Patent Publication Number: US-11040259-B2

Title: Club heads for adjusting vertical spin of a golf ball and methods of providing the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation of U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 16/203,333, filed Nov. 28, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 15/650,527, filed Jul. 14, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,159,879, issued Dec. 25, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 14/859,104, filed Sep. 18, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,737,772, issued Aug. 22, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 13/955,644, filed Jul. 31, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,162,120, issued Oct. 20, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/717,262, filed Oct. 23, 2012, wherein the contents of all above-described disclosures are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates generally to sports equipment, and relates more particularly to club heads and related methods. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The initial spin rate and spin direction that a golf club head imparts on a golf ball at impact can affect both the distance the golf ball travels and the flight path of the golf ball. For example, as a result of the Magnus effect, the spin rate and spin direction of a golf ball can affect the aerodynamic lift forces acting on the golf ball while the golf ball travels through the air. The spin rate and spin direction can be broken up into vertical and horizontal components. Specifically, the vertical spin rate and direction of the golf ball can affect the vertical aerodynamic lift forces acting on the golf ball (e.g., resulting in an upward or downward force acting on the golf ball, depending on the rate and/or direction of vertical rotation). Furthermore, the horizontal spin rate and direction of the golf ball can affect the horizontal aerodynamic lift forces acting on the golf ball (e.g., resulting in a leftward or rightward force acting on the golf ball, depending on the rate and/or direction of horizontal rotation). 
     Minor horizontal rotation can result in a fade (rightward) or draw (leftward) bias in the flight path of the golf ball while greater horizontal rotation can result in the golf ball slicing right or hooking left. Meanwhile, vertical rotation can affect the vertical flight path of the golf ball. For example, for a backward spinning golf ball, increasing the spin rate of the golf ball can increase an upward lift force acting on the golf ball to help carry the golf ball through the air. However, like any projectile, too much lift or too little lift can reduce the total forward distance traveled by the golf ball. The optimal vertical spin rate varies, and can depend on the initial forward ball speed of the golf ball and the playing conditions (e.g., weather). 
     For a wood-type club head, the applied spin rate and/or direction, the center of gravity and/or moment of inertia, and the characteristic time of the club head can all contribute to the desirability for use of the club head because each of these factors can affect the distance a golf ball travels, the launch angle of the golf ball, the spin rate and/or direction of the golf ball at impact, and/or the forgiveness of the club head. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a top, front perspective view of a club head, according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a bottom, rear perspective view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a top view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a front view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a rear view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a left view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a right view of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a face plane and a ground plane of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a reference angle of a weighting mechanism of the club head with respect to the face plane of the club head, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a flow chart for an embodiment of a method of providing a club head; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates an exemplary method of providing a club head body, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary method of providing a weighting mechanism, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates the club head of  FIG. 1  when multiple weight ports of the weighting mechanism of the club head have received two exemplary weights, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; and 
         FIG. 15  illustrates the club head of  FIG. 1  when the two exemplary weights are decoupled from the multiple weight ports of the weighting mechanism, according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements. 
     The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus. 
     The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. 
     The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, mechanically and/or otherwise. For example, two or more mechanical elements may be mechanically coupled, but not be otherwise coupled. Coupling 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, etc. in question is or is not removable. 
     In many examples as used herein, the term “approximately” can be used when comparing one or more values, ranges of values, relationships (e.g., position, orientation, etc.) or parameters (e.g., velocity, acceleration, mass, temperature, spin rate, spin direction, etc.) to one or more other values, ranges of values, or parameters, respectively, and/or when describing a condition (e.g., with respect to time), such as, for example, a condition of remaining constant with respect to time. In these examples, use of the word “approximately” can mean that the value(s), range(s) of values, relationship(s), parameter(s), or condition(s) are within ±0.5%, ±1.0%, ±2.0%, ±3.0%, ±5.0%, and/or ±10.0% of the related value(s), range(s) of values, relationship(s), parameter(s), or condition(s), as applicable. 
     DESCRIPTION 
     Some embodiments include a golf club head. The golf club head comprises a club head body and a weighting mechanism. The weighting mechanism comprises a first configuration and a second configuration. When the weighting mechanism is configured in the first configuration and a user hits a golf ball with the golf club head in a predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the golf club head (i) with a first vertical spin rate, (ii) with a first horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with a first horizontal spin direction. Meanwhile, when the weighting mechanism is configured in the second configuration and the user hits the golf ball with the golf club head in the predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the golf club head (i) with a second vertical spin rate, (ii) with approximately the first horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with approximately the first horizontal spin direction. Further, the second vertical spin rate is different than the first vertical spin rate. 
