Golf club heads with stiffening ribs

A hollow golf club head comprising a first component and a second component. The first component comprises a crown return extending rearwardly from a strikeface and forming a portion of a crown; a sole return extending rearwardly from the strikeface and forming a portion of a sole; a sole extension extending rearwardly from the sole return; and a back rail connected to the sole extension. The back rail comprises a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip, which together define a channel extending along the back rail in a heel to toe direction. The second component comprises a heel side wing and a toe side wing that extend from the crown to the sole around a heel end of the club head. The channel is configured to receive a weight portion. The first component comprises a majority of the overall mass of the golf club head.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to golf club heads with structures or ribs that reinforce the club head.

BACKGROUND

In general, there are many important physical parameters (i.e., volume, mass, etc.) that effect the overall performance of the golf club head. One of the most important physical parameters is the center of gravity (CG) of the golf club head. The CG of the golf club head directly affects the performance characteristics (i.e., moment of inertia, launch, ball speed, etc.). A desirable CG position on a golf club head is low and rearward from the strike face, to optimally raise the launch angle and MOI of the golf ball. Additionally, the CG position can be moved nearer to the toe end or heel end of the golf club head to further affect the side spin of the golf ball.

Typically, wood-type golf clubs are made exclusively of metal. In these club heads, the hollow-shell body comprises a thick face for ball impact and a thick sole to withstand grazing impact. The remaining portions of the club are manufactured to be as thin as possible for weight savings. Recently, however, light weight composite and plastic materials have been implemented in the hollow shell construction of the golf clubs to further increase weight savings. The above mentioned weight savings allow for mass to be localized through the use of external weights. Material weight savings and mass localization can allow for optimal CG and MOI characteristics.

In addition to providing material weight savings, and ideal CG and MOI characteristics, golf club heads comprising light weight materials and weight systems must continue to fulfil the consumer expected wear life on the club. Ribs have often been employed in the prior art to add desired rigidity to the crown and sole of the club for light weight support. These ribs serve to strengthen the club head body in locations of high stress.

The prior art fails to recognize that club heads comprising both lightweight materials and a localized mass require additional support due to oscillatory club head motion after impact. While stresses may remain the same, oscillations can accelerate fatigue failure caused by cyclic movement. The stiffening rib described below stabilizes the weight system of the golf club head for a reduction in oscillations and improved wear life in the club.

DESCRIPTION

I. Multi-Material Golf Club Head with Ribs

Described herein is a multi-material golf club having at stiffening rib, operative for supporting a weight system located in the club head rear during impact. The multi-material golf club head can be a hollow golf club body. The hollow golf club head body is defined by a first component and a second component coupled together. The first component is fabricated from a metal material. The second component is fabricated from a nonmetallic, composite material. The first component comprises the weight system. The weight system comprises a weight portion having a large mass fixed and a rear most point on the club body. Additionally, the weight system is confined within a small arced region in club head rear.

The restricted location and heavy mass of the weight system combine to allow for the center of gravity (CG) to be moved in toward the heel or toward the toe without also moving the CG forward. Golf club heads comprising the above structure, however, tend to reach fatigue failure at an accelerated rate when compared to golf club heads comprising a single material construction and a larger region for weight placement. Following impact with a golf ball, the body of the club head recoils. During recoil, the club head bends and deforms elastically at the location of the weight system. The restoration of the club to its original position causes the club head to oscillate near the weight system. In general, oscillations are undesirable due to the above mentioned accelerated fatigue failure caused by cyclic movement.

The degree in which bending, and oscillations occur, however, is directly proportional to mass and inversely proportional to stiffness. The stiffening rib described below stabilizes the weight system of the golf club head to reduce club head bending for a reduction in oscillations and improved wear life in the club.

The term or phrase “integral” can be defined herein as two or more elements, if they are comprised of the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or more elements are “non-integral” if each element is comprised of a different piece of material.

The term or phrase “couple” “coupled”, “couples”, and “coupling” can be defined herein as connecting two or more elements, mechanically or otherwise. Coupling (whether mechanical or otherwise) may be for any length of time, e.g. permanent or semi-permanent or only for an instant. Mechanical coupling and the like should be broadly understood and include mechanical coupling of all types. The absence of the word “removably,” “removable,” and the like near the word “coupled,” and the like does not mean that the coupling, in question is or is not removable.

The term or phrase “sole” can be defined as the bottom surface of the golf club head.

The term or phrase “attach”, “attached”, “attaches”, and “attaching” can be defined herein as connecting or being joined to something. Attaching may be permanent or semi-permanent. Mechanically attaching and the like should be broadly understood and include all types of mechanical attachment means. Integral attachment means should be broadly understood and include all types of integral attachment means that permanently connects two or more objects together.

The restricted location and heavy mass of the weight system combine to allow for the center of gravity (CG) to be moved in toward the heel or toward the toe without also moving the CG forward. Golf club heads comprising the above structure, however, tend to reach fatigue failure at an accelerated rate when compared to golf club heads comprising a single material construction and a larger region for weight placement. Following impact with a golf ball, the body of the club head recoils. During recoil, the club head bends and deforms elastically at the location of the weight system. The restoration of the club to its original position causes the club head to oscillate near the weight system. In general, oscillations are undesirable due to the above mentioned accelerated fatigue failure caused by cyclic movement.

The term “ground plane” refers to a plane positioned at a 60 degree angle to a hosel axis of a golf club head with respect to a front view, and perpendicular to the hosel axis of the golf club head with respect a side view. The ground plane is tangent to a sole of the golf club head when the club head is at an address position. Further, the term “front plane” refers to a vertical plane that is tangential to a leading edge point when viewed from a side view, and also perpendicular to a ground plane.

B. Golf Club Head

Described herein is a multi-material golf club head comprising at least one rib that stiffens the rear portion of the club head. The golf club head can comprise first component and a second component. The first component comprises a heavy weight system located at the rear of the club head. The weight system concentrates mass in a central rear portion of the club head to lower CG and increase MOI in the golf club head. The rib may be operative to reduce oscillations caused by the heavy weight system after impact. In some embodiments the rib may extend arcuately from the sole over the weight system. In other embodiments, the rib can extend from the weight system to the crown. In some embodiments, the rib has perforations for reducing the weight of the stiffening rib.

FIG. 1illustrates a golf club head100according to an embodiment. The golf club head100includes a front portion102comprising a strikeface118, a rear portion104opposite the front portion102, a heel end106, a toe end108, a crown110, and a sole112. Together, the front portion102, the rear portion104, the heel end106, the toe end108, the crown110, and the sole112together define a hollow structure with a plurality of interior surfaces therein. In the illustrated embodiments, the club head100is defined by a first component120and a second component220secured to together.

The various embodiments and examples of golf club head100described herein may have components and configurations that have dimensions, geometries, or orientations described according to reference points. Described in detail below are several of the reference indicators as shown inFIGS. 1-4.

Referring toFIG. 1, the strikeface118of the club head100comprises a geometric center500. In some embodiments, the geometric center500can be located at the geometric centerpoint of the strikeface118, and at a midpoint of a face height504. In the same or other examples, the geometric center500can also be centered with respect to an engineered impact zone, which can be defined by a region of grooves on the strikeface118. As another approach, the geometric center500of the strikeface118can be located in accordance with the definition of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, the geometric center500of the strikeface118can be determined in accordance with Section 6.1 of the USGA's Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Clubhead (USGA-TPX3004, Rev. 1.0.0, May 1, 2008) (available at http://www.usga.org/equipment/testing/protocols/Procedure-For-Measuring-The-Flexibility-Of-A-Golf-Cub-Head/) (the “Flexibility Procedure”).

Referring toFIG. 2-3, the golf club head100may comprise various reference planes and measurements. The golf club head100defines a front plane40, a loft plane50, and a ground plane60. Further, the golf club head100comprises a coordinate system having an origin at the geometric center500of the strike face118. As shown inFIG. 2, the coordinate system can have an X axis10, a Y axis20, and a Z axis30. When the golf club head100is at address, the X axis10extends through the strikeface geometric center500in a heel to toe direction and parallel to the ground plane60. The Y axis20extends through the geometric center500from the crown100to the sole112, and in a direction perpendicular to the X axis10and the ground plane60. The Z axis30extends through the strike face center500in a direction extending from the strike face118to the rear end104of the golf club head100. The Z axis30is perpendicular to the X axis10and the Y axis20.

Referring toFIG. 2the coordinate system defines a set of planes that also originate at the geometric center500of the strikeface118. An XY plane is defined by the X axis and Y axis. In most embodiments, the XY plane is the front plane40(hereafter “front plane40”). The loft plane50is positioned at an acute angle with respect to the front plane40. The loft plane50is tangent to the strikeface118. An XZ plane is defined by the X axis and Z axis. A YZ plane is defined by the Y axis and Z axis. Planes XY, XZ, and YZ are perpendicular to each other.

Referring toFIG. 3, the club head100further includes a length506. The length506of the club head100can be determined according to the guidelines outlined by USGA. In general, the length506can be measured in a direction of the Z axis30as a greatest distance from the front plane40to the rear portion104of the club head100. The height504of the club head100can be measured as the furthest extent of the club head from the crown110to the sole112in a direction parallel to the Y axis20when viewed normal to the front plane40. Similarly, the golf club head height504can be measured according to guidelines outlined by USGA.

In these or other embodiments, the club head100can be viewed from a front view when the strikeface is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the XY plane. Further, in these or other embodiments, the club head100can be viewed from a side view or side cross-sectional view when the heel is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the YZ plane.

ReferencingFIG. 3, club head100can further include a center of gravity (CG)508. The position of CG can be described according to the loft plane50, the ground plane60, and a front plane40. The CG508is positioned at a head CG height510and a head CG depth512. The CG height510can be measured in a direction of the Y axis20from the ground plane60to the center of gravity508. The CG depth512can be measured in a direction of the Z axis10from the front plane40to the center of gravity508.

