474 may be located on one of the end wall portions 3464, such that the retaining rib 3434 extends from only one of the end wall portions 3464, or two or more gaps 3474 may be present within the retaining rib 3434. In yet another example, two or more parallel retaining ribs 3434 may be used as needed or as desired.
[0188] The cover 3430 has an outer surface 3478 and an inner surface 3480 on the opposite side, the outer surface 3478 being configured to align with the outer surface of the club head when in the locked configuration, and the inner surface 3480 facing the recessed channel 3426 (shown in Figure 100) of the club head. The thickness 3482 of the cover 3430 is defined between the outer surface 3478 and the inner surface 3480 in a direction substantially parallel to the fastener axis of the fastener 3432 (shown in Figures 97-99). The thickness 3482 of the cover 3430 at the end wall portion 3464 is substantially equal to the thickness 3482 of the cover 3430 at the midpoint of the ravet 3458 between the first end portion 3454 and the second end portion 3456. Thus, the end wall portion 3464 of the cover 3430 lacks projections and engages directly with the recessed channel 3426 of the club head.
[0189] At least one hollow section 3484 is defined within the weight 3428 and on the surface opposite the slit 3435 (shown in Figures 98-99). The hollow section 3484 is sized and shaped to engage with a boss 3448 disposed within the channel 3426 (both shown in Figure 100). In the example, the hollow section 3484 includes a fully defined hollow section 3484 and two partially defined hollow sections 3484 located laterally to the fully defined hollow section 3484. This configuration addresses an increase in the number of weight positioning locations (e.g., five) and allows the use of a more elongated weight 3428, as illustrated in the example shown.
[0190] Figure 103 is another inner surface view of cover 3430. Figure 104 is a cross-sectional view of cover 3430 along line 104-104 in Figure 103. Referring to Figures 103 and 104 together, certain components have been described above and are therefore not necessarily to be described further. The ravet 3458 is formed by the outer wall portion 3460 and the side wall portion 3462. The retaining rib 3434 is disposed close to the distal end of the outer wall portion 3460. The shelf portion 3486 extends from the distal end of the side wall portion 3462 and is configured to at least partially support the weight 3428 (shown in Figures 101-102). The retaining rib 3434 and the shelf portion 3486 extend in substantially orthogonal directions. In this example, the retaining rib 3434 has a substantially square cross-section. It will be understood that the retaining rib 3434 can have any other cross-sectional shape as needed or requested.
[0191] In this example, the ravet 3458 has a length of 3488, which is defined between the end wall portions 3464 at the first and second ends of the cover 3430. The gap 3474 of the retaining rib 3434 has a length of 3490, which is defined between the two sections of the rib. In this example, the length 3488 of the ravet 3458 is approximately 2 to 4 times the length 3490 of the gap 3474. In one embodiment, the length 3488 of the ravet 3458 is approximately 3 times the length 3490 of the gap 3474. As shown in Figure 103, the retaining rib 3434 has an arcuate shape in the plan view, which corresponds to the elongated shape of the ravet 3458 defined within the cover 3430.
[0192] The end walls 3464 at each end of the cover 3430 have inner surfaces that are aligned with the inner surfaces of the side walls 3462, so that the end walls 3464 engage directly with the recessed channel 3426 (shown in Figure 100) without the use of protrusions. In addition, each end of the cover 3430 includes a chamfered portion 3492, which corresponds to the slanted wall portion 3452 (shown in Figure 100) of the channel 3426, which allows the end of the cover to engage securely with the club head in the locking configuration and reduces rattle of the weight within it.