     Further embodiments include a set of golf club heads. The set of golf club heads comprises a first golf club head and a second golf club head. The first golf club head comprises a first club head body and a first weighting mechanism arranged in a first arrangement. The first weighting mechanism comprises a first configuration and a second configuration. When the first weighting mechanism is configured in the first configuration and a user hits a golf ball with the first golf club head in a predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the first golf club head (i) with a first vertical spin rate, (ii) with a first horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with a first horizontal spin direction. Meanwhile, when the first weighting mechanism is configured in the second configuration and the user hits the golf ball with the first golf club head in the predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the first golf club head (i) with a second vertical spin rate, (ii) with approximately the first horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with approximately the first horizontal spin direction. Further, the second vertical spin rate is different than the first vertical spin rate. Likewise, the second golf club head comprises a second club head body and a second weighting mechanism arranged in a second arrangement. The second weighting mechanism comprises a third configuration and a fourth configuration. When the second weighting mechanism is configured in the third configuration and the user hits the golf ball with the second golf club head in the predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the second golf club head (i) with a third vertical spin rate, (ii) with a second horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with a second horizontal spin direction. Meanwhile, when the second weighting mechanism is configured in the fourth configuration and the user hits the golf ball with the second golf club head in the predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the second golf club head (i) with a fourth vertical spin rate, (ii) with approximately the second horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with approximately the second horizontal spin direction. Further, the fourth vertical spin rate is different than the third vertical spin rate. 
     Other embodiments include a method of providing a golf club head. The method comprises: providing a club head body; and providing a weighting mechanism. The weighting mechanism comprises a first configuration and a second configuration. When the weighting mechanism is configured in the first configuration and a user hits a golf ball with the golf club head in a predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the golf club head (i) with a first vertical spin rate, (ii) with a first horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with a first horizontal spin direction. Meanwhile, when the weighting mechanism is configured in the second configuration and the user hits the golf ball with the golf club head in the predetermined manner, the golf ball breaks contact with the golf club head (i) with a second vertical spin rate, (ii) with approximately the first horizontal spin rate, and (iii) with approximately the first horizontal spin direction. Further, the second vertical spin rate is different than the first vertical spin rate. 
     Turning to the drawings,  FIG. 1  illustrates a top, front perspective view of club head  100 , according to an embodiment. Club head  100  is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Club head  100  can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. As explained below, club head  100  can allow for adjustment of the spin rate and/or direction applied by club head  100  to a golf ball. In many embodiments, club head  100  can allow for adjustment of the applied vertical spin rate and/or direction of club head  100  while having minimal and/or negligible effect on the horizontal spin rate and/or direction applied by club head  100  to the golf ball. 
     Club head  100  comprises a front end  101 , a toe end  102 , a heel end  103 , a rear end  104 , a crown  105 , a sole  106 , a weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ), and a club face  108 . In many embodiments, front end  101  comprises club face  108 . Club face  108  can refer to a striking face and/or striking plate of club head  100 . Meanwhile, in various examples, sole  106  can comprise part of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ). Toe end  102  can be opposite heel end  103 ; front end  101  can be opposite from rear end  104 ; and/or crown  105  can be opposite sole  106 . Further, club head  100  can comprise hosel  109 . Hosel  109  can be configured to receive a club shaft. Accordingly, in many examples, club head  100  can be part of a golf club. That is, club head  100  can be a club head of a golf club (i.e., a golf club head). Further still, the golf club can be one club head in a set of club heads, and one or more of the other club heads of the set of club heads can be similar to club head  100 . 
     In some embodiments, for reference purposes, front end  101 , toe end  102 , heel end  103 , rear end  104 , crown  105 , sole  106 , and club face  108  can refer to a club head body of club head  100 . Meanwhile, in some examples, part of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can also be part of the club head body (e.g., when sole  106  comprises part of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 )), while in other examples, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) and the club head body can be separate elements. Further, in many examples, hosel  109  can also be part of the club head body. 
     For example, club head  100  can comprise any suitable wood-type golf club head (e.g., a driver club head, a fairway wood club head, a hybrid club head, etc.). In many embodiments, club head  100  can comprise a metal wood golf club head, but club head  100  can comprise any other suitable material. In various embodiments, club head  100  can be hollow. Nonetheless, although club head  100  is generally described in implementation with respect to a wood-type golf club, club head  100  can also be implemented with any other suitable club-type. 
     Regardless of club-type, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is configured to be adjustable between multiple configurations (e.g., a first configuration, a second configuration, a third configuration, etc.). Further, club head  100  and weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) are configured such that when a user hits a golf ball with club head  100  (i.e., at club face  108 ) in a predetermined manner, club head  100  applies a different vertical spin rate (e.g., rotation per unit time) to the golf ball when the golf ball impacts and breaks contact with club head  100  for each configuration of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) while minimally and/or negligibly affecting (e.g., changing) the horizontal spin rate and/or horizontal spin direction of the golf ball, or one or more other launch conditions of the golf ball, for the various configurations. Indeed, in many embodiments, the horizontal spin rate and/or horizontal spin direction applied to the golf ball between one or more of the configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be approximately constant. 