As shown inFIG. 4, the golf club head100can be described relative to a clock grid, which may be aligned with the strikeface118and projected from the ground plane60to the sole112of the club head100. The clock grid can comprise 12 o'clock ray522, which is aligned with the geometric center500of the strikeface118in the present embodiment. 12 o'clock ray522is orthogonal to a front intersection line520, which is defined by the intersection of the loft plane50and the ground plane60. The clock grid can be centered at a center point518along the 12 o'clock ray522, at a midpoint between the front plane40and a rearmost end of the club head. In some examples, the clock grid center point518can be centered proximate to a geometric centerpoint500of the club head100. The clock grid comprises a 3 o'clock ray528extending toward the heel end106, a 9 o'clock ray540extending towards the toe end108, and a 6 o'clock ray534extend toward the rear portion104. The clock grid comprises a 4 o'clock ray530between the 3 o'clock ray528and the 6 o'clock ray534, and a 8 o'clock ray538between the 9 o'clock ray540and the 6 o'clock ray534. The clock grid further comprises a 5 o'clock ray532between the 4 o'clock ray530and the 6 o'clock ray534, and a 7 o'clock ray536between the 8 o'clock ray538and the 6 o'clock ray534. The clock grid further comprises a 1 o'clock ray524, a 2 o'clock ray526, a 10 o'clock ray542, and a 11 o'clock ray544.

In many embodiments, the club head100can be a driver or fairway wood type golf club head having a weight system136, wherein a rib300is configured to stiffen the club head100in the location of the weight system300. In many embodiments, the club head100can be a wood type golf club head (i.e. driver, fairway wood, hybrid).

In some embodiments, the club head100can comprise a driver. In these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head can be less than approximately 16 degrees, less than approximately 15 degrees, less than approximately 14 degrees, less than approximately 13 degrees, less than approximately 12 degrees, less than approximately 11 degrees, or less than approximately 10 degrees. Further, in these embodiments, the volume of the club head can be greater than approximately 400 cc, greater than approximately 425 cc, greater than approximately 450 cc, greater than approximately 475 cc, greater than approximately 500 cc, greater than approximately 525 cc, greater than approximately 550 cc, greater than approximately 575 cc, greater than approximately 600 cc, greater than approximately 625 cc, greater than approximately 650 cc, greater than approximately 675 cc, or greater than approximately 700 cc. In some embodiments, the volume of the club head can be approximately 400 cc-600 cc, 425 cc-500 cc, approximately 500 cc-600 cc, approximately 500 cc-650 cc, approximately 550 cc-700 cc, approximately 600 cc-650 cc, approximately 600 cc-700 cc, or approximately 600 cc-800 cc.

In some embodiments, the club head100can comprise a fairway wood. In these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head can be less than approximately 35 degrees, less than approximately 34 degrees, less than approximately 33 degrees, less than approximately 32 degrees, less than approximately 31 degrees, or less than approximately 30 degrees. Further, in these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head can be greater than approximately 12 degrees, greater than approximately 13 degrees, greater than approximately 14 degrees, greater than approximately 15 degrees, greater than approximately 16 degrees, greater than approximately 17 degrees, greater than approximately 18 degrees, greater than approximately 19 degrees, or greater than approximately 20 degrees. For example, in some embodiments, the loft angle of the club head can be between 12 degrees and 35 degrees, between 15 degrees and 35 degrees, between 20 degrees and 35 degrees, or between 12 degrees and 30 degrees.

In embodiments where the club head100comprises a fairway wood, the volume of the club head is less than approximately 400 cc, less than approximately 375 cc, less than approximately 350 cc, less than approximately 325 cc, less than approximately 300 cc, less than approximately 275 cc, less than approximately 250 cc, less than approximately 225 cc, or less than approximately 200 cc. In these embodiments, the volume of the club head can be approximately 160 cc-200 cc, approximately 160 cc-250 cc, approximately 160 cc-300 cc, approximately 160 cc-350 cc, approximately 160 cc-400 cc, approximately 300 cc-400 cc, approximately 325 cc-400 cc, approximately 350 cc-400 cc, approximately 250 cc-400 cc, approximately 250 cc-350 cc, or approximately 275 cc-375 cc.

In some embodiments, the club head100can comprise a hybrid. In these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head can be less than approximately 40 degrees, less than approximately 39 degrees, less than approximately 38 degrees, less than approximately 37 degrees, less than approximately 36 degrees, less than approximately 35 degrees, less than approximately 34 degrees, less than approximately 33 degrees, less than approximately 32 degrees, less than approximately 31 degrees, or less than approximately 30 degrees. Further, in these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head100can be greater than approximately 16 degrees, greater than approximately 17 degrees, greater than approximately 18 degrees, greater than approximately 19 degrees, greater than approximately 20 degrees, greater than approximately 21 degrees, greater than approximately 22 degrees, greater than approximately 23 degrees, greater than approximately 24 degrees, or greater than approximately 25 degrees.

In embodiments where the club head100comprises a hybrid, the volume of the club head is less than approximately 200 cc, less than approximately 175 cc, less than approximately 160 cc, less than approximately 125 cc, less than approximately 100 cc, or less than approximately 75 cc. In some embodiments, the volume of the club head can be approximately 100 cc-160 cc, approximately 75 cc-160 cc, approximately 100 cc-125 cc, or approximately 75 cc-125 cc.

C. First and Second Golf Club Head Components

FIGS. 1-7illustrate an embodiment of a multi-component golf club head100comprising structures that influence club head response to impact, such as a rib positioned within the interior of the hollow club head at the rear portion104and configured to stiffen the club head body and support a weight system136. As later discussed, the golf club head100comprises at least one rib protruding from the interior surface of the weight system136. The rib may be operative to reduce oscillations of the weight system136during and after impact. The structure of embodiments of golf club head100comprising this rib is described below in further detail. As discussed above, the golf club head100is a two component golf club head comprising a weight system136and a rib.

First Component

As discussed above, the golf club100head comprises a first component120. The first component120comprises a first material as specified below. The first material can be a metal. ReferencingFIGS. 5 and 6, the first component120can comprise the strike face118, a crown return122, a sole return124, a sole extension126, and a back rail128. The back rail128can further comprise a skirt portion130and the weight system136. The crown return122can form a portion of the crown110adjacent the strike face118. The sole return124, sole extension126, and the back rail128can form a portion of the sole112. Further, the sole return124, sole extension126, and the back rail define a perimeter edge of the first component120. A first bond surface180can be created by thinning a portion of the first component120along the perimeter edge. From a sole view, the first component can be generally “T” shaped. The sole extension126and the back rail128form a vertical, stem portion of the “T” shape. The sole return124can form a horizontal, or top portion of the “T” shape.

The crown return122and sole return124extend rearward in a direction orthogonal to the strike face118. The sole extension126is adjacent the sole return124. The sole extension126extends rearward from the sole return124. The back rail128abuts a rearmost edge of the sole extension126. The sole return124, the sole extension126, and back rail128may be integral. In other embodiments, the sole extension126and the back rail128can be formed separately, and then attached or secured to the first component120.

As shown inFIG. 6, in some embodiments, the first component120of golf club head100may further comprise a crown bridge132. The crown bridge132may extend from the crown return122to the back rail128of the first component120. In the illustrated embodiment, the crown bridge132extends from the crown return122to the back rail128. The crown bridge132can serve to support the first component120during manufacturing. Additionally, the crown bridge132may serve as an attachment point for the above mentioned stiffening rib.

As shown inFIG. 6, the crown bridge132may further comprise a crown bridge width134measured in a heel to toe direction. The crown bridge width134can range from 0.25 inch to 2.0 inches. For example, the crown bridge width134can be between 0.25 inch to 0.50 inch, 0.50 inch to 0.75 inch, 0.75 inch to 1.0 inch, 1.0 inch to 1.25 inches, 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, 1.50 inches to 1.75, 1.75 inches to 2.0 inches.

Further, the crown bridge may be located relative to the ZY plane70. The crown bridge132can be offset from the ZY plane70. For example, in the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 6, the crown bridge132is positioned toward the heel end106of the golf club100in reference to the ZY plane70. In other embodiments, the crown bridge132can be positioned, closer to the toe end108of the golf club relative to the ZY plane70. Alternatively, the crown bridge132can be located such that the crown bridge is aligned with the ZY plane70. Furthermore, in other embodiments the crown bridge132can extend from the crown return122to the sole124return at an angle.

As previously mentioned, the first component120can comprise a first material, wherein the first material is metal. The first material comprises a first material mass that is associated with a first material density. Likewise, the second component220comprises a second material, wherein the second material is a composite. The second material comprises a material density that is less than the first material density.

The mass of the first component120, as mentioned above, can be described as a percentage of an overall mass of the complete club head100. The overall mass of the club head100can be the total mass of joined first120and second220components. The mass of the first component120can be 85%-96% of the mass of the complete club head100. For example, the first component120can have a mass percentage of 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, or 96%. Likewise, a mass percentage of the second component220can be 4% to 15% the mass of the complete club head100. The first component120further comprises a weight system136located at the back rail128portion of the club head100.

In some embodiments, the first component120can be manufactured as a single piece. In other embodiments, the first component120can be formed as multiple pieces that are connected or secured together, for example, through the use of adhesives, adhesive tapes, or mechanical fasteners. The first component120can comprise a metal material such as steel, tungsten, aluminum, titanium, vanadium chromium, cobalt, nickel, or other metals and metal alloys. In some embodiments the first component may comprise a titanium metal. In many embodiments, the first component120is made from a metallic material to withstand the repeated impact stress from striking a golf ball. In some embodiments, the first component120can be formed from stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, a steel alloy (e.g. 455 steel, 475 steel, 431 steel, 17-4 stainless steel, maraging steel), a titanium alloy (e.g. Ti 7-4, Ti 6-4, T-9S), an aluminum alloy, or a composite material. In some embodiments, the strike face118of the golf club head100can comprise stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, a steel alloy (e.g. 455 steel, 475 steel, 431 steel, 17-4 stainless steel, maraging steel), a titanium alloy (e.g. Ti 7-4, Ti 6-4, T-9S), an aluminum alloy, an amorphous metal alloy, or a composite material.

In some embodiments, the first component120can be made of a single metal material. In other embodiments, the first component120can comprise multiple metal materials. For example, the strikeface118, in some embodiments, may comprise a material that is different from the crown return122, the sole return124, the sole extension126, and the back rail128.

In many embodiments, the first component120can casted and formed as a single piece. In other embodiments, the first component120, may be forged, pressed, rolled, extruded, machined, electroformed, 3D printed, or formed via any appropriated manufacturing technique. In many embodiments, the first component120can be manufactured to further comprise the stiffening rib for supporting the weight system136of the back rail128.

Weight System

As noted above, the first component120comprises a large percentage of the overall club head mass. The first component120can comprise a weight system136that receives a moveable weight portion140. The weight system136can be located in the back rail128of the first component120. Referring back toFIG. 5, the back rail128of the first component comprises120the weight system136and is configured to localize mass the rearmost portion of the club. Localization of mass in the rear portion104of the club100can allow for the adjustment of the club head100mass properties, such as CG and MOI, according to player swing and impact characteristics. Ball flight can also be influenced by the position of the weight portion140within the weight system136.