[0193] While specific embodiments and aspects have been described herein and specific examples have been provided, the scope of the Art is not limited to those specific embodiments and examples. For example, while many of the examples have been shown for use with drivers, fairway metals, and irons, among others, any part of the Art may also be applied to any metalwood, fairway metal or wood, iron, or hybrid golf club. Furthermore, each of the above examples may be combined with another example, and / or one or more mechanisms of some examples may be combined with others. Those skilled in the art will understand other embodiments or improvements within the scope and spirit of the Art. Accordingly, certain structures, operations, or media are disclosed merely as illustrative embodiments. In addition, where the limitations of terms such as “about,” “substantially,” or “approximately,” as used in the following claims, are unclear to those skilled in the art from the foregoing specification, those terms shall mean within 10 percent of the value described. The scope of the Art is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0194] 100 Golf Club Heads 102 Sole 104 Weight Assembly 106 Main body 108 Hitting Face 110 Lower edge 112 Upper edge 114 Tou 116 heels 118 Crown 120 outer surface 122 Internal Cavity 124 Hosel 126 Skirt 128 weights 130 Cover 132 Fasteners 134 channels 136 Lock configuration 138 nuts 140 External surface 142 Fastener Axis 144 angle 146 plane 148 Protrusion 150 Chambers 152 Slanted surface 154 Slanted surface 156 seats 158 Notches 160 Slanted surface 162 Slanted surface 164 Cam 166 Cutouts 168 Long legs 170 Short legs 172 Side wall section 174 Side wall section 176 Bottom Track 178 Flange 180 groove section 182 Unlock Configurations 184 Toe-heel direction 186 Lock Washer 188 Cam surface 190 Cam surface 192 detents 200 Weight Assembly 202 channels 204 weight 206 Cover 208 Fasteners 210 Cover side wall 212 Undercut side wall 214 Bottom track 216 Partial wall 218 Angled surface 220 Compressive force 300 Weight assembly 302 Channel 304 Weight 306 Cover 308 Fastener 400 Weight assembly 402 Channel 404 Weight 406 Cover 408 Fastener 410 Bottom track 412 Nut 414 Support rib 416 Elastomeric material 418 Side wall 420 Side wall 422 Fin 424 Bottom surface 426 Slot 428 Groove 430 Flange 434 Rotational movement 436 First leg 438 Second leg 440 Depression 442 Protrusion 444 Chamber 446 Protrusion axis 448 Fastener axis 450 Complementary mechanism 500 Weight assembly 502 Channel 504 Weight 506 Cover 508 Slot 510 Fin 512 Bottom surface 514 Track 516 Hollow part 600 Weight assembly 602 Channel 604 weight 606 Cover 608 Fasteners 610 Bottom surface 612 Groove 614 Tabs, Elastomer Material 616 Flange 618 Upper leg 620 Side legs 622 Fastener Axis 624 Bottom Track 626 Groove 628 Protrusion 630 Chamber 632 Protrusion axis 634 Support Rib 700 Weight Assembly 702 Channel 704 weight 706 Cover 708 Fasteners 710 Protrusion 712 Bottom surface 714 Trucks 716 Hollow part 718 Angled surface 720 Compression force 722 Undercut side wall section 800 Weight Assembly Channel 802 804 Cover 806 Fasteners 808 Bottom Track 810 Side wall section 812 Side wall section 814 Elastomer materials 816 End 818 Undercut Area 820 offset 822 Protrusion 900 Weight Assembly 902 channels 904 weight 906 weight 908 Cover 910 Cover 912 Fastener 914 Washer 916 Groove 918 Bottom Track 1000 Weight Assembly 1002 Channel 1004 Weight 1006 Cover 1008 Fastener 1010 Cover Side Wall 1012 Undercut Side Wall 1014 Bottom Track 1016 Partial Wall 1018 Angled Surface 1020 Groove 1100 Weight Assembly 1102 Channel 1104 Weight 1106 Cover Assembly 1108 Fastener 1110 Fastener Member 1112 Longitudinal Member 1114 Transverse Member 1116 Compressive Force 1118 Angled Surface 1120 Side Wall 1122 Undercut 1124 Arrow 