     Reference in the preceding paragraph to the predetermined manner of hitting the golf ball with club head  100  is not intended to be limiting (i.e., to indicate club head  100  must necessarily be used in a particular manner), but rather, to indicate that the effects of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) on club head  100  can depend on the consistency of the manner in which the user hits the golf ball with club head  100 . For example, the effect of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) on the golf ball can be inconsistent if the location of contact, the speed of club head  100  at contact, the orientation of club face  108 , and/or any other relevant hitting conditions do not remain constant between swings. In many examples, the vertical spin direction can remain the same for each of the configurations, but in some examples, the vertical spin direction can change between one or more of the configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ). 
     By allowing a user to adjust (i.e., increase and/or decrease) the vertical spin rate and/or to adjust the spin direction applied by club head  100  based on playing conditions and/or the user&#39;s swing, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can give the user more control over the golf ball&#39;s flight path in general and can give the user the ability to fine tune club head  100 . Adjustments (i.e., increase and/or decrease) to the vertical spin rate and/or the spin direction applied by club head  100  to a golf ball can be made in real time (i.e., at any time) and/or only before starting a round of golf, such as, for example, when rules and regulations restrict when such adjustments can be made. In various examples, when the play condition is windy, and depending on the direction of the wind, weighting mechanism  107  can be adjusted to account for the wind. For some wind conditions and for some directions of the wind, weighting mechanism  107  can be adjusted to a configuration decreasing the vertical spin rate applied to a golf ball so that the wind has less effect on the flight path of the golf ball. In other examples, when the playing condition is wet and/or humid, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be adjusted to a configuration increasing the vertical spin rate applied to a golf ball and, therefore, the upward lift on the golf ball, to combat the decreased air density resulting from the wet and/or humid playing conditions. The increased vertical spin rate can also compensate for aerodynamic drag resulting from accumulated moisture on the golf ball. 
     In any event, as stated previously, applying too much or too little vertical spin on a golf ball when hitting the golf ball with club  100  can result in an undesirable reduction in the forward distance traveled by a golf ball. Accordingly, in many embodiments, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be configured generally so that the vertical spin rate applied to the golf ball remains within a predetermined range of vertical spin rates regardless of the specific configuration of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) that is used. For example, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be configured to apply a vertical spin rate to a golf ball of greater than or equal to approximately 350 rotations per minute and less than or equal to approximately 400 rotations per minute. However, in other examples, other higher or lower ranges of vertical spin rates can be applied. 
     Weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can affect the vertical spin rate and/or direction that club head  100  applies to a golf ball when the golf ball impacts and breaks contact with club head  100  by repositioning the location of the club head center of gravity of the club head  100 . Specifically, repositioning the club head center of gravity of club head  100  can change a gear effect applied to the golf ball by club head  100 . The gear effect can refer to a tendency of club head  100  to turn about the club head center of gravity of club head  100  upon contacting the golf ball. The gear effect induces a spin on the golf ball contrary to a torsional direction of the mass of club head  100  turning about the club head center of gravity, resembling the motion of two gears from which the term “gear effect” is derived. Redistributing (e.g., rearranging, moving, increasing, and/or decreasing) mass in club head  100  (i.e., with weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 )) changes the location of the club head center of gravity of club head  100  and thereby changes the gear effect that club head  100  applies to the golf ball. Accordingly, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be configured so that each of the one or more configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) redistribute mass in club head  100  to reposition the club head center of gravity. 
     For example, redistributing mass closer to or farther from sole  106  can affect the vertical spin rate and/or direction of the golf ball as a result of the gear effect of club head  100  on the golf ball. Further, redistributing mass forward (i.e., toward front end  101 ) in club head  100  or backward (i.e., toward read end  104 ) in club head  100  can also affect the vertical spin rate and/or direction of the golf ball as a result of a gear effect of club head  100  on the golf ball. In some examples, when club head  100  is configured to apply a backward spin direction to the golf ball, moving and/or increasing mass forward (i.e., toward front end  101 ) in club head  100  (i.e., with weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 )) can reduce the gear effect of club head  100  such that the vertical spin rate applied to the golf ball by club head  100  decreases. Conversely, moving and/or increasing mass backward (i.e., toward read end  104 ) in club head  100  (i.e., with weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 )) can increase the gear effect of club head  100  such that the vertical spin rate applied to the golf ball by club head  100  increases. Further, moving and/or increasing mass toward sole  106  can move the club head center of gravity down toward sole  106 , thus increasing a gearing effect of club head  100  on the golf ball. Accordingly, in many examples, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be located as near to sole  106  as possible. 
