Tapered grip for sensors

Abstract

A golf club grip has a grip body and an end cap that houses a sensor. The grip body has a gripping surface that does not interact with the end cap and therefore defines a stable point of contact for a golfer's hands. The end cap is integrally formed or otherwise secured to an end of the grip body. The end cap includes a lower region configured to couple with the grip body. The end cap further includes an upper region having a first cavity that receives the sensor. In order to influence the golfer to grip within the gripping region, the upper region is further tapered to define a non-gripping surface that guides a golfer's grip toward the stable gripping surface, thereby providing a more stable and repeatable contact point between the golfer's hands and the golf grip.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE PRIORITIES

[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 17 / 578,042, filed on Jan. 18, 2022, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 138,729, filed Jan. 18, 2021, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to golf clubs and relates more particularly to golf club grips having embedded end caps to have sensors for such measurements as swing speeds and distance of shots.BACKGROUND

[0003] Golf clubs can be equipped with a sensor that records swing data. The sensors must be securely fastened to the club to avoid detachment during a swing. Some sensors can be secured directly to the grip, such as by screwing into the butt end of a grip. Other sensors can be embedded within the grip and require a separate component of the grip, such as an end cap, to house the sensor. In such conventional designs, an interference fit is used between the grip and the end cap that may cause misalignment and high stress concentration points that increase grip wear over time.

[0004] In further designs comprising an endcap embedded within the grip, the shaft is a rigid body that extends through the grip body and terminates within the end cap. In such conventional designs, the end cap is an unsupported extension of the grip because the shaft does not extend through the end cap. An unsupported end cap will feel unstable to golfers who prefer to hold the grip near the butt end. However, most end caps do not comprise specific shaping to prevent golfers from gripping near the butt end where the end cap and sensor sit. Therefore, a golfer will remain encouraged to grip near the end cap and sensor, which leads to distracting grip instability and inaccurate feedback from golf shots.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a side elevation view of a tapered end cap according to the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a side elevation view of a grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 1.

[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded side elevation view, in cross section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 2.

[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the tapered end cap of FIG. 1.

[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 2.

[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 2.

[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a tapered end cap according to an alternative embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 7.

[0014] FIG. 9 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 8.

[0015] FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a tapered end cap according to an alternative embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 11 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 10.

[0017] FIG. 12 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 11.DEFINITIONS

[0018] “Flanges” as used herein is describes the lower tapered region of the endcap.

[0019] “Longitudinal axis” as used herein is an axis defined by the shaft. The longitudinal axis runs from a geometric center of the bottom end of the shaft to a geometric center of the top end of the shaft.

[0020] “Tangent plane” as used herein is a plane defined by the end cap. The tangent plane is bound by an outer surface of the upper portion that extends from the maximum outer diameter to the grip butt end.

[0021] “Taper” as used herein is a reduction of thickness toward one end.

[0022] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same elements.

[0023] The terms “first,”“second,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0024] The terms “top,”“over,”“upper,”“lower,”“inner,”“outer,”“maximum,”“taper,”“chamfer,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0025] The terms “couple,”“coupled,”“couples,”“coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically and / or otherwise.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

[0027] In order to gather specific swing measurements, such as club head speed, swing path, or face angle, a sensor may be housed in an end cap embedded in a golf club grip. Subtle changes to golf equipment, such as embedding the end cap within the grip body, can have a significant impact on grip wear over time, and can negatively impact focus and grip stability. To provide an embedded end cap and sensor within the grip body, without sacrificing grip durability and comfort, a grip body and end cap is provided with complementary tapered structures. These design improvements allow the end cap and grip body to form a secure tapered joint that evenly disperses stresses and prevents grip wear. Further, the improved design encourages the golfer to repeatedly grip lower along the supported grip body, which provides a more stable contact point between the golfer's hands and the golf club grip.

[0028] Described herein is a golf club comprising a club head, a shaft having a rigid body with a top end and bottom end, and a grip 100. The grip 100, as shown in FIG. 2, comprises a grip body 122 having a grip body first end 124, a grip body second end 126 opposite the grip body first end 124, and a gripping surface 114 extending between the first end 124 and the second end 126. The grip body 122 defines a grip body length, measured along the longitudinal axis 180 from the first end 124 to the second end 126. In some embodiments, the grip body length is between 9.5 inches and 11.5 inches. In some embodiments, the grip body length is 9.5 inches, 9.75 inches, 10 inches, 10.25 inches, 10.5 inches, 10.75 inches, 11 inches, 11.25 inches, or 11.5 inches.

[0029] The grip body 122 can be formed from any material with a hardness that is measured using the Shore A Hardness Scale. In some embodiments, the grip body 122 has a Shore A hardness between 30 to 60. In some embodiments, the Shore A hardness is between 30 to 40, 40 to 50, or 50 to 60. In one exemplary embodiment, the Shore A hardness is 55.

[0030] The grip body first end 124 is configured to secure and form an outer circumference around a tapered end cap 112 and sensor 196. For example, the grip body first end 124 comprises a socket 144 having an exterior surface 145a, an interior surface 145b opposite the exterior surface 145a, an outer stop 146, and an inner stop 147 opposite the outer stop 146 and adjacent the interior surface 145b. The exterior surface 145a is configured with and follows the contour of the remainder of the grip body 122. On the other hand, the interior surface 145b has a tapered or frustoconical shape and the inner stop 147 comprises a curved contour. The combined contour of the interior surface 145b and the inner stop 147 forms a secure tapered joint 148 with the tapered end cap 112, as described in greater detail below.

[0031] The grip 100 further comprises a tapered end cap 112 that is configured to be at least partially embedded within the grip body 122 at the grip body first end 124. More specifically, the tapered end cap 112 comprises an upper region 137 projecting outwardly from the grip body first end 124 and defining a grip assembly butt end 118, a lower region 139 opposite the upper region 137 and embedded within the grip body first end 124, and an intermediate wall 134 extending across the lower region 139. The intermediate wall 134 further comprises an upper surface 135 facing the upper region 137 and a lower surface 136 opposite the upper surface 135. The outer and inner stops 146, 147 limit insertion of the end cap 112 into the grip body 122, such that the upper region 137 extends a length beyond the grip body first end 124, making the grip 100 longer than a grip without a tapered end cap. In some embodiments, the upper region 137 of the tapered end cap 112 extends 0.25 inches beyond the grip body first end 124. Multiple tapered end caps may extend different lengths beyond the grip body first end 124, which allows the grip 100 to be customizable to a golfer's preferences.

[0032] The tapered end cap 112 can be formed from any material with a hardness that is measured using the Shore A Hardness Scale and is between 50 to 100. In some embodiments, the Shore A hardness is between 50 to 60, 60 to 70, 70 to 80, 80 to 90, or 90 to 100. In exemplary embodiments, the end cap 112 is formed from a material that is harder than that of the grip body 122. In one exemplary embodiment, the Shore A hardness is 78. By comprising a greater Shore A hardness, the tapered end cap 112 can protect the sensor 196 and the grip body first end 124 from external elements (e.g., moisture, dust, etc.) and various surfaces that could be damaging. Additionally, a higher Shore A hardness compensates for any instability that may result from regions of the tapered end cap 112 being unsupported by the shaft. Further, the harder tapered end cap 112 promotes ease of assembly by preventing the shaft from penetrating the tapered end cap 112 as the tapered end cap 112 is inserted into the grip body first end 124.

[0033] The lower region 139 of the tapered end cap 112 comprises a plug 142 having an exterior surface 143 and a lower cylindrical wall 140 that projects from an outer perimeter of the lower surface 136 to form a bottom cavity 130 in the tapered end cap 112. The bottom cavity 130, as shown in FIG. 6, comprises a bottom first cavity depth and bottom cavity diameter 190, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 180 between the lower cylindrical wall 140, to receive and form a tight connection with the shaft. This structural rigidity prevents the tapered end cap 112 from moving, thereby providing the golfer with a more stable grip 100. In some embodiments, the bottom cavity diameter 190 can be consistent along the depth of the bottom cavity 130. In further embodiments, the bottom cavity diameter 190 varies along the depth of the bottom cavity 130.

[0034] The exterior surface 143 of the plug 142 further comprises a tapered contour to form a tapered joint 148 with the socket 144 of the grip body 122. More specifically, the exterior surface 143 of the plug 142 comprises a tapered or frustoconical shape complementary to that of the interior surface 145b of the socket 144, as shown in FIGS. 3-6. Due to the complementary tapers, the plug 142 can be easily and accurately assembled within the socket 144. Further, the complementary tapers allow the exterior surface 143 of the plug 142 to uniformly contact the interior surface 145b of the socket 144 across the entire tapered joint 148 and therefore, evenly disperse loads and stresses. As such, the plug 142 and the socket 144 form a secure tapered joint 148 that mitigates high stress concentration points that cause grip wear over time.