1126 End 1304 weight 1306 Fasteners 1308 Edge 1400 Weight Assembly 1402 Cover 1404 weight 1406 Edge 1500 Weight Assembly 1502 Cover 1504 weight 1600 Weight Assembly 1602 Cover 1604 weight 1606 Edge 1700 Weight Assembly 1702 Channel 1704 weight 1706 Cover 1708 Fasteners 1710 Tou end 1712 Heel end 1714 Lock Washer 1716 Nut 1718 Fastener Axis 1720 Protrusion 1722 chamber 1724 Protrusion axis 1726 Partial wall section 1728 recess 1730 Positioning mechanism 1732 Positioning Rug 1734 Bottom track wall section 1736 Side wall section 1738 Corner 1740 Tail 1742 inner surface 1744 Aperture 1746 Flexible Arm 1748 Distal end 1750 Stop 1752 Proximal end 1754 Rib 1756 End wall section 1800 Golf Club Head 1802 Sole 1804 Weight Assembly 1806 Main body 1808 Hitting Face 1810 lower edge 1812 Upper edge 1814 Tou 1816 Heels 1818 Crown 1820 outer surface 1822 Internal Cavity 1824 Hosel 1826 Channel 1828 weight 1830 cover 1832 Fasteners 1834 External surface 1836 Nut 1838 Lock Washer 1840 Bottom Track 1842 First side wall section 1844 Second side wall section 1846 Long legs 1848 Short legs 1850 flange 1852 Groove 1854 Boss 1856 Dimple 1858 Hollow part 1860 Position Indicator 1862 Protrusion 1864 Chamber 1900 Weight Assembly 1902 cover 1904 weight 1906 Channel 2000 Golf Club Heads 2002 Weight Assembly 2004 hitting face 2006 Top line section 2008 Toe section 2010 Heel part 2012 Hosel 2014 Sole 2016 back part 2018 Weight 2020 Cover 2022 Fasteners 2024 Channel 2100 Weight Assembly 2102 channels 2104 Main body 2106 weight 2108 Cover 2110 Inner surface 2112 Friction material liner, friction material 2114 Groove 2116 Clamp load 2118 Protruding Notch 2120 Cavity 2200 Golf Club Heads 2202 Weight Assembly 2204 Main body 2206 Sole 2208 Outer surface 2210 channels 2212 weight 2214 Cover 2216 Fasteners 2218 Shelf 2220 Outer wall 2222 Inner wall 2224 External surface 2226 Inner wall 2228 Inclination angle 2230 Outer surface 2232 Position Indicator 2234 Hollow part 2236 Protrusion 2238 width 2240 width 2242 parts 2244 parts 2246 Planar surface area 2300 Test Mule 2302 Weight Assembly 2304 Main body 2306 Outer surface 2307 Bracket 2308 channels 2310 weight 2312 Cover 2314 Fasteners 2316 First end 2318 Second end 2320 Protrusion 2322 Chamber 2324 Positioning rug 2326 Hollow part 2328 Partial wall section 2330 recess 2332 First tilted surface 2334 Second tilted surface 2400 Test Mule 2402 Weight Assembly 2404 Main body 2406 Outer surface 2407 Bracket 2408 channels 2410 weight 2412 Cover 2414 Fasteners 2416 First end 2418 Second end 2420 Protrusion 2422 Chamber 2424 Positioning rug 2426 Hollow part 2428 Flange 2430 Groove 2432 Tilted surface 2500 channels 2502 Main body 2504 weight 2506 Chamber 2508 Lip 2600 Test Mules 2602 Weight Assembly 2604 Main body 2606 Outer surface 2607 Bracket 2608 channels 2610 Cover 2612 First end 2614 Second end 2616 Fasteners 2618 First weight 2620 Protrusion 2622 Chamber 2624 Fastener Receiver 2626 Second weight 2628 Weight Chamber 2700 Test Mule 2702 Weight Assembly 2704 Main body 2706 Outer surface 2708 Channel 2710 Cover 2712 weight 2714 First end 2716 Second end 2718 Fasteners 2720 Hook 2722 posts 2724 Hardstop 2726 Positioning rug 2750 Weight Assembly 2752 Cover 2754 weight 2756 Rail 2800 Test Mule 2802 Weight Assembly 2804 Main body 2806 Outer surface 2808 channels 2810 Cover 2812 Fasteners 2814 weight 2816 Protrusion 2818 Positioning rug 2820 dimples 2822 Position Indicator 2900 Golf Club Head 2902 Sole 2904 Weight Assembly 2906 Main body 2908 Hitting Face 2910 Lower edge 2912 Tou 2914 Heels 2916 Crown 2918 Outer surface 2920 Internal Cavity 2922 Hosel 2924 channels 2926 weight 2928 cover 2930 Fasteners 2932 Fastener Axis 2934 Partial wall section 2936 recess 2938 Positioning rug 2940 Hollow part 2942 Slanted surface 2944 Slanted surface 2946 Part 