Self-centering laser mandrel for golf hosel precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing golf club mandrel systems are prone to misalignment and wear, leading to variations in hosel loft and lie tolerances during manufacturing, which increases manufacturing cycle time and reduces precision.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering laser mandrel system with a one-piece housing made of high-wear-resistant steel and precision-aligned laser components, including o-rings and set screws, ensures accurate alignment and measurement of hosel loft and lie, eliminating tolerance stack-up and wear-related issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single laser mandrel system is used to fit all hosel manufacturing processes, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to gaps between hosel and mandrel causing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel incorporates adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow dynamic adaptation to different hosel bore sizes and configurations. The system can be adjusted during operation to eliminate gaps and maintain precise alignment, rather than being a fixed static structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mandrel system allows modification of geometric parameters such as diameter, length, and positioning features to match specific hosel requirements. By changing these parameters, the same mandrel can achieve precise fit for different hosel types without sacrificing alignment accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-piece mandrel systems are used, then adaptability to different hosel types is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to tolerance stack between components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates multiple functional components into a unified mandrel structure. By combining positioning features, laser alignment systems, and adjustment mechanisms into a single integrated unit, the system eliminates tolerance accumulation between separate components while maintaining versatility through built-in adjustment capabilities.
3Manufacturing precision
If prior art mandrel systems are used, then initial manufacturing precision is acceptable, but reliability deteriorates over time due to wear and loosening of fit between hosel and mandrel
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel system incorporates self-adjusting and self-centering features that automatically compensate for wear and dimensional variations. The design includes features such as adjustable positioning elements and tolerance-compensating mechanisms that maintain precise alignment without requiring external intervention or reassembly, ensuring consistent reliability over extended use.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser mandrel system that self-centers within a hosel bore of a golf club head to allow for precision adjustment of lie and loft is disclosed herein. The mandrel includes a one-piece housing with upper and lower portions, a laser centered within the upper portion of the housing, and a plurality of o-rings extending around an exterior or interior surface of a lower portion of the housing.