[0035] The tapered joint 148 between the plug 142 and the socket 144 forms the first taper angle 194 relative to the longitudinal axis 180 of the grip 100, as shown in FIG. 5. A first tangent plane 182, tangent to the tapered joint 148, intersects the longitudinal axis 180 at a point along the gripping surface 114. The first taper angle 194, is measured between the longitudinal axis 180 and the first tangent plane 182. The first taper angle 194 is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees. In some embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 15 degrees to 20 degrees, 20 degrees to 25 degrees, 25 degrees to 30 degrees, 30 degrees to 35 degrees, or 35 degrees to 40 degrees. In alternate embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 10 degrees to 40 degrees. The first taper angle 194 is between 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In some embodiments the first taper angle 194 is approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately 46 degrees, approximately 47 degrees, approximately 48 degrees, approximately 49 degrees, or approximately 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 65-80 degrees. In some embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 65 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70 degrees and 75 degrees, or between 75 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0036] The upper region 137 of the tapered end cap 112 comprises the grip assembly butt end 118, a non-gripping surface 116, and an upper cylindrical wall 132 that projects from an outer perimeter of the upper surface 135 to form an upper cavity 138 in the tapered end cap 112. The upper cavity 138 is exposed near the grip assembly butt end 118 such that the sensor 196 is visible when viewing the grip assembly butt end 118 in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 180. The upper cavity 138, as shown in FIG. 6, comprises a specific upper cavity depth 185, measured along the longitudinal axis 180 between the upper surface 135 and the grip assembly butt end 118, to harbor a sensor 196. In some embodiments, the upper cavity depth 185 is between 0.3 inch and 0.4 inch. In some embodiments, the upper cavity depth 185 is approximately 0.3 inch, approximately 0.31 inch, approximately 0.32 inch, approximately 0.33 inch, approximately 0.34 inch, approximately 0.35 inch, approximately 0.36 inch, approximately 0.37 inch, approximately 0.38 inch, approximately 0.39 inch, or approximately 0.4 inch. In one exemplary embodiment, the upper cavity depth 185 is 0.365 inch to accommodate a specific sensor 196. Additionally, the upper cavity 138 comprises a specific upper cavity diameter 188, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 180 between the upper cylindrical wall 132, to harbor a sensor 196 within the upper cavity 138. In some embodiments, the upper cavity diameter 188 is between 0.60 inch and 1.00 inch. In some embodiments, the upper cavity diameter 188 is 0.60 inch, 0.65 inch, 0.70 inch, 0.75 inch, 0.80 inch, 0.85 inch, 0.90 inch, 0.95 inch or 1.00 inch. The dimensions of the upper cavity 138 are selected to accommodate the sensor 196. For example, multiple tapered end caps 112 may comprise different upper cavity depths 185 and upper cavity diameters 188, which allows the grip 100 to harbor a sensor 196 according to the preferences of a golfer.

[0037] The upper cylindrical wall 132 of the upper region 137 further comprises a lip 128 adjacent to the grip assembly butt end 118 and along the perimeter of the upper cavity 138 configured to secure the sensor 196 within the upper cavity 138. In particular, the lip 128 defines a lip diameter 192 that can be smaller than the upper cavity diameter 188 to pinch the sensor 196 within the upper cavity 138 and prevent the sensor 196 from falling out of the tapered end cap 112.

[0038] The sensor 196 is disposed within the tapered end cap 112 and sits within the upper cavity 138. For example, the sensor 196 can be press-fit between the upper cylindrical wall 132, coupled to the upper surface 135, and sit within the upper cavity 138 in the upper region 137 of the tapered end cap 112. The sensor 196 may additionally be secured within the upper cavity 138 with an adhesive, such as epoxy.

[0039] In embodiments in which the sensor 196 is additionally secured with an adhesive, the upper region 137 may additionally comprise a plurality of depressions 198 radiating outwardly from a center of the upper surface 135 and extending along the length of the upper cylindrical wall 132. The plurality of depressions 198 may comprise a rounded, angled, or U-shaped contour to allow an adhesive, such as epoxy, to flow around the sensor 196 and increase the bonding surface area between the sensor 196 and the upper surface 135. Further, the plurality of depressions 198 can alleviate pressure that builds up during installation.

[0040] The exterior surface of the upper region 137 defines a non-gripping surface 116 comprising a taper configured to prevent the golfer from gripping on the tapered end cap 112. In particular, the non-gripping surface 116 is a tapered region of the end cap 112 that interrupts the grip outer surface and prompts the golfer to grip within the gripping region. In other words, the non-gripping surface 116 influences the golfer to grip lower on the grip 100 as to ensure a stable point of contact. The non-gripping surface 116 can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or reshaped in any suitable manner. The non-gripping surface 116 further secures the sensor within the first cavity by pinching it into place.

[0041] The non-gripping surface 116 is tapered such that the upper region 137 adjacent the intermediate wall 134 defines a maximum outer diameter 184 of the tapered end cap 112 and the grip assembly butt end 118 defines a minimum outer diameter 193. The maximum outer diameter 184 and the minimum outer diameter 193 are offset a vertical distance 186 of between 0.20 inch to 0.80 inch. In some embodiments, the offset distance 186 is approximately 0.20 inch, 0.25 inch, 0.30 inch, 0.35 inch, 0.40 inch, 0.45 inch, 0.50 inch, 0.55 inch, 0.60 inch, 0.65 inch, 0.70 inch, 0.75 inch, or 0.80 inch.

[0042] The non-gripping surface 116 defines a second taper angle 195 relative to the longitudinal axis 180 of the grip 100, as shown in FIG. 5. A second tangent plane 183, tangent to the non-gripping surface 116, intersects the longitudinal axis 180 at a point beyond the grip assembly butt end 118. A second taper angle 195, is measured between the longitudinal axis 180 and the second tangent plane 183. The second taper angle 195 is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees. In some embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 15 degrees to 20 degrees, 20 degrees to 25 degrees, 25 degrees to 30 degrees, 30 degrees to 35 degrees, or 35 degrees to 40 degrees. In alternate embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 10 degrees to 40 degrees. The second taper angle 195 is between 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In some embodiments the second taper angle 195 is approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately 46 degrees, approximately 47 degrees, approximately 48 degrees, approximately 49 degrees, or approximately 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 65-80 degrees. In some embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 65 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70 degrees and 75 degrees, or between 75 degrees and 80 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the second taper angle 195 is 30 degrees. The upper region 137 defines the non-gripping surface 116, while the lower region 139 secures the tapered end cap 112 to the grip body 122.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7-9, a grip 200, similar to the grip 100, is configured to secure and form an outer circumference around a tapered end cap 212 and sensor. However, the grip 200 differs from the grip 100 because the tapered end cap 212 omits the bottom cavity. The grip 200 is described using reference numbers similar to the grip 100. The grip 200 comprises a grip body 222 and grip body first end 224 similar to the grip body 122 and grip body first end 124 of the grip 100. In particular, the grip body first end 224 comprises a socket 244 having a tapered or frustoconical interior surface 245b, an outer stop 246, and curved inner stop 247 similar to the socket 144.

[0044] The grip 200 further comprises a tapered end cap 212 configured to be at least partially embedded within the grip body 222. The tapered end cap 212 comprises dimensions similar to the dimensions of tapered end cap 112, as shown in FIG. 9. For example, the tapered end cap 212 comprises an upper region 237 projecting outwardly from the grip body first end 224 and defining a grip assembly butt end 218, a lower region 239 opposite the upper region 237 and embedded within the grip body first end 224, and an intermediate wall 234 extending across the lower region 239. The intermediate wall 234 further comprises an upper surface 235 facing the upper portion 237 and a lower surface 236 opposite the upper surface 235. The outer and inner steps 246, 247 limit insertion of the end cap 212 into the grip body 222, such that the upper region 237 extends a length beyond the grip body first end 224, making the grip 200 longer than a grip without a tapered end cap.

[0045] The lower region 239 of the tapered end cap 212 defines a plug 242 comprising a tapered exterior surface 243 that forms a tapered joint 248 with the socket 244 without interfering with the shaft. Similar to the tapered end cap 112, the exterior surface 243 of the plug 242 comprises a taper complementary to that of the interior surface 245b of the socket 244. This allows the plug 242 to uniformly contact the interior surface 245b of the socket across the entire tapered joint 248 and, therefore evenly disperse loads and stresses. The tapered joint 248 forms a first taper angle 294 relative to the longitudinal axis 280 of the grip 200, as shown in FIG. 8. Similar to the first taper angle 194, the first taper angle 294 is measured between the longitudinal axis 280 and a first tangent plane 282 positioned tangent to the tapered joint 248. However, the plug 242 of the tapered end cap 212 differs from the plug 142 because the plug 242 lacks the bottom cavity 130 of the tapered end cap 112 for receiving the shaft. As such, the end cap 212 does not interfere with shaft to allow for the combined grip body 222 and tapered end cap 212 to be easily installed on the shaft.

[0046] The upper region 237 of the tapered end cap 212 comprises the grip assembly butt end 218, a non-gripping surface 216, and an upper cylindrical wall 232 that projects from an outer perimeter of the upper surface 235 to form an upper cavity 238, similar to the upper cavity 138. The upper cavity 238 is configured to harbor a sensor and is exposed near the grip assembly butt end 218 such that the sensor is visible when viewing the grip assembly butt end 218 in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 280. The upper cavity 238 comprises an upper cavity diameter 288, similar to the upper cavity diameter 188, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 280 between the upper cylindrical wall 232, to harbor the sensor within the upper cavity 238. The upper cylindrical wall 232 further comprises a lip 228 having a lip diameter 292, similar to the lip 128 and lip diameter 192, configured to pinch the sensor within the upper cavity 238 and prevent the sensor from falling out of the tapered end cap 212.

