Multi-material golf club head with reinforcing members

Abstract

Golf club heads with full-wrap composite regions have ribs for improving structural integrity. The ribs may include linear or arcuate segments and may be arranged in patterns to address load transfer and acoustic performance. In some embodiments, the ribs are formed on the full-wrap composite and extend continuously around an inner surface. In other embodiments, the ribs are formed on the frame.

Description

Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCTMULTI-MATERIAL GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH REINFORCING MEMBERSCROSS REFERENCE PRIORITES

[0001] This claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 717,745 filed on November 7, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 810,620 filed on May 22, 2025, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to golf equipment, and more particularly, to woodtype golf club heads.BACKGROUND

[0003] Lightweight materials can be used in golf club heads to improve performance. In woodtype club heads, for example, increasingly larger regions of the head are formed with composite material. While composite materials reduce structural mass to increase discretionary mass, it does so at the sacrifice of structural integrity, acoustic performance, and manufacturability. Some conventional driver-type club heads have ribs at localized areas to address these issues. These ribs, however, create localized stress risers where the ribs terminate, causing localized weakened zones.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a golf club head according to the present invention.

[0005] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 1.

[0006] FIG. 3 illustrates a front side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting the strike face dimensions.

[0007] FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged, partial toe-side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG.1, highlighting the strike face dimensions.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0008] FIG. 5 illustrates an enlarged, partial toe-side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting additional strike face dimensions.

[0009] FIG. 6 illustrates a front side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting the club head coordinate axes.

[0010] FIG. 7 illustrates a toe-side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting the club head coordinate axes.

[0011] FIG. 8 illustrates a toe-side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting additional club head coordinate axes.

[0012] FIG. 9 illustrates atop plan view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting the club head body dimensions.

[0013] FIG. 10 illustrates atop plan view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting an imaginary central mass zone.

[0014] FIG. 11 illustrates a toe-side elevation view of the golf club head of FIG. 1, highlighting an imaginary central mass zone.

[0015] FIG. 12 illustrates a detailed perspective view of a composite insert comprising an annular rib according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 13 illustrates a plan view of the composite insert and rib of FIG. 12, with the composite insert shown in phantom lines.

[0017] FIG. 14 illustrates a detailed perspective view of a composite insert comprising annular ribs according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 15 illustrates a plan view of the composite insert and ribs of FIG. 14, with the composite insert shown in phantom lines.

[0019] FIG. 16 illustrates a detailed, cross-sectional view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0020] FIG. 17 illustrates a detailed, cross-sectional view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 20 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 21 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 22 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 23 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 24 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 25 illustrates a bottom view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 26 illustrates a detailed, cross-sectional view of a composite insert comprising an insert rib according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 27 illustrates a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 28 illustrates a top plan view of the golf club head of FIG. 27.

[0032] FIG. 29 illustrates a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to the present invention.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0033] FIG. 30 illustrates a detailed, heel-side, cross-sectional view of the rear frame of the golf club head of FIG. 86.

[0034] FIG. 31 illustrates a rear perspective view of a rearward frame according to the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 32 illustrates a front perspective view of the rearward frame of FIG. 31.

[0036] FIG. 33 illustrates a detailed, heel-side, cross-sectional view of the rearward frame of FIG. 31.

[0037] Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0038] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.DEFINITIONS

[0039] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used herein 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.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0040] The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used herein 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.

[0041] The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the like as used herein broadly refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically and / or otherwise.

[0042] Various embodiments of a golf club are illustrated in the figures. A golf club is generally understood to comprise a club head, which is configured to receive a shaft. A golf club further comprises a grip, which is secured to the shaft.

[0043] FIGS. 1-11 schematically illustrate various embodiments of a driver-type golf club head in various views. The features discussed below are demonstrated on the golf club head 100. For ease of discussion, the features shown on the golf club head 100 are applicable to various embodiments of the club head according to the present invention. Any one or more of the features described in the various embodiments below can be used in combination with one another. Further, while different embodiments may comprise different numbering schemes (i.e., Ixx, 2xx, 3xx numbering schemes, etc.) similar elements are numbered similarly between embodiments (i.e., golf club head 100 comprises a crown 110 and a sole 112, whereas club head 200 comprises a crown 210 and a sole 212).

[0044] The golf club head 100 comprises a body 101 that defines a substantially closed / hollow interior cavity 107. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the body 101 defines a front end 108, a rear end 111 opposite the front end 108, a heel end 104, and a toe end 106 opposite the heel end 104. The body 101 comprises a strike face 102 near the front end 108, a crown 110 near an upper portion of the club head, and a sole 112 near a lower portion of the club head. The body 101 further comprises a hosel 105 near the heel end 104 for receiving either a shaft or an adjustable hosel feature.

[0045] The body 101 further defines a body perimeter that defines a transition between the crown 110 and the sole 112. The body perimeter is defined by a series of points around the golf club headAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT100, each having a tangent to a line drawn perpendicular to the ground plane 10 when the golf club head 100 is in the address position (defined below). The body perimeter divides the crown 110 from the sole 112 such that when viewed from a top view, the crown 110 is visible when the golf club head 100 is in the address position. Similarly, the sole 112 is viewed from a bottom view when the golf club head 100 is in the address position. The body perimeter defines a change from the crown surface to the sole surface through a curved transition surface, at any point along the body 101, other than the strike face 102.

[0046] A perimetrical centroid (PC) is defined with respect to the body perimeter. The perimetrical centroid (PC) is the geometric center of the body perimeter as measured from a plan view. The perimetrical centroid (PC) is illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0047] The crown 110 is the upward facing portion of the body 101. The crown 110 is defined as the portion of the body 101, excluding the strike face 102, above the body perimeter. The crown 110 is bounded by the body perimeter on the rear end 111, the heel end 104, and the toe end 106. The crown 110 is bounded on the front end 108 by the upper edge 118 of the strike face 102. The crown 110 is bounded by the perimeter on the rear end 111, the heel end 104, and the toe end 106. The crown 110 is bounded on the front end 108 by the upper edge 118 of the strike face 102. Referring to FIG. 3, the crown 110 defines a body apex (BA), which is the highest point of the body 101. In certain embodiments that include surface features located on the crown 110, the body apex (BA) may be located on said surface features. The crown 110 further defines a crown surface area measured along the curved surface of the crown 110, including any surface features. The crown surface area is measured within the boundary of the crown 110, including the surface area of the hosel 105.