     Redistributing mass in club head  100  can affect not only the vertical spin rate and/or direction of the golf ball, but also the horizontal spin rate and/or direction of the golf ball. In some examples, when mass is moved and/or increased forward in club head  100 , the club head center of gravity of club head  100  can be repositioned forward, decreasing a distance between the center of gravity of club head  100  and a club shaft axis (i.e., a reference axis intersecting a club shaft center of gravity of a club shaft coupled to club head  100  via hosel  109 , running collinearly with and/or parallel to the club shaft). Meanwhile, when mass is moved and/or increased backward, the distance between the center of gravity of club head  100  and the club shaft axis increases. Decreasing the distance between the club shaft axis and the club head center of gravity of club head  100  can cause club face  108  to impact the golf ball more openly, which can result in a fade or slice of the golf ball. Conversely, increasing the distance between the club shaft axis and the club head center of gravity of club head  100  can cause club face  108  to be more closed upon impacting the golf ball, which can result in a draw or hook of the golf ball. 
     Because it can be desirable to affect the vertical spin rate and/or direction club head  100  applies to a golf ball while minimally and/or negligibly affecting the horizontal spin rate and/or direction club head  100  applies to the golf ball, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be configured to counter and/or compensate for effects on the horizontal spin rate and/or direction that club head  100  applies to the golf ball design when weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is adjusted between the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ). As a result, the horizontal spin rate and/or direction that club head  100  applies to the golf ball when weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is adjusted between the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can remain approximately constant. Thus, when the fade and/or draw bias is approximately zero for a particular configuration of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ), the fade and/or draw bias can remain approximately zero for other configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ). Weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be configured to counter and/or compensate for effects on the horizontal spin rate and/or direction club head  100  applies to the golf ball design when weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is adjusted between the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) by selectively arranging weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) with respect to club face  108  and/or face plane  950  ( FIGS. 9 &amp; 10 ) of club face  108 .  FIGS. 9 &amp; 10  illustrate the arrangement of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) with respect to club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) and/or face plane  950  of club face  108 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
     Face plane  950  can refer to a reference plane intersecting a foremost point and/or an inflection point in a curvature of club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) that is parallel to a loft plane of club face  108  and/or club head  100  ( FIG. 1 ). When club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) is planar and/or substantially planar, club face  108  and face plane  950  can be approximately co-planar to club face  108 . However, when club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) is curved (e.g., non-planar), as can frequently be the case with wood-type golf clubs, face plane  950  can help provide a planar reference marker by which to express the arrangement of weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ). Specifically, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be configured such that weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is arranged at an angle or a curve with respect to club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) and/or face plane  950 .  FIG. 9  also illustrates ground plane  952 , which can refer to a reference plane parallel and/or co-planar with the ground below club head  100  when club head  100  is positioned to address a golf ball. 
     Turning ahead to  FIG. 10 , in many examples, when weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is arranged at an angle with respect to club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ) and/or face plane  950 , weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can comprise weighting mechanism axis  1051  running parallel to ground plane  952 . Weighting mechanism axis  1051  can form reference angle  1053  with centerline  1054 . Centerline  1054  can refer to a center reference line that is perpendicular to face plane  950  and that also intersects the foremost point and/or the inflection point in the curvature of club face  108  ( FIG. 1 ). Accordingly, reference angle  1053  can represent an angle that weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) forms with face plane  950 . In many examples, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be arranged such that weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is closer to heel end  103  when weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is closest to front end  101 , and closer to toe end  102  when weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) is closest to rear end  104 . That is to say, weighting mechanism axis  1051  can run from front end  101  and heel end  103  toward rear end  104  and toe end  102 . Accordingly, reference angle  1053  can open toward front end  101  on a heel side of centerline  1054  and toward rear end  104  on a toe side of centerline  1054 . 
     In some examples, reference angle  1053  can comprise an angle greater than or equal to approximately 2 degrees and less than or equal to approximately 25 degrees. In further examples, reference angle  1053  can comprise an angle greater than or equal to approximately 3 degrees and less than or equal to approximately 13 degrees. In still further examples, reference angle  1053  can comprise an angle greater than or equal to approximately 5 degrees and less than or equal to approximately 8 degrees. 
     In general, weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be arranged in the same or differing arrangements depending on how club head  100  ( FIG. 1 ) is implemented. For example, weighting mechanism  107   207  ( FIG. 2 ) can be arranged the same or differently for a driver versus a 3-wood, 5-wood, etc. In some examples, differing arrangements can still be similar, though different. For example, differing arrangements can both be angled arrangements having different reference angles. However, in other examples, differing arrangements can also differ to a greater extent, such as, for example, where one arrangement is curved and another arrangement is angled, etc. 