[0047] Similar to the tapered end cap 112, the sensor can be press-fit between the upper cylindrical wall 232, couple to the upper surface 235, and sit within the upper cavity 238. In some embodiments, the sensor may additionally be secured within the upper cavity 238 with an adhesive, such as epoxy. In such embodiments, the upper region 237 may additionally comprise a plurality of depressions 298 similar to the plurality of depressions 198. As previously mentioned, the plurality of depressions 298 allow adhesive to flow around the sensor, increase the bonding surface area between the sensor and the upper surface 235, and alleviate pressure that builds up during installation.

[0048] Additionally, the tapered end cap 212 defines a non-gripping surface 216, similar to the non-gripping surface 116, that can be tapered, rounded, or chamfered. Similar to the non-gripping surface 116, the non-gripping surface 216 is tapered such that the upper region 237 adjacent the intermediate wall 234 defines a maximum outer diameter 284 and the grip assembly butt end 218 defines a minimum outer diameter 293. The maximum outer diameter 284 and the minimum outer diameter 293 are offset a vertical distance 286, similar to the vertical distance 186. As additionally described above, the non-gripping surface 216 is a tapered region of the end cap 212 that interrupts the grip outer surface and prompts the golfer to grip lower on the grip 200 as to ensure a stable point of contact. The non-gripping surface 216 further secures the sensor within the upper cavity 238. In particular, the non-gripping surface 216 defines a second taper angle 295, similar to the second taper angle 195, relative to the longitudinal axis 280 of the grip 200. In particular, the second taper angle 295 is measured between the longitudinal axis 280 and a second tangent plane 283 positioned tangent to the non-gripping surface 216.

[0049] In a further embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10-12, a grip 300, similar to the grips 100 and 200, is configured to secure and form an outer circumference around a tapered end cap 312 and sensor. The grip 300, however, omits the lips 128, 228 of the previous embodiments. The grip 300 is described using reference numbers similar to the grips 100 and 200. The grip 300 comprises a grip body 322 and a grip body first end 324 similar to the grip bodies 122, 222 and grip body first ends 124, 224 of the grips 100, 200. In particular, the grip body first end 324 comprises a socket 344 having a tapered or frustoconical interior surface 345b, an outer stop 346, and curved inner stop 347 similar to the sockets 144, 244.

[0050] The grip 300 further comprises a tapered end cap 312 configured to be at least partially embedded within the grip body 322. The tapered end cap 312 comprises dimensions similar to the dimensions of tapered end caps 112, 212, as shown in FIG. 12. For example, the tapered end cap 312 comprises an upper region 337 projecting outwardly from the grip body first end 324 and defining a grip assembly butt end 318, a lower region 339 opposite the upper region 337 and embedded within the grip body first end 324, and an intermediate wall 334 extending across the lower region 339. The intermediate wall 334 further comprises an upper surface 335 facing the upper portion 337 and a lower surface 336 opposite the upper surface 335. The outer and inner steps 346, 347 limit insertion of the end cap 312 into the grip body 322, such that the upper region 337 extends a length beyond the grip body first end 324, making the grip 300 longer than a grip without a tapered end cap.

[0051] The lower region 339 of the tapered end cap 312 defines a plug 342 comprising a tapered exterior surface 343 that forms a tapered joint 348 with the socket 344 without interfering with the shaft. Similar to the tapered end caps 112 and 212, the exterior surface 343 of the plug 342 comprises a taper complementary to that of the interior surface 345b of the socket 344. This allows the plug 342 to uniformly contact the interior surface 345b of the socket 344 across the entire tapered joint 348 and therefore, evenly disperse loads and stresses. The tapered joint 348 forms a first taper angle 394, similar to the first taper angles 194, 294, as shown in FIG. 11. Similar to the first taper angles 194, 294, the first taper angle 394 is measured between the longitudinal axis 380 and a first tangent plane 382 positioned tangent to the tapered joint 348. Additionally, the plug 342 of the tapered end cap 312 lacks the bottom cavity 130 for receiving the shaft, similar to the plug 242. As such, the end cap 312 does not interfere with shaft to allow for the combined grip body 322 and tapered end cap 312 to be easily installed on the shaft.

[0052] The upper region 337 of the tapered end cap 312 comprises the grip assembly butt end 318, a non-gripping surface 316, and an upper cylindrical wall 332 that projects from an outer perimeter of the upper surface 335 to form an upper cavity 338, similar to the upper cavities 138 and 238. The upper cavity 338 is configured to harbor a sensor and is exposed near the grip assembly butt end 318 such that the sensor is visible when viewing the grip assembly butt end 318 in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 380. The upper cavity 338 comprises an upper cavity diameter 388, similar to the upper cavity diameters 188, 288, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 380 between the upper cylindrical wall 332, to harbor the sensor within the upper cavity 338. The upper cylindrical wall 332 differs from the upper cylindrical walls 132 and 232 because the upper cylindrical wall 332 lacks a lip. Therefore, the sensor can be easily positioned within the upper cavity 338 without the use of a tool. By lacking a lip, the upper cavity 338 comprises a constant upper cavity diameter 388.

[0053] Similar to the tapered end caps 112, 212, the sensor can be press-fit between the upper cylindrical wall 332, couple to the upper surface 335, and sit within the upper cavity 338. Due to the upper cylindrical wall 332 lacking a lip, however, the sensor requires additional forms of coupling, such as a screw or an adhesive. In embodiments utilizing an adhesive, the upper region 337 may additionally comprise a plurality of depressions 398 similar to the plurality of depressions 198 and 298. As previously mentioned, the plurality of depressions 398 allow adhesive to flow around the sensor, increase the bonding surface area between the sensor and the upper surface 335, and alleviate pressure that builds up during installation.

[0054] Additionally, the tapered end cap 312 defines a non-gripping surface 316, similar to the non-gripping surfaces 116 and 216, that can be tapered, rounded, or chamfered. Similar to the non-gripping surfaces 116, 216, the non-gripping surface 316 is tapered such that the upper region 337 adjacent the intermediate wall 334 defines a maximum outer diameter 384 and the grip assembly butt end 318 defines a minimum outer diameter 393. The maximum outer diameter 384 and the minimum outer diameter 393 are offset a vertical distance 386, similar to the vertical distances 186, 286. As additionally described above, the non-gripping surface 316 is a tapered region of the end cap 312 that interrupts the grip outer surface and prompts the golfer to grip lower on the grip 300 as to ensure a stable point of contact. The non-gripping surface 316 further secures the sensor within the upper cavity 338. In particular, the exterior surface defines a second taper angle 395, similar to the second taper angle 195 and 295, relative to the longitudinal axis 380 of the grip 300.METHOD

[0055] The method of manufacturing the golf club grip described herein can comprise (1) forming a tapered end cap, (2) forming a grip body, (3) securing the tapered end cap to the grip body (4) inserting a shaft into the grip body and / or a second cavity, (5) securing a sensor within an upper cavity. In step 1, the tapered end cap comprises an upper region and a lower region. The upper region includes an upper cavity configured to house a sensor. The upper cavity further comprises depressions designed for adhesive to flow around the sensor. The lower region comprises a plug configured to couple with the grip body. The lower region further comprises a lower cavity configured to receive a shaft. In step 2, the grip body comprises a tapered gripping surface and a socket. The socket is designed to complement the plug of the tapered end cap and provide a form of coupling between the two components. In steps 1 and 2, the tapered end cap and grip body can both be molded. In step 3, the tapered end cap and the grip body can be secured via the plug and the socket. In step 4 the shaft is inserted into the grip body and in some embodiments is also inserted into the lower cavity. In step 5, the sensor can be secured within the upper cavity with an adhesive, such as epoxy, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting. The depressions allow the adhesive to flow around the sensor increasing the surface are for adhesion.EXAMPLESI. Example 1: Player Test

[0056] A player test was conducted to compare the feel of two golf clubs having different grips. The golf clubs were similar but for the difference in the grip end cap constructions. The results compared the effect of the different end caps on player satisfaction and performance.

[0057] The first golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “control grip”) having a traditional, non-tapered end cap. The second golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “exemplary grip”) similar to the grip shown in FIG. 2. The exemplary grip comprised a tapered end cap that defined a non-gripping surface. The grips were similar but for the difference in the end cap geometries. The player test was conducted to compare the feel of the tapered end cap of the exemplary grip versus the non-tapered end cap of the control grip.

[0058] The player test involved fifteen players who participated in a survey that compared their experiences with the exemplary grip and the control aid devoid of a tapered end cap. The players tested each club head under similar conditions, where the golf club heads included similar shaft lengths and similar loft angles. Further, the player test was conducted on a typical surface.