[0048] The sole 112 is the lower, groundward facing portion of the golf club head 100. The sole 112 is defined as the portion of the golf club head 100, excluding the strike face 102, that is below the body perimeter. Referring to FIG. 3, the sole 112 defines a body nadir (BN), which is the lowest point of the body 101. The sole 112 further defines a sole surface area measured along the curved surface of the sole 112, including any surface features. The sole surface area is measured within the boundary of the sole 112.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0049] The strike face is a surface that is configured to strike a golf ball. The strike face 102 is bounded by an outer edge referred to as a “strike face perimeter.” The strike face perimeter is defined where the curvature of the golf club head 100 deviates from a bulge and / or roll curvature of the strike face 102 (defined below). Referring to FIG. 3, the strike face perimeter includes at least an upper edge 118 and a leading edge 103. The upper edge 118 is the most crownward portion of the strike face perimeter and defines a transition from the strike face 102 to the crown 110. The upper edge 118 defines a face apex (FA), located at the intersection between the upper edge 118 and the YZ plane (described below). The leading edge 103 is the most soleward portion of the strike face perimeter and defines a transition from the strike face 102 to the sole 112. The leading edge 103 defines a face nadir (FN) located at the intersection between the leading edge 103 and the YZ plane. The strike face perimeter further defines a face heel apex (FHA), which is the heelward-most point on the strike face perimeter, and a face toe apex (FTA), which is the toeward- most point on the strike face perimeter. The strike face 102 defines a face center (FC), which is the geometric centerpoint of the strike face perimeter, illustrated in FIG. 3. The face center (FC) can be located in accordance with the definition of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0050] In some embodiments, the strike face 102 comprises a variable face thickness (VFT) profile. In some embodiments, the strike face 102 comprise a strike face insert that is separately formed from the remainder of the body and subsequently secured within a front opening. In other embodiments, the strike face 102 can form a face cup or face wrap configuration wherein a faceplate forms the strike face 102 wraps over the perimeter at the front end 108 and includes one or more return portions extending over the crown, the sole, the heel, the toe, or a combination thereof.

[0051] The golf club head 100 defines a ground plane 10 as a reference plane associated with the surface on which a golfball is placed. The ground plane 10 is a horizontal plane tangent to the sole 112 in the address position. The ground plane 10 is illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0052] The golf club head 100 defines a loft plane 15 as a plane that is tangent to the face center (FC). The loft plane 15 is illustrated in FIG. 4.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0053] The golf club head 100 defines a loft angle 20 as the angle measured between the loft plane 15 and the XY plane (defined below). The loft angle 20 is illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0054] The golf club head 100 defines a lie angle 25 as the angle between a hosel axis 30, extending through the hosel 105, and the ground plane 10. The lie angle 25 is measured from a front view of the golf club head 100, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0055] The golf club head 100 can define an address position, wherein the golf club head 100 is oriented such that the golf club head 100 forms its intended loft angle 20 and lie angle 25. For example, in the address position, the loft plane 15 and the XY plane form the intended loft angle 20 between one another. Likewise, in the address position, the hosel axis 30 and the ground plane 10 form the intended lie angle 25 between one another.

[0056] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the golf club head 100 defines a primary coordinate system centered about the face center (FC). The primary coordinate system comprises an X-axis 40, a Y- axis 50, and a Z-axis 60. The X-axis 40 extends in a heel-to-toe direction, parallel to the ground plane 10. The X-axis 40 is positive towards the heel end 104 and negative towards the toe end 106. The Y-axis 50 extends in a crown-to-sole direction and is orthogonal to both the ground plane 10 and the X-axis 40. The Y-axis 50 is positive towards the crown 110 and negative towards the sole 112. The Z-axis 60 extends in a front-to-rear direction, parallel to the ground plane 10, and is orthogonal to both the X-axis 40 and the Y-axis 50. The Z-axis 60 is positive towards the strike face 102 and negative towards the rear end 111.

[0057] The primary coordinate system, as described herein, defines an XY plane as a vertical plane extending along the X-axis 40 and the Y-axis 50. The primary coordinate system defines an XZ plane as a horizontal plane extending along the X-axis 40 and the Z-axis 60. The primary coordinate system further defines a YZ plane as a vertical plane extending along the Y-axis 50 and the Z-axis 60. The XY plane, the XZ plane, and the YZ plane are all perpendicular to one another and intersect at the primary coordinate system origin located at the face center (FC). In these or other embodiments, the golf club head 100 can be viewed from a front view when the strike face 102 is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the XY plane. Further, in these or other embodiments, the golf club head 100 can be viewed from a side view or side cross-sectional view when the heel end 104 or the toe end 106 is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the YZ plane.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0058] The strike face 102 defines a strike face height (HSF). Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the strike face height (HSF) is measured parallel to the loft plane 15 between the face nadir (FN) and the face apex (FA).

[0059] The strike face 102 defines a strike face width (WSF) referring to a horizontal distance measured across the strike face 102 in a heel-to-toe direction. Referring to FIG. 3, the strike face width (WSF) is measured parallel to the ground plane 10, between the face heel apex (FHA) and the face toe apex (FTA).

[0060] The strike face 102 defines a face center height (HFC). Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5 the face center height (HFC) is measured perpendicular to the ground plane 10 between the ground plane 10 and the face center (FC).

[0061] The strike face 102 comprises a bulge curvature and a roll curvature. The bulge curvature is the curvature of the strike face in the heel-to-toe direction. The roll curvature is the curvature of the strike face in a crown-to-sole direction. The bulge curvature and the roll curvature each respectively comprise a bulge radius and a roll radius defining the radii of curvature associated with each of the bulge curvature and the roll curvature. The bulge curvature and / or the roll curvature can comprise one or more radii.

[0062] The golf club head 100 defines a body depth (DB), referring to a front-to-rear dimension measured across the body 101. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 9, the body depth (DB) is measured parallel to the Z-axis 60 from the leading edge 103 to the rearward-most point 117 of the body 101.

[0063] The golf club head 100 defines a body height (HB) of the golf club head 100, referring to a crown-to-sole dimension measured across the body 101. Referring to FIG. 3, the body height (HB) can be measured as a vertical distance (parallel to the Y-axis 50) between the ground plane 10 and the body apex (BA). In many embodiments, the body height (HB) can be measured according to a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0064] The golf club head 100 defines a body width (WB), referring to a heel-to-toe dimension measured across the body 101. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 9, the body width (WB) can be measured parallel to the X-axis 40 from a body heel apex (BHA) to a body toe apex (BTA). The body toe apex (BTA) is defined as the toeward-most point of the body 101. The body heel apex (BHA) isAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT heel ward -most point of the heel end 104 that is located at a height 0.875 mm from the ground plane 10. In many embodiments, the body width (WB) can be measured according to a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). The ranges specified for the body depth (DB), body height (HB), and body width (WB) can be designed in accordance with the USGA regulations.

[0065] The golf club head 100 comprises a club head CG, referring to the point at which the mass is centered within the golf club head 100. The club head CG is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0066] The club head CG position can be described with respect to the primary coordinate system, wherein the club head CG position is characterized by locations along the X-axis 40, the Y-axis 50, and the Z-axis 60. The term “CGx” can refer to the club head CG location along the X-axis 40, measured from the face center (FC). The term “CG height” can refer to the club head CG location along the Y-axis 50, measured from the face center (FC). The term “CGy” can be synonymous with the CG height. The term “CG depth” can refer to the club head CG location along the Z-axis 60, measured from the face center (FC). The term “CGz” can be synonymous with the CG depth. Alternatively, the club head CG position can be described with respect to the leading edge 103, the ground plane 10, or any other reference point, reference plane, or coordinate system.

[0067] The golf club head 100 further comprises a secondary coordinate system centered about the club head CG. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the secondary coordinate system comprises an X’-axis 70, a Y’-axis 80, and a Z’-axis 90. The X’-axis 70 extends in a heel-to-toe direction. The X’-axis 70 is positive towards the heel end 104 and negative towards the toe end 106. The Y’-axis 80 extends in a sole-to-crown direction and is orthogonal to both the Z’-axis 90 and the X’-axis 70. The Y’-axis 80 is positive towards the crown 110 and negative towards the sole 112. The Z’- axis 90 extends front -to-rear, parallel to the ground plane 10 and is orthogonal to both the X’-axis 70 and the Y’-axis 80. The Z’-axis 90 is positive towards the strike face 102 and negative towards the rear end 111.