Referring toFIGS. 4 and 5, the weight system136is located in the rear portion104of the club head100and within the back rail128. The weight system136may further comprise the weight portion140, a weight fastener142, and at least one weight receiving boss144. The weight receiving boss144can form an aperture145for receiving the weight fastener142. The weight fastener142is configured to secure the weight portion140to the weight receiving boss144.

The weight system136may further comprise a plurality of walls to house the weight portion140via the weight receiving boss144and weight fastener142. Referring toFIG. 3, the walls may include a top wall150and a rear wall152. Further the weight system can comprise a lip154protruding from the bottom of the rear wall152. Together, the top wall150, rear wall152, and lip154define a weight channel138. As shown in the cross section view ofFIG. 2, the weight channel132is parallel to the ground plane and extends from the back rail128of the first component120and toward the front plane40in a rear to front direction.

Referring toFIGS. 3-5, the weight channel138comprises a channel surface148configured to house the weight portion140. In most embodiments, the shape of the interior surface of the channel138is complementary to the shape of the weight portion140. The top wall150of the weight channel138may be generally parallel to the ground plane60when the golf club head100is at address. The rear wall152of the weight channel138may be generally orthogonal to the ground plane60when the golf club head is at address. The lip154can protrude in the front to rear direction from the rear wall152nearest the ground plane60. Further the top wall150and lip154may define a weight channel height156and a weight channel depth158.

The weight channel height156can be measured as the vertical distance between the weight channel top wall150and the weight channel lip154. The weight channel height156can range from 0.25 inch to 0.65 inch. In some embodiments, the channel height156can be approximately 0.25 inch, 0.26 inch, 0.27 inch, 0.28 inch, 0.29 inch, 0.30 inch, 0.31 inch, 0.32 inch, 0.33 inch, 0.34 inch, or 0.35 inch.

The weight channel depth158can be measured from as the distance from the rear most point of the back rail128to a juncture of the top wall150and rear wall152. The channel depth158can range from 0.25 inch to 0.65 inch. In some embodiments, the channel depth158can be approximately 0.25 inch, 0.26 inch, 0.27 inch, 0.28 inch, 0.29 inch, 0.30 inch, 0.31 inch, 0.32 inch, 0.33 inch, 0.34 inch, or 0.35 inch.

Referring back toFIG. 4, the weight channel138may further comprise a weight channel length162measured between a weight channel heel end166and a weight channel toe end166. The length of the channel162can have a range of 1.6 inches and 3.0 inches. In some embodiments the length of the channel may be 1.6 inches, 1.7 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, or 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, or 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, or 3.0 inches. As mentioned above, the limited span of the weight channel can be operative for preventing movement of the club head CG508toward the strikeface118.

In some embodiments, the location of the weight channel138may be described via a clock grid system mentioned above. ReferencingFIG. 4, the weight channel138is located toward the rear portion104of the golf club head100. Still referencingFIG. 4, the weight channel138can be located relative to hours on the clock. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 4, the weight channel toe end164and weight channel heel end166may be at least partially bounded by 4 o'clock ray and 8 o'clock ray. The location of the weight channel relative to the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock rays confines the CG to the very rear of the club. Alternatively, the CG can be confined to the rear of the club by locating the weight channel between the 4 o'clock and 7 o'clock rays, the 5 o'clock and 8 o'clock rays, or the 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock rays.

As mentioned above, the weight system136may comprise a plurality of weight receiving bosses144. In some embodiments, the weight system136may comprise two to six bosses144configured to receive the weight portion140via the weight fastener142. In some embodiments, the weight system136may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 bosses144. In most embodiments, adjacent bosses144are equally spaced, however in some embodiments, adjacent bosses are unequally spaced. In one embodiment, the weight system136can comprise three bosses144spaced such that adjacent bosses144comprise a space ranging from 0.5 inches to 0.6 inches.

Referring toFIG. 4, weight portion140can be configured to be received and secured within the weight channel138via the weight receiving boss144. The aperture145of the boss144may be internally threaded to selectively receive the weight fastener146. The weight fastener142can comprise a length that is the same as or less than a length of the aperture145. The weight portion140defines a through hole146in a center of the weight portion140. The through hole146may further be dimensioned and configured to receive the weight fastener142. In some embodiments, the through hole146of the weight portion140is at least partially threaded. Likewise, the weight fastener142may be threaded such that it is complementary to the threading of the through hole146and boss144.

As mentioned, the weight portion140of the weight system136is moveable between adjacent bosses 0.5 inches to 0.6 inches. Moving the weight portion140between bosses144may result in and overall movement of the club head CG508. For example, when secured in the center boss, the CG508of the club head100is positioned to yield a straight golf shot. When secured in the heel boss, the CG508of the club head100is moved toward the heel to yield a fade type shot. The heel ward positioning results in a ball flight path that is generally left to right (for lefthanded golfers a right to left ball flight. Finally, when positioned in the toe boss, the CG of the clubhead is moved toward the toe to yield a draw type golf shot. The toe-ward positioning yields a ball flight that is generally right to left (for lefthanded golfers left to right).

As illustrated inFIG. 7the weight system may further comprise a base structure170for supporting the weight bosses144within the club head interior. The base structure170can protrude from an interior surface of the sole extension126to abut the weight channel rear wall152and be operative for weight channel sport. The weight receiving bosses144can be positioned within and/or on top of the base structure170. In some embodiments, the bosses144and base structure146are integral.

The base structure may further include a front wall172and a top wall174. In some embodiments, the front wall172is perpendicular to the top wall174to form a step-like geometry. The step like geometry of the base structure170can serve to rigidly secure the bosses144within the club head interior.

As described below, the golf club head can further comprise at least one stiffening rib. The at least one stiffening rib can attach to the base structure170described above. In some embodiments, the rib can also attach to one or more of the interior surfaces of the sole extension, weight channel top wall, the weight channel rear wall, the skirt, and the crown. The stiffening rib can rigidly fix interior surfaces of the club head to stiffen the club head body during impact. Attaching the stiffening rib to the weight system can prevent fatigue failure of the club head by dampening oscillatory motion of the weight system after impact.

Second Component

As discussed above, the golf club head100further comprises a second component220. The second component220can comprise a composite material. The second component220attaches to the first component to define the hollow club head100. ReferencingFIG. 2, the second component can comprise a crown portion222, a toe side wing224, and a heel side wing226. In some embodiments, the second component220can be configured to fit over the first component120to define the complete golf club head100. In an assembled configuration, the second component220forms a majority of the crown110and a portion of the sole112at the heel end106and the toe end108.

ReferencingFIG. 9, the toe side wing224and heel side wing226can comprise a generally triangular geometry. The toe side wing224may be configured to fit within the toe end crown return122, sole extension126and back rail128of the first component120. Likewise, the heel side wing226may be configured to fit within the heel end106of the crown return122, sole extension126, and back rail128of the first component120. As mentioned, the second component220can comprise a second material that is less dense than the material of the first component120. The second component220can be composite. The composite material of the second component220can be integrated with fillers such as fibers and beads for increased strength and durability. In other embodiments, the second component220can comprise any high strength plastic material integrated or co-molded with carbon/glass fibers, glass/metal beads, powders (e.g. tungsten powder), or any other fill material for increased strength, durability, or weighting.

In some embodiments, the second component220can comprise a composite formed from polymer resin and reinforcing fiber. The polymer resin can comprise a thermoset or a thermoplastic. More specifically, in embodiments with a thermoplastic resin, the resin can comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). For example, the resin can comprise polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyetheretheretherketone (PEEK), polyimides, polyamides such as PA6 or PA66, polyamide-imides, polyphenylene sulfides (PPS), polycarbonates, engineering polyurethanes, and/or other similar materials. The reinforcing fiber can comprise carbon fibers (or chopped carbon fibers), glass fibers (or chopped glass fibers), graphine fibers (or chopped graphite fibers), or any other suitable filler material. In other embodiments, the second component composite material can comprise beads (e.g. glass beads, metal beads) or powders (e.g., tungsten powder) for weighting. In other embodiments, the composite material may comprise any reinforcing filler that adds strength, durability, and/or weighting.

In some embodiments, the reinforcing fiber comprises a plurality of distributed discontinuous fibers (i.e. “chopped fibers”). In some embodiments, the reinforcing fiber comprises a plurality of discontinuous “long fibers,” having a designed fiber length of from about 3 mm to 25 mm. For example, in some embodiments, the fiber length is about 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) prior to the molding process. In another embodiment, the reinforcing fiber comprises discontinuous “short fibers,” having a designed fiber length of from about 0.01 mm to 3 mm. In either case (short or long fiber), it should be noted that the given lengths are the pre-mixed lengths, and due to breakage during the molding process, some fibers may actually be shorter than the described range in the final component. In some configurations, the discontinuous chopped fibers may be characterized by an aspect ratio (e.g., length/diameter of the fiber) of greater than about 10, or more preferably greater than about 50, and less than about 1500. Regardless of the specific type of discontinuous chopped fibers used, in certain configurations, the composite material may have a fiber length of from about 0.01 mm to about 25 mm.

The composite material may have a polymer resin content of from about 40% to about 90% by weight, or from about 55% to about 70% by weight. The composite material of the second component can have a fiber content between about 10% to about 60% by weight. In some embodiments, the composite material has a fiber content between about 20% to about 50% by weight, between 30% to 40% by weight. In some embodiments, the composite material has a fiber content of between about 10% and about 15%, between about 15% and about 20%, between about 20% and about 25%, between about 25% and about 30%, between about 30% and about 35%, between about 35% and about 40%, between about 40% and about 45%, between about 45% and about 50%, between about 50% and about 55%, or between about 55% and about 60% by weight.

The density of the composite material, which forms the second component, can range from about 1.15 g/cc to about 2.02 g/cc. In some embodiments, the composite material density ranges between about 1.30 g/cc and about 1.40 g/cc, or between about 1.40 g/cc to about 1.45 g/cc.

Recall, the second component can comprise a second component mass percentage of the overall mass of the golf club head. The mass percentage of the second component can range from 4% to 15% of the overall mass of the golf club head. For example, the mass percentage of the second component can be 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, or 15%. The mass can range from approximately 10 grams to approximately 25 grams.