[0059] After testing, the participants rated the grip performance and satisfaction based several parameters including their comfort and overall performance with the different grips. The grips were given a rating of between 1 to 5 for each of these parameters. A rating of 1 represented the lowest level of satisfaction, and a rating of 5 represented the highest level of satisfaction. The ratings in each category were averaged over the 15 participants.TABLE 1Control GripExemplary GripGrip Stability3.594.06Grip Contour3.533.82Hand Positioning3.503.81Overall Satisfaction3.213.71

[0060] The results of the player test are illustrated in Table 1 above. First, the players were asked, “How satisfied are you with the stability of the grip end in your hands during your swing?” The exemplary grip scored higher at a 4.06 than the control grip, which scored a 3.59. Of the surveyed players, 86% indicated they were “very satisfied,” or “satisfied” with how secure the exemplary grip felt. One player commented that his hands tended to slip off the wobbly control grip. Next, the players were asked, “How satisfied are you with the contour of the grip?” The exemplary grip again scored higher at a 3.82 than the control grip which scored a 3.53. Of the surveyed players, 73% indicated they were “very satisfied,” or “satisfied” by the natural feel of the contour. The players observed that the chamfer was very noticeable and helped naturally guide their hands to the gripping region. The players were then asked, “How satisfied are you with the ability to position your hands on the grip in the same position that you typically would on a grip without a measurement technology?” The exemplary grip again scored higher at a 3.81 than the control grip, scoring a 3.50. Of the surveyed players, 71% indicated they were “very satisfied,” or “satisfied” with how similar their grip felt to their normal grip when using the exemplary grip. When the players were asked to rate their overall satisfaction, the exemplary grip scored higher at a 3.71 than the control grip, only scoring a 3.21. Some players observed that the control grip felt heavier and longer than the exemplary grip. The survey concluded that most of the players had a better experience using the exemplary grip.

[0061] The tapered end cap provides advantages that are an improvement over the art. Removing material from the end cap upper portion (i.e. forming a chamfer or taper in the end cap) encourages the golfer to grip near the stable portion of the grip body. Additionally, the sensor is protected since the golfer is not leveraging against the flexible sensor housing. Based on the survey that was conducted, the tapered end cap can improve stability for players who grip near the end of a grip.CLAUSES

[0062] Clause 1. A golf club grip, comprising: a grip body and an end cap; the grip body comprising a first end and a second end opposite the first end; the first end comprising a socket; and an end cap, the end cap comprising; an outer diameter; a lower region; the lower region comprising a plug having an exterior surface and a lower cylindrical wall; the plug being received within the socket to form a connection between the end cap and the grip body; an upper region opposite the lower region; the upper region comprising a grip assembly butt end, an exterior surface defining a non-gripping surface, and an upper cylindrical wall; the upper cylindrical wall comprising a lip; and an intermediate wall extending across the lower region; the intermediate wall comprising an upper surface facing the upper region and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; the upper surface is recessed into the upper region via the upper cylindrical wall to form an upper cavity that harbors a sensor; and the lower surface is recessed into the lower region via the lower cylindrical wall to form a lower cavity.

[0063] Clause 2. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the socket and the plug have complimentary geometries that form a tight connection to secure the end cap to the grip body.

[0064] Clause 3. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the upper region adjacent the intermediate wall defines a maximum outer diameter of the end cap.

[0065] Clause 4. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein a surface between the first end and the second end defines a gripping surface, and a non-gripping surface is defined by the end cap.

[0066] Clause 5. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the socket forms an outer circumference of the connection between the end cap and the grip body.

[0067] Clause 6. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

[0068] Clause 7. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the grip body and the end cap are formed integrally, secured together with an adhesive, or otherwise connected to form the grip.

[0069] Clause 8. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein: the upper cavity comprises a upper cavity diameter; and the lip is above the upper cavity, and the lip comprises a lip diameter smaller than the upper cavity diameter to secure the sensor in place.

[0070] Clause 9. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the upper region comprises a plurality of depressions to allow an adhesive to flow around the sensor.

[0071] Clause 10. The golf club grip of clause 11, wherein the depressions radiate outward from a center of the upper surface.

[0072] Clause 11. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the non-gripping surface can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise reshaped.

[0073] Clause 12. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the non-griping surface defines a tangent plane and a taper angle that is measured between the longitudinal axis and the tangent plane, and the taper angle is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0074] Clause 13. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the end cap has a greater Shore A hardness than the grip body.

[0075] Clause 14. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the first cavity defines a cavity height measured along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the cavity height is between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches.

[0076] Clause 15. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the sensor is harbored within the upper region of the end cap.

[0077] Clause 16. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the end cap further defines a maximum outer diameter, wherein the maximum outer diameter is offset from the grip assembly butt end of the golf club grip by distance between 0.2 inch to 0.8 inch, and the non-gripping surface has a taper from the maximum outer diameter to a minimum outer diameter at the grip assembly butt end.

[0078] Clause 17. A method of manufacturing a grip comprising: forming an end cap, the end cap comprising an upper region having a plurality of depressions, and a lower region comprising a plug; forming a grip body, the grip body comprising a first end having a socket and a second end opposite the first end; coupling the plug with the socket to form a secure connection between the end cap and the grip body; inserting a shaft into the grip body and the lower region of the end cap; securing a sensor within the upper region; and wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

[0079] Clause 18. The method of manufacturing of the grip of clause 17, wherein the sensor securing step further comprises allowing the adhesive to flow around the sensor via the plurality of depressions.

[0080] Clause 19. A golf club grip, comprising: a grip body and an end cap; the grip body comprising a first end and a second end opposite the first end; the first end comprising a socket; and an end cap, the end cap comprising; an outer diameter; a lower region; the lower region comprising a plug having an exterior surface and a lower cylindrical wall; the plug being received within the socket to form a connection between the end cap and the grip body; an upper region opposite the lower region; the upper region comprising a grip assembly butt end, an exterior surface defining a non-gripping surface, and an upper cylindrical wall; the upper cylindrical wall comprising a lip; and an intermediate wall extending across the lower region; the intermediate wall comprising an upper surface facing the upper region and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; the upper surface is recessed into the upper region via the upper cylindrical wall to form an upper cavity that harbors a sensor; and the lower surface is recessed into the lower region via the lower cylindrical wall to form a lower cavity.

[0081] Clause 20. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the socket and the plug have complimentary geometries that form a tight connection to secure the end cap to the grip body.

[0082] Clause 21. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein a maximum outer diameter of the end cap further defines the boundary between the upper region and the lower region.

[0083] Clause 22. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein a surface between the first end and the second end defines a gripping surface, and a non-gripping surface is defined by the end cap.

[0084] Clause 23. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the socket forms an outer circumference of the connection between the end cap and the grip body.

[0085] Clause 24. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

[0086] Clause 25. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the grip body and the end cap are formed integrally, secured together with an adhesive, or otherwise connected to form the grip.

[0087] Clause 26. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein: the upper cavity comprises an upper cavity diameter; and the lip is above the upper cavity, and the lip comprises a lip diameter smaller than the upper cavity diameter to secure the sensor in place.

[0088] Clause 27. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the upper surface comprises a plurality of depressions to allow an adhesive to flow around the sensor.

[0089] Clause 28. The golf club grip of clause 27, wherein the depressions radiate outward from a center of the upper surface.

[0090] Clause 29. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the non-gripping surface can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise reshaped.

[0091] Clause 30. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the non-griping surface defines a tangent plane and a taper angle that is measured between the longitudinal axis and the tangent plane, and the taper angle is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0092] Clause 31. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the end cap has a greater Shore A hardness than the grip body.

[0093] Clause 32. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the upper cavity defines a cavity height measured along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the cavity height is between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches.

[0094] Clause 33. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the sensor is harbored within the upper region of the end cap.

[0095] Clause 34. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the end cap further defines a maximum outer diameter, wherein the maximum outer diameter is offset from the grip assembly butt end of the golf club grip by distance between 0.2 inch to 0.8 inch, and the non-gripping surface has a taper from the maximum outer diameter to a minimum outer diameter at the grip assembly butt end.

Examples

examples

I. Example 1: Player Test

[0056]A player test was conducted to compare the feel of two golf clubs having different grips. The golf clubs were similar but for the difference in the grip end cap constructions. The results compared the effect of the different end caps on player satisfaction and performance.

[0057]The first golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “control grip”) having a traditional, non-tapered end cap. The second golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “exemplary grip”) similar to the grip shown in FIG. 2. The exemplary grip comprised a tapered end cap that defined a non-gripping surface. The grips were similar but for the difference in the end cap geometries. The player test was conducted to compare the feel of the tapered end cap of the exemplary grip versus the non-tapered end cap of the control grip.

[0058]The player test involved fifteen players who participated in a survey that compared their experiences with the exemplary grip and...

CROSS REFERENCE PRIORITIES

[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 17 / 578,042, filed on Jan. 18, 2022, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 138,729, filed Jan. 18, 2021, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to golf clubs and relates more particularly to golf club grips having embedded end caps to have sensors for such measurements as swing speeds and distance of shots.BACKGROUND

[0003] Golf clubs can be equipped with a sensor that records swing data. The sensors must be securely fastened to the club to avoid detachment during a swing. Some sensors can be secured directly to the grip, such as by screwing into the butt end of a grip. Other sensors can be embedded within the grip and require a separate component of the grip, such as an end cap, to house the sensor. In such conventional designs, an interference fit is used between the grip and the end cap that may cause misalignment and high stress concentration points that increase grip wear over time.

[0004] In further designs comprising an endcap embedded within the grip, the shaft is a rigid body that extends through the grip body and terminates within the end cap. In such conventional designs, the end cap is an unsupported extension of the grip because the shaft does not extend through the end cap. An unsupported end cap will feel unstable to golfers who prefer to hold the grip near the butt end. However, most end caps do not comprise specific shaping to prevent golfers from gripping near the butt end where the end cap and sensor sit. Therefore, a golfer will remain encouraged to grip near the end cap and sensor, which leads to distracting grip instability and inaccurate feedback from golf shots.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a side elevation view of a tapered end cap according to the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a side elevation view of a grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 1.

[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded side elevation view, in cross section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 2.

[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the tapered end cap of FIG. 1.

[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 2.