[0068] The golf club head 100 comprises one or more moment of inertia values (hereafter “club head MOI”) with respect to the secondary coordinate system. The term “Ixx” can refer to the club head MOI measured about the X’-axis 70. The term “IYY ” can refer to the club head MOI measuredAttomey Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT about the Y’-axis 80. The term “Izz” can refer to the club head MOI measured about the Z’-axis 90.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the golf club head 100 further comprises a loft-normal axis 35 intersecting the face center (FC) and extending perfectly normal or substantially normal to the loft plane 15. As used herein, “substantially normal” in reference to the loft-normal axis 35 provides tolerance in the angle of the loft-normal axis 35 relative to the loft plane 15. Rather than being perfectly normal to the loft plane 15, in some embodiments, the loft-normal axis 35 can remain within the YZ plane but be tilted upward (z.e., toward the crown 110) about the face center (FC) by up to 4°. In some embodiments, the loft-normal axis 35 can be tilted by between 0.1 and 0.5, between 0.5° and 1.0°, between 1.0°, between 1.0° and 1.5°, between 1.5° and 2.0°, between 2.0° and 2.5°, between 2.5° and 3.0°, between 3.0° and 3.5°, or between 3.5° and 4.0° relative to a “perfectly normal” orientation (wherein the loft-normal axis 35 is tilted by 0°. The tolerance in the orientation of the loft-normal axis 35 accounts for frictional force that acts on the golf ball in a crown-to-sole direction parallel to the strike face 102 at impact.

[0070] 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 of being conducted in various ways.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Described herein are golf clubs with regions formed by composite inserts that fully wrap around the head and that are reinforced with ribs to improve structural rigidity and durability of the overall golf club head. The golf club heads comprise a rearward frame that harbors a weight to improve mass properties and center of gravity position. The combination of the full wrap composite insert, reinforcing ribs, and rearward frame with a weight increases Iyy and balances the Ixx / Iyy ratio, while aligning the CG with the loft-normal axis for efficient force transfer.

[0072] In some embodiments, the single, full wrap composite inserts have continuous ribs to improve sound, feel, and structural integrity. The continuous, or 360-degree rib forms a closed loop and continuously extends around an interior surface of the full composite insert about the Z-Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT axis. The closed loop eliminates rib free ends to improve structural rigidity, load transfer, and acoustic performance by distributing the load more evenly across and through the rib which connects to the crown, skirt and sole.

[0073] Also described herein are golf club heads with single, full wrap composite inserts and frame bridges to improve sound, feel, and structural integrity of the composite panel. The frame bridges connect a forward frame to a rearward frame to improve the structural rigidity of the frame and to fully support the composite insert. In some embodiments, the frame bridges comprise ribs to further increase structural stability.

[0074] The 360-degree rib and frame bridges, as described above, are directed to single, full composite wraps, or “central inserts.” Details of central inserts are described in U.S. Appl. No. 18 / 393,485 fried on December 21, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety. The central insert wraps continuously around the body and forms at least a portion of the crown, at least a portion of the sole, and at least a portion of the body perimeter near both the heel end and the toe end. The central insert may be formed by a single component, or multiple insert components. The central insert is received within a central opening located on the frame. As discussed above, the frame is formed from a metallic material to provide a sturdy structure for receiving the central insert. The central insert is formed from a lightweight composite material to create discretionary mass that can be redistributed throughout the club head to maximize IYY, provide an IXX / IYY ratio close to 1, and / or to provide a club head CG position at or near the loftnormal axis.

[0075] The central insert strategically forms a large portion of the body midsection (MS). The body midsection (MS) typically experiences relatively low stress during impact, allowing large amounts of composite or otherwise lightweight material to be placed near the midsection (MS) without compromising the durability of the golf club head. The central insert is spaced rearward of the strike face to allow the strike face to bend at impact with minimal interaction with the central insert. Accordingly, the central insert increases discretionary mass while preserving durability.

[0076] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be combined with other features disclosed in U.S. Appl. No. 18 / 393,485 filed on December 21, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety. The features include structures producing a high-performingAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT club head, and means of improving of moment of inertia (MOI), center of gravity (CG), and energy transfer. By using multi-material construction, particularly lightweight composite inserts, the design redistributes mass to increase Iyy and more closely balance Ixx / Iyy ratios, while aligning the CG with the loft-normal axis for efficient force transfer. Additionally, the ‘485 application discloses a shallow, thin strike face that enhances ball speed while maintaining durability and conforming to USGA regulations. Still further, the ‘485 application discloses aerodynamic features, like crown shaping and turbulators to reduce drag and increase swing speed. Still further, the ’485 application discloses an adjustable weighting system for fine-tuning CG location and bulge and roll curvatures on the strike face to counteract spin effects from off-center hits thereby improving forgiveness and consistency across a range of impact conditions.

[0077] FIGS. 12-15 illustrate embodiments of continuous, 360-degree ribs that can be applied to a central insert. The 360-degree rib circumnavigates the entire inner surface of the central insert, generally around aZ-axis of the club head, to damp vibrations and structurally reinforce the central insert. The insert ribs are configured and located to target areas of the central insert having high vibration or low structural rigidity. As such, the insert ribs reinforce the central insert, as described above, without adding significant mass. Furthermore, the insert ribs have no free ends and form continuous closed loops to improve structural integrity at the rib and eliminate stress concentrations associated with the ribs having free ends.

[0078] The central insert is configured to attach to a body having a frame. The body has a center of gravity (CG), wherein a CG XY plane intersects the CG and extends perpendicular to a ground plane in a heel-to-toe direction. The frame comprises a forward frame forming part of the body and disposed at a front of the golf club head. The forward frame includes a strike face and a forward frame return, extending rearwardly from the strike face. The forward frame return has a forward frame lap edge extending continuously around a perimeter of the golf club head. The frame further comprises a rear frame forming part of the body and spaced rearwardly of the forward frame at a rear of the golf club head. The rear frame comprises a rearward frame lap edge extending continuously around and defining a forward portion of the rear frame.

[0079] The central insert 4380 is formed of lightweight material, such as composite, to reduce structural mass. The central insert 4280 forms part of the body and comprises an insert crownAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT region 4281, an insert sole region 4283 opposite the insert crown region 4281, an insert toe region 4282 extending between the insert crown region 4281 and the insert sole region 4283, an insert heel region 4284 opposite the insert toe region 4282 and extending between the insert crown region 4281 and the insert sole region 4283. The insert crown region 4281, the insert sole region 4283, the insert toe region 4282, and the insert heel region 4284 cooperate to define an insert interior surface having a rib attachment region 4290 located within 0.75 inch of the CG. The central insert 4280 further comprises an insert front rim 4286, formed by front portions of the insert crown region 4281, the insert sole region 4283, the insert toe region 4282, and the insert heel region 4284, that is coupled to the forward frame lap edge to form a forward lap joint. The central insert 4280 further comprises an insert rear rim, formed by rear portions of the insert crown region 4281, the insert sole region 4283, the insert toe region 4282, and the insert heel region, coupled to the rearward frame lap edge to form a rear lap joint.

[0080] The central insert 4280 can comprise an insert rib 4265, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, to increase the circumferential stiffness and rigidity of the central insert 4280. The insert rib 4265 is coupled to the rib attachment region 4290 and projects inwardly from the insert interior surface, wherein the insert rib 4265 extends continuously around the insert interior surface.