     Further, these same or different arrangements can be applied across some or all of a set of club heads (e.g., of a set of golf clubs) comprising club head  100  and including at least one other club head similar to club head  100 , such as, for example, same or different arrangements of a weighting mechanism (e.g., weighting mechanism  207  ( FIG. 2 )) for two or more club heads of a set of wood-type club heads. Accordingly, in some examples, two or more club heads of a set of club heads (e.g., comprising a driver, 3-wood, and 5-wood club head) can comprise the same or different arrangements for their respective weighting mechanisms. Further, in these or other examples, when the set of club heads comprises at least three club heads, the two or more club heads can comprise the same arrangement to or different arrangements from that of one or more other club heads of the set of club heads for their respective weighting mechanisms. 
     Turning back in the drawings,  FIG. 2  illustrates a bottom, rear perspective view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . Weighting mechanism  207  can comprise multiple weight ports  210  (e.g., weight port  211 , weight port  212 ). Multiple weight ports  210  can be coupled with and/or integral with sole  106  of club head  100 . In many examples, when multiple weight ports  210  are coupled with sole  106 , multiple weight ports  210  can be separate from the club head body of club head  100 . Further, when multiple weight ports  210  are integral with sole  106 , multiple weight ports  210  can be part of the club head body of club head  100 . 
     Each weight port of multiple weight ports  210  can be configured to receive a weight. Accordingly, in many examples, weighting mechanism  207  can comprise one or more weights configured to be received at multiple weight ports  210 . The number of weight(s) can be less than, equal to, or greater than the number of weight ports of multiple weight ports  210 . Each weight can comprise approximately the same volume and/or shape so that each weight can be coupled to any of multiple weight ports  210 . However, one or more of the weights can comprise a different mass from one or more of the other weights.  FIG. 14  illustrates club head  100  when weighting mechanism  207  comprises multiple weight ports  210  having received two exemplary weights  1450  and  1451 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . Exemplary weights  1450  and  1451  can be similar or identical to the weights as described above with respect to club head  100 .  FIG. 15  illustrates club head  100  when the exemplary weights  1450  and  1451  are decoupled from multiple weight ports  210  of weighting mechanism  207 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 2 , club head  100  and/or weighting mechanism  207  can comprise hosel port  217 . Hosel port  217  can be positioned at sole  103  opposite hosel  109  at crown  105  ( FIG. 1 ). Hosel port  217  can be configured to receive hosel port bolt  218 , which can be configured to couple a club shaft to club head  100 . 
     In some embodiments, multiple weight ports  210  can be limited to two weight ports. In these examples, weighting mechanism  207  can be arranged in an angular arrangement, as described above. In other embodiments, multiple weight ports  210  can comprise more than two weight ports. In these examples, weighting mechanism  207  can be arranged in an angular or curved arrangement, as described above. 
     Arrangement of the weights (i.e., the masses of the weights) can correspond to the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207 . Further, omitting one or more of the weights and/or replacing one or more of the weights with a weight comprising more or less mass can also correspond to the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207 . Accordingly, in many examples, weighting mechanism  207  can comprise as many configurations as there are combinations of arrangements and/or masses of the weights. 
     For example, placing a weight at weight port  211  comprising a higher mass than a weight placed at weight port  212  can represent a first configuration of the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207  and can reduce the gear effect of club head  100  on a golf ball such that the vertical spin applied to the golf ball by club head  100  is less than a vertical spin applied to the golf ball when the weights are placed at weight ports  211  and  212  in a reversed (i.e., second) configuration, and/or when the weights are absent from weight ports  211  and  212 . Meanwhile, as indicated, weighting mechanism  207  can be configured in the second configuration when it is desirable to increase the vertical spin applied to the golf ball by club head  100 . As indicated above, the vertical spin applied to the golf ball by club head  100  can also be changed and/or tuned by replacing one or both of the weights at weight ports  211  and  212  with weights comprising higher or lower masses. Increasing the differential in the weight masses can increase the extent of the change in the vertical spin applied to the golf ball by club head  100 , and decreasing the differential in the weight masses can decrease the extent of the change in the vertical spin applied to the golf ball by club head  100 . Changing the weights can represent one or more other configurations of weighting mechanism  207 . In still other embodiments, one or more of weight ports  210  can be left empty, representing one or more of the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207 . 