[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 2.

[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a tapered end cap according to an alternative embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 7.

[0014] FIG. 9 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 8.

[0015] FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a tapered end cap according to an alternative embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 11 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of a grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 10.

[0017] FIG. 12 illustrates a side elevation view, in cross-section, of the grip with the tapered end cap of FIG. 11.DEFINITIONS

[0018] “Flanges” as used herein is describes the lower tapered region of the endcap.

[0019] “Longitudinal axis” as used herein is an axis defined by the shaft. The longitudinal axis runs from a geometric center of the bottom end of the shaft to a geometric center of the top end of the shaft.

[0020] “Tangent plane” as used herein is a plane defined by the end cap. The tangent plane is bound by an outer surface of the upper portion that extends from the maximum outer diameter to the grip butt end.

[0021] “Taper” as used herein is a reduction of thickness toward one end.

[0022] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same elements.

[0023] The terms “first,”“second,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0024] The terms “top,”“over,”“upper,”“lower,”“inner,”“outer,”“maximum,”“taper,”“chamfer,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0025] The terms “couple,”“coupled,”“couples,”“coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically and / or otherwise.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

[0027] In order to gather specific swing measurements, such as club head speed, swing path, or face angle, a sensor may be housed in an end cap embedded in a golf club grip. Subtle changes to golf equipment, such as embedding the end cap within the grip body, can have a significant impact on grip wear over time, and can negatively impact focus and grip stability. To provide an embedded end cap and sensor within the grip body, without sacrificing grip durability and comfort, a grip body and end cap is provided with complementary tapered structures. These design improvements allow the end cap and grip body to form a secure tapered joint that evenly disperses stresses and prevents grip wear. Further, the improved design encourages the golfer to repeatedly grip lower along the supported grip body, which provides a more stable contact point between the golfer's hands and the golf club grip.

[0028] Described herein is a golf club comprising a club head, a shaft having a rigid body with a top end and bottom end, and a grip 100. The grip 100, as shown in FIG. 2, comprises a grip body 122 having a grip body first end 124, a grip body second end 126 opposite the grip body first end 124, and a gripping surface 114 extending between the first end 124 and the second end 126. The grip body 122 defines a grip body length, measured along the longitudinal axis 180 from the first end 124 to the second end 126. In some embodiments, the grip body length is between 9.5 inches and 11.5 inches. In some embodiments, the grip body length is 9.5 inches, 9.75 inches, 10 inches, 10.25 inches, 10.5 inches, 10.75 inches, 11 inches, 11.25 inches, or 11.5 inches.

[0029] The grip body 122 can be formed from any material with a hardness that is measured using the Shore A Hardness Scale. In some embodiments, the grip body 122 has a Shore A hardness between 30 to 60. In some embodiments, the Shore A hardness is between 30 to 40, 40 to 50, or 50 to 60. In one exemplary embodiment, the Shore A hardness is 55.

[0030] The grip body first end 124 is configured to secure and form an outer circumference around a tapered end cap 112 and sensor 196. For example, the grip body first end 124 comprises a socket 144 having an exterior surface 145a, an interior surface 145b opposite the exterior surface 145a, an outer stop 146, and an inner stop 147 opposite the outer stop 146 and adjacent the interior surface 145b. The exterior surface 145a is configured with and follows the contour of the remainder of the grip body 122. On the other hand, the interior surface 145b has a tapered or frustoconical shape and the inner stop 147 comprises a curved contour. The combined contour of the interior surface 145b and the inner stop 147 forms a secure tapered joint 148 with the tapered end cap 112, as described in greater detail below.

[0031] The grip 100 further comprises a tapered end cap 112 that is configured to be at least partially embedded within the grip body 122 at the grip body first end 124. More specifically, the tapered end cap 112 comprises an upper region 137 projecting outwardly from the grip body first end 124 and defining a grip assembly butt end 118, a lower region 139 opposite the upper region 137 and embedded within the grip body first end 124, and an intermediate wall 134 extending across the lower region 139. The intermediate wall 134 further comprises an upper surface 135 facing the upper region 137 and a lower surface 136 opposite the upper surface 135. The outer and inner stops 146, 147 limit insertion of the end cap 112 into the grip body 122, such that the upper region 137 extends a length beyond the grip body first end 124, making the grip 100 longer than a grip without a tapered end cap. In some embodiments, the upper region 137 of the tapered end cap 112 extends 0.25 inches beyond the grip body first end 124. Multiple tapered end caps may extend different lengths beyond the grip body first end 124, which allows the grip 100 to be customizable to a golfer's preferences.

[0032] The tapered end cap 112 can be formed from any material with a hardness that is measured using the Shore A Hardness Scale and is between 50 to 100. In some embodiments, the Shore A hardness is between 50 to 60, 60 to 70, 70 to 80, 80 to 90, or 90 to 100. In exemplary embodiments, the end cap 112 is formed from a material that is harder than that of the grip body 122. In one exemplary embodiment, the Shore A hardness is 78. By comprising a greater Shore A hardness, the tapered end cap 112 can protect the sensor 196 and the grip body first end 124 from external elements (e.g., moisture, dust, etc.) and various surfaces that could be damaging. Additionally, a higher Shore A hardness compensates for any instability that may result from regions of the tapered end cap 112 being unsupported by the shaft. Further, the harder tapered end cap 112 promotes ease of assembly by preventing the shaft from penetrating the tapered end cap 112 as the tapered end cap 112 is inserted into the grip body first end 124.

[0033] The lower region 139 of the tapered end cap 112 comprises a plug 142 having an exterior surface 143 and a lower cylindrical wall 140 that projects from an outer perimeter of the lower surface 136 to form a bottom cavity 130 in the tapered end cap 112. The bottom cavity 130, as shown in FIG. 6, comprises a bottom first cavity depth and bottom cavity diameter 190, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 180 between the lower cylindrical wall 140, to receive and form a tight connection with the shaft. This structural rigidity prevents the tapered end cap 112 from moving, thereby providing the golfer with a more stable grip 100. In some embodiments, the bottom cavity diameter 190 can be consistent along the depth of the bottom cavity 130. In further embodiments, the bottom cavity diameter 190 varies along the depth of the bottom cavity 130.

[0034] The exterior surface 143 of the plug 142 further comprises a tapered contour to form a tapered joint 148 with the socket 144 of the grip body 122. More specifically, the exterior surface 143 of the plug 142 comprises a tapered or frustoconical shape complementary to that of the interior surface 145b of the socket 144, as shown in FIGS. 3-6. Due to the complementary tapers, the plug 142 can be easily and accurately assembled within the socket 144. Further, the complementary tapers allow the exterior surface 143 of the plug 142 to uniformly contact the interior surface 145b of the socket 144 across the entire tapered joint 148 and therefore, evenly disperse loads and stresses. As such, the plug 142 and the socket 144 form a secure tapered joint 148 that mitigates high stress concentration points that cause grip wear over time.

[0035] The tapered joint 148 between the plug 142 and the socket 144 forms the first taper angle 194 relative to the longitudinal axis 180 of the grip 100, as shown in FIG. 5. A first tangent plane 182, tangent to the tapered joint 148, intersects the longitudinal axis 180 at a point along the gripping surface 114. The first taper angle 194, is measured between the longitudinal axis 180 and the first tangent plane 182. The first taper angle 194 is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees. In some embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 15 degrees to 20 degrees, 20 degrees to 25 degrees, 25 degrees to 30 degrees, 30 degrees to 35 degrees, or 35 degrees to 40 degrees. In alternate embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 10 degrees to 40 degrees. The first taper angle 194 is between 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In some embodiments the first taper angle 194 is approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately 46 degrees, approximately 47 degrees, approximately 48 degrees, approximately 49 degrees, or approximately 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 65-80 degrees. In some embodiments, the first taper angle 194 is between 65 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70 degrees and 75 degrees, or between 75 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0036] The upper region 137 of the tapered end cap 112 comprises the grip assembly butt end 118, a non-gripping surface 116, and an upper cylindrical wall 132 that projects from an outer perimeter of the upper surface 135 to form an upper cavity 138 in the tapered end cap 112. The upper cavity 138 is exposed near the grip assembly butt end 118 such that the sensor 196 is visible when viewing the grip assembly butt end 118 in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 180. The upper cavity 138, as shown in FIG. 6, comprises a specific upper cavity depth 185, measured along the longitudinal axis 180 between the upper surface 135 and the grip assembly butt end 118, to harbor a sensor 196. In some embodiments, the upper cavity depth 185 is between 0.3 inch and 0.4 inch. In some embodiments, the upper cavity depth 185 is approximately 0.3 inch, approximately 0.31 inch, approximately 0.32 inch, approximately 0.33 inch, approximately 0.34 inch, approximately 0.35 inch, approximately 0.36 inch, approximately 0.37 inch, approximately 0.38 inch, approximately 0.39 inch, or approximately 0.4 inch. In one exemplary embodiment, the upper cavity depth 185 is 0.365 inch to accommodate a specific sensor 196. Additionally, the upper cavity 138 comprises a specific upper cavity diameter 188, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 180 between the upper cylindrical wall 132, to harbor a sensor 196 within the upper cavity 138. In some embodiments, the upper cavity diameter 188 is between 0.60 inch and 1.00 inch. In some embodiments, the upper cavity diameter 188 is 0.60 inch, 0.65 inch, 0.70 inch, 0.75 inch, 0.80 inch, 0.85 inch, 0.90 inch, 0.95 inch or 1.00 inch. The dimensions of the upper cavity 138 are selected to accommodate the sensor 196. For example, multiple tapered end caps 112 may comprise different upper cavity depths 185 and upper cavity diameters 188, which allows the grip 100 to harbor a sensor 196 according to the preferences of a golfer.