The second component of the golf club head can comprise a thickness. The thickness of the second component can be 0.008-0.065 inches. In some embodiments the thickness can have a range of 0.008-0.025 inches, 0.010-0.040 inches, 0.010-0.020 inches, 0.015-0.025 inches, 0.020-0.030 inches, 0.025-0.035 inches, 0.030-0.040 inches, 0.035-0.045 inches, 0.040-0.050 inches, 0.045-0.055 inches, 0.050-0.060 inches, or, 0.055-0.065 inches. For example, the thickness of the second component can be 0.008 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.035 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.055 inches, 0.060 inches, or 0.065 inches. The thickness of the second component can be constant or vary. For example, the second component thickness can vary within the crown portion, the toe side wing, the heel side wing, the rear end, and along the periphery of the second component.

As shown inFIG. 9, the second component may comprise a plurality of thinned sections. Each of the crown portion, heel side wing, and toe side wing of the second component can have one or more thinned section sections. In the illustrated embodiment, the thinned sections are centrally located in the crown portion, heel side wing, and toe side wing. In this embodiment, peripheral edges and a rear section of the crown portion are not thinned. The peripheral edge, or bonded surfaces, and crown region nearest the weight port maintain thickness due to inherently higher stress values. The thinned sections can reduce the overall mass of the second component allowing weight to be relocated to the weight system136.

Connected First Component and Second Component

As discussed, the first component120and second component220define the complete golf club head100. ReferencingFIG. 6, the first component120may further comprise a first bond surface180or recessed lip, located along a peripheral edge of the first component120operative for joining the first and second components. The first bond surface180is configured to overlap with a portion of the second component220(a second bond surface232) to form the complete club head100.

The first bond surface180can be formed by thinning the perimeter edge of the crown return portion122, sole extension126, and back rail128of the first component120toward the club head interior. In other words, the first bond surface180can be recessed from an outer surface of the golf club head100to account for a combined thickness of the overlapping first bond surface180and second bond surface232.

As shown inFIG. 6, the width of the first bond surface180can have a range of 0.125-0.275 inches. In some embodiments the width of the first bond surface180can be 0.125 inches, 0.150 inches, 0.175 inches, 0.200 inches, 0.225 inches, or 0.275 inches.

The first bond surface180and second bond surface132may be secured via an epoxy or an adhesive formulated for bonding metal and composite materials. The adhesive can be (list adhesives). Further, the first bond surface180may comprise bond promoting features such as grooves or raised embossing. These features aid in even and controlled adhesive distribution over the first and second components during assembly.

The golf club head can further comprise a rib having dimensional and positional characteristics that can determine club head performance as it relates to impact response for wear life of the club. The rib may be positioned within the interior surface of the club head body such that it stiffens the rear portion of the club head to reduce oscillations caused by the concentrated weight system after impact. As discussed below, the stiffening rib can dampen oscillations induced by the extreme concentration of mass in the rear portion of the club.

Following impact with a golf ball, the golf club head recoils. During recoil, the club head bends or deforms elastically, and then oscillates as a result of the conservation of momentum. In general, oscillations in a golf club head are undesirable due to cyclic fatigue to the club head body structure. The degree in which bending, and oscillations occur is directly proportional to mass, and inversely proportional to stiffness.

The weight system described above localizes mass to the back rail of the first component. Placing highly concentrated or localized mass in the rear of the club head necessitates additional stiffening of the rear portion of the club head. The stiffening rib of the herein described golf club head supports the weight system of the first component. A golf club head having a high rear mass, similar to the herein described golf club head100, and lacking a stiffening rib would fail from cyclic fatigue at an accelerate rate. In particular, a multi-component golf club head lacking stiffening ribs would experience delamination at the lap joint between a first and second component of the club head. Furthermore, without the stiffening ribs to dampen oscillations of a high-mass weight system, the multi-material golf club head can experience material failure within a toe and heel wing of a composite component.

Stiffening the club head body over the location comprising the mass becomes necessary to prevent bending and oscillations at the junction of the weight support structure and the sole extension. It is understood mathematically that stiffening is most effective in the direction of force. The golf club head in the described embodiments generally experiences force in the front to rear and crown to sole direction during impact. Accordingly, referring toFIGS. 11-19, the stiffening rib extends in the front to rear direction, and comprises a height in the crown to sole direction to stiffen the rear portion of the club comprising the weight system.

The illustrated embodiments ofFIG. 8-13depict a generally planar rib extending in the front to rear direction. In some embodiments, such as those illustrate inFIGS. 9-13, the rib may further comprise a lower front end point, a lower rear end point, an upper front end point, an upper rear end point, a front edge, a rear edge opposite the front edge, a bottom edge, and a top edge opposite the bottom edge. The lower front end point is located toward the front plane on the sole interior surface. The lower rear end point is located opposite the front end point and proximal to the rear portion of the club. The front edge extends from the lower front end point to the upper front end point. The rear edge extends from the lower rear end point to the upper rear end point. The bottom edge extends from the lower front end point to the lower rear end point. The top edge extends from the upper front end point to the upper rear end point. In some embodiments, such as illustrated inFIG. 8, the rib lacks an upper front end point and a front edge. In these embodiments, the rib top edge extends from the lower front end point to the upper rear end point.

The stiffening rib can comprise a plurality of dimensions such as width, height, and thickness. Referencing the embodiments ofFIG. 8-13, in some embodiments, the rib width can also be measured as the horizontal distance between opposing points along the front edge and rear edge of the rib. More specifically, the rib can comprise a maximum width measured as the horizontal distance between the lower front end point and lower rear end point.

In general, the ribs can have a width ranging from 0.25 inch to 2.50 inches. The rib width can between 0.25 inch and 0.50 inch, 0.50 inch and 0.75 inch, 0.75 inch and 1.0 inch, 1.0 inch and 1.25 inches, 1.25 inches and 1.50 inches, 1.50 inches and 1.75 inches, 1.75 inches and 2.0 inches, or 2.25 inches and 2.50 inches. In some embodiments, the rib width is constant in the vertical crown to sole direction, and in some embodiments the rib width varies in the vertical crown to sole direction.

In addition to width, the rib can further comprise the rib height dimension. The rib height can be measured from the interior surface of the sole extension to the top edge of the rib, in a direction perpendicular to the sole extension. In general, the ribs can comprise a maximum height range of 0.45 inch to 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the ribs can comprise a maximum rib height between 0.45 inch and 0.75 inch, 0.75 inch to 1.0 inch, 1.0 inch to 1.25 inches, or 1.25 inches to 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the maximum rib height is 0.48 inch or 1.03 inch. In some embodiments the rib height is constant over the rib width, and in some embodiments the rib height varies over rib width.

The ribs of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 8-13may further comprise the rib thickness dimension, measured orthogonal to rib height and in a heel to toe direction. The embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 8-13can comprise thickness values ranging from 0.0020 inches to 0.0075 inches. For example, the rib may have a thickness of 0.0020 inch to 0.0025 inch, 0.0025 inch to 0.0030 inch, 0.0030 inch to 0.0035 inch, 0.0035 inch to 0.0040 inch, 0.0040 inch to 0.0045 inch, 0.0045 inch to 0.0050 inch, 0.0050 inch to 0.0055 inch, 0.0055 inch to 0.0060 inch, 0.0060 inch to 0.0065 inch, 0.0065 inch to 0.0070 inch, or 0.0070 inch to 0.0075 inch.

As explained above, in addition to dimensional characteristics, the degree in which the rib stiffens the rear portion of the club can be determined by the position of the rib. The position of the rib can be described relative to the front plane of the golf club head. In general, the ribs of the embodiments ofFIGS. 8-13are positioned within a rear 50% of the club head length. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiments, the lower front end point is located at a perpendicular distance from the front plane that is at least 50% of the club head length. In some embodiments, the rib is positioned within the rear 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5%.

As mentioned above, the stiffening ribs bottom edge attaches to the interior surface of the sole portion of the club. Additionally, the stiffening ribs can also extend over the base structure170of the weight system. In some embodiments, the stiffening ribs extend in between the weight receiving bosses144. In these embodiments, the stiffening ribs do not intersect the weight receiving bosses144. In some embodiments, placing the ribs between the adjacent weight receiving bosses144further stiffens the base structure170by supporting regions of the base structure170with less material.

In some embodiments, the one or more support ribs can be integrally formed with the first component. For example, the one or more support ribs can be investment cast, lost wax cast, centrifugally cast, or dye cast, to integrally form the one or more support ribs with the first component. The one or more integrally cast support ribs can comprise a planar geometry corresponding to the embodiments described below. The one or more integrally cast support ribs can be cast as such to join a portion of the base structure interior surface and a portion of the weight channel to the interior surfaces of the sole extension and skirt portion of the first component. Further, the one or more integrally cast support ribs can be cast to join the interior surface of the weight anchor and weight channel to at least one of the interior surfaces of the crown bridge and sole extension of the first component.

In some embodiments, the one or more support ribs can be formed separately from both the first component and the second component, and subsequently secured in position during assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more support ribs can be cut from a stock material (i.e., sheet metal, a rolled metal, a plastic, a polymer, stamped metal, etc.) via laser jet, water jet, stamping techniques, CNC machining, or any other suitable means of cutting one or more support ribs from a stock material. The one or more support ribs can be inserted into the interior of the golf club head via welding, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, electrical resistance welding, structural taping, adhesion, epoxy, co-molding, or any other suitable means of joining the one or more support ribs to the club head interior.

In other embodiments, the one or more support ribs can be formed via 3-D printing (stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, selective laser sintering, selective laser melting, electron beam melting, material jetting, or any other suitable 3-D printing technique), injection molding, forging, powder metal sintering, or any other suitable forming technique to independently create the one or more support ribs. The one or more support ribs can be inserted into the interior of the golf club head via welding, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, electrical resistance welding, structural taping, adhesion, epoxy, co-molding, or any other suitable means of joining the one or more support ribs to the club head interior.

In some cases, mechanical connections may also be implemented to permanently (or removably) join the one or more support ribs, to the interior surface of the golf club head. In these examples (not shown), the ribs are slidably secured along at least one of the bottom edge or top edge, via rib channels. The rib channels can be positioned on the interior surface of at least one of the first component or the second component. The one or more support ribs can be joined the at least one of the bottom edge or top edge, via any mechanical fixing technique such as studs, screws, posts, mechanical interference engagement, swedging, or any other suitable means of attaching the one or more support ribs.

In some embodiments, the first component or the first and second component comprise rib receiving channels for accepting and retaining the rib. Rib channels may be raised along the interior surface of the club head or be recessed within the interior surface of the club head. The channels can a comprise a channel length which corresponds to the width of the rib and a channel width which corresponds to the rib thickness.

