Golf Club Head Alignment Features for Consistent Face Perception
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current golf club manufacturing methods lead to variability in alignment features due to inconsistent application of masking stickers, resulting in inconsistent performance and alignment issues, which affect the golfer's perception and actual alignment, causing spin and dispersion in shots.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of precise alignment features using orthogonal axes and contrasting shades or colors on the golf club head, including primary and secondary alignment features, electronic displays, and dielectric coatings to enhance alignment accuracy and perception, with specific parameters for Sight Adjusted Perceived Face Angle (SAPFA) and Radius of Curvature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If masking stickers are used to guide painting of alignment features, then alignment features can be applied to the club head, but the masking stickers are not easily affixed or aligned consistently, leading to variability in alignment feature location and shape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical masking sticker application process with an automated robotic painting system. The robotic arm with precision positioning can apply alignment features directly without requiring manual masking sticker placement, thereby eliminating the inconsistency introduced by manual sticker application while maintaining ease of manufacture through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital templates or pre-programmed coordinates to guide the robotic painting process. Instead of physical masking stickers that vary in placement, digital copies of the exact alignment feature patterns are transferred to the club head surface through the robotic system, ensuring consistent reproduction of alignment features across all club heads.
2Ease of manufacture
If alignment features are painted using current methods, then alignment features are provided on the club head, but the location of masking stickers determines the alignment feature shape and angle, leading to variability between golf club heads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual masking and painting with an automated robotic system that uses digital precision for positioning. The robotic arm follows pre-programmed paths with high accuracy, eliminating the variability introduced by manual sticker placement and painting, thereby achieving consistent alignment feature geometry across all club heads while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing approach from manual variable-parameter processes to automated fixed-parameter processes. The robotic system operates with precisely controlled parameters (positioning accuracy, painting speed, material flow rate) that are consistently maintained across production, eliminating the parameter variability that occurs with manual masking sticker application and painting.
3Productivity
If alignment features have variability, then manufacturing can proceed with current methods, but the variability in alignment features causes variability in golfer perception and actual alignment, resulting in spin and dispersion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual alignment feature application with an automated robotic system that ensures consistent alignment feature geometry. This substitution maintains high productivity through rapid automated painting while dramatically improving reliability by eliminating the human error and variability associated with manual masking sticker placement and painting processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the robotic system uses sensors or vision systems to verify the precise positioning and geometry of alignment features before or during the painting process. This closed-loop control ensures that each alignment feature meets specification tolerances, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing manufacturing throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the invention are directed to golf club having a crown, a sole, a face, and a face alignment feature located on the face.