     Each of the weights can comprise any suitable shape (e.g., circular, polygonal, etc.). In many examples, each of the weights can comprise a lateral cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter or width) equal to approximately 2.36 centimeters for a driver or other club heads. In other examples, other lateral cross sectional dimensions (e.g., diameters) can be implemented for drivers and other club heads. In further examples, each of the weights can comprise a height equal to approximately 0.76 centimeters for a driver or other club heads. In other examples, other heights can be implemented for drivers and other club heads. In general, in many examples, the cross-sectional dimension of the weights can be greater than the height of the weights, such as, for example, by a predetermined width-to-height ratio. In some examples, the width-to-height ratio can be approximately three-to-one. In one example, the ratio, width, and height are the same for all wood-type clubs in a set of golf clubs. 
     Each weight of the weights can comprise a different mass. The masses of the various weights can be configured to extend over a predetermined range. For example, the masses can range from greater than or equal to approximately 12 grams and less than or equal to approximately 15 grams. In other examples, other masses and/or ranges of masses can be implemented. 
     Similar to the arrangements of weighting mechanism  207  as described above, the range of masses of the weights can be the same or different when club head  100  comprises different club heads. For example, the range of masses of the weights can be different for a driver versus a 3-wood, 5-wood, etc. The range of masses can be the same or different for each club head of a set of club heads, such as, for example, for each club head of a set of wood-type club heads. Accordingly, each of a driver, 3-wood, and 5-wood club head can comprise different mass ranges, or one or more of the mass ranges for the driver, 3-wood, and 5-wood club heads can be similar or identical to each other. 
     In order to achieve the various masses of the weights, each weight of the weights can comprise one or more materials. In general and because it can be desirable for each of the weights to comprise a similar or identical volume while also comprising a different mass, in many examples, each weight of the weights can comprise one or more lower mass, volume filling materials (e.g., plastic, metal, metal alloy, composite, etc.) and/or one or more higher mass, weighting materials (e.g., metal, metal alloy, etc.). The filling materials can comprise any suitable polymer(s), metal(s), metal alloy(s), and/or composite material(s). The weighting material(s) can comprise any suitable metal(s) and/or metal alloy(s), such as, for example, comprising iron, aluminum, titanium, lead, tungsten, tin, and/or copper, etc. Other exemplary weighting material(s) can comprise graphite. The weighting material(s) can be injection molded in the filling material(s), such as, for example, to a desired shape. In some examples, the weighting material(s) can be suspended substantially homogenously throughout the filling material(s) as a powder and/or can be located heterogeneously in the filling material(s) as one or more separate bodies. In other examples, the filling material(s) can be overmolded over the weighting material(s). Alternatively, the filling or weighting materials can be omitted, such as, for example, where the weights are at least partially hollow. 
     Each of the weights can be configured to be mounted in multiple weight ports  210 . Although the weights can be configured to be mounted in multiple weight ports  210  in any suitable manner, in many examples, the weights can be threaded about an exterior (e.g., circumferential) wall of the weights and screwed into multiple weight ports  210 , which can also be threaded so as to receive the weights. In other examples, multiple weight ports  210  can be configured to receive one or more threaded screws in order to mount the weights at multiple weight ports  210 . In some embodiments, single threaded screws can be inserted through a center aperture of each weight of the weights to mount the weights at multiple weight ports  210 . In still other embodiments, the threaded screw(s) can be integral with the weights and can extend from a top side of the weights to be screwed in at multiple weight ports  210 . 
     Each weight port of multiple weight ports  210  can comprise one or more port surfaces corresponding to the opposing surfaces of a weight received at that weight port. Accordingly, in many examples, weight port  211  can comprise lateral port surface  213  and orthogonal port surface  215 , and/or weight port  212  can comprise lateral port surface  214  and orthogonal port surface  216 . Lateral port surface  213  and lateral port surface  214  can correspond to a top surface of the weights to be received at multiple weight ports  210 , and orthogonal port surface  215  and orthogonal port surface  216  can correspond to the exterior (e.g., circumferential) walls of the weights to be received at multiple weight ports  210 . Accordingly, as applicable, (a) lateral port surface  213  and/or lateral port surface  214  can be configured to receive the threaded screw(s), and/or (b) orthogonal port surface  215  and/or orthogonal port surface  216  can be threaded to receive the threaded exterior walls of the weights. In many examples, by threading orthogonal port surface  215 , orthogonal port surface  216 , etc. of multiple weight ports  210 , the club head center of gravity can be located closer to sole  106  than where the weights are mounted to multiple weight ports  210  at lateral port surface  213 , lateral port surface  214 , etc. using threaded screw(s). In turn, the weight heights can be shorter, and the weight lateral cross-sectional dimension can be greater when the weights themselves are threaded. 