Further, the channel can comprise a cross-sectional geometry that is orthogonal to the rib channel length. The cross sectional geometry can comprise any geometry capable of receiving and retaining the rib. For example, the rib channel can have, a U-shape geometry, a V-shape geometry, a C-shape geometry, a dovetail geometry, or any other geometry suitable for accepting the rib. Likewise, the top edge and bottom edge of the rib can comprise an edge geometry that corresponds to the cross sectional geometry of the rib channel. Other attaching means may be used in conjunction with mechanical connections. For example, the rib may be secured to the interior surface of the club with both the channel and an epoxy.

In some embodiments, a golf club head1000can comprise an arcuate rib1300. The arcuate rib1300stiffens the rear portion of the club head body1000comprising a weight system1136. In general, golf club head1000comprises is similar to golf club head100. As illustrated, inFIG. 8, the arcuate rib1300comprises a curved profile. The arcuate rib1300extends vertically midway between the interior surface of the crown portion1110and the sole portion1112.

Many of the features of the club head1000, shown inFIG. 8, are similar to the features described above with respect to the club100inFIGS. 1-7. The similar features of the embodiment ofFIG. 8are referenced with similar reference numerals, using a series of “1xxx” reference numerals. Accordingly, some features may not be re-described or may be described with less detail below. Moreover, some features of club head1000may be described only with respect to the differences from club head100. Therefore, certain drawings and figures may be unnecessary and duplicative of other drawings. Drawings that would be duplicative are not included.

ReferencingFIG. 8, the golf club head1000comprises a first component1120. The first component comprises a crown return1122, a sole return1124, a sole extension1126, and a back rail1128. The back rail1128further comprises a weight system1136. The weight system further comprises a weight channel1138and a weight portion1140configured to be secured within the weight channel1138. As above, the weight channel1138can be defined by a top wall1150, a rear wall1152, and bottom lip1154. The weight portion1140is configured to be secured within the weight channel1138via a weight fastener1142and at least one weight receiving boss1144. The club head interior1000further comprises a base structure1170.

As mentioned above, and shown inFIG. 8, the golf club head1000further comprises the arcuate rib1300. The arcuate rib can be defined and described by a plurality of end points, edges, and dimensions as defined above. The arcuate rib1300comprises a lower front end point1302, and a lower rear end point1304opposite the lower front end point1302. Further, the arcuate rib1300comprises a bottom edge1310adjacent the interior surface of a sole portion1112, and a top edge1314opposite the bottom edge1312. The arcuate rib1300may also comprise a rear edge1316and an upper rear end point1308above the lower rear end point1304.

The arcuate rib1300embodiment comprises a rib width1318, a rib height1320, and a rib thickness1322. The width1318of the arcuate rib1300can ranging from 0.5 inch to 2.50 inches. For example, the rib width can be approximately 0.5 inch to 1.0 inch, or 1.0 inch to 1.5 inches, or 1.5 inches to 2.0 inches, or 2.0 inches to 2.5 inches. In another embodiment, the rib width can be approximately 0.5 inch, approximately 1.0 inch, approximately 1.5 inches, approximately 2.0 inches, or approximately 2.5 inches.

The rib1300further comprises a rib height1320which can be measured in the manner outlined above. A maximum rib height can be measured as the greatest perpendicular distance between the sole extension1126and the top edge1312of rib1300. The maximum height1320of arcuate rib1300can range from 0.40 inch to 0.60 inch. In some embodiments, the maximum height1320of the arcuate rib1300can range from 0.40 inch to 0.50 inch or 0.50 inch to 0.60 inch. In some embodiments, the maximum height1320of the arcuate rib1300can be 0.48 inch. As illustrated inFIG. 8, the rib height1320varies over the width1318to define the arcuate profile of rib1300. The height1320of rib1300increases in a front to rear direction to create a curved shape.

The arcuate profile of rib1300may further described according to a radius of curvature1324along the top edge1312. The radius of curvature1324can have a range of 1.0 inches to 4.0 inches. For example, the radius of curvature1324can range between 1.0 inch and 2.0 inches, 2.0 inches and 3.0 inches, or 3.0 inches and 4.0 inches. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature1324can be approximately 1.0 inch, 1.5 inch, 2.0 inch, 2.5 inch, 3.0 inch, 3.5 inch, or 4.0 inch. The radius of curvature1324and width1318are linked dimensions in rib1300such that as rib width1318increases, rib radius of curvature1324increases, and vice versa.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 8, the arcuate rib1300protrudes from the interior surface of the sole extension1126, the base structure1170, and the interior surface of a top wall1150and rear wall1152of the weight channel1138. As illustrated inFIG. 8, the arcuate rib1300extends in the front to rear direction such that the lower front end point1302is positioned within the rear 50% of the club head body1000.FIG. 8illustrates an embodiment wherein the rib1300is positioned in the rear 30% of the golf club head body1000. In other embodiments the rib1300can be positioned in the rear 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10% of the club head. For example, the rib1300can be positioned in the rear 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% the golf club head body1000.

Further, the rib1300may extend such that the lower rear end point1304and rear edge1316abut a skirt portion1130of the club head body1000as shown inFIG. 8. In some embodiments (not shown), the lower rear end point1304and rear edge1316may not abut the skirt1130. In these embodiments, the skirt1130and lower rear end point1304and rear edge13116may comprise a space therebetween.

B. Crown to Sole Rib

In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated inFIG. 9, a golf club head2000can comprise a crown to sole rib2300. As illustrated, the rib2300extends between an interior surface of a sole2112to an interior surface of the crown2110to stiffen a rear portion2104of the club head body2000. The rib2300can comprise a rectangular shape when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. As detailed above, the rib2300can reduce oscillatory motion of a localized weight system2136upon impact.

Many of the features of the club head shown inFIG. 9are similar to the features described above with respect to the club100inFIGS. 1-7. The similar features of the embodiment ofFIG. 9are referenced with similar reference numerals using a series of “2xxx” reference numerals. Accordingly, some features may not be re-described or may be described with less detail below. Moreover, some features of club head2000may be described only with respect to the differences from club head100. Therefore, certain drawings and figures may be unnecessary.

Referring toFIG. 9, the golf club head2000comprises the crown to sole rib2300. As mentioned above, the rib2300can be defined and described by a plurality of end points, edges, and dimensions. The rib2300comprises a lower front end point2302, and a lower rear end point2304, opposite the lower front end point2302. Further, the rib2300comprises an upper front end point2306and an upper rear end point2308above the lower rear end point2304. The lower front end point2302and lower rear end point2304can define a bottom edge2310. Likewise, a top edge2312of rib2300can be defined between the upper front end point2306and the upper rear end point2308. Additionally, the above mentioned points can define a front edge2314and a rear edge2316. The front edge2314can be defined between the lower front end point2302and upper front end point2306. The rear edge2316of rib2300can be defined between the lower rear end point2304and upper rear end point2308. The front edge2314and the rear edge2316can be straight and roughly vertical when the club head2000is at address.

Continuing to refer toFIG. 9, the rib2300comprises a width2318, a height2320, and a thickness2322. The width2318of the rib2300can be measured as described above wherein width is measured as a horizontal distance between opposite points on the front edge2314and rear edge2316of the rib2300. The width2318of rib2300can range from 0.25 inch to 0.75 inch. In some embodiments, the rib width2318can range from 0.25 inch to 0.35 inch, 0.35 inch to 0.45 inch, 0.45 inch to 0.55 inch, 0.55 inch to 0.65 inch, or 0.65 inch to 0.75 inch. In some embodiments, the rib2300comprises a width of 0.46 inches.

Further the rib2300comprises the rib height2320. The rib height2320can be measured as the perpendicular distance from the sole extension2126to any point along the top edge2312of rib2300. A maximum rib height can be above 0.75 inch, above 0.80 inch, above 0.85 inch, above 0.90 inch, above 0.95 inch, or above 1.0 inch. The thickness2322of the crown to sole rib2300can be measured orthogonal to rib height2320and in a heel to toe direction, and have can have the thickness values described above.

ReferencingFIG. 9, the crown to sole rib2300can comprise a generally rectangular profile. The rib2300, as shown, extends from the sole to the interior surface of the crown portion. Specifically, the bottom edge of the rib2310protrudes from the interior surface of the sole extension2126, a base structure2170, and a rear wall2152and top wall2150of a weight channel2138. The top edge2312of the rib2300abuts the crown2110. In some embodiments, the top edge2312can abut a crown bridge2132of the first component2120. In some embodiments, the rib2300is integral with the first component2120. In some embodiments, the club head2300can be devoid of the crown bridge2132, such that the rib top edge2312abuts the composite second component2220.

In some embodiments, the rib2300can be positioned such that the front edge2314of the rib and rear of the edge2316are free and do not abut an interior surface of the club head2000. The lower rear end point2304of the rib2300can likewise be configured such that a skirt2130and lower rear end point2304comprise a space therebetween. In these embodiments, the rib2300can be positioned such that the width2318is contained within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length.

C. Hourglass Crown to Sole Rib

In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated inFIG. 10, a golf club head3000can comprise an hourglass crown to sole rib3300. The hourglass crown to sole rib3300can increase stiffness in the rear of the club while minimizing weight added by the inclusion of the rib3300. As illustrated, the rib3300extends between an interior surface of a sole3112to an interior surface of the crown3110to stiffen a rear portion3104of the club head body3000. The rib3300can comprise an hourglass shape when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. As described above, the rib3300can reduce oscillatory motion of a localized weight system3136upon impact.

Many of the features of the hourglass crown to sole rib3300shown inFIG. 10are similar to the features of the crown to sole rib described above with respect to the club2000inFIG. 9and the golf club head100inFIGS. 1-7. The similar features of the embodiment ofFIG. 10are referenced with similar reference numerals using a series of “3xxx” numerals. Similar features may not be re-described or may be described with less detail below. Moreover, some features of the rib3300may be described only with respect to the differences from the rib2300.

In some embodiments, the golf club head3000can comprise the hourglass rib3300. The rib3300comprises a lower front end point3302, and a lower rear end point3304, opposite the lower front end point3302. Further, the rib3300comprises an upper front end point3306and an upper rear end point3308above the lower rear end point3304. The lower front end point3302and lower rear end point3304can define a bottom edge3310. Likewise, a top edge3312of rib3300can be defined between the upper front end point3306and the upper rear end point3308. Additionally, the above mentioned points can define a front edge3314and a rear edge3316. The front edge3314can be defined between the lower front end point3302and upper front end point3306. The rear edge3316of rib3300can be defined between the lower rear end point3304and upper rear end point3308. When observed from a front view of golf club head3000, the front edge3314can comprise a curve that is generally concave. Further, when observed form the front view, the rear edge3316can comprise a curve that is generally convex.