[0081] In some embodiments, the insert rib 4265 extends generally around the Z-axis and is approximately parallel to the XY plane. In other embodiments, the insert rib 4265 can be angled with the XY plane at an angle between 5 and 90 degrees. For example, in some embodiments, the insert rib 4265 is angle relative to the XY plane at an angled between 5 and 10 degrees, 10 and 15 degrees, 15 and 20 degrees, 20 and 25 degrees, 25 and 30 degrees, 30 and 35 degrees, 35 and 40 degrees, or between 45 and 50 degrees.

[0082] In some embodiments, the insert rib 4265 can intersect a center mass zone CMZ, as illustrated in FIG. 13. The center mass zone CMZ is defined as a circle with a center at the CG having a radius of 0.25 inches. The center mass zone extends along the Ycg-axis. In some embodiments, the CMZ is defined as a circle with a center at the CG having a radius between 0.1 inch and 0.5 inch. For example, the radius can be between 0.1 and 0.2 inch, 0.2 and 0.3 inch, 0.3 and 0.4 inch, or between 0.4 and 0.5 inch. In some embodiments, the radius is 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, or 0.5 inch.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0083] In some embodiments, the insert rib 4265 covers a surface area ranging between 0.05 in2to 4 in2. For example, in some embodiments, the surface area is between 0.05 and 1 in2, 1.0 and 2.0 in2, 2.0 and 3.0 in2, or between 3.0 and 4.0 in2.

[0084] In some embodiments, the insert rib 4265 has an insert rib perimeter length ranging between 4.0 and 7.0 inches. For example, in some embodiments, the insert rib perimeter length ranges between 4.0 and 5.0 inches, between 5.0 and 6.0 inches, or between 6.0 and 7.0 inches. In some embodiments, the insert rib perimeter length is greater than 4 inches, greater than 5 inches, greater than 6 inches, or greater than 6.5 inches. The insert rib perimeter length can be 4.0 inches, 4.5 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.5 inches, 6.0 inches, 6.5 inches, or 7.0 inches.

[0085] In some embodiments, the annular rib 4265 has a rib offset distance ODR defined as the shortest distance between the annular rib 4265 and the front edge of the central insert. The rib offset distance ODR can range between 0.1 inch and 2.75 inches. For example, the rib offset distance ODR can range between 0.1 inch to 0.5 inch, 0.5 to 1.0 inch, 1.0 to 1.5 inch, 1.5 to 2.0 inch, or between 2.0 and 2.75 inches.

[0086] In some embodiments, the insert rib attachment region is located at least 1.1 inches behind the strike face. For example, in some embodiments, the insert rib attachment region is located at least 1.1 inches, 1.2 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.4 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.7 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, or at least 2.5 inches behind the strike face.

[0087] In some embodiments, the annular rib 4265 can be formed integrally with the composite insert. In other embodiments, the annular rib 4265 can be formed separately and then attached to the interior surface of the central insert through various attachment means. In some embodiments, the annular rib 4265 is adhesively attached to the interior surface of the central insert.

[0088] In another embodiment, the central insert 4380 can comprise a complex rib structure including first and second annular ribs 4365A, 4365B, as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, to increase structural rigidity of the central insert 4380. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second annular ribs 4365A, 4365B each continuously extend around the central insert 4380 at different angles relative to the XY plane when viewed from above. The first and second annular ribs 4365A,Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT4365B form a first intersection 4367A located on the crown portion, and a second intersection 4367B located on the sole portion of the central insert 4380. In other embodiments, the first and second intersections 4367A, 4367B can be located at the heel 4304 and at the toe 4306 respectively. Although FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrates a pair of intersecting annular ribs 4365A, 4365B, more than two intersecting ribs may be provided. Still further, other embodiments can include multiple annular ribs that are parallel to one another or do not intersect. In yet further embodiments, combinations of intersecting ribs and non-intersecting ribs may be used. The central insert 4380 can comprise any suitable number and orientation of annular ribs. The annular ribs can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces, especially impact forces acting in the front-to-back and heel-to-toe directions. Further, the annular ribs can protect against forces acting normal to the insert exterior surface, such as forces that might be experienced during handling of the club head.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first and second annular ribs 4365A, 4365B form an angle with each other, when viewed from above, that ranges between 10 and 45 degrees. For example, the angle between the first and second annular ribs 4365 A, 4365B may be between 10 and 20, 20 and 30, or between 30 and 45 degrees.

[0090] In some embodiments, the intersection point 4367A may be located within a central mass zone CMZ. The central mass zone is a circle with a center defined at the center of gravity having a radius between 0.1 inch and 0.5 inch. For example, the radius can be between 0.1 and 0.2 inch, 0.2 and 0.3 inch, 0.3 and 0.4 inch, or between 0.4 and 0.5 inch. In some embodiments, the radius is 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, or 0.5 inch.

[0091] In some embodiments, the intersection point 4367A has a rib offset distance ranging between 0.1 inch and 2.75 inches. For example, the rib offset distance can range between 0.1 inch to 0.5 inch, 0.5 to 1.0 inch, 1.0 to 1.5 inch, 1.5 to 2.0 inch, or between 2.0 and 2.75 inches.

[0092] In some embodiments, the one or more insert ribs can have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, taken along the length of the rib. In some embodiments, the one or more insert ribs can be substantially rectangular in cross-section, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. Additionally, the insert ribs may have a T-shape, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. In yet other embodiments, any one of the insert ribs described herein can comprise any cross-sectional shape suitable for reinforcing the central inserts.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0093] An insert rib 4065 having an I-beam cross section is illustrated in FIG. 16. The insert rib 4065 has a proximal flange 4068A, a distal flange 4068B, and a web 4069 extending therebetween. The proximal flange 4068A abuts and / or couples to the insert interior surface to provide a base for the insert rib 4065. In embodiments where the insert rib 4065 is separately formed and subsequently attached to the composite insert, the proximal flange 4068A provides sufficient surface area to adhere the insert rib 4065 to the insert interior surface. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the web 4069 extends from the proximal flange 4068A into the interior cavity 4007, and the distal flange 4068B connects to the web 4069 at an end opposite the proximal flange 4068A. The I-beam cross section increases insert reinforcement over an insert rib with a rectangular cross-section. Specifically, the proximal flange 4068A increases contact area between the insert rib 4065 and the composite insert, thereby increasing the reinforced area and stiffening the insert without increasing the mass of the rib. Any insert rib described herein (i.e., straight, plus-shaped, undulating, etc.), or any combination thereof, can comprise an I-beam cross section.

[0094] An insert rib 4165 with a U-shaped cross-section is illustrated in FIG. 17. The insert rib 4165 has first and second flanges 4168 A, 4168B that both abut the insert interior surface. A U- shaped web extends from the first flange 4168A to the second flange 4168B. The U-shaped web includes first and second legs 4167A, 4167B extending into the interior cavity 4107 and a link 4169 extending between the legs 4167A, 4167B. The flanges 4168 A, 4168B provide a base for the insert rib 4165. In embodiments where the insert rib 4165 is separately and subsequently attached to the insert, the flanges 4168 A, 4168B provide sufficient surface area to adhere the insert rib 4165 to the insert interior surface. In some embodiments, the insert rib 4165 with a U-shaped cross section increases insert reinforcement over an insert rib with a rectangular cross-section. The flanges 4168 A, 4168B increase contact area between the insert rib 4165 and the composite insert, thereby increasing the reinforced area of the insert. Further, the link 4169 spaces the flanges 4168A, 4168B apart such that the insert rib 4165 spans a larger area of the composite insert. This can effectively increase the insert area that is reinforced by the insert rib 4165. Any insert rib pattern described herein (i.e., straight, plus-shaped, undulating, etc.), or any combination thereof, can comprise a U-shaped cross section.