     In any event, as indicated above, multiple weight ports  210  are configured to receive the weights. In many examples, each weight port of multiple weight ports  210  receives only a single weight, but in some examples, can receive multiple weights at once. Each weight port of multiple weight ports  210  can comprise a shape and/or volume that substantially corresponds to the shape and/or volume of the weights. Further, each weight port of multiple weight ports  210  can comprise a shape and/or volume configured such that when each weight port of multiple weight ports  210  receives one or more weight(s), the weight(s) are substantially flush with an exterior sole surface of club head  100  at sole  106 . 
     In some embodiments, the weights can comprise one or more ridges and/or grooves at the top surface of the weights configured to contact the lateral port surfaces (e.g., lateral port surface  213 , lateral port surface  214 , etc.) of multiple weight ports  210  to prevent the weights from rattling when the weights are received at multiple weight ports  210 . In further embodiments, a dampening washer can be disposed between the top surface of the weights and the lateral port surfaces (e.g., lateral port surface  213 , lateral port surface  214 , etc.) of multiple weight ports to prevent the weights from rattling when the weights are received at multiple weight ports  210 . In even further embodiments, the weights can be coated in a rubberized paint to prevent the weights from rattling when the weights are received at multiple weight ports  210 . 
     Various additional characteristics of multiple weight ports  210  and the corresponding weights can be configured to affect the vertical spin rate and/or direction that club head  100  applies to a golf ball and/or to minimize or negate an effect on the horizontal spin rate and/or direction that club head  100  applies to the golf ball. For example, as applicable, the lateral port surfaces (e.g., lateral port surface  213 , lateral port surface  214 , etc.) can be configured to be substantially parallel with an adjacent and/or surrounding portion of sole  106  and/or the orthogonal port surfaces (e.g., orthogonal port surface  215 , orthogonal port surface  216 , etc.) can be configured to be substantially orthogonal to the adjacent and/or surrounding portion of sole  106 . Further, a ratio of the height of the weights and/or multiple weight ports  210  to a height of club head  100  (i.e., a distance between crown  105  and sole  106 ) can be minimized so that the weights are positioned as close to sole  106  as possible. Further still, multiple weight ports  210  and/or the weights can be configured with a shape and/or volume that (a) minimizes a height of multiple weight ports  210  and/or the weights and/or (b) maximizes a lateral cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) of multiple weight ports  210  and/or the weights. Also, the volume of the weights versus that of multiple weight ports  210  can be configured so that the volume of the weights exceeds that of the volume of multiple weight ports  210  by as much as possible. Likewise, in some examples, multiple weight ports  210  can be configured to minimize a vertical rise between multiple weight ports  210  along sole  106 . 
     In some embodiments, the weight can be configured to be coupled with and/or removed from multiple weight ports  210  using the same tool as can be used to couple a club shaft to hosel  109  via hosel port  217  and hosel port bolt  218 . 
       FIGS. 3-8  illustrate club head  100  from various other viewing angles. Specifically,  FIG. 3  is a top view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ;  FIG. 4  is a bottom view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ;  FIG. 5  is a front view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ;  FIG. 6  is a rear view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ;  FIG. 7  is a left view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; and  FIG. 8  is a right view of club head  100 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
     In some embodiments, weighting mechanism  207  can comprise a channel instead of multiple weight ports  210 . However, the channel can be similar to one weight port of multiple weight ports  210 . In these embodiments, one or more weights can be disposed within the channel and adjusted to a location within the channel to adjust weighting mechanism  207  between the multiple configurations of weighting mechanism  207 . Further, in these embodiments, the weight(s) can be similar to the weights described above, but the weights can be configured to be non-removable from the channel and can be slid from one position to another along the channel. This implementation can prevent the weight(s) from being lost and can simplify adjustment of the weights for a user of club head  100 . 
     In other embodiments, multiple weight ports  210  can be linked by a bridging channel running between, and if applicable, through, multiple weight ports  210 . In these embodiments, the weight(s) configured to be inserted in multiple weight ports  210  can be integrated into an integrated weight system coupling the individual weights together via a bridging portion corresponding to the bridging channel. By limiting the resulting combinations of configurations for weighting system  207 , implementing weighting mechanism  207  so that multiple weight ports  210  are linked by the bridging channel can also simply adjustment of the weights (i.e., the integrated weight system) for a user of club head  100 . In some embodiments, the bridging channel can be shallower than multiple weight ports  210 . 
     In many embodiments, club head  100  can comprise one or more branding and/or other symbols, such as, for example, to indicate a manufacturer of club head  100 . In other embodiments, the branding and/or other symbol(s) can be omitted. 
     Turning ahead in the drawings,  FIG. 11  illustrates a flow chart for an embodiment of method  1100  of providing a club head. Method  1100  is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Method  1100  can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the activities, the procedures, and/or the processes of method  1100  can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the activities, the procedures, and/or the processes of method  1100  can be performed in any other suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the activities, the procedures, and/or the processes in method  1100  can be combined or skipped. In many embodiments, the club head can be similar or identical to club head  100  ( FIGS. 1-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). 