The rib3300comprises a width3318, a height3320, and a thickness3322. The width3318of the rib3300can be measured as described above wherein width is measured as a horizontal distance between opposite points on the front edge3314and rear edge3316of the rib3300. When viewed from the side, as shown inFIG. 11, the rib3300of the club head3000comprises a substantially hourglass shape or hyperbolic shape. The hourglass shape can be formed by the width3318, which varies over rib height3320. In a sole to crown direction, the rib3300comprises a rib width3318that decreases from the sole3112to a midpoint between the crown3110and the sole3112and increases from the midpoint to the crown3110. The variation of the rib width3318over height produces the tapered shape described as hourglass or hyperbolic in order to reduce the weight of the rib3300.

In some embodiments, the varying width3318in the rib3300can reduce the weight of the rib3300when compared to a substantially similar rib having constant width. Minimizing the weight of the rib3300can provide stiffness without effecting the mass properties of the golf club head3000. Weight reduction can vary depending on minimum width values and material properties.

Still referencingFIG. 10, the rib3300, as shown, extends from the interior surface of the sole3112to the crown3110. As shown, the bottom edge of the rib3310is adjacent to an interior surface of a sole extension3126, a base structure3170, and a rear wall3152and top wall3150of a weight channel3138. The top edge3312of the rib3300abuts the crown3110. In some embodiments, the top edge3312can abut a crown bridge3132of the first component3120. In some embodiments, the rib3300is integral with the first component3120. In some embodiments, the club head3000can be devoid of the crown bridge3132, such that the rib top edge2312abuts the composite second component3220.

In some embodiments, the rib3300can be positioned such that the front edge3314of the rib and rear of the edge3316are free and do not abut an interior surface of the club head3000. The lower rear end point3304of the rib3300can likewise be configured such that a skirt3130and lower rear end point3304comprise a space therebetween. In these embodiments or other embodiments, the rib3300can be positioned such that the width3318is contained within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length.

D. Base to Crown Rib

Moving toFIG. 11, a golf club head4000can comprise a base to crown rib4300. As illustrated, the rib4300extends between a base structure4170located on an interior surface of a sole4112to an interior surface of the crown4110to stiffen a rear portion4104of the club head body4000. In this embodiment, the rib4300joins the weight system4136directly to the crown4110. The rib4300can comprise a rectangular shape when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. As described above, the rib4300can reduce oscillatory motion of a localized weight system4136upon impact by fixing the weight system4136directly to the crown4110.

Many of the features of the base to crown rib4300shown inFIG. 11are similar to the features of the rib described above with respect to the club2000and3000inFIGS. 9-10and golf club head100inFIGS. 1-7. The similar features of the embodiment ofFIG. 11are referenced with similar reference numerals using a series of “4xxx” numerals. Similar features in golf club head4000may not be re-described or may be described with less detail below. Moreover, some features of the rib4300may be described only with respect to the differences from the rib3300.

As above, the base to crown rib4300comprises a lower front end point4302, and a lower rear end point4304, opposite the lower front end point4302. Further, the rib4300comprises an upper front end point4306and an upper rear end point4308above the lower rear end point4304. The lower front end point4302and lower rear end point4304can define a bottom edge4310. Likewise, a top edge4312of rib4300can be defined between the upper front end point4306and the upper rear end point4308. Additionally, the above mentioned points can define a front edge4314and a rear edge4316. The front edge4314can be defined between the lower front end point4302and upper front end point4306. The rear edge4316of rib4300can be defined between the lower rear end point4304and upper rear end point4308. When observed from a side cross sectional view, the front edge4314and the rear edge4316can be generally vertical when the club head4000is in an address position as shown inFIG. 11. In some embodiments, the rib4300can have a generally rectangular profile.

The rib4300comprises a width4318, a height4320, and a thickness4322. The width4318of the rib4300can be measured in the manner described above between opposite points on the front edge4314and rear edge4316of the rib4300. The rib4300may comprise ranges for height and thickness described in the embodiments above and in relation to golf club head100.

The width4318of the rib4300can have a range of 0.20 inch to 1.0 inch. In some embodiments, the rib can have a width ranging from 0.20 inch to 0.30 inch, 0.30 inch to 0.40 inch, 0.40 inch to 0.50 inch, 0.50 inch to 0.60 inch, 0.60 inch to 0.70 inch, 0.70 inch to 0.80 inch, 0.80 inch to 0.90 inch, or 0.90 inch to 1.0 inch. In some embodiments, the rib width4318can be constant over the rib height4320.FIG. 11illustrates an embodiment of club head4000comprising a constant rib width4318. In some embodiments, the rib width4318can vary over the rib height4320. Varying the width4318of the rib4300can reduce the mass of the rib while maintaining structural integrity.

In some embodiments, the rib4300can protrude from the base structure4170, and a rear wall4152and a top wall4150of a weight channel4138. Further, the rib4300may be positioned, in some embodiments, to protrude from the base structure4170in between adjacent weight bosses4144. The top edge4312of the rib4300can abut the crown4110. In some embodiments, the top edge4312can abut a crown bridge4132of the first component4120. In some embodiments, the rib4300is integral with the first component4120. In some embodiments, the club head4300can be devoid of the crown bridge4132, such that the rib top edge4312abuts a composite second component4220.

In some embodiments, the rib4300can be positioned such that the front edge4314of the rib and rear of the edge2316are free and do not abut an interior surface of the club head4000. The lower rear end point4304of the rib4300can also be configured to be spaced from a skirt portion4130of the club head4000as shown inFIG. 11. Further, the rib4300can be positioned such that the width4318is contained within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length. For example, the rib1300can be positioned in the rear 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% the golf club head4000.

Moving toFIG. 12the multi-component golf club head5000can further comprise a perforated rib5300for stiffening the rear portion of the club head body5000while reducing mass. More specifically, the perforated rib5300can be configured to stabilize a weight system5136located in a back rail5128. The perforated rib5300can stiffen the club head body5000in a weight efficient manner such that the addition of the rib5300does not influence the mass properties of the club head5000.

Many of the features of the perforated rib5300shown inFIG. 12are similar to the features of the rib described above with respect to the club heads1000-4000inFIGS. 8-11and golf club head100inFIGS. 1-7. The similar features of the embodiment ofFIG. 12are referenced with similar reference numerals using a series of “5xxx” numerals. Similar features in golf club head5000may not be re-described or may be described with less detail below. Moreover, some features of the rib5300may be described only with respect to the differences from the rib4300.

In this embodiment, the rib5300can define at least one perforation5330, or aperture, through the substantially planar rib5300. As shown inFIG. 12, perforations5330can be localized in the planar region of the rib5300above a base structure5170.

Referring toFIG. 12, the perforated rib5300can comprises a lower front end point5302, and a lower rear end point5304, opposite the lower front end point5302. Further, the rib5300comprises an upper front end point5306and an upper rear end point5308above the lower rear end point5304. The lower front end point5302and lower rear end point5304can define a bottom edge5310. Likewise, a top edge5312of rib5300can be defined between the upper front end point5306and the upper rear end point5308. Additionally, the above mentioned points can define a front edge5314and a rear edge5316. The front edge5314can be defined between the lower front end point5302and upper front end point5306. The rear edge5316of rib5300can be defined between the lower rear end point5304and upper rear end point4308. When observed from a side cross sectional view, the front edge5314and the rear edge5316can be generally vertical when the club head5000is in an address position as shown inFIG. 12. In some embodiments, the rib5300can have a generally rectangular profile.

The lower rear end point5304of the rib5300can be configured to be spaced from a skirt portion5130of the club head5000as shown inFIG. 12. Further, the rib5300can be positioned such that the width5318is contained within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length. For example, the rib5300can be positioned in the rear 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% the golf club head5000.

The as mentioned, the rib5300defines at least one perforation5330. The perforations can provide weight savings for the rib5300as compared to a similar rib having a solid material construction. In some embodiments, weight saving scan be maximized by arranging the perforations5330according to nesting techniques. Nesting techniques can include positioning perforations5330with spacing to maximize weight savings while maintaining the structural integrity of the rib5300. The embodiment of rib5300shown inFIG. 12comprises perforations5330nested in a hexagonal fill pattern. In this arrangement, the rib5300can provide comparable structural integrity when compared to a solid rib comprising similar dimensions.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 12, the perforated rib5300comprises a plurality of circular perforations5330. As illustrated, the perforated rib5300comprises 14 circular perforations5330comprising a diameter of 0.010 inches. In some embodiments, the rib5300can comprise more or less perforations. Further, in some embodiments the at least one perforation5330can comprise a diameter that is greater than 0.010 inches. In some embodiments, the at least one perforation5330can comprise a diameter that is less than 0.010 inches.

In some embodiments, the perforated rib can have a profile having a rectangular shape as shown inFIG. 12. In other embodiments, the perforated rib5300can comprise a profile that is arcuate, as inFIG. 8, or hourglass, as inFIG. 10. In other embodiments, the rib5300may comprise any profile shape suitable for stiffening the club head5000.

As above, the rib5300may have a width, a height, and a thickness dimensions associated with any of the above mentioned club heads and rib embodiments. Further, the rib5300can be positioned according to any of the above described golf club heads and rib embodiments.

The multi-component golf club head6000, as shown inFIG. 13, can comprise a truss rib6300for stiffening the rear portion of the club head body6000. More specifically, the truss6300can be configured to stabilize a weight system6136located in a back rail6128. The truss rib6300can stiffen the club head body6000in a weight efficient manner such that the addition of the rib6300does not influence the mass properties of the club head6000.

Many of the features of the truss rib6300shown inFIG. 13are similar to the features of the rib described above with respect to the club heads1000-5000inFIGS. 8-12and golf club head100inFIGS. 1-7. The similar features of the embodiment ofFIG. 13are referenced with similar reference numerals using a series of “6xxx” numerals. Similar features in golf club head6000may not be re-described or may be described with less detail below. Moreover, some features of the rib6300may be described only with respect to the differences from the rib5300.