[0095] The ribs disclosed herein may be arranged in a selected rib pattern configured to improve reinforcement of the insert. As shown in FIGS. 18-26, the rib pattern may include intersecting orAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT curved ribs that increase structural rigidity relative to straight ribs. The various rib configurations shown in FIGS. 18-26 locally stiffen areas of the composite areas susceptible to high impact forces or vibrations, such as in the crown or sole.

[0096] A central insert having a rib 3165 arranged in a plus-shaped pattern is shown in FIG. 18. The plus-shaped rib 3165 comprises a first linear arm 3168A connected to a a second linear arm 3168B at an intersect point. The intersect point may correspond to intersection points of both the first and second linear arms 3168A, 3168B. An intersect angle is formed between the first and second linear arms. The intersect angle may be 90° as shown, or may be other angles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm 3168 A extends in a front-to-rear direction and the second arm 3168B extends in a heel-to-toe direction. While a single plus-shaped rib 3165 is illustrated, the composite insert can comprise multiple plus-shaped ribs formed independently or interconnected. The plus-shaped rib 3165 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces, especially impact forces acting in the front-to-back and heel-to-toe directions.

[0097] A central insert having a rib 3265 formed in an X-shaped pattern is shown in FIG. 19. The X-shaped rib 3265 is substantially similar to the plus-shaped rib 3165 in that the X-shaped rib comprises a first linear arm 3268A and a second linear arm 3268B that intersect each other to form an intersect angle. The intersect angle may be 90°, or may be an angle other than 90°. In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm 3268A extends in a front toe-to-rear heel direction, and the second arm 3268B extends in a front heel-to-rear toe direction. While a single X-shaped rib 3265 is illustrated, the composite insert can comprise multiple X-shaped ribs formed independently or interconnected. The X-shaped rib 3265 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces. The diagonal nature of the arms 3268A, 3268B strengthen the insert against forces acting in front-to- back and heel-to-toe directions as well as forces acting at oblique angles.

[0098] An undulating rib 3365 having one or more arcuate regions is shown in FIG. 20. The undulating rib 3365 from a rib first end 3367A to a rib second end 3367B. The illustrated undulating rib 3365 comprises a first peak 3368A, a second peak 3368B, and an inflection point 3369 therebetween. The orientation of the undulating rib 3365 can be described with reference to a rib axis 3354 extending through the rib first end 3367A and the rib second end 3367B. The undulating rib 3365 can comprise a rib angle OIR defined as the acute angle between the rib axisAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT3354 and the YZ plane 55. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 20, the undulating rib 3365 extends in a heel-to-toe direction, such that the rib angle UR is approximately 90°. In other embodiments, referring to FIG. 21, the undulating rib 3465 extends in a substantially diagonal direction, such that the rib angle QR is approximately 45°. In other embodiments, the undulating rib extends in a front-to-back direction, such that the rib angle O.R is 0°. The rib angle O.R can be between 0° and 90°. In some embodiments, the rib angle CIR can be between 0° and 20°, between 10° and 30°, between 20° and 40°, between 30° and 50°, between 40° and 60°, between 50° and 70°, between 60° and 80°, or between 70° and 90°. The undulating rib 3365 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces. In the illustrated embodiment, the composite insert comprises a single undulating rib 3365. In other embodiments, the composite insert can comprise multiple undulating ribs formed independently or interconnected. The undulating rib 3365 can be oriented to protect against impact forces occurring in a specific or dominant direction.

[0099] A rib 3565 having a closed-ended rectangular pattern is shown in FIG. 22. The rectangular rib 3565 comprises a front linear arm 3568A, a rear linear arm 3568B, and first and second linear side arms 3569A, 3569B. The arms 3568A, 3568B, 3569A, 3569B, connect to one another at adjacent ends, similar to the four sides of a rectangle. The rectangular rib 3465 can be continuous such that is has no disconnected ends or termination points. In the illustrated embodiment, the arms 3568A, 3568B, 3569A, 3569B are substantially the same length, forming a substantially square shape. In other embodiments, the front arm 3568A and rear arm 3568B can be longer than the first and second side arms 3569A, 3569B, or vice versa, thereby forming an oblong rectangle. In the illustrated embodiment, the composite insert comprises a single rectangular rib 3565. In other embodiments, the composite insert can comprise multiple rectangular ribs formed independently or interconnected. The rectangular rib 3465 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces. The rectangular rib 3565 can occupy a large area of the insert, thereby increasing insert stiffness without adding significant mass.

[0100] A rib 3665 having a closed-ended diamond-shape pattern is illustrated in FIG. 23. The diamond-shaped rib 3665 includes first and second linear forward arms 3668A, 3668B connecting at a forward vertex 3669A, and first and second linear rear arms 3668C, 3668D connecting at a rear vertex 3669B. The first linear forward arm 3668 A and the first linear rear arm 3668C can connect at a toe-side vertex 3669D, and the second linear forward arm 3668B and the second linearAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT rear arm 3668D can connect at a heel-side vertex 3669C. the diamond-shaped rib 3665 can be continuous such that it has no disconnected ends. In some embodiments, the diamond-shaped rib 3665 can be substantially equilateral such that the distance between the forward vertex 3669A and the rear vertex 3669B is the same as the distance between the heel-side vertex 3669C and the toeside vertex 3669D. In other embodiments, the diamond-shaped rib 3665 can be oblong, such that the distance between the forward vertex 3669A and the rear vertex 3669B is greater than the distance between the heel-side vertex 3669C and the toe-side vertex 3669D, or vice versa. In the illustrated embodiment, the composite insert comprises a single diamond-shaped rib 3665. In other embodiments, the composite insert can comprise multiple diamond-shaped ribs formed independently or interconnected. The diamond-shaped rib 3665 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces. The diamond-shaped rib 3665 can occupy a large area of the insert, thereby increasing insert stiffness without adding significant mass. The orientation of the first and second forward arms 3668A, 3668B, which angle towards each other and come to a point, can help dissipate stress coming from the strike face.

[0101] A rib 3765 having an arc-shaped pattern is shown in FIG. 24. The arc-shaped rib 3765 comprises a first rib end 3767A, a second rib end 3767B, and a peak 3768 therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 24, the peak 3768 is disposed toward the front end 3708. In other embodiments, the peak 3868 can be disposed toward the rear end 3811, as shown in FIG. 25. In the illustrated embodiments, the composite insert comprises a single arc-shaped rib 3765. In other embodiments, the composite insert can comprise multiple arc-shaped ribs formed independently or interconnected. The arc-shaped rib 3765 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces. The arc-shaped rib 3765 can be oriented to protect against impact forces occurring in a specific or dominant direction.