[0037] The upper cylindrical wall 132 of the upper region 137 further comprises a lip 128 adjacent to the grip assembly butt end 118 and along the perimeter of the upper cavity 138 configured to secure the sensor 196 within the upper cavity 138. In particular, the lip 128 defines a lip diameter 192 that can be smaller than the upper cavity diameter 188 to pinch the sensor 196 within the upper cavity 138 and prevent the sensor 196 from falling out of the tapered end cap 112.

[0038] The sensor 196 is disposed within the tapered end cap 112 and sits within the upper cavity 138. For example, the sensor 196 can be press-fit between the upper cylindrical wall 132, coupled to the upper surface 135, and sit within the upper cavity 138 in the upper region 137 of the tapered end cap 112. The sensor 196 may additionally be secured within the upper cavity 138 with an adhesive, such as epoxy.

[0039] In embodiments in which the sensor 196 is additionally secured with an adhesive, the upper region 137 may additionally comprise a plurality of depressions 198 radiating outwardly from a center of the upper surface 135 and extending along the length of the upper cylindrical wall 132. The plurality of depressions 198 may comprise a rounded, angled, or U-shaped contour to allow an adhesive, such as epoxy, to flow around the sensor 196 and increase the bonding surface area between the sensor 196 and the upper surface 135. Further, the plurality of depressions 198 can alleviate pressure that builds up during installation.

[0040] The exterior surface of the upper region 137 defines a non-gripping surface 116 comprising a taper configured to prevent the golfer from gripping on the tapered end cap 112. In particular, the non-gripping surface 116 is a tapered region of the end cap 112 that interrupts the grip outer surface and prompts the golfer to grip within the gripping region. In other words, the non-gripping surface 116 influences the golfer to grip lower on the grip 100 as to ensure a stable point of contact. The non-gripping surface 116 can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or reshaped in any suitable manner. The non-gripping surface 116 further secures the sensor within the first cavity by pinching it into place.

[0041] The non-gripping surface 116 is tapered such that the upper region 137 adjacent the intermediate wall 134 defines a maximum outer diameter 184 of the tapered end cap 112 and the grip assembly butt end 118 defines a minimum outer diameter 193. The maximum outer diameter 184 and the minimum outer diameter 193 are offset a vertical distance 186 of between 0.20 inch to 0.80 inch. In some embodiments, the offset distance 186 is approximately 0.20 inch, 0.25 inch, 0.30 inch, 0.35 inch, 0.40 inch, 0.45 inch, 0.50 inch, 0.55 inch, 0.60 inch, 0.65 inch, 0.70 inch, 0.75 inch, or 0.80 inch.

[0042] The non-gripping surface 116 defines a second taper angle 195 relative to the longitudinal axis 180 of the grip 100, as shown in FIG. 5. A second tangent plane 183, tangent to the non-gripping surface 116, intersects the longitudinal axis 180 at a point beyond the grip assembly butt end 118. A second taper angle 195, is measured between the longitudinal axis 180 and the second tangent plane 183. The second taper angle 195 is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees. In some embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 15 degrees to 20 degrees, 20 degrees to 25 degrees, 25 degrees to 30 degrees, 30 degrees to 35 degrees, or 35 degrees to 40 degrees. In alternate embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 10 degrees to 40 degrees. The second taper angle 195 is between 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In some embodiments the second taper angle 195 is approximately 40 degrees, approximately 41 degrees, approximately 42 degrees, approximately 43 degrees, approximately 44 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately 46 degrees, approximately 47 degrees, approximately 48 degrees, approximately 49 degrees, or approximately 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 65-80 degrees. In some embodiments, the second taper angle 195 is between 65 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70 degrees and 75 degrees, or between 75 degrees and 80 degrees. In one exemplary embodiment, the second taper angle 195 is 30 degrees. The upper region 137 defines the non-gripping surface 116, while the lower region 139 secures the tapered end cap 112 to the grip body 122.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7-9, a grip 200, similar to the grip 100, is configured to secure and form an outer circumference around a tapered end cap 212 and sensor. However, the grip 200 differs from the grip 100 because the tapered end cap 212 omits the bottom cavity. The grip 200 is described using reference numbers similar to the grip 100. The grip 200 comprises a grip body 222 and grip body first end 224 similar to the grip body 122 and grip body first end 124 of the grip 100. In particular, the grip body first end 224 comprises a socket 244 having a tapered or frustoconical interior surface 245b, an outer stop 246, and curved inner stop 247 similar to the socket 144.

[0044] The grip 200 further comprises a tapered end cap 212 configured to be at least partially embedded within the grip body 222. The tapered end cap 212 comprises dimensions similar to the dimensions of tapered end cap 112, as shown in FIG. 9. For example, the tapered end cap 212 comprises an upper region 237 projecting outwardly from the grip body first end 224 and defining a grip assembly butt end 218, a lower region 239 opposite the upper region 237 and embedded within the grip body first end 224, and an intermediate wall 234 extending across the lower region 239. The intermediate wall 234 further comprises an upper surface 235 facing the upper portion 237 and a lower surface 236 opposite the upper surface 235. The outer and inner steps 246, 247 limit insertion of the end cap 212 into the grip body 222, such that the upper region 237 extends a length beyond the grip body first end 224, making the grip 200 longer than a grip without a tapered end cap.

[0045] The lower region 239 of the tapered end cap 212 defines a plug 242 comprising a tapered exterior surface 243 that forms a tapered joint 248 with the socket 244 without interfering with the shaft. Similar to the tapered end cap 112, the exterior surface 243 of the plug 242 comprises a taper complementary to that of the interior surface 245b of the socket 244. This allows the plug 242 to uniformly contact the interior surface 245b of the socket across the entire tapered joint 248 and, therefore evenly disperse loads and stresses. The tapered joint 248 forms a first taper angle 294 relative to the longitudinal axis 280 of the grip 200, as shown in FIG. 8. Similar to the first taper angle 194, the first taper angle 294 is measured between the longitudinal axis 280 and a first tangent plane 282 positioned tangent to the tapered joint 248. However, the plug 242 of the tapered end cap 212 differs from the plug 142 because the plug 242 lacks the bottom cavity 130 of the tapered end cap 112 for receiving the shaft. As such, the end cap 212 does not interfere with shaft to allow for the combined grip body 222 and tapered end cap 212 to be easily installed on the shaft.

[0046] The upper region 237 of the tapered end cap 212 comprises the grip assembly butt end 218, a non-gripping surface 216, and an upper cylindrical wall 232 that projects from an outer perimeter of the upper surface 235 to form an upper cavity 238, similar to the upper cavity 138. The upper cavity 238 is configured to harbor a sensor and is exposed near the grip assembly butt end 218 such that the sensor is visible when viewing the grip assembly butt end 218 in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 280. The upper cavity 238 comprises an upper cavity diameter 288, similar to the upper cavity diameter 188, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 280 between the upper cylindrical wall 232, to harbor the sensor within the upper cavity 238. The upper cylindrical wall 232 further comprises a lip 228 having a lip diameter 292, similar to the lip 128 and lip diameter 192, configured to pinch the sensor within the upper cavity 238 and prevent the sensor from falling out of the tapered end cap 212.

[0047] Similar to the tapered end cap 112, the sensor can be press-fit between the upper cylindrical wall 232, couple to the upper surface 235, and sit within the upper cavity 238. In some embodiments, the sensor may additionally be secured within the upper cavity 238 with an adhesive, such as epoxy. In such embodiments, the upper region 237 may additionally comprise a plurality of depressions 298 similar to the plurality of depressions 198. As previously mentioned, the plurality of depressions 298 allow adhesive to flow around the sensor, increase the bonding surface area between the sensor and the upper surface 235, and alleviate pressure that builds up during installation.

[0048] Additionally, the tapered end cap 212 defines a non-gripping surface 216, similar to the non-gripping surface 116, that can be tapered, rounded, or chamfered. Similar to the non-gripping surface 116, the non-gripping surface 216 is tapered such that the upper region 237 adjacent the intermediate wall 234 defines a maximum outer diameter 284 and the grip assembly butt end 218 defines a minimum outer diameter 293. The maximum outer diameter 284 and the minimum outer diameter 293 are offset a vertical distance 286, similar to the vertical distance 186. As additionally described above, the non-gripping surface 216 is a tapered region of the end cap 212 that interrupts the grip outer surface and prompts the golfer to grip lower on the grip 200 as to ensure a stable point of contact. The non-gripping surface 216 further secures the sensor within the upper cavity 238. In particular, the non-gripping surface 216 defines a second taper angle 295, similar to the second taper angle 195, relative to the longitudinal axis 280 of the grip 200. In particular, the second taper angle 295 is measured between the longitudinal axis 280 and a second tangent plane 283 positioned tangent to the non-gripping surface 216.