1 2948 Part 2 2950 First end 2952 Second end 2954 Protrusion 2956 Chamber 2958 First end 2960 Second end 2962 Cylinder 2964 Hook 2966 Outer surface 2968 Arm 2970 Cutout 3000 Golf Club Heads 3002 Sole 3004 Weight Assembly 3006 Main body 3008 Hitting Face 3010 Lower edge 3012 Tou 3014 Heels 3016 Crown 3018 Outer surface 3020 Internal Cavity 3022 Hosel 3024 channels 3026 weight 3028 Cover 3030 Fasteners 3032 Fastener Axis 3034 Partial wall section 3036 Positioning rug 3038 First end 3040 Second end 3042 Protrusion 3044 Chamber 3046 Duct 3048 Enlarged head 3050 holder 3052 Inner surface 3054 First side wall section 3056 Second side wall section 3058 Outer axial wall 3060 Aperture 3062 Inner axial wall 3064 outer surface 3100 Golf Club Head 3102 Sole 3104 Weight Assembly 3106 Main body 3108 Hitting Face 3110 Lower edge 3112 Heels 3114 Crown 3116 Outer surface 3118 Hosel 3120 channels 3122 Tow side opening 3124 Heel side opening 3126 weights 3128 Cover 3130 Fasteners 3132 First end 3134 Second end 3136 Positioning rug 3138 Hollow part 3140 Shelf 3200 Golf Club Heads 3202 Sole 3204 Weight Assembly 3206 Main body 3208 Hitting Face 3210 Lower edge 3212 Heels 3214 Crown 3216 Outer surface 3218 Hosel 3220 channels 3222 First channel 3224 Second channel 3226 weights 3228 Cover 3230 Fasteners 3232 Fastener Tab 3234 Weight Tray 3236 First end 3238 Pool 3240 Second end 3242 slots 3300 Golf Club Heads 3302 Sole 3304 Weight Assembly 3306 Main body 3308 Hitting Face 3310 Lower edge 3312 Heels 3314 Crown 3316 outer surface 3318 Hosel 3320 channels 3322 Insert 3324 First weight 3326 Second weight 3328 Actuator 3330 Enlarged head 3332 Lead Screw 3334 Locking component 3336 End 3338 Chamber 3340 Stop 3400 Golf Club Heads 3402 Sole 3404 Weight Assembly 3406 Main body 3408 Hitting Face 3410 Lower edge 3412 Upper edge 3414 Tou 3416 Heels 3418 Crown 3420 outer surface 3422 Internal Cavity 3424 Hosel 3426 channels 3428 weights 3430 Cover 3432 Fasteners 3433 Retaining clip 3434 Retaining Rib 3435 Slit 3436 Bottom Track 3438 First side wall section 3440 Second side wall section 3442 Nut 3444 End wall section 3446 Heel end wall section 3448 Boss 3450 dimples 3452 Slanted wall section 3454 First end 3456 Second end 3458 Lovett 3460 Outer wall 3462 Side wall section 3464 End wall section 3466 Fastener Receiver 3468 Aperture 3470 First rib 3472 Second Rib 3474 Gap 3476 Interval 3478 Outer surface 3480 inner surface 3482 Thickness 3484 Hollow part 3486 Shelf 3488 Length 3490 Length 3492 Chamfered section D1 distance H1 Height H2 height H3 Height M move
Claims
1. A golf club head, wherein the golf club head is A main body having an outer surface; A recessed channel defined within the outer surface of the main body; A weight assembly, A weight configured to be at least partially disposed within the recessed channel and to slide within it; A cover adapted to releasably secure the weight within the recessed channel, The first end and the second end on the opposite side; A ravet extending at least partially between the first end and the second end, the ravet being formed by at least two wall portions and sized and shaped to at least partially receive the weight and to allow the weight to slide therein, one or more of the at least two wall portions having a retaining rib extending therefrom, the retaining rib being elongated in the direction between the first end and the second end and discontinuous in the elongated direction; A fastener receiver is disposed on the opposite side of the aforementioned ravet, A cover that includes, A fastener for connecting the cover to the main body in the fastener receiver, wherein the fastener is configured to move the cover between at least two positions, namely between a first position and a second position, in the first position the weight is selectively slidable relative to the main body, and in the second position the weight is fixed relative to the main body, A weight assembly including, Includes, A golf club head, wherein the retaining ribs include a first rib and a second rib separated by a gap, the gap being configured to allow the weight to be at least partially received within the rivet.
2. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the gap is disposed in close proximity to the first end of the cover.
3. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein a slit is formed in the weight, and the slit is slidably engaged with the retaining rib.
4. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein the retaining rib extends from the outer wall portion of the at least two wall portions of the cover.
5. The golf club head according to claim 4, wherein the retaining rib is disposed in close proximity to the distal end of the outer wall portion.
6. The golf club head according to claim 1, wherein both the first end and the second end of the cover define an end wall, and the end walls of the first and second ends lack any projections.
7. A golf club head, wherein the golf club head is A main body having an outer surface; A recessed channel defined within the outer surface of the main body; A weight assembly, A weight configured to be at least partially disposed within the recessed channel and to slide within it, wherein a slit is defined within the weight; A cover adapted to releasably secure the weight within the recessed channel, The first end and the second end on the opposite side; A ravet extending at least partially between the first end and the second end, wherein the ravet is formed at least by the outer wall portion of the cover, and the retaining rib extends from the outer wall portion and is configured to slidably engage with the slit of the weight; A fastener receiver is disposed on the opposite side of the aforementioned ravet, A cover including, A fastener for connecting the cover to the main body in the fastener receiver, wherein the fastener is configured to move the cover between at least two positions, namely between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the weight is selectively slidable relative to the main body, and in the second position the weight is fixed relative to the main body, A weight assembly including, Includes, A golf club head, wherein the cover further includes an outer surface and an inner surface on the opposite side, and end walls are defined at both the first end and the second end, the end walls at the first and second ends define the terminal end of the ravet, and the thickness of the cover at the end walls between the outer surface and the inner surface is equal to the thickness of the cover at the midpoint of the ravet between the outer surface and the inner surface.
8. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein the retaining rib and the fastener receiver are disposed on opposite sides of the cover.
9. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein the retaining rib comprises at least two separate sections.
10. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein at least one hollow portion is defined within the weight on the opposite side of the slit.
11. The golf club head according to claim 10, wherein the at least one hollow portion includes a hollow portion fully defined within the weight and a hollow portion partially defined within the weight.
12. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein the ravet is engaged with the weight, so that the weight moves together with the cover between the at least two positions.
13. The golf club head according to claim 7, wherein the fastener is the sole component of the weight assembly that extends into the internal cavity of the main body.