[0102] A rib 3965 having a lazy W-shaped pattern is shown in FIG. 26. The W-shaped rib 3965 comprises a first rib end 3967A and a second rib end 3967B opposite the first rib end 3967A. Further, the W-shaped rib 3965 comprises a first peak 3968A proximate the first rib end 3967A, a second peak 3968B proximate the second rib end 3967B, and a nadir 3968C therebetween. The W-shaped rib 3965 comprises first inflection point 3969A between the first peak 3968A and the nadir 3968C, and a second inflection point 3969B between the second peak 3968B and the nadir 3968C. In the illustrated embodiment, the W-shaped rib 3965 is oriented such that the rib endsAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT3967A, 3967B are disposed toward the front end 3908 and the peaks 3968A, 3968B are disposed toward the rear end 3911. In other embodiments, the W-shaped rib 3965 can be flipped such that the rib ends 3967A, 3967B are disposed toward the rear end 3911 and the peaks 3968A, 3968B are disposed toward the front end 3908. In the illustrated embodiment, the composite insert comprises a single W-shaped rib 3965. In other embodiments, the composite insert can comprise multiple W-shaped ribs formed independently or interconnected. The W-shaped rib 3965 can stiffen the insert to protect against impact forces. The W-shaped rib 3965 can be oriented to protect against impact forces occurring in a specific or dominant direction.

[0103] One or more frame bridges 5045 may connect the forward frame to the rear frame, as best illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28, to further reinforce the central composite insert and stiffen the body. The body has a center of gravity (CG), wherein a CG XY plane intersects the CG and extends perpendicular to a ground plane in a heel-to-toe direction. The body further has a frame comprising a forward frame 5040 forming part of the body and disposed at a front of the golf club head. The forward frame includes a strike face and a forward frame return extending rearwardly from the strike face having a forward frame lap edge 5041 that extends continuously around a perimeter of the golf club head. The frame further comprises a rear frame 5050 forming part of the body and spaced rearwardly of the forward frame at a rear of the golf club head. The rear frame comprises a rearward frame lap edge 5051 extending continuously around and defining a forward portion of the rear frame.

[0104] The frame further comprises a first crown bridge 5045c, extending from a first crown region 5047c of the forward frame lap edge 5041 to a first crown region 5046c of the rearward frame lap edge 5051 along a first crown bridge axis. The first crown bridge 5045c comprises a first crown bridge base having a first crown bridge base exterior surface and a first crown bridge base interior surface opposite the first crown bridge base exterior surface. The first crown bridge further comprises a first crown bridge rib projecting inwardly from the first crown bridge base interior surface.

[0105] The frame further comprises a first sole bridge 5045a, extending from a first sole region of the forward frame lap edge to a first sole region of the rearward frame lap edge along a first sole bridge axis. The first sole bridge comprises a first sole bridge base having a first sole bridge baseAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT exterior surface and a first sole bridge base interior surface opposite the first sole bridge base exterior surface. The first sole bridge further comprises a first sole bridge rib projecting inwardly from the first sole bridge base interior surface.

[0106] further comprising a second sole bridge extending from a second sole region of the forward frame lap edge to a second sole region of the rearward frame lap edge along a second sole bridge axis, the second sole bridge comprising: a second sole bridge base having a second sole bridge base exterior surface and a second sole bridge base interior surface opposite the second sole bridge base exterior surface; and a second sole bridge rib projecting inwardly from the second sole bridge base interior surface; wherein the second sole bridge is disposed toeward of the first sole bridge

[0107] The body comprises a central insert, that is similar to central insert 4280 described above, in that the central insert forms part of the body and formed of a composite material. The central insert use with forward frame 5040 and rearward frame 5050 may lack a composite rib. Instead, the structural reinforcement of the body is achieved through the bridges 5045, 5045b, 5045c.

[0108] In one embodiment, the golf clubhead comprises a body having a frame having a forward frame 5040 near a front of the golf club head. The forward frame 5040 comprises a forward frame lap joint edge 5041 extending continuously around and defining a rear portion of the forward frame 5040. The frame further comprises a rearward frame 5050 near the rear end of the golf club head. The rearward frame 5050 comprises a rearward frame lap joint edge 5051 extending continuously around and defining a forward portion of the rearward frame 5050. The frame further comprises a central crown bridge 5045c extending from the forward frame 5040 to the rearward frame 5050, across the crown, to connect the forward frame 5040 to the rearward frame 5050. The central crown bridge 5045c has a central crown bridge axis extending from a forward end 5047c to the rearward end 5046c of the crown bridge 5045c, the central crown bridge 5045c comprises a central crown bridge frame rib extending perpendicular to a central crown bridge inner surface. The frame further comprises a heel sole bridge 5045a extending from the forward frame 5040 to the rearward frame 5050, across the sole, to connect the forward frame 5040 to the rearward frame 5040. The heel sole bridge 5045a comprises a heel sole bridge frame rib extending perpendicular to a heel sole bridge inner surface. The frame further comprises a toe sole bridge 5045b extending from the forward frame 5040 to the rearward frame 5050, across the sole, toeward of the heel sole bridgeAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT5045a, to connect the forward frame 5040 to the rearward frame 5050. The toe sole bridge 5045b comprises a toe sole bridge frame rib extending perpendicularly from a toe sole bridge inner surface. The body further comprises a central insert coupled to the forward frame 5040 and the rearward frame 5050.

[0109] Each frame rib (i.e., the central crown bridge frame rib, the toe sole bridge frame rib, and the toe sole bridge frame rib) can protrude from an interior surface of their respective bridge towards the interior cavity. The frame rib can extend perpendicularly from the interior surface of the internal crown bridge, such that the combination of the bridge and the rib form a “T” shape in cross-section. Further, the frame rib can extend generally along the length of the each bridge. The frame ribs help to further reinforce the central insert and damp club head vibrations.

[0110] High vibration areas of the golf club head can be reinforced to control vibration response. As discussed above, the internal reinforcement structures control vibrations to compensate for any dominant vibrations associated with the unique body shape and mass distribution of the golf club heads described herein. Therefore, the body 1001 can include any combination of the aforementioned external bridges, internal bridges, frame ribs, and / or insert ribs. Each of the internal reinforcement structures discussed above comprises a small percentage of mass relative to the body 1001. As such, the internal reinforcement structures discussed above support the respective portion of the body 1001, without significantly increasing the structural mass. The internal reinforcement structures allow for a club head that achieves a high IYY, a high IXX / IYY ratio, and a club head CG position at or near the loft-normal axis 35, all while also providing a desirable sound and feel response.

[0111] FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate another embodiment of a golf club head 2300 comprising a single-member central insert 2380. The club head 2300 comprises a rearward frame 2350 with an overlapping ledge 2337 that covers a portion of the central insert 2380. The golf club head 2300 comprises similar dimensions and relationships to the golf club head 2000, as discussed above. The golf club head 2300 can comprise any combination of the internal reinforcement structures, mass pads, and / or indentations described above. The golf club head 2300 is similar to the golf club head 2000, and like reference numbers are used to describe the golf club head 2300 (for example,Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT the golf club head 2300 comprises a crown 2310, a sole 2312, a heel end 2304, a toe end 2306, etc ). The golf club head 2300 comprises a forward frame 2340 and a rearward frame 2350.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the club head 2300 comprises a slotted adjustable weight system similar to club head 2200. As best illustrated in FIG. 30, the overlapping ledge 2337 comprises a rearward crown ledge 2337A and a rearward sole ledge 2337B extend forward from the weight system housing structure 2392, which is confined within the club head rear end 2311. The rearward crown ledge 2337A and rearward sole ledge 2337B overlap the rearward crown edge 2385A and rearward sole edge 2385B of the central insert 2380, respectively. As such, the rearward crown ledge 2337A and rearward sole ledge 2337B form rearward portions of the crown 2310 and the sole 2312, respectively. The central insert 2380 and rearward frame 2350 balance composite coverage with durability. Similar to central insert 2280 of club head 2200, the central insert 2380 extends near the club head rear end 2308. In many cases, impact forces press the central insert 2380 outward toward the club head exterior. The interior surface of the overlapping ledge 2237 provides a bonding surface for the central insert 2380 to attach to the rearward frame 2350 underneath the overlapping ledge 2337. The overlapping ledge 2337 thereby prevents the central insert 2380 from separating outward from the rearward frame 2350 at impact.