[0049] In a further embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10-12, a grip 300, similar to the grips 100 and 200, is configured to secure and form an outer circumference around a tapered end cap 312 and sensor. The grip 300, however, omits the lips 128, 228 of the previous embodiments. The grip 300 is described using reference numbers similar to the grips 100 and 200. The grip 300 comprises a grip body 322 and a grip body first end 324 similar to the grip bodies 122, 222 and grip body first ends 124, 224 of the grips 100, 200. In particular, the grip body first end 324 comprises a socket 344 having a tapered or frustoconical interior surface 345b, an outer stop 346, and curved inner stop 347 similar to the sockets 144, 244.

[0050] The grip 300 further comprises a tapered end cap 312 configured to be at least partially embedded within the grip body 322. The tapered end cap 312 comprises dimensions similar to the dimensions of tapered end caps 112, 212, as shown in FIG. 12. For example, the tapered end cap 312 comprises an upper region 337 projecting outwardly from the grip body first end 324 and defining a grip assembly butt end 318, a lower region 339 opposite the upper region 337 and embedded within the grip body first end 324, and an intermediate wall 334 extending across the lower region 339. The intermediate wall 334 further comprises an upper surface 335 facing the upper portion 337 and a lower surface 336 opposite the upper surface 335. The outer and inner steps 346, 347 limit insertion of the end cap 312 into the grip body 322, such that the upper region 337 extends a length beyond the grip body first end 324, making the grip 300 longer than a grip without a tapered end cap.

[0051] The lower region 339 of the tapered end cap 312 defines a plug 342 comprising a tapered exterior surface 343 that forms a tapered joint 348 with the socket 344 without interfering with the shaft. Similar to the tapered end caps 112 and 212, the exterior surface 343 of the plug 342 comprises a taper complementary to that of the interior surface 345b of the socket 344. This allows the plug 342 to uniformly contact the interior surface 345b of the socket 344 across the entire tapered joint 348 and therefore, evenly disperse loads and stresses. The tapered joint 348 forms a first taper angle 394, similar to the first taper angles 194, 294, as shown in FIG. 11. Similar to the first taper angles 194, 294, the first taper angle 394 is measured between the longitudinal axis 380 and a first tangent plane 382 positioned tangent to the tapered joint 348. Additionally, the plug 342 of the tapered end cap 312 lacks the bottom cavity 130 for receiving the shaft, similar to the plug 242. As such, the end cap 312 does not interfere with shaft to allow for the combined grip body 322 and tapered end cap 312 to be easily installed on the shaft.

[0052] The upper region 337 of the tapered end cap 312 comprises the grip assembly butt end 318, a non-gripping surface 316, and an upper cylindrical wall 332 that projects from an outer perimeter of the upper surface 335 to form an upper cavity 338, similar to the upper cavities 138 and 238. The upper cavity 338 is configured to harbor a sensor and is exposed near the grip assembly butt end 318 such that the sensor is visible when viewing the grip assembly butt end 318 in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 380. The upper cavity 338 comprises an upper cavity diameter 388, similar to the upper cavity diameters 188, 288, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 380 between the upper cylindrical wall 332, to harbor the sensor within the upper cavity 338. The upper cylindrical wall 332 differs from the upper cylindrical walls 132 and 232 because the upper cylindrical wall 332 lacks a lip. Therefore, the sensor can be easily positioned within the upper cavity 338 without the use of a tool. By lacking a lip, the upper cavity 338 comprises a constant upper cavity diameter 388.

[0053] Similar to the tapered end caps 112, 212, the sensor can be press-fit between the upper cylindrical wall 332, couple to the upper surface 335, and sit within the upper cavity 338. Due to the upper cylindrical wall 332 lacking a lip, however, the sensor requires additional forms of coupling, such as a screw or an adhesive. In embodiments utilizing an adhesive, the upper region 337 may additionally comprise a plurality of depressions 398 similar to the plurality of depressions 198 and 298. As previously mentioned, the plurality of depressions 398 allow adhesive to flow around the sensor, increase the bonding surface area between the sensor and the upper surface 335, and alleviate pressure that builds up during installation.

[0054] Additionally, the tapered end cap 312 defines a non-gripping surface 316, similar to the non-gripping surfaces 116 and 216, that can be tapered, rounded, or chamfered. Similar to the non-gripping surfaces 116, 216, the non-gripping surface 316 is tapered such that the upper region 337 adjacent the intermediate wall 334 defines a maximum outer diameter 384 and the grip assembly butt end 318 defines a minimum outer diameter 393. The maximum outer diameter 384 and the minimum outer diameter 393 are offset a vertical distance 386, similar to the vertical distances 186, 286. As additionally described above, the non-gripping surface 316 is a tapered region of the end cap 312 that interrupts the grip outer surface and prompts the golfer to grip lower on the grip 300 as to ensure a stable point of contact. The non-gripping surface 316 further secures the sensor within the upper cavity 338. In particular, the exterior surface defines a second taper angle 395, similar to the second taper angle 195 and 295, relative to the longitudinal axis 380 of the grip 300.METHOD

[0055] The method of manufacturing the golf club grip described herein can comprise (1) forming a tapered end cap, (2) forming a grip body, (3) securing the tapered end cap to the grip body (4) inserting a shaft into the grip body and / or a second cavity, (5) securing a sensor within an upper cavity. In step 1, the tapered end cap comprises an upper region and a lower region. The upper region includes an upper cavity configured to house a sensor. The upper cavity further comprises depressions designed for adhesive to flow around the sensor. The lower region comprises a plug configured to couple with the grip body. The lower region further comprises a lower cavity configured to receive a shaft. In step 2, the grip body comprises a tapered gripping surface and a socket. The socket is designed to complement the plug of the tapered end cap and provide a form of coupling between the two components. In steps 1 and 2, the tapered end cap and grip body can both be molded. In step 3, the tapered end cap and the grip body can be secured via the plug and the socket. In step 4 the shaft is inserted into the grip body and in some embodiments is also inserted into the lower cavity. In step 5, the sensor can be secured within the upper cavity with an adhesive, such as epoxy, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting. The depressions allow the adhesive to flow around the sensor increasing the surface are for adhesion.EXAMPLESI. Example 1: Player Test

[0056] A player test was conducted to compare the feel of two golf clubs having different grips. The golf clubs were similar but for the difference in the grip end cap constructions. The results compared the effect of the different end caps on player satisfaction and performance.

[0057] The first golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “control grip”) having a traditional, non-tapered end cap. The second golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “exemplary grip”) similar to the grip shown in FIG. 2. The exemplary grip comprised a tapered end cap that defined a non-gripping surface. The grips were similar but for the difference in the end cap geometries. The player test was conducted to compare the feel of the tapered end cap of the exemplary grip versus the non-tapered end cap of the control grip.

[0058] The player test involved fifteen players who participated in a survey that compared their experiences with the exemplary grip and the control aid devoid of a tapered end cap. The players tested each club head under similar conditions, where the golf club heads included similar shaft lengths and similar loft angles. Further, the player test was conducted on a typical surface.

[0059] After testing, the participants rated the grip performance and satisfaction based several parameters including their comfort and overall performance with the different grips. The grips were given a rating of between 1 to 5 for each of these parameters. A rating of 1 represented the lowest level of satisfaction, and a rating of 5 represented the highest level of satisfaction. The ratings in each category were averaged over the 15 participants.TABLE 1Control GripExemplary GripGrip Stability3.594.06Grip Contour3.533.82Hand Positioning3.503.81Overall Satisfaction3.213.71

[0060] The results of the player test are illustrated in Table 1 above. First, the players were asked, “How satisfied are you with the stability of the grip end in your hands during your swing?” The exemplary grip scored higher at a 4.06 than the control grip, which scored a 3.59. Of the surveyed players, 86% indicated they were “very satisfied,” or “satisfied” with how secure the exemplary grip felt. One player commented that his hands tended to slip off the wobbly control grip. Next, the players were asked, “How satisfied are you with the contour of the grip?” The exemplary grip again scored higher at a 3.82 than the control grip which scored a 3.53. Of the surveyed players, 73% indicated they were “very satisfied,” or “satisfied” by the natural feel of the contour. The players observed that the chamfer was very noticeable and helped naturally guide their hands to the gripping region. The players were then asked, “How satisfied are you with the ability to position your hands on the grip in the same position that you typically would on a grip without a measurement technology?” The exemplary grip again scored higher at a 3.81 than the control grip, scoring a 3.50. Of the surveyed players, 71% indicated they were “very satisfied,” or “satisfied” with how similar their grip felt to their normal grip when using the exemplary grip. When the players were asked to rate their overall satisfaction, the exemplary grip scored higher at a 3.71 than the control grip, only scoring a 3.21. Some players observed that the control grip felt heavier and longer than the exemplary grip. The survey concluded that most of the players had a better experience using the exemplary grip.

[0061] The tapered end cap provides advantages that are an improvement over the art. Removing material from the end cap upper portion (i.e. forming a chamfer or taper in the end cap) encourages the golfer to grip near the stable portion of the grip body. Additionally, the sensor is protected since the golfer is not leveraging against the flexible sensor housing. Based on the survey that was conducted, the tapered end cap can improve stability for players who grip near the end of a grip.CLAUSES

[0062] Clause 1. A golf club grip, comprising: a grip body and an end cap; the grip body comprising a first end and a second end opposite the first end; the first end comprising a socket; and an end cap, the end cap comprising; an outer diameter; a lower region; the lower region comprising a plug having an exterior surface and a lower cylindrical wall; the plug being received within the socket to form a connection between the end cap and the grip body; an upper region opposite the lower region; the upper region comprising a grip assembly butt end, an exterior surface defining a non-gripping surface, and an upper cylindrical wall; the upper cylindrical wall comprising a lip; and an intermediate wall extending across the lower region; the intermediate wall comprising an upper surface facing the upper region and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; the upper surface is recessed into the upper region via the upper cylindrical wall to form an upper cavity that harbors a sensor; and the lower surface is recessed into the lower region via the lower cylindrical wall to form a lower cavity.