In this embodiment, the rib6300can comprise trussing. The trussing defines at least one aperture6330in the substantially planar rib6300. The at least one aperture6330can comprise a polygonal geometry. For example, the at least one aperture can have a triangular shape, rectangular shape, or a polygonal shape. The polygonal aperture6330can comprise between 3 and 8 sides. In some embodiments, the rib6300can comprise a plurality of apertures6330. In some embodiments, the apertures6330can comprise a substantially similar geometry. In some embodiments, the apertures6330can comprise differing geometry.

Referring toFIG. 13, trussing can be localized in the planar region of the rib6300above a base structure6170. The perforated rib6300can comprises a lower front end point6302, and a lower rear end point5304, opposite the lower front end point5302. Further, the rib5300comprises an upper front end point6306and an upper rear end point6308above the lower rear end point6304. The lower front end point6302and lower rear end point6304can define a bottom edge6310. Likewise, a top edge6312of rib6300can be defined between the upper front end point6306and the upper rear end point6308. Additionally, the above mentioned points can define a front edge6314and a rear edge6316. The front edge6314can be defined between the lower front end point6302and upper front end point6306. The rear edge6316of rib6300can be defined between the lower rear end point6304and upper rear end point6308. When observed from a side cross sectional view, the front edge6314and the rear edge6316can be generally vertical when the club head6000is in an address position as shown inFIG. 13. In some embodiments, the rib6300can have a generally rectangular profile.

The as mentioned, the rib6300comprises perforations6330. The apertures6330can provide weight savings for the rib6300as compared to a similar rib having a solid material construction.

In some embodiments, the truss rib6300can have a profile having a rectangular shape as shown inFIG. 13. In other embodiments, the perforated rib6300can comprise a profile that is arcuate, as inFIG. 8, or hourglass, as inFIG. 10. In other embodiments, the rib5300may comprise any profile shape suitable for stiffening the club head6000.

The lower rear end point6304of the rib6300can be configured to be spaced from a skirt portion6130of the club head6000as shown inFIG. 12. Further, the rib6300can be positioned such that the width6318is contained within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length. For example, the rib6300can be positioned in the rear 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% the golf club head6000.

EXAMPLES

As previously discussed, the dimensions and configurations of the support ribs detailed in the above embodiments effect the degree in which the weight system oscillates after impact. Low oscillations are desirable and are associated with a reduced level of material fatigue for longer club life. Weight portion oscillations can be reflected by measuring the velocity of the weight portion during and following impact. The velocity of the weight portion can be measured in isolation from the overall twisting and face deformation of the club head during a golf swing. To do so, the velocity of the weight portion is measured with respect to a reference plane. The reference plane is parallel to the loft plane and offset rearward from the loft plane by 1.0 inch. The reference plane was positioned where the club head experienced the least amount of overall twisting and translation during golf ball impacts. The positioning of the reference plane allowed for isolated measurement of the weight portion velocity relative to the structure of the club head. The reference plane defines a Y′ axis that extends within the plane in a direction extending from the sole to the crown. The weight portion velocity was measured generally in the direction of a Y′ axis.

The amplitude and velocity of the weight portion can be measured with respect to the Y′ axis. Velocity measurements in the direction of the Y′ axis indicate the weight portion's movement in time. Reduced magnitude and frequency values are desirable for increasing the durability of the club head.

In the examples below, weight portion velocity was recorded using finite element analysis (FEA). In each example, the golf club head comprises substantially similar constructions and weight portion configurations. The examples comprise separate and distinct rib configurations. The example golf club heads comprise a first component and a second component, similar to the golf club heads100,1000,2000,3000,4000,5000, and/or6000described above. Each example club head was compared to a control club head. The control club head was similar to the example club heads but devoid of a stiffening or support rib.

For each example, impact with a golf ball was simulated at 120 mph. The weight portion was fixed in the center boss and comprised a mass of 30 grams. As shown inFIGS. 14-16, the velocity of the weight portion center of mass was recorded along the Y′ axis. The example club heads comprising a rib-supported weight structure, reduced the velocity of the weight portion from 45% to over 91% after impact compared to the control club head.

The stability of the weight portion in a first club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The first club head was similar to the club head1000described above andFIG. 8. The first club head comprised a first and second arcuate rib. The arcuate ribs extend from the interior surface at a front endpoint to a skirt portion of the first club head, similar to embodiment1000. Both the first rib and the second rib join the following interior surfaces of the first metallic component of the first example head: the skirt portion, a top wall of the weight channel, a rear wall of the weight channel, a base structure that supports the boss extensions, and a sole extension.

The first rib protruded from the interior surface of the first component and was positioned between the heel boss and the center boss of the base structure. The second rib protruded from the interior surface of the first component and was positioned between the center boss and the toe boss of the plurality of receiving bosses. Further, the first rib comprised a width of 1.70 inches, a height of 0.48 inch, and a thickness of 0.0025 inch. The second rib comprised a width of 1.45 inch, a height of 0.48 inch, and a thickness of 0.0025 inch. The first and second ribs comprised a radius of curvature of 2.0 inches.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 14, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the first club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the first club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 10.2 inches per second. In the control club head, the weight portion velocity peaks abruptly at approximately 30.7 inches per second. In addition to the high velocity causing material fatigue, the abrupt peaking of the weight portion velocity can introduce stresses into the weight system that increase material fatigue and cause durability issues. The abrupt peaking of the weight portion velocity in the control club head is caused by the weight portion colliding with an upper wall of the weight channel.

When compared to the control club head, the velocity of the weight portion was reduced roughly 66%. Reducing the velocity of the weight portion (which corresponds to the oscillation of the rear of the club head) by 40% or greater prevents the club head from experiencing failure. As the velocity of the weight portion is reduced by a greater percent, the cyclic fatigue experienced by the club head is reduced, thereby increasing the durability of the club. Reducing the velocity of the weight portion limits the movement of the high mass weight system, thus preventing oscillations which, if undamped, could delaminate the second composite component from the first metal component. This example showed that the arcuate first and second ribs of the first club head created a rigid connection between the sole and weight system which reduced the oscillation of the weight portion after impact, increasing the durability of the club head.

The stability of the weight portion in a second example club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The second club head was similar to the club head2000described above and shown inFIG. 9. The second club head comprised a first metal component with a crown bridge and a constant width rib that extended from the sole extension to the crown bridge. The rectangular rib joined interior surfaces of the sole extension, the base structure, the weight channel top wall, the weight channel rear wall, and the crown bridge of the first metal component. The crown bridge comprised a crown bridge width of less than 0.75 inch. The maximum rib width was 0.46 inches. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inches.

Additionally, the rib was positioned such that it protruded from the surface of the base structure between the heel boss and the center boss. The rib was positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The lower front end point of the rib along the interior surface of the sole portion was spaced more 4.0 inches from the front plane of the club head. Additionally, the lower rear end point of the rib was spaced from the skirt by 0.25 inches.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 15, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the second club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the second club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 3 inches per second after impact. The control club head performed as described above for Example 1. When compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight port in the second club head was decreased by 85%.

As discussed for Example 1, reducing the velocity of the weight portion (which corresponds to the oscillation of the rear of the club head) by 40% or greater prevents the club head from experiencing failure. As the velocity of the weight portion is reduced by a greater percent, the cyclic fatigue experienced by the club head is reduced, thereby increasing the durability of the club. This example shows that the wide crown to sole rib of the second club head stiffens the rear of the club head significantly, such that the weight system can barely oscillate.

The stability of the weight portion in a third club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The third club head was similar to the club head4000described above and shown inFIG. 11. The third club head comprised a constant width crown to sole rib. The third club head rib joined to the interior surfaces of the base structure, the weight channel top wall, the weight channel rear wall, and the crown bridge.

The rib comprised a substantially rectangular profile, similar to the rib of the second example club head. However, the third club head rib comprised a reduced rib width, such that the rib did not meet the interior surface of the sole extension. In other words, the third club head rib was connected to the weight system but not connected directly to the sole extension. The rib width measured 0.26 inch. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inch.

Additionally, the rib was positioned such that it protruded from the surface of the base support between the heel boss and the center boss. The rib was positioned in the rear 15% of the golf club head. The lower front end point of the rib along the interior surface of the sole portion was spaced more 4.5 inches from the front plane of the club head. Additionally, the lower rear end point of the rib was spaced from the skirt by 0.25 inches.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 15, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the third club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the third club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 20 inches per second after impact. The control club head performed as described above for Example 1. When compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight port in the third club head was decreased by 43%.

This example shows that a rib having a smaller width than the second example club head rib does not stiffen the club head to as great a degree. However, the smaller width rib of the third example club head still provides a significant benefit over the control club head. Furthermore, the smaller width rib of the third club head comprises less mass than the wider rib of the second club head. Therefore, the smaller width rib of the third golf club head provides stiffness and support to the weight system, while conserving desired mass properties.

The stability of the weight portion in a fourth club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The fourth club head comprised a substantially rectangular rib with a constant width.

The fourth club head stiffening rib was dimensionally similar to the rib of the third example club head. For instance, the rib width measured 0.26 inches, and the rib thickness was 0.0025 inches. However, in the fourth club head, the rib was positioned closer to the front plane of the golf club head. In particular, the rib was position forward of the base structure, such that no portion of the rib contacted any part of the weight system. In other words, the rib was decoupled, separate, or disconnected from the weight system. The rear end point of the rib along the interior surface of the sole extension was spaced 0.01 inches from the side wall of the base structure.

In the fourth club head, the rib was positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The lower front end point of the rib along the interior surface of the sole portion was spaced more 4.0 inches from the front plane of the club head.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 15, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the fourth club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the fourth club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 34 inches per second. The control club head performed as described above for Example 1. When compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight port in the fourth example club head was decreased by 3%.

The fourth golf club head performed substantially similarly to the control golf club. This example shows that when a club head comprises a rib decoupled from the weight system, the rib will have a minimal effect on preventing oscillation of the weight portion. Therefore, to effectively reduce the velocity of the weight portion, a supporting or stiffening rib must contact or engage at least a portion of the weight system. In particular, to effectively reduce weight portion oscillations, a rib must contact one or more of the base structure, the weight channel rear wall, and the weight channel top wall. By attaching the rib to the weight system, the stress experienced by the weight system can be transferred and dispersed into the rib. In embodiments where the rib spans from the sole over the weight system, the rib can prevent the weight channel rear wall and the weight channel top wall from buckling or hinging with respect to each other at impact.