[0113] In the embodiments of golf club heads comprising a rearward frame that is separated from the forward frame by the composite insert, the rearward frame can be formed through various manufacturing processes that can be different than how the forward frame is formed. For example, the rearward frame and weight can be formed through casting, metal injection molding, diecasting, forging, machining, or any other well-know manufacturing processes depending on desired material, cost, and construction. In some embodiments, the rearward frame can comprise an enclosed weight integrally formed within the rearward frame, as shown in FIGS. 31-33.

[0114] The rearward frame 2450 further comprises an outer lip 2451 that forms a lap joint 2454 configured to receive any of the above central inserts described above. The outer lip 2451 further comprises an upper tab 2452 defining an upper lap joint and a lower tab 2453 defining a lower lap joint 2455. A first side wall 2456 and a second side wall 2458 extend between the upper tab 2452 and the lower tab 2453. Moreover, a cup, connected to the outer lip, defines a cup chamber 2470. A channel extends rearwardly from and fluidly communicates with the cup chamber.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT

[0115] The enclosed weight 2475 is configured to be received by the cup chamber 2470. The enclosed weight 2475 comprises a plurality of threaded apertures exposed through the channel. A removeable weight comprises a through hosel configured to accommodate a fastener. The fastener secures the removable weight to one of the plurality of threaded apertures.

[0116] As previously mentioned, the nested weight assembly provides a durable connection between the rearward frame 1450 and the central insert, as well as provides improved club head rear weighting. The denser encased weight provides targeted additional mass at the rear region of the club head, which improves forgiveness and performance characteristics. In many embodiments, the encased weight is comprised of a high-density material such as steel. In other embodiments, the encased weight is comprised of a material with a density greater than about 7.0 g / cm3. On the other hand, the rearward frame improves rigidity and allows for proper bonding between the nested weight assembly and the central insert. The nested weight assembly can be employed in combination with any of the aforementioned external bridges, internal bridges, frame ribs, and / or insert ribs. Particularly, the rearward frame enables the inclusion of an outer lip configured as a lap joint to provide a stable connection between the rearward frame and the central insert. In many embodiments, the rearward frame can be comprised of an aluminum or magnesium alloy. In other embodiments, the rearward frame can be comprised of a material with a density between 1.5 and 3.0 g / cm3.

[0117] In many embodiments, the encased weight is integrally formed within the rearward frame using a die casting process. In general, die casting describes a manufacturing process wherein a molten metal is injected under high pressure into a precision-engineered mold or die that defines the geometry of the rearward frame. The encased weight is pre-positioned within the mold cavity prior to injection, such that the molten metal flows around and encapsulates at least a portion of the encased weight. Upon cooling and solidification, the resulting structure securely retains the encased weight within the rearward frame, forming the nested weight assembly. In other embodiments, similar manufacturing techniques are utilized to create an integral nested weight assembly comprising the encased weight and the rearward frame.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCTEXAMPLESI. Example 1 : Indentation Test

[0118] An indentation test was conducted to compare the stiffness of rib embodiments, according to aspects of the present invention, to a control club head. The indentation test utilized a cradle seating the club head. The cradle is oriented the crown perpendicular to a rod that is actuated to apply pinpoint pressure on the crown until the crown buckles under load, or an indentation is present. Upon buckling or indentation, the pressure is recorded in pounds per inch. The first exemplary club head is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13, in that the club head comprises a forward frame, a rearward frame, and a central insert therebetween. The central insert comprises an annular rib, extending continuously around an interior surface of the central insert. The second exemplary club head was similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 28 and 29, in that the second exemplary club head comprised a forward frame, a reward frame, and three frame bridges extending between the forward frame and reward frame. Each frame bridge had a rib. The control club head was similar to the first exemplary club head, in that the control club head had a full composite wrap insert, except lacked a rib. The results of the indentation test are shown in Table 1 below.Table 1

[0119] As shown in table 1, exemplary club head 1 had an indentation force of 35.66 Ibf, exemplary club head 2 had an indentation force of 141.49, and the control club head only had an indentation force of 30.1 Ibf. Accordingly, the exemplary club head 1 having a full 360 ribsAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT improves the indentation force by 5.56 Ibf, resulting in a more durable club head. Similarly, exemplary club head 2 had an increase in indentation force by 110 Ibf. This large increase can be attributed to the position of the crown bridge relative to the force applied during the indentation test. The crown bridge being formed of the metallic material of the frame significantly increased the indentation force.II. Example 2: Performance Test

[0120] A player test was conducted to evaluate the performance of an exemplary club head, according to aspects of the present invention. The player test utilized 20 golfers that hit the exemplary club head and a control club head, alternating every 5 shots for a total of 10 shots per club head. The player test recorded ball speed, launch angle, and spin that was measured by a radar tracker. The results of all players were averaged for each club and are illustrated below in Table 2.

[0121] The exemplary embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13, in that the exemplary club head comprises a forward frame, a rearward frame, and a central insert therebetween. The central insert comprises an annular rib, extending continuously around an interior surface of the central insert. The control club head comprised a two panel construction having a crown panel and a sole panel.Table 2

[0122] As shown in Table 2 above, the exemplary club head had higher ball speed, similar launch angle, and reduced spin, which results in increased carry distance over the control club head. Specifically, the exemplary club head had a 0.7 mph increase in ball speed and a 115 rpm decrease in spin. The 3 -piece construction of the exemplary club head, having a rearward frame, a forwardAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT frame, and a central insert having an annular rib resulted in improved mass properties and CG location that increased the performance over a club head with a two-panel construction.III. Example 3: Durability Test

[0123] A test was conducted to study what size lap joint is needed for a full composite wrap with a non-interrupted rib. The test utilized a durability test. The test studied two exemplary embodiments that had the exact same construction with the only difference being the size of the lap joint on the rearward frame. In both embodiments, the rearward frame comprised a lap joint surface continuously extending around a weight channel configured to receive a weight. The first exemplary embodiment had a rearward frame lap joint surface area of 4.75 in2. The second exemplary embodiment had a reward frame lap joint surface area of 2.54 in2. In both embodiments, the rearward frame housed a 38g backweight. Both exemplary club heads were subjected to an air cannon test until failure or 4000 hits, which ever came first. Five versions of each exemplary club head were ran. The resulting number of hits till failure were then averaged for each club head and are illustrated in Table 3 below.Table 3