[0063] Clause 2. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the socket and the plug have complimentary geometries that form a tight connection to secure the end cap to the grip body.

[0064] Clause 3. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the upper region adjacent the intermediate wall defines a maximum outer diameter of the end cap.

[0065] Clause 4. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein a surface between the first end and the second end defines a gripping surface, and a non-gripping surface is defined by the end cap.

[0066] Clause 5. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the socket forms an outer circumference of the connection between the end cap and the grip body.

[0067] Clause 6. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

[0068] Clause 7. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the grip body and the end cap are formed integrally, secured together with an adhesive, or otherwise connected to form the grip.

[0069] Clause 8. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein: the upper cavity comprises a upper cavity diameter; and the lip is above the upper cavity, and the lip comprises a lip diameter smaller than the upper cavity diameter to secure the sensor in place.

[0070] Clause 9. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the upper region comprises a plurality of depressions to allow an adhesive to flow around the sensor.

[0071] Clause 10. The golf club grip of clause 11, wherein the depressions radiate outward from a center of the upper surface.

[0072] Clause 11. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the non-gripping surface can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise reshaped.

[0073] Clause 12. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the non-griping surface defines a tangent plane and a taper angle that is measured between the longitudinal axis and the tangent plane, and the taper angle is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0074] Clause 13. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the end cap has a greater Shore A hardness than the grip body.

[0075] Clause 14. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the first cavity defines a cavity height measured along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the cavity height is between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches.

[0076] Clause 15. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the sensor is harbored within the upper region of the end cap.

[0077] Clause 16. The golf club grip of clause 1, wherein the end cap further defines a maximum outer diameter, wherein the maximum outer diameter is offset from the grip assembly butt end of the golf club grip by distance between 0.2 inch to 0.8 inch, and the non-gripping surface has a taper from the maximum outer diameter to a minimum outer diameter at the grip assembly butt end.

[0078] Clause 17. A method of manufacturing a grip comprising: forming an end cap, the end cap comprising an upper region having a plurality of depressions, and a lower region comprising a plug; forming a grip body, the grip body comprising a first end having a socket and a second end opposite the first end; coupling the plug with the socket to form a secure connection between the end cap and the grip body; inserting a shaft into the grip body and the lower region of the end cap; securing a sensor within the upper region; and wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

[0079] Clause 18. The method of manufacturing of the grip of clause 17, wherein the sensor securing step further comprises allowing the adhesive to flow around the sensor via the plurality of depressions.

[0080] Clause 19. A golf club grip, comprising: a grip body and an end cap; the grip body comprising a first end and a second end opposite the first end; the first end comprising a socket; and an end cap, the end cap comprising; an outer diameter; a lower region; the lower region comprising a plug having an exterior surface and a lower cylindrical wall; the plug being received within the socket to form a connection between the end cap and the grip body; an upper region opposite the lower region; the upper region comprising a grip assembly butt end, an exterior surface defining a non-gripping surface, and an upper cylindrical wall; the upper cylindrical wall comprising a lip; and an intermediate wall extending across the lower region; the intermediate wall comprising an upper surface facing the upper region and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; the upper surface is recessed into the upper region via the upper cylindrical wall to form an upper cavity that harbors a sensor; and the lower surface is recessed into the lower region via the lower cylindrical wall to form a lower cavity.

[0081] Clause 20. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the socket and the plug have complimentary geometries that form a tight connection to secure the end cap to the grip body.

[0082] Clause 21. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein a maximum outer diameter of the end cap further defines the boundary between the upper region and the lower region.

[0083] Clause 22. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein a surface between the first end and the second end defines a gripping surface, and a non-gripping surface is defined by the end cap.

[0084] Clause 23. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the socket forms an outer circumference of the connection between the end cap and the grip body.

[0085] Clause 24. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

[0086] Clause 25. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the grip body and the end cap are formed integrally, secured together with an adhesive, or otherwise connected to form the grip.

[0087] Clause 26. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein: the upper cavity comprises an upper cavity diameter; and the lip is above the upper cavity, and the lip comprises a lip diameter smaller than the upper cavity diameter to secure the sensor in place.

[0088] Clause 27. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the upper surface comprises a plurality of depressions to allow an adhesive to flow around the sensor.

[0089] Clause 28. The golf club grip of clause 27, wherein the depressions radiate outward from a center of the upper surface.

[0090] Clause 29. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the non-gripping surface can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise reshaped.

[0091] Clause 30. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the non-griping surface defines a tangent plane and a taper angle that is measured between the longitudinal axis and the tangent plane, and the taper angle is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0092] Clause 31. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the end cap has a greater Shore A hardness than the grip body.

[0093] Clause 32. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the grip; wherein the upper cavity defines a cavity height measured along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the cavity height is between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches.

[0094] Clause 33. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the sensor is harbored within the upper region of the end cap.

[0095] Clause 34. The golf club grip of clause 19, wherein the end cap further defines a maximum outer diameter, wherein the maximum outer diameter is offset from the grip assembly butt end of the golf club grip by distance between 0.2 inch to 0.8 inch, and the non-gripping surface has a taper from the maximum outer diameter to a minimum outer diameter at the grip assembly butt end.

Examples

examples

I. Example 1: Player Test

[0056]A player test was conducted to compare the feel of two golf clubs having different grips. The golf clubs were similar but for the difference in the grip end cap constructions. The results compared the effect of the different end caps on player satisfaction and performance.

[0057]The first golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “control grip”) having a traditional, non-tapered end cap. The second golf club comprised a grip (hereafter referred to as the “exemplary grip”) similar to the grip shown in FIG. 2. The exemplary grip comprised a tapered end cap that defined a non-gripping surface. The grips were similar but for the difference in the end cap geometries. The player test was conducted to compare the feel of the tapered end cap of the exemplary grip versus the non-tapered end cap of the control grip.

[0058]The player test involved fifteen players who participated in a survey that compared their experiences with the exemplary grip and...

Claims

1. A golf club grip, comprising:a grip body comprising a first end, defining a socket, and a second end opposite the first end; andan end cap, comprising;an outer diameter;a lower region comprising a plug having an exterior surface and a lower cylindrical wall, the plug being sized for insertion into the socket to form a connection between the end cap and the grip body;an upper region opposite the lower region, and comprising a grip assembly butt end, an exterior surface defining a non-gripping surface, and an upper cylindrical wall defining a lip; andan intermediate wall extending across the lower region, and comprising an upper surface facing the upper region and a lower surface opposite the upper surface;wherein the upper surface is recessed into the upper region via the upper cylindrical wall to form an upper cavity sized to harbor a sensor; andwherein the lower surface is recessed into the lower region via the lower cylindrical wall to form a lower cavity.

2. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the socket and the plug have complementary geometries that form a tight connection to secure the end cap to the grip body.

3. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the upper region adjacent the intermediate wall defines a maximum outer diameter of the end cap.

4. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein a surface between the first end and the second end defines a gripping surface, and a non-gripping surface is defined by the end cap.

5. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the socket forms an outer circumference of the connection between the end cap and the grip body.

6. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

7. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the grip body and the end cap are formed integrally, secured together with an adhesive, or otherwise connected to form the golf club grip.

8. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein:the upper cavity comprises a upper cavity diameter; andthe lip is above the upper cavity, and the lip comprises a lip diameter smaller than the upper cavity diameter to secure the sensor in place.

9. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the upper region comprises a plurality of depressions to allow an adhesive to flow around the sensor.

10. The golf club grip of claim 9, wherein the depressions radiate outward from a center of the upper surface.

11. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the non-gripping surface can be tapered, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise reshaped.

12. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the golf club grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the golf club grip; wherein the non-gripping surface defines a tangent plane and a taper angle that is measured between the longitudinal axis and the tangent plane, and the taper angle is between 15 degrees and 80 degrees.

13. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the end cap has a greater Shore A hardness than the grip body.

14. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the golf club grip has a longitudinal axis through a geometric center of the golf club grip; wherein the upper cavity defines a cavity height measured along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the cavity height is between 0.3 inches and 0.4 inches.

15. The golf club grip of claim 1, wherein the end cap further defines a maximum outer diameter, wherein the maximum outer diameter is offset from the grip assembly butt end of the golf club grip by distance between 0.2 inch to 0.8 inch, and the non-gripping surface has a taper from the maximum outer diameter to a minimum outer diameter at the grip assembly butt end.

16. A method of manufacturing a golf club grip comprising:forming an end cap, the end cap comprising an upper region having a plurality of depressions, and a lower region comprising a plug;forming a grip body, the grip body comprising a first end and a second end;the first end comprising a socket;coupling the plug with the socket to form a secure connection between the end cap and the grip body;inserting a shaft into the grip body and the lower region of the end cap;securing a sensor within the upper region; andwherein the sensor is secured with an adhesive, or through a mechanical means, such as press-fitting.

17. The method of manufacturing of the golf club grip of claim 16, wherein the sensor securing step further comprises allowing the adhesive to flow around the sensor via the plurality of depressions.

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