     Method  1100  can comprise activity  1101  of providing a club head body. The club head body can be similar or identical to the club head body described above with respect to club head  100  ( FIGS. 1-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). In some embodiments, activity  1101  can comprise machining, forming, and/or molding the club head body.  FIG. 12  illustrates an exemplary activity  1101 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 11 . 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1201  of providing the club head body to comprise a front end. The front end can be similar or identical to front end  101  ( FIGS. 1-5 &amp; 7-10 ). 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1202  of providing the club head body to comprise a toe end. The toe end can be similar or identical to toe end  102  ( FIGS. 1-7 &amp; 10 ). 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1203  of providing the club head body to comprise a heel end. The heel end can be similar or identical to heel end  103  ( FIGS. 1-6 &amp; 8-10 ). 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1204  of providing the club head body to comprise a rear end. The rear end can be similar or identical to rear end  104  ( FIGS. 1-4 &amp; 6-10 ). 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1205  of providing the club head body to comprise a crown. The crown can be similar or identical to crown  105  ( FIGS. 1-3 &amp; 5-9 ). 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1206  of providing the club head body to comprise a sole. The sole can be similar or identical to sole  106  ( FIGS. 1, 2 , &amp;  4 - 10 ). In some embodiments of one or more of activity  1101  and activities  1201 - 1206  can be performed simultaneously with each other. 
     Activity  1101  can comprise activity  1207  of providing the club head body to comprise a club face. The club face can be similar or identical to club face  108  ( FIGS. 1-5 &amp; 7-9 ). 
     Turning back to  FIG. 11 , method  1100  can comprise activity  1102  of providing a weighting mechanism. The weighting mechanism can be similar or identical to weighting mechanism  207  ( FIGS. 2, 4-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). In some embodiments, at least part of activity  1102  can be performed as part of activity  1101 . Further, in some embodiments, activity  1102  can comprise machining, forming, and/or molding the at least part of the weighting mechanism.  FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary activity  1102 , according to the embodiment of  FIG. 11 . 
     In many examples, activity  1102  can comprise activity  1301  of providing multiple weight ports. The multiple weight ports can be similar or identical to weight ports  210  ( FIGS. 2, 4-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). In some examples, activity  1301  can comprise coupling the multiple weight ports to the sole of the club head. In other examples, activity  1301  can be part of activity  1206  ( FIG. 12 ), such as, for example, when the multiple weight ports are integral with the sole of the club head. 
     Further, activity  1102  can comprise activity  1302  of providing one or more weights. The weight(s) can be similar or identical to the weight(s) described above with respect to club head  100  ( FIGS. 1-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). For example, the weight(s) can be similar or identical to weight  1450  ( FIGS. 14 &amp; 15 ) and/or weight  1451  ( FIGS. 14 &amp; 15 ). 
     In some examples, activity  1102  can comprise activity  1303  of providing a bridging channel of the multiple weight ports. The bridging channel can be similar or identical to the bridging channel described above with respect to club head  100  ( FIGS. 1-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). In other embodiments, activity  1303  can be omitted. 
     In other examples, activities  1301  and  1303  can be replaced with an activity of providing a channel. The channel can be similar or identical to the channel described above with respect to club head  100  ( FIGS. 1-10, 14 , &amp;  15 ). However, in various embodiments, this activity of providing a channel can be omitted. 
     Returning again to  FIG. 11 , method  1100  can also comprise activity  1103  of coupling one or more of the one or more weights to one or more weight ports of the multiple weight ports. In other embodiments, activity  1103  can be omitted. 
     Although the apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein have been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments of the apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture are intended to be illustrative of the scope of the invention and are not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the scope of the apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture shall be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims. For example, to one of ordinary skill in the art, it will be readily apparent that any of the activities of  FIGS. 11-13  may be comprised of many different procedures, processes, and activities and be performed by many different modules, in many different orders, that any element of  FIGS. 1-15  may be modified, and that the foregoing discussion of certain of these embodiments does not necessarily represent a complete description of all possible embodiments. 
     Further, while the above examples may be described in connection with a wood-type golf club head, the apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable to other types of golf clubs such as an iron-type golf club, a wedge-type golf club, or a putter-type golf club. Further still, the apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable to other types of sports equipment such as a hockey stick, a tennis racket, a fishing pole, a ski pole, etc. 
     Consequently, replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are expressly stated in such claim. 
     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 such as the United States Golf Association (USGA), the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&amp;A), etc.), golf equipment related to the apparatuses, methods, 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 apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The apparatuses, methods, and/or articles of manufacture of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.