[0124] As shown in Table 3 above, the exemplary club head 1 survived an average of 74 more hits than exemplary club head 2. This is not statistically significant. Accordingly, the lap joint size difference between the first and second exemplary club head played no significant difference in durability of the overall construction of the club head and both club heads sufficiently passed durability.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCTCLAIMS1. A golf club head, comprising: a body having a center of gravity (CG), wherein a CG XY plane intersects the CG and extends perpendicular to a ground plane in a heel-to-toe direction; a frame, comprising: a forward frame forming part of the body and disposed at a front of the golf club head, the forward frame including: a strike face; and a forward frame return, extending rearwardly from the strike face, having a forward frame lap edge extending continuously around a perimeter of the golf club head; and a rear frame forming part of the body and spaced rearwardly of the forward frame at a rear of the golf club head, the rear frame comprising a rearward frame lap edge extending continuously around and defining a forward portion of the rear frame; a central insert forming part of the body and formed of a composite material, the central insert comprising: an insert crown region; an insert sole region opposite the insert crown region; an insert toe region extending between the insert crown region and the insert sole region; an insert heel region opposite the insert toe region and extending between the insert crown region and the insert sole region, wherein the insert crown region, the insert sole region, the insert toe region, and the insert heel region cooperate to define an insert interior surface having a rib attachment region located within 0.25 inches of the CG; an insert front rim, formed by front portions of the insert crown region, the insert sole region, the insert toe region, and the insert heel region, coupled to the forward frame lap edge to form a forward lap joint; and an insert rear rim, formed by rear portions of the insert crown region, the insert sole region, the insert toe region, and the insert heel region, coupled to the rearward frame lap edge to form a rear lap joint; and an insert rib coupled to the rib attachment region and projecting inwardly from the insert interior surface, wherein the insert rib extends continuously around the insert interior surface.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the insert rib is oriented at an insert rib angle of 5-15 degrees relative to the CG XY plane, when viewed from above.

3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the rib attachment region is further located at least 1.5 inches behind the strike face.

4. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the insert rib comprises an insert rib perimeter length between 3.0 and 7.0 inches5. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the insert rib comprises an insert rib cross- sectional shape selected from a group of cross-sectional shapes consisting of a rectilinear shape, an I-beam shape, and a U-shape.

6. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the insert rib comprises a first annular rib and a second annular rib, wherein each of the first and second annular ribs project inwardly from and continuously around the insert interior surface.

7. The golf club head of claim 6, wherein the first annular rib intersects the second annular rib at a first intersection located on the insert crown region and a second intersection located on the insert sole region.

8. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a first crown bridge extending from a first crown region of the forward frame lap edge to a first crown region of the rearward frame lap edge along a first crown bridge axis, the first crown bridge comprising: a first crown bridge base having a first crown bridge base exterior surface and a first crown bridge base interior surface opposite the first crown bridge base exterior surface; and a first crown bridge rib projecting inwardly from the first crown bridge base interior surface.

9. The golf club head of claim 8, further comprising a first sole bridge extending from a first sole region of the forward frame lap edge to a first sole region of the rearward frame lap edge along a first sole bridge axis, the first sole bridge comprising:Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT a first sole bridge base having a first sole bridge base exterior surface and a first sole bridge base interior surface opposite the first sole bridge base exterior surface; and a first sole bridge rib projecting inwardly from the first sole bridge base interior surface.

10. The golf club head of claim 9, further comprising a second sole bridge extending from a second sole region of the forward frame lap edge to a second sole region of the rearward frame lap edge along a second sole bridge axis, the second sole bridge comprising: a second sole bridge base having a second sole bridge base exterior surface and a second sole bridge base interior surface opposite the second sole bridge base exterior surface; and a second sole bridge rib projecting inwardly from the second sole bridge base interior surface; wherein the second sole bridge is disposed toeward of the first sole bridge.

11. A golf club head, comprising: a body having a center of gravity (CG), wherein a CG XY plane intersects the CG and extends perpendicular to a ground plane in a heel-to-toe direction; a frame, comprising: forward frame forming part of the body and disposed at a front of the golf club head, the forward frame including: a strike face; and a forward frame return, extending rearwardly from the strike face, having a forward frame lap edge extending continuously around a perimeter of the golf club head; a rear frame forming part of the body and spaced rearwardly of the forward frame at a rear of the golf club head, the rear frame comprising a rearward frame lap edge extending continuously around and defining a forward portion of the rear frame; a first crown bridge, extending from a first crown region of the forward frame lap edge to a first crown region of the rearward frame lap edge along a first crown bridge axis, comprising: a first crown bridge base having a first crown bridge base exterior surface and a first crown bridge base interior surface opposite the first crown bridge base exterior surface; andAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT a first crown bridge rib projecting inwardly from the first crown bridge base interior surface; a first sole bridge, extending from a first sole region of the forward frame lap edge to a first sole region of the rearward frame lap edge along a first sole bridge axis, comprising: a first sole bridge base having a first sole bridge base exterior surface and a first sole bridge base interior surface opposite the first sole bridge base exterior surface; and a first sole bridge rib projecting inwardly from the first sole bridge base interior surface; and a central insert forming part of the body and formed of a composite material, the central insert comprising: an insert crown region; an insert sole region opposite the insert crown region; an insert toe region extending between the insert crown region and the insert sole region; an insert heel region opposite the insert toe region and extending between the insert crown region and the insert sole region, wherein the insert crown region, the insert sole region, the insert toe region, and the insert heel region cooperate to define an insert interior surface; an insert front rim, formed by front portions of the insert crown region, the insert sole region, the insert toe region, and the insert heel region, coupled to the forward frame lap edge to form a forward lap joint; and an insert rear rim, formed by rear portions of the insert crown region, the insert sole region, the insert toe region, and the insert heel region, coupled to the rearward frame lap edge to form a rear lap joint.

12. The golf club head of claim 11, further comprising a second sole bridge, extending from a second sole region of the forward frame lap edge to a second sole region of the rearward frame lap edge along a second sole bridge axis, comprising: a second sole bridge base having a second sole bridge base exterior surface and a second sole bridge base interior surface opposite the second sole bridge base exterior surface; and a second sole bridge rib projecting inwardly from the second sole bridge base interiorAttorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT surface; wherein the second sole bridge is disposed toeward of the first sole bridge.

13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein: a YZ plane intersects the CG and extends perpendicular to the ground plane in a front to rear direction; the first sole bridge axis forms a first sole bridge angle of 5 to 15 degrees relative to the YZ plane, when viewed from above; and the second sole bridge axis forms a second sole bridge angle of 5 to 15 degrees relative to the YZ plane, when viewed from above.

14. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein: a YZ plane intersects the CG and extends perpendicular to the ground plane in a front to rear direction; and the first crown bridge axis forms a first crown bridge angle of 0 and 15 degrees relative to the YZ plane, when viewed from above.

15. The golf club head of claim 11, wherein the insert interior surface comprises a rib attachment region located within 0.25 inches of the CG, the golf club head further comprising: an insert rib coupled to the rib attachment region and projecting inwardly from the insert interior surface, wherein the insert rib extends continuously around the insert interior surface.

16. The golf club head of claim 15, wherein the insert rib is oriented at an insert rib angle of 5 to 15 degrees relative to the CG YZ plane, when viewed from above.

17. The golf club head of claim 15, wherein the rib attachment region is further located at least 1.5 inches behind the strike face.

18. The golf club head of claim 15, wherein the insert rib comprises an insert rib cross-sectional shape selected from a group of cross-sectional shapes consisting of a rectilinear shape, an I-beam shape, and a U-shape.Attorney Docket No. KMC-25-122-PCT19. The golf club head of claim 15, wherein the insert rib comprises a first annular rib and a second annular rib, wherein each of the first and second annular ribs project inwardly from and continuously around the insert interior surface.

20. The golf club head of claim 19, wherein the first annular rib is coupled to the second annular rib at both a first intersection, located on the insert crown region, and a second intersection, located on the insert sole region.

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