The stability of the weight portion in a fifth club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The fifth club head was similar to the club head3000described above and shown inFIG. 10. The fifth club head comprised an hourglass crown to sole rib. More specifically, the golf club head comprised a first metal component and a second composite component wherein the first component comprised the crown bridge. The hourglass rib joined the interior surfaces of the sole extension, the base structure, the weight channel top wall, the weight channel rear wall, and the crown bridge.

In this fifth club head, the rib comprised an hourglass profile with a variable rib width. The rib width measured horizontally along the sole from the lower front end point to the lower rear end point was 0.46 inches. The rib width measured form horizontally along the crown from the upper front end point to the upper rear end point was 0.46 inches. The minimum rib width of between approximately 0.15 inch to 0.23 inch. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inches.

Further, the rib was positioned such that it protruded from the surface of the base structure between the heel boss and the center boss. The rib was also positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head such that front end point of the rib at the interior surface of the sole portion was spaced more 4.5 inches from the front plane of the club head. Additionally, the rear end point of the rib was spaced 0.25 inches from the skirt.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 16, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the fifth club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the fifth club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 5 inches per second. The control club head performed as described above for Example 1. When compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight port in the fifth club head was decreased by 85%.

The hourglass shaped rib of the fifth club head decreased the velocity of the weight portion by approximately the same percentage as the rectangular rib of the second club head, described above in Example 2. Since the hourglass rib comprises a smaller volume than the rectangular rib, the hourglass rib also comprises a smaller mass than the rectangular rib. Therefore, the hourglass shaped rib of the fifth club head prevents oscillation of the weight system without adding unnecessary structural mass to the club head. Additionally, the hourglass shaped rib provides the same surface area stiffness as the rectangular rib. In some embodiments, the hourglass shaped rib provides a greater surface area stiffness, by contacting a greater surface area of the sole and/or crown than the rectangular rib.

The stability of the weight portion in a sixth club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The sixth club head was similar to the club head6000described above and shown inFIG. 13. The sixth club head comprised a trussed crown to sole rib. The sixth club head rib comprised a substantially rectangular profile, similar to the second club head rib. The sixth club head rib comprised a constant width. The rib joined to the interior surfaces of the sole extension, the base structure, the weight channel top wall, the weight channel rear wall, and the crown bridge of the first metal component. The rib width was 0.46 inch. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inch.

The rib was positioned to protrude from the interior surface of the base structure between the heel boss and the center boss. Further, the rib was positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The front end point of the rib along the interior surface of the sole portion was spaced bore than 4.5 inches from the front plane of the golf club head. The rear endpoint of the rib on the interior sole surface was spaced 0.25 inch from the skirt.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 16, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the sixth club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the sixth club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 10 inches per second. The control club head performed as described above for Example 1. When compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight port in the sixth club head was decreased by 71%.

The truss structure of the sixth club head rib reduces the mass of the rib, while still supporting and stiffening the rear of the club head. The sixth club head does not decrease the weight portion velocity as much as the rectangular rib of Example 2. This slight reduction in performance could be attributed to a reduction of the structural integrity of the rib. The proximity of the truss apertures to the edges of the rib could contribute to the reduction in structural strength of the rib. In alternate embodiments, the truss apertures or structure can be concentrated within a central portion of the rib to increase the strength of the rib and more effectively brace against oscillations of the weight system.

The stability of the weight portion in a seventh club head was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head upon impact with a golf ball. The seventh club head was similar to the club head5000described above and shown inFIG. 12. The seventh club head comprised a perforated crown to sole rib. Specifically, the rib comprised circular perforations measuring 0.01 inches in diameter. Furthermore, the circular perforations or cutouts were arranged in a hexagonal fill pattern. Cutouts were localized in an area at least 0.25 inch above the sole extension portion.

The rib was positioned such that it protruded from the surface of the base structure between the heel boss and the center boss. The rib was positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The front end point of the rib along the interior surface of the sole portion was spaced more 4.0 inches from the front plane of the club head. Additionally, the rear end point of the rib was spaced 0.25 inch from the skirt.

As illustrated in the graph ofFIG. 16, an FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion, measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion, with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball, for both the seventh club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the seventh club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of roughly 6 inches per second. The control club head performed as described above for Example 1. When compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight port in the seventh club head was decreased by 83%.

The circular perforated structure of the seventh club head rib reduces the mass of the rib, while still supporting and stiffening the rear of the club head. The seventh circular perforated rib decreases the velocity of the weight portion even more than the sixth trussed rib. The seventh club head rib decreases velocity of the weight portion almost as much as the rectangular second club head rib, while also reducing the weight of the rib. The circular perforated rib provides both structural strength and weight savings.

Clause 1: A golf club comprising a golf club head comprising a first component adhered to a second component to define a closed interior volume therebetween, the golf club head comprises a strikeface configured to strike a golf ball, a rear portion opposite the strikeface, a crown, a sole opposite the crown, a heel end, and a toe end opposite the heel end; wherein the first component comprises a crown return extending rearwardly from the strikeface, the crown return forming a portion of the crown; a sole return extending rearwardly form the strikeface, the sole return forming a portion of the sole; a sole extension extending rearwardly from the sole return and forming a portion of the sole; and a back rail connected to the sole extension; wherein the back rail comprises a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip; wherein the top wall, the rear wall, and the lip together define a channel extending along the back rail in a heel to toe direction; wherein the second component comprises a heel side wing that extends from the crown to the sole around the heel end of the club head; a toe side wing that extends from the crown to the sole around the toe end of the club head; wherein the sole extension extends a greater distance away from the strikeface, as measured in a direction from the strikeface to the rear, than the return; wherein the channel is configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 grams; and wherein the first component comprises approximately 85% to 90% of an overall mass of the golf club head.

Clause 2: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein a rib is positioned on an interior surface of the closed interior volume of the club head.

Clause 3: The golf club head of clause 2, wherein the rib is positioned on the interior surface proximal to the back rail and sole extension.

Clause 4: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein the rib further comprises a rib height measured perpendicular to the interior surface of the sole extension.

Clause 5: The golf club head of clause 4, wherein the rib height increases in an arcuate manner in a front-to-rear direction.

Clause 6: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein the club head further comprises a crown bridge that is integrally formed with the crown return and the back rail and extends in strikeface-to-rear portion direction.

Clause 7: The golf club head of clause 6, wherein the rib extends from an interior surface of the sole extension to the crown bridge.

Clause 8: The golf club head of clause 7, wherein the rib is positioned within 20% of a rearmost point of the rear portion.

Clause 9: The golf club head of clause 7, wherein the rib is positioned within 10% of a rearmost point of the rear portion.

Clause 10: The golf club head of clause 7, wherein the rib forms a plurality of perforations.

Clause 11: A golf club comprising a golf club head comprising a first component adhered to a second component to define a closed interior volume therebetween, the golf club head comprises a strikeface configured to strike a golf ball, a rear portion opposite the strikeface, a crown, a sole opposite the crown, a heel end, and a toe end opposite the heel end; wherein the first component comprises a crown return extending rearwardly from the strikeface, the crown return forming a portion of the crown; a sole return extending rearwardly form the strikeface, the sole return forming a portion of the sole; a sole extension extending rearwardly from the sole return and forming a portion of the sole; and a back rail connected to the sole extension; wherein the back rail comprises a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip; wherein the top wall, the rear wall, and the lip together define a channel extending along the back rail in a heel to toe direction, and wherein the rear wall of the channel comprises a plurality of weight receiving bosses; wherein the second component comprises a heel side wing that extends from the crown to the sole around the heel end of the club head; a toe side wing that extends from the crown to the sole around the toe end of the club head; wherein the sole extension extends a greater distance away from the strikeface, as measured in a direction from the strikeface to the rear, than the return; wherein the channel is configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 grams; wherein the first component comprises 85%-90% of an overall mass of the golf club head; and wherein a rib is positioned on an interior surface of the closed interior volume of the club head.

Clause 12: The club head of clause 11, wherein the rib extends between the weight receiving bosses and is integral with an interior surface of the back rail and sole extension.

Clause 13: The club head of clause 11, wherein the rib comprises a first arcuate surface extending from the crown bridge to the sole extension, the first arcuate surface being convex when viewed normal to the strikeface; wherein the rib comprises a second arcuate surface extending from the crown bridge to the sole extension, the second arcuate surface being concave when viewed normal to the strikeface.

Clause 14: The club head of clause 13, wherein the rib forms a plurality of perforations.

Clause 15: The club head of clause 14, wherein the plurality of perforations comprising a shape from the group consisting of: circular, triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, trapezoidal, octagonal, and rectangular.

Clause 16: The club head of clause 11, wherein the first component and the second component define a lap joint or recessed lip therebetween; and wherein the second component is adhered to the first component across the lap.

Clause 17: The club head of clause 16, wherein the lap joint comprises a plurality of bond promoting features across a surface of the lap joint.

Clause 18: The club head of clause 11, wherein the rib extends across an entire width of the channel.

Clause 19: The club head of clause 11, wherein the second component comprises one or more thinned sections to reduce the overall weight of the second component.

Clause 20: The club head of clause 19, wherein the thinned sections are between 0.002 inch and 0.035 inch.

Clause 21: A method for forming a golf club head comprising forming a first component and a second component; wherein the first component is comprised of a metallic material and the second component is comprised of a composite material; coupling the first component to the second component forming a golf club head; wherein the golf club head comprises a strikeface, a crown, a sole, a heel end, a toe end, and a rear portion; wherein the first component comprises the strikeface, a crown return, a sole return, a sole extension, and a back rail; wherein the back rail further comprises a top wall, a rear wall, and a bottom lip; wherein the top wall, rear wall, and bottom lip define a channel; wherein the channel is configured to receive a weigh portion of at least 14 g; wherein the sole extension connects the sole return to the back rail; wherein the sole extension comprises an inner surface; wherein at least one rib spans from the sole extension inner surface to the back rail to join the sole extension inner surface, a top wall inner surface, and a rear wall inner surface; wherein the second component comprises a crown, a toe side wing, and a heel side wing; wherein the toe side wing and the heel side wing connect the crown to the sole; and wherein the first component comprises 85% to 90% of a golf club head total mass.

As the rules to golf may change from time to time (e.g., new regulations may be adopted or old rules may be eliminated or modified by golf standard organizations and/or governing bodies), golf equipment related to the methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be conforming or non-conforming to the rules of golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.

Although a particular order of actions is described above, these actions may be performed in other temporal sequences. For example, two or more actions described above may be performed sequentially, concurrently, or simultaneously. Alternatively, two or more actions may be performed in reversed order. Further, one or more actions described above may not be performed at all. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard.