Patent ID: 12186634

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following describes examples of golf club heads in the context of an iron-type golf club, but the principles, methods and designs described may be applicable in whole or in part to utility golf clubs (also known as hybrid golf clubs), metal-wood-type golf club, driver-type golf clubs, putter-type golf clubs, and the like.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0302946 A1 ('946 App), published Oct. 9, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes a “reference position” similar to the address position used to measure the various parameters discussed throughout this application. The address or reference position is based on the procedures described in the United States Golf Association and R&A Rules Limited, “Procedure for Measuring the Club Head Size of Wood Clubs,” Revision 1.0.0, (Nov. 21, 2003). Unless otherwise indicated, all parameters are specified with the club head in the reference position.

FIGS.4and5are examples that show a golf club head in the address position (i.e. the club head is positioned such that a hosel axis, of the club head, is at a 60 degree lie angle relative to a ground plane and the club face is square relative to an imaginary target line). As shown inFIGS.4and5, positioning a golf club head100in the reference position lends itself to using a club head origin coordinate system for making various measurements. Additionally, the USGA methodology may be used to measure the various parameters described throughout this application including head height, club head center of gravity (CG) location, and moments of inertia (MOI) about the various axes.

For further details or clarity, the reader is advised to refer to the measurement methods described in the '946 App and the USGA procedure. Notably, however, the origin and axes used in this application may not necessarily be aligned or oriented in the same manner as those described in the '946 App or the USGA procedure. Further details are provided below on locating the club head origin coordinate system.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, one example of a golf club head100includes a body102, a rear panel160coupled to the body102, and a high-density insert140coupled to the body102and the rear panel160. The golf club head100additionally includes a hosel108coupled to and extending from the body102. Some features of the golf club head100are similar to the features of the iron-type golf club head shown and described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/706,632, filed Sep. 15, 2017, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

The body102has a toe portion114, a heel portion112, a top portion116(e.g., top-line portion), and a sole portion118(e.g., bottom portion). The hosel108extends from the heel portion112of the body102. The hosel108is configured to receive and engage with a shaft and grip of a golf club. The shaft extends from the hosel108and the grip is secured to the shaft at a location on the shaft opposite that of the golf club head100. In certain examples, the hosel108includes a hosel slot113proximate the heel portion112of the body102of the golf club head100.

The body102also includes a front portion120and a rear portion122. The front portion120includes a strike face106designed to impact a golf ball during a normal golf swing. The strike face106has a face length LF that is equal to the distance between a par line195of the golf club head100and a toewardmost point of the golf club head100as shown inFIG.4. The par line195is defined as the theoretical line defining the transition on the front portion120between a flat surface to a curved surface generally proximate to the heel end of the golf club head. Put another way, the par line195defines where the flat surface of the front portion120ends and the curved surface of the front portion120begins. Opposite the strike face106, the front portion120includes an interior surface180. In some examples, the interior surface180includes a variable thickness projection182, that projects rearwardly. The strike face106, in the examples ofFIGS.1-12, is co-formed with the body102, such that the body102and the strike face106form a one-piece, monolithic, seamless, and unitary, construction. Accordingly, the body102and the strike face106are formed from the same manufacturing process, such as being co-cast or co-machined together in certain examples. In some examples, a thickness of the front portion120defining the strike face106, proximate a center of the strike face106, is between 2.2 mm and 3.8 mm. In other examples, the thickness of the front portion120defining the strike face106, proximate a center of the strike face106, is between 2.2 mm and 3.6 mm or 3.4 mm. A range of the thickness of the face portion120can be between 1.8 mm and 3.5 mm. The strike face106includes a leading edge109, which is defined as the forwardmost portion or edge of the strike face106. The thickness of the front portion120defining the strike face106can be variable across the strike face106.

In some examples, the golf club head100is configured with dimensions similar to a blade-style golf club head. For example, an offset, in a front-to-rear direction, between a forwardmost portion of the hosel108and the leading edge109of the strike face106is less than or equal to 4.5 mm in certain implementations (e.g., less than or equal to 3.9 mm, 3.4 mm, 2.9 mm, or 2.3 mm). According to another example, a blade length LB of the body102is less than or equal to 82 mm (e.g., less than or equal to 81 mm, 80 mm, or 79 mm). In yet another example, an overall width of the sole portion118is less than or equal to 25.5 mm (e.g., less than or equal to 24 mm or 23 mm). Also, in some examples, a maximum width of the top portion116(e.g., topline portion) is less than or equal to 6.3 mm (e.g., less than or equal to 6.1 mm).

As used herein, the blade length LB of the golf club head100is the distance between a ground plane intersection point (GPIP) and the toewardmost point of the golf club head100, when the golf club head100is in proper address position on the ground plane191, which includes the grooves107being parallel to the ground plate191(see, e.g.,FIG.4). The GPIP is defined as the intersection of the ground plane191and a central axis193of the hosel108when the golf club head100is in proper address position on the ground plane191.

Generally, for many iron-type golf club heads, such as the golf club head100, the strike face106has a planar surface that is angled relative to a ground plane when the golf club head100is in an address position to define a loft of the golf club head100. In other words, the strike face106of an iron-type golf club head generally does not include a curved surface. Accordingly, the strike face106of the iron-type golf club head100is defined as the portion of the strike face106with an outwardly facing planar surface. The front portion120further includes grooves107formed in the strike face106to promote desirable flight characteristics (e.g., backspin) of the golf ball upon being impacted by the strike face106.

In some examples, the body102, including the heel portion112, the toe portion114, the sole portion118, the top portion116, the front portion120, and at least a portion of the rear portion122, is made of a titanium alloy. As will be explained below, in these examples, the rear panel160is not made of a titanium alloy, or more generally, is made of a material that is different than the material of the rest of the body102. The titanium alloy of the body102can be any of various titanium alloys. According to certain examples, the titanium alloy of the body102includes one or more of 9-1-1, 3-2.5, 6-4, SP700, 15-3-3-3, 10-2-3, or other alpha/near alpha, alpha-beta, and beta/near beta titanium alloys.

In one example, the titanium alloy of the body102is a 9-1-1 titanium alloy. Titanium alloys comprising aluminum (e.g., 8.5-9.5% Al), vanadium (e.g., 0.9-1.3% V), and molybdenum (e.g., 0.8-1.1% Mo), optionally with other minor alloying elements and impurities, herein collectively referred to a “9-1-1 Ti”, can have less significant alpha case, which renders HF acid etching unnecessary or at least less necessary compared to faces made from conventional 6-4 Ti and other titanium alloys. Further, 9-1-1 Ti can have minimum mechanical properties of 820 MPa yield strength, 958 MPa tensile strength, and 10.2% elongation. These minimum properties can be significantly superior to typical cast titanium alloys, such as 6-4 Ti, which can have minimum mechanical properties of 812 MPa yield strength, 936 MPa tensile strength, and ˜6% elongation. In certain examples, the titanium alloy is 8-1-1 Ti.

In another example, the titanium alloy of the body102is an alpha-beta titanium alloy comprising 6.5% to 10% Al by weight, 0.5% to 3.25% Mo by weight, 1.0% to 3.0% Cr by weight, 0.25% to 1.75% V by weight, and/or 0.25% to 1% Fe by weight, with the balance comprising Ti (one example is sometimes referred to as “1300” or “ZA1300” titanium alloy). In another representative example, the alloy may comprise 6.75% to 9.75% Al by weight, 0.75% to 3.25% or 2.75% Mo by weight, 1.0% to 3.0% Cr by weight, 0.25% to 1.75% V by weight, and/or 0.25% to 1% Fe by weight, with the balance comprising Ti. In yet another representative example, the alloy may comprise 7% to 9% Al by weight, 1.75% to 3.25% Mo by weight, 1.25% to 2.75% Cr by weight, 0.5% to 1.5% V by weight, and/or 0.25% to 0.75% Fe by weight, with the balance comprising Ti. In a further representative example, the alloy may comprise 7.5% to 8.5% Al by weight, 2.0% to 3.0% Mo by weight, 1.5% to 2.5% Cr by weight, 0.75% to 1.25% V by weight, and/or 0.375% to 0.625% Fe by weight, with the balance comprising Ti. In another representative example, the alloy may comprise 8% Al by weight, 2.5% Mo by weight, 2% Cr by weight, 1% V by weight, and/or 0.5% Fe by weight, with the balance comprising Ti (such titanium alloys can have the formula Ti-8Al-2.5Mo-2Cr-1V-0.5Fe). As used herein, reference to “Ti-8Al-2.5Mo-2Cr-1V-0.5Fe” refers to a titanium alloy including the referenced elements in any of the proportions given above. Certain examples may also comprise trace quantities of K, Mn, and/or Zr, and/or various impurities.

Ti-8Al-2.5Mo-2Cr-1V-0.5Fe can have minimum mechanical properties of 1150 MPa yield strength, 1180 MPa ultimate tensile strength, and 8% elongation. These minimum properties can be significantly superior to other cast titanium alloys, including 6-4 Ti and 9-1-1 Ti, which can have the minimum mechanical properties noted above. In some examples, Ti-8Al-2.5Mo-2Cr-1V-0.5Fe can have a tensile strength of from about 1180 MPa to about 1460 MPa, a yield strength of from about 1150 MPa to about 1415 MPa, an elongation of from about 8% to about 12%, a modulus of elasticity of about 110 GPa, a density of about 4.45 g/cm3, and a hardness of about 43 on the Rockwell C scale (43 HRC). In particular examples, the Ti-8Al-2.5Mo-2Cr-1V-0.5Fe alloy can have a tensile strength of about 1320 MPa, a yield strength of about 1284 MPa, and an elongation of about 10%. The Ti-8Al-2.5Mo-2Cr-1V-0.5Fe alloy, particularly when used to cast golf club head bodies, promotes less deflection for the same thickness due to a higher ultimate tensile strength compared to other materials. In some implementations, providing less deflection with the same thickness benefits golfers with higher swing speeds because over time the face of the golf club head will maintain its original shape over time.

Referring toFIGS.2and3, the rear portion122of the body102includes an insert shelf134and a retention bar126. The insert shelf134is adjacent the sole portion118. In other words, an interior surface of the sole portion118at least partially defines the insert shelf134. The insert shelf134extends from the toe portion114to the heel portion112. Accordingly, the insert shelf134is elongated in a toe-to-heel direction. Moreover, in certain examples, the insert shelf134is substantially parallel to the strike face106. The insert shelf134includes a flat surface that is configured to vertically support the high-density insert140. In other words, the insert shelf134constrains movement of the high-density insert140in a vertically downward direction. The surface area of the insert shelf134decreases in a toe-to-heel direction. In other words, the insert shelf134tapers or converges in the toe-to-heel direction to accommodate a taper or convergence in the high-density insert140. In some examples, the high-density insert140has a variable mass per unit length that varies in a heel-to-toe direction, a toe portion of the high-density insert140is located at least 20 mm toeward of a geometric center of the strike face106, and a central portion (between the toe portion and a heel portion of the insert) is located within 20 mm of the geometric center of the strike face106. Additionally, in certain examples, the high-density insert140has a variable density along a length of the insert, such that, for example, the toe portion of the high-density insert140has a greater density than the heel portion or central portion of the high-density insert140.

According to some examples, the rear portion122also includes a front ridge137and a rear ridge135, co-formed with the front portion120, that extends along a front portion of the insert shelf134and a rear portion of the insert shelf134, respectively, to at least partially constrain forward movement and rearward movement, respectively, of the high-density insert140relative to the body102. Accordingly, the insert shelf134is interposed between the front ridge137and the rear ridge135. The rear ridge135is rearwardly offset from the rear panel160.

In some examples, the rear portion122of the body102includes an end pocket139that is configured to matingly receive a heelward end141of the high-density insert140. The end pocket139is formed in the heel portion112of the body102. A portion of the insert shelf134extends into and defines a surface of the end pocket139. The end pocket139is circumferentially closed. Accordingly, the end pocket139circumferentially closes, or entirely circumferentially surrounds, the heelward end141of the high-density insert140when the heelward end141is matingly inserted into the end pocket139. The end pocket139helps to constrain movement of the heelward end141in upward-downward directions and forward-backward directions relative to the strike face106.

The rear portion122of the body102additionally includes the retention bar126, which defines an exterior surface of the iron-type golf club head100. The retention bar126circumferentially closes a portion of the insert shelf134. The portion of the insert shelf134circumferentially closed by the retention bar126is a toeward portion of the insert shelf134or a portion of the insert shelf134at least partially defined by the toe portion114of the body102. The retention bar126helps define a rear surface of a first insert channel128formed in the rear portion122of the body102. The first insert channel128is also defined by the insert shelf134, an interior rear surface of the rear portion122, and an interior top surface of the rear portion122. More specifically, the insert shelf134defines a bottom surface of the first insert channel128, the interior rear surface of the rear portion122defines a forward surface of the first insert channel128, and the interior top surface of the rear portion122defines a top surface of the first insert channel128. As shown, in some examples, the retention bar126is integrally formed with a portion of the insert shelf134, such that the retention bar126forms a one-piece, seamless, and unitary monolithic structure with the insert shelf134. The first insert channel128is a circumferentially closed channel. In other words, the first insert channel128has open ends and is enclosed on all sides of the first insert channel128extending between the open ends. In this manner, the first insert channel128helps constrain movement of a toeward end143, opposite the heelward end141, of the high-density insert140in the upward-downward directions and the forward-backward directions relative to the strike face106.

The retention bar126has a width, in a toe-to-heel direction, that is less than a length of the insert shelf134, in the toe-to-heel direction. Accordingly, the width of the retention bar126is less than a length of the high-density insert140. In one example, the width of the retention bar126is less than 50% of the length of the high-density insert140. In another example, the width of the retention bar126is less than 25% of the length of the high-density insert140. In yet another example, the width of the retention bar126is less than 10% of the length of the high-density insert140.

The rear portion122of the golf club head100additionally includes a rear opening124and a rear panel160coupled to and enclosing the rear opening124. The rear opening124is open to an internal cavity132of the body102of the golf club head100. In other words, the internal cavity132is accessible through the rear opening124when uncovered. The rear portion122includes a lip130continuously surrounding the rear opening124. The lip130is recessed relative to adjacent surfaces of the rear portion122and configured to receive the rear panel160in seated engagement. Additionally, the lip130is offset forwardly of the insert shelf134. The size and shape of the outer periphery of the rear panel160complements the size and shape of the lip130, such that when in seated engagement with the lip130, the rear panel160covers the entirety of the rear opening124. In this manner, the rear panel160encloses the rear opening124, as well as the internal cavity132. Accordingly, when the rear panel160is in seated engagement with the lip130, the body102of the golf club head100is hollow (i.e., the internal cavity132is enclosed). For this reason, the iron-type golf club head100is considered to have a hollow-body design.

Referring toFIGS.3-8, the rear panel160includes a base162having an outer periphery with a size and shape corresponding with the size and shape of the lip130. An interior surface168of the base162, about a periphery of the base162, is flat and configured to seat against the flat surface of the lip130. The rear panel160is coupled to the lip130in any of various ways. In some examples, depending on the material of which the rear panel160is made, the rear panel160is adhered to, welded to, or bonded to the lip130.

The rear panel168includes a retention flap164that extends from and is integrally formed with an exterior surface169of the base162, such that the retention flap164defines an exterior surface of the iron-type golf club head100. The retention flap164first extends rearwardly away from the exterior surface169of the base162and then downwardly and offset from the exterior surface169. Accordingly, a gap165is defined between the downwardly extending portion of the retention flap164and the exterior surface169. In some examples, a cross-sectional area of the gap165decreases in a heel-to-toe direction such that the gap165tapers or diverges in the heel-to-toe direction to accommodate the shape of the high-density insert140.

The retention flap164is spaced apart from the retention bar126in the toe-to-heel direction. Accordingly, a space is defined between the retention flap164and the retention bar126in the toe-to-heel direction. Moreover, the retention flap164has a length, in a toe-to-heel direction, that is less than a length of the insert shelf134, in the toe-to-heel direction. Accordingly, the length of the retention flap164is less than a length of the high-density insert140. In some examples, the length of the retention flap164is more than the width of the retention bar126. According to one example, the length of the retention flap164is less than 50% of the length of the high-density insert140. In another example, the length of the retention flap164is less than 25% of the length of the high-density insert140.

The retention flap164is spaced apart from the insert shelf134and at least partially circumferentially closes a portion of the insert shelf134to define a second insert channel166(see, e.g.,FIG.12). In other words, the second insert channel166is defined by the gap165and the insert shelf134. Put another way, the second insert channel166is defined between the exterior surface165of the base162, the retention flap164, and the insert shelf134. The taper or convergence of the gap165complements the taper or convergence of the insert shelf134. Accordingly, the second insert channel166tapers or converges in the toe-to-heel direction to accommodate the taper or convergence of the high-density insert140.

In one example, the retention flap164only partially circumferentially closes the portion of the insert shelf134. As shown inFIG.4, the downwardmost edge of the retention flap164is vertically spaced apart from the rear ridge135of the rear portion122such that a gap or opening exists between the retention flap164and the rear ridge135. Access to the second insert channel166is available through this gap and thus the second insert channel166is not circumferentially closed. However, in another example, the retention flap164may extend into abutting engagement with the rear ridge135such that the insert shelf134is circumferentially closed at the retention flap164.

The rear panel160is made of a second material different than a first material of the heel portion112, the toe portion114, the sole portion118, the top portion116, the front portion120, and the insert shelf134and the retention bar126of the rear portion122in some examples. The first material has a density that is lower than the density of the high-density insert140and higher than the density of the second material of the rear panel160. In one example, the density of the second material of the rear panel160is greater than 1 g/cc. For example, the second material is one or more of a titanium alloy, a steel alloy, an aluminum alloy, or a polymer. According to other examples, the second material of the rear panel160is the same as the first material of the heel portion112, the toe portion114, the sole portion118, the top portion116, the front portion120, and the insert shelf134and the retention bar126of the rear portion122.

The high-density insert140is supported by the insert shelf134and non-movably retained within the first insert channel128by the retention bar126. Additionally, the high-density insert140is non-movably retained within the second insert channel166by the retention flap164. Some additional retention of the high-density insert140is provided by the rear ridge135lining a portion of the insert shelf134. The high-density insert140is in seated engagement with the insert shelf134while in mating engagement with the first insert channel128, the second insert channel166, and the end pocket139. Additionally, the high-density insert140is engaged with the exterior surface169of the base162of the rear panel160to constrain forward movement of the high-density insert140relative to the strike face106.

Engagement with the insert shelf134, the first insert channel128, the second insert channel166, and the end pocket139is provided by inserting the high-density insert140, from the toe portion114in a substantially toe-to-heel direction, through first insert channel128, along the insert shelf, through the second insert channel166, and into the end pocket139. In some examples, the high-density insert140is retained in placed during use by adhering (e.g. gluing, such as with glue or epoxy) the high-density insert140to at least one of the surfaces of the body102to which the high-density insert140is engaged. In other words, the high-density insert140is adhesively held in place. Accordingly, in some examples, the high-density insert140is attached to the body102by a method other than welding, brazing, soldering, or with mechanical fasteners (i.e., the high-density insert140is not welded, brazed, soldered, or fastened to the body102), which avoids the complexity, weaknesses, and weight gains associated with these types of attachment techniques. Other than an adhesive material, there is no intervening layers (e.g., damping material) between the high-density insert140and the body102of the golf club head100.

Referring toFIGS.10and11, the high-density insert140is an elongated and asymmetrical insert. According to certain examples, the high-density insert140has an overall length of at least 65 mm, at least 70 mm, or at least 75 mm. In some examples, the overall length of the high-density insert140is between 90% and 110% of a blade length LB of the body102. According to yet certain examples, the overall length of the high-density insert140is greater or longer than the face length LF of the strike face106of the golf club head100. In some examples, both the mass distribution and the shape of the high-density insert140are asymmetrical. The high-density insert140includes the heelward end141and the toeward end143. The heelward end141is opposite the toeward end143. The heelward end141is located in the heel portion112of the body102and the toeward end143is located in the toe portion114of the body102. The toeward end143of the high-density insert140is more massive, or has more mass, than the heelward end141. Such a configuration distributes more mass to the toe portion114than the heel portion112. Additionally, the toeward end143of the high-density insert140is larger than the heelward end141. Accordingly, in some examples, the density of the material of the high-density insert140at the toeward end143and the heelward end141is uniform. In other examples, the density of the material of the high-density insert140can be different (e.g., lower) in the heelward end141compared to the toeward end143. The high-density insert140has a one-piece, unitary and seamless, monolithic construction in some examples.

According to certain examples, the high-density insert140tapers or converges from the toeward end143to the heelward end141. The taper can be constant from the toeward end143to the heelward end141. In some examples, the high-density insert140also tapers or converges from a bottom of the insert to a top of the insert. For example, the high-density insert140can have a triangular cross-sectional shape along a plane perpendicular to the length of the insert.

In the illustrated examples, the high-density insert140includes a head142at the toeward end143. The head142is defined by a sole ledge147and a rear ledge149. When coupled to the body102, the sole ledge147engages a toeward edge157of the sole portion118and the rear ledge149engages a toeward edge159of the retention bar126. Engagement between the sole ledge147and the toeward edge157and between the rear ledge149and the toeward edge159helps to stop the high-density insert140in a proper position relative to the body102. The head142of the high-density insert140defines a portion of the exterior surface of the golf club head100at the toe portion114and rear portion122of the body102. Additionally, a portion of the high-density insert140between the heelward end141and the toeward end143defines the exterior surface of the golf club head100at the rear portion122of the body102between the retention bar126and the retention flap164. Accordingly, in contrast to conventional golf club heads with high-density plugs entirely hidden internally within in the golf club head, the high-density insert140is exposed to the exterior of the golf club head100to define a portion of the exterior surface of the golf club head100. Similarly, the high-density insert140is external to the internal cavity132such that no portion of the high-density insert140is located within or defines any part of the internal cavity132. The high-density insert140defines a relatively large portion of the exterior surface of the golf club head100. In one example, a surface area of a total exterior surface of the iron-type golf club head100defined by the high-density insert140is at least 150 mm{circumflex over ( )}2. In certain examples, a surface area of the toe portion of the iron-type golf club head defined by the high-density insert is at least 50 mm{circumflex over ( )}2.

The high-density insert140is made of a high-density material. As defined herein a high-density material is a material having a density of at least 7.5 grams-per-cubic-centimeter (g/cc) and a density greater than the density of the body102. In some examples, the density of the high-density material is at least 16.7 g/cc. Various metal materials have qualifying densities. In some examples, the high-density material of the high-density insert140is a tungsten alloy. According to these examples, the heel portion112, the toe portion114, the sole portion118, the top portion116, the front portion120, and the insert shelf134and the retention bar126of the rear portion122is made of a titanium alloy, and the rear panel160is made of a steel alloy, an aluminum alloy, or a polymer. The tungsten alloy of the high-density insert140can be any one of various tungsten alloys. In one example, the high-density insert140has a mass of at least 50 grams, at least 80 grams, at least 90 grams, or at least 100 grams (e.g., up to 125 grams). The total mass of the high-density insert140can be at least 30% of the total mass of the golf club head100, such as, for example, between 35% and 50% or preferably between 39% and 46% of the total mass of the golf club head100.

In certain examples of the golf club head100, as shown inFIG.12, the internal cavity132is partially or entirely filled with a filler material133. In some implementations, the filler material133is made from a non-metal, such as a thermoplastic material, thermoset material, and the like. In other implementations, the internal cavity132is not filled with a filler material133, but rather maintains an open, vacant, cavity within the club head.

According to some examples, the filler material133is initially a viscous material that is injected or otherwise inserted into the club head through an injection port107(see, e.g.,FIG.9) located on the toe portion114of the golf club head100. However, in other examples, the injection port107can be located anywhere on the golf club head100, including the top portion116, the sole portion118, the heel portion112, or the toe portion114. The injection port107can be sealed with a plug105after the filler material133is injected into the internal cavity132. In one example, the plug105is a metallic plug that can be made from steel, aluminum, titanium, or a metallic alloy. According to an example, the plug105is an anodized aluminum plug that is colored a red, green, blue, gray, white, orange, purple, black, clear, yellow, or metallic color. In one example, the plug105is a different or contrasting color from the majority color located on the body102of the golf club head100. In still other examples, the filler material133may be pre-formed and placed into the golf club head100and sealed in place with a plug, cover, resilient cap, or other structure formed of a metal, metal alloy, metallic, composite, hard plastic, resilient elastomeric, or other suitable material.

Examples of materials that may be suitable for use as the filler material133to be injected or placed into the internal cavity132of the golf club head100include, without limitation: viscoelastic elastomers; vinyl copolymers with or without inorganic fillers; polyvinyl acetate with or without mineral fillers such as barium sulfate; acrylics; polyesters; polyurethanes; polyethers; polyamides; polybutadienes; polystyrenes; polyisoprenes; polyethylenes; polyolefins; styrene/isoprene block copolymers; hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers; metallized polyesters; metallized acrylics; epoxies; epoxy and graphite composites; natural and synthetic rubbers; piezoelectric ceramics; thermoset and thermoplastic rubbers; foamed polymers; ionomers; low-density fiber glass; bitumen; silicone; and mixtures thereof. The metallized polyesters and acrylics can comprise aluminum as the metal. Commercially available materials include resilient polymeric materials such as Scotchweld™ (e.g., DP-105™) and Scotchdamp™ from 3M, Sorbothane™ from Sorbothane, Inc., DYAD™ and GP™ from Soundcoat Company Inc., Dynamat™ from Dynamat Control of North America, Inc., NoViFlex™ Sylomer™ from Pole Star Maritime Group, LLC, Isoplast™ from The Dow Chemical Company, Legetolex™ from Piqua Technologies, Inc., and Hybrar™ from the Kuraray Co., Ltd. In some examples, the filler material133is a two part polyurethane foam that is a thermoset and is flexible after it is cured. In one example, the two part polyurethane foam is any methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (a class of polyurethane prepolymer) or silicone based flexible or rigid polyurethane foam.

In one example, the filler material133has a minor impact on the coefficient of restitution (herein “COR”) as measured according to the United States Golf Association (USGA) rules set forth in the Procedure for Measuring the Velocity Ratio of a Club Head for Conformance to Rule 4-1e, Appendix II Revision 2 Feb. 8, 1999, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Table 1 below provides examples of the COR change relative to a calibration plate of multiple club heads of the construction shown inFIG.12in both a filled and unfilled state. The calibration plate dimensions and weight are described in section 4.0 of the Procedure for Measuring the Velocity Ratio of a Club Head for Conformance to Rule 4-1e.

Due to the slight variability between different calibration plates, the values described below are described in terms of a change in COR relative to a calibration plate base value. For example, if a calibration plate has a 0.831 COR value, Example 1 for an un-filled head has a COR value of −0.019 less than 0.831 which would give Example 1 (Unfilled) a COR value of 0.812. The change in COR for a given head relative to a calibration plate is accurate and highly repeatable.

TABLE 1COR Values Relative to a Calibration PlateExam-Unfilled CORFilled CORCOR ChangepleRelative toRelative toBetween FilledNo.Calibration PlateCalibration Plateand Unfilled1−0.019−0.022−0.0032−0.003−0.005−0.0023−0.006−0.010−0.0044−0.006−0.017−0.0115−0.026−0.028−0.0026−0.007−0.017−0.017−0.013−0.019−0.0068−0.007−0.00709−0.012−0.014−0.00210−0.020−0.022−0.002Average−0.0119−0.022−0.002

Table 1 illustrates that before the filler material133is introduced into the cavity132of golf club head100, an Unfilled COR drop off relative to the calibration plate (or first COR drop off value) is between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.025, between −0.00001 and −0.02, between −0.00001 and −0.015, between −0.00001 and −0.01, or between −0.00001 and −0.005.

In one example, the average COR drop off or loss relative to the calibration plate for a plurality of Unfilled COR golf club head within a set of irons is between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.025, between −0.00001 and −0.02, between −0.00001 and −0.015, or between −0.00001 and −0.01.

Table 1 further illustrates that after the filler material133is introduced into the cavity132of golf club head100, a Filled COR drop off relative to the calibration plate (or second COR drop off value) is more than the Unfilled COR drop off relative to the calibration plate. In other words, the addition of the filler material133in the Filled COR golf club heads slows the ball speed (Vout—Velocity Out) after rebounding from the face by a small amount relative to the rebounding ball velocity of the Unfilled COR heads.

In some examples shown in Table 1, the COR drop off or loss relative to the calibration plate for a Filled COR golf club head is between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.025, between −0.00001 and −0.02, between −0.00001 and −0.015, between −0.00001 and −0.01, or between −0.00001 and −0.005. According to one example, a COR change value (e.g., the difference between a measured COR value of the iron-type golf club head100and a United States Golf Association (USGA)-governed calibration plate COR value) of the golf club head100is at least −0.025.

In one example, the average COR drop off or loss relative to the calibration plate for a plurality of Filled COR golf club head within a set of irons is between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.03, between −0.00001 and −0.025, between −0.00001 and −0.02, between −0.00001 and −0.015, between −0.00001 and −0.01, or between −0.00001 and −0.005.

However, the amount of COR loss or drop off for a Filled COR head is minimized when compared to other constructions and filler materials. The last column of Table 1 illustrates a COR change between the Unfilled and Filled golf club heads which are calculated by subtracting the Unfilled COR from the Filled COR table columns. The change in COR (COR change value) between the Filled and Unfilled club heads is between 0 and −0.1, between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.04, between 0 and −0.03, between 0 and −0.025, between 0 and −0.02, between 0 and −0.015, between 0 and −0.01, between 0 and −0.009, between 0 and −0.008, between 0 and −0.007, between 0 and −0.006, between 0 and −0.005, between 0 and −0.004, between 0 and −0.003, or between 0 and −0.002. Remarkably, one club head was able to achieve a change in COR of zero between a filled and unfilled golf club head. In other words, no change in COR between the Filled and Unfilled club head state. In some examples, the COR change value is greater than −0.1, greater than −0.05, greater than −0.04, greater than −0.03, greater than −0.02, greater than −0.01, greater than −0.009, greater than −0.008, greater than −0.007, greater than −0.006, greater than −0.005, greater than −0.004, or greater than −0.003.

In some examples, at least one, two, three or four iron golf clubs out of an iron golf club set has a change in COR between the Filled and Unfilled states of between 0 and −0.1, between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.04, between 0 and −0.03, between 0 and −0.02, between 0 and −0.01, between 0 and −0.009, between 0 and −0.008, between 0 and −0.007, between 0 and −0.006, between 0 and −0.005, between 0 and −0.004, between 0 and −0.003, or between 0 and −0.002.

In yet other examples, at least one pair or two pair of iron golf clubs in the set have a change in COR between the Filled and Unfilled states of between 0 and −0.1, between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.04, between 0 and −0.03, between 0 and −0.02, between 0 and −0.01, between 0 and −0.009, between 0 and −0.008, between 0 and −0.007, between 0 and −0.006, between 0 and −0.005, between 0 and −0.004, between 0 and −0.003, or between 0 and −0.002.

In other examples, an average of a plurality of iron golf clubs in the set has a change in COR between the Filled and Unfilled states of between 0 and −0.1, between 0 and −0.05, between 0 and −0.04, between 0 and −0.03, between 0 and −0.02, between 0 and −0.01, between 0 and −0.009, between 0 and −0.008, between 0 and −0.007, between 0 and −0.006, between 0 and −0.005, between 0 and −0.004, between 0 and −0.003, or between 0 and −0.002.

Referring again toFIG.12, the front portion120of the golf club head100includes an undercut feature119that wraps underneath the golf club head100. The undercut feature119terminates at a location under the golf club head100such that a gap is defined between the undercut feature119and the sole portion118of the body102. The gap defines a sole slot150of the golf club head100. Generally, the sole slot150is a groove or channel formed in the sole portion118of the golf club head100. The sole slot150is elongate in a lengthwise direction substantially parallel to the strike face106. In some examples, the sole slot150is a through-slot, or a slot that is open on a sole portion side of the sole slot150and open on an internal cavity side or interior side of the sole slot150. However, in other implementations, the sole slot150is not a through-slot, but rather is closed on an internal cavity side or interior side of the sole slot150.

In some examples, the sole slot150is filled with a filler material151. The filler material151is made from a non-metal, such as a thermoplastic material, thermoset material, and the like, in some implementations. In other implementations, the sole slot150is not filled with a filler material151, but rather maintains an open, vacant, space within the sole slot150.

According to some examples, the filler material151is initially a viscous material that is injected or otherwise inserted into the sole slot150. Examples of materials that may be suitable for use as a filler to be placed into a slot, channel, or other flexible boundary structure include, without limitation: viscoelastic elastomers; vinyl copolymers with or without inorganic fillers; polyvinyl acetate with or without mineral fillers such as barium sulfate; acrylics; polyesters; polyurethanes; polyethers; polyamides; polybutadienes; polystyrenes; polyisoprenes; polyethylenes; polyolefins; styrene/isoprene block copolymers; hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers; metallized polyesters; metallized acrylics; epoxies; epoxy and graphite composites; natural and synthetic rubbers; piezoelectric ceramics; thermoset and thermoplastic rubbers; foamed polymers; ionomers; low-density fiber glass; bitumen; silicone; and mixtures thereof. The metallized polyesters and acrylics can comprise aluminum as the metal. Commercially available materials include resilient polymeric materials such as Scotchweld™ (e.g., DP-105™) and Scotchdamp™ from 3M, Sorbothane™ from Sorbothane, Inc., DYAD™ and GP™ from Soundcoat Company Inc., Dynamat™ from Dynamat Control of North America, Inc., NoViFlex™ Sylomer™ from Pole Star Maritime Group, LLC, Isoplast™ from The Dow Chemical Company, Legetolex™ from Piqua Technologies, Inc., and Hybrar™ from the Kuraray Co., Ltd.

In some examples, a solid filler material may be press-fit or adhesively bonded into the sole slot150. In other examples, a filler material may poured, injected, or otherwise inserted into the sole slot150and allowed to cure in place, forming a sufficiently hardened or resilient outer surface. In still other examples, a filler material may be placed into the sole slot150and sealed in place with a resilient cap or other structure formed of a metal, metal alloy, metallic, composite, hard plastic, resilient elastomeric, or other suitable material.

According to some examples, as shown inFIG.4, a center of gravity (CG) of the golf club head100is no more than between 11 mm and 21 mm from a ground plane when the golf club head100is at a proper address position on the ground plane. This value is known as a Zup value. In certain examples, the Zup value of the golf club head100is between 15 mm and 17 mm, inclusive.

Now referring toFIGS.13-21, according to some examples, a golf club head200is shown. The golf club head200is a hollow-cavity-type golf club head, similar to the golf club head100ofFIGS.1-12. Accordingly, unless otherwise noted, like numbers betweenFIGS.1-12andFIGS.13-21correspond to like features. For example, like the golf club head100, the golf club head200includes a body202with a heel portion212, a toe portion214, a sole portion218, a top portion216, a front portion220, and a rear portion222. The golf club head200also includes a hosel208, an internal cavity232, a sole slot250, a filler material251in the sole slot250, a leading edge209of the strike face206, and an undercut feature219.

One difference between the golf club head200and the golf club head100is that, instead of a strike face106co-formed with the rest of the body102(excluding the rear panel160) to form a one-piece construction, the strike face206of the golf club head200is formed separately from the rest of the body102and attached to the rest of the body102, such as via a weld. More specifically, the strike face206is defined by a strike plate252that is welded to the front portion220of the body202. The strike face206includes grooves207.

In some examples, the strike face106and the strike face206include undulations as shown and described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/160,974, filed Oct. 15, 2018, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/160,884, filed Oct. 15, 2018, which are both incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Referring toFIG.14, the strike plate252is formed separately from the rest of the front portion220of the body202and is separately attached to the front portion220of the body202. As used in relation toFIGS.13-21, unless otherwise noted, for convenience, reference to the body202will refer to the portions of the body202excluding the strike plate252. The body202and the strike plate252can be formed using the same type of process or different types of processes. In the illustrated example, the body202is formed to have a one-piece monolithic construction using a first manufacturing process and the strike plate252is formed to have a separate one-piece monolithic construction using a second manufacturing process. However, in other examples, one or both of the body202and the strike plate252has a multiple-piece construction with each piece being made from the same or a different material. Additionally, the body202can be formed of the same material as or a different material than the strike plate252. The body202is made from a first material and the strike plate252is made from a second material. Separately forming and attaching together the body202and the strike plate252and making the body202and the strike plate252from the same or different materials, which allows flexibility in the types of manufacturing processes and materials used, promotes the ability to make a golf club head200that achieves a wide range of performance, aesthetic, and economic results.

In some implementations, the first manufacturing process is the same type of process as the second manufacturing process. For example, both the first and second manufacturing processes are casting processes in one implementation. As another example, both the first and second manufacturing processes are forging processes in one implementation. According to yet another example, both the first and second manufacturing processes are machining processes in one implementation.

However, in some other implementations, the first manufacturing process is a different type of process than the second manufacturing process. The first manufacturing process is one of a casting process, a machining process, and a forging process and the second manufacturing process is another of a casting process, a machining process, and a forging process in some examples. In one particular example, the first manufacturing process is a casting process and the second manufacturing process is a forging process. The first manufacturing process and/or the second manufacturing process can be a process as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,044,653, which is incorporated herein in its entirety, such as hot press forging using a progressive series of dies and heat-treatment.

Whether the first and second manufacturing processes are the same or different, the first material of the body202can be the same as or different than the second material of the strike plate252. A first material is different than a second material when the first material has a different composition than the second material. Accordingly, materials from the same family, such as steel, but with different compositional characteristics, such as different carbon constituencies, are considered different materials. In one example, the first and second manufacturing processes are different, but the first and second materials are the same. In contrast, according to another example, the first and second manufacturing processes are the same and the first and second materials are different. According to yet another example, the first and second manufacturing processes are different and the first and second materials are different. In some implementations, the first and second materials are different, but come from the same family of similar materials, such as titanium.

In some examples, the first material can be the same material as the material of the body102and the second material can the same material as that of the body102. The first material being within the same family as the second material promotes the quality of the weld between the body202and the strike plate252. However, in other examples, the first material can be the same as that of the body102and the second material can be different than the material of the body102. For example, the material of the body102can be a titanium alloy, as described above, and the material of the strike plate104can be a steel alloy or a fiber-reinforced polymeric composite material.

According to some examples, the strike plate252is welded to the body202via a peripheral weld. The peripheral weld can be peripherally continuous (extends about all of the outer periphery of the strike plate252) or peripherally discontinuous (extends about less than all of the outer periphery of the strike plate252such that at least one portion of the outer periphery of the strike plate252is not welded to the body202).

The body202is configured to receive the portions of an outer peripheral edge of the strike plate252, to be welded to the body202via the peripheral weld, in seated engagement. More specifically, the front portion220of the body202includes a face opening225defined between the toe portion214, the heel portion212, the top portion216, and the sole portion218of the body202. Generally, the face opening225receives the strike plate252and helps to secure the strike plate252to the body202. The face opening225extends entirely through the front portion220and is open to the internal cavity232. Although not shown, the front portion220of the body202can additionally include a plate interface formed along at least a portion of the periphery of the face opening225. Generally, the plate interface promotes attachment of the strike plate252to the body202by supporting the strike plate252against the body202and promoting the formation of a peripheral weld between the strike plate252and the body202. Accordingly, the plate interface is formed along at least the portion or portions of the periphery of the face opening225that will be welded to the strike plate252. The plate interface can include a rim and a ledge. The rim defines a surface that faces an interior of the body202and the ledge defines a surface that faces the front of the body202. The rim is transverse relative to the ledge and sized to be substantially flush against or just off of the outer peripheral edge of the strike plate252. The fit between the rim of the plate interface and the outer peripheral edge of the strike plate252facilitates the butt welding together of the rim and the outer peripheral edge of the strike plate252with the peripheral weld.

The peripheral weld is formed using any of various welding techniques, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,353,785, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Moreover, the characteristics and type (e.g., bead, groove, fillet, surface, tack, plug, slot, friction, and resistance welds) of the peripheral weld can be that same or analogous to those described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,353,785. For example, in one implementation, the peripheral weld is formed using one or more of a tungsten inert gas (TIG) or metal inert gas (MIG) welding technique. In other implementations, the peripheral weld is formed using one or more of a laser welding technique or a plasma welding technique.

Referring toFIG.15, the rear portion222of the golf club head200includes a rear wall262that encloses the internal cavity232. Unlike the rear panel160of the golf club head100, which is separately formed and attached to the rear portion222of the body202of the golf club head200, the rear wall262is co-formed with the rear portion222to form a one-piece, seamless, and unitary monolithic construction with the rear portion222. Moreover, the rear wall262is co-formed with the sole portion218, the top portion216, the toe portion114, the heel portion112, and the part of the front portion120excluding the strike plate252to form a one-piece, seamless, and unitary monolithic construction with these portions of the body202. Like the golf club head100, the rear portion222of the body202of the golf club head200includes an insert shelf234, a retention bar226, and a retention flap264. However, unlike the golf club head100, the insert shelf234, the retention bar226, and the retention flap264are co-formed together to form a one-piece, seamless, and unitary monolithic construction. Moreover, the insert shelf234, the retention bar226, and the retention flap264are co-formed with the rear wall262to form a one-piece, seamless, and unitary monolithic construction with the rear wall262. Accordingly, the insert shelf234, the retention bar226, and the retention flap264are co-formed with the heel portion212, the toe portion214, the sole portion218, and the top portion216to form a one-piece, seamless, and unitary monolithic construction with these portions of the body202.

The insert shelf234, the retention bar226, and the retention flap264help to retain a high-density insert240of the golf club head200to the body202in the same manner as the insert shelf134, the retention bar126, and the retention flap164of the golf club head100. For example, the retention bar226circumferentially closes a portion of the insert shelf234to define a first insert channel228of the rear portion222. Additionally, the retention flap264is spaced apart from the retention bar226and the insert shelf234and at least partially circumferentially closes a portion of the insert shelf234to define a second insert channel266(see, e.g.,FIG.16). The high-density insert240is retained within the first insert channel228by the retention flap264and retained within the second insert channel266by the retention flap264. The high-density insert240has the same size, shape, and features, relative to the rear portion222, as the high-density insert140relative to the rear portion122. Moreover, the high-density insert240is inserted into and adhered to the insert shelf234, the retention bar226, and the retention flap264in the same manner as the golf club head100.

According to some examples, as shown inFIG.16, the rear portion222also includes a front ridge237and a rear ridge235, that extends along a front portion of the insert shelf234and a rear portion of the insert shelf234, respectively, to at least partially constrain forward movement and rearward movement, respectively, of the high-density insert240relative to the body202. Accordingly, the insert shelf234is interposed between the front ridge237and the rear ridge235.

In certain examples of the golf club head200, as shown inFIG.21, the internal cavity232is partially or entirely filled with a filler material233. In some implementations, the filler material233is made from a material the same as or similar to the material of the filler material133. In other implementations, the internal cavity132is not filled with a filler material233, but rather maintains an open, vacant, cavity within the golf club head200. The filler material233can have the same minor impact on the COR of the golf club head200as the golf club head100. Accordingly, the COR change values of Table 1 are equally applicable to the golf club head200.

According to some examples, the filler material233is initially a viscous material that is injected or otherwise inserted into the club head through an injection port207(see, e.g.,FIG.18) located on the toe portion214of the golf club head200. However, in other examples, the injection port207can be located anywhere on the golf club head200. The injection port207can be sealed with a plug205after the filler material233is injected into the internal cavity232.

In certain examples, the golf club head100and/or the golf club head200are configured to facilitate tuning of the characteristic time (CT) of the golf club heads after production of the golf club heads, as shown and described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/846,492, filed May 10, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, the filler material in the internal cavity of the golf club heads can be the same as or similar to those disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/846,492.

The golf club head100and the golf club head200, having a hollow internal cavity, provides several advantages, such as an increased forgiveness for off-center hits on the strike face. In some examples, the volume of the one or both of the golf club head100and the golf club head200is between about 10 cm3and about 120 cm3. For example, in some examples, one or both of the golf club head100and the golf club head200has a volume between about 20 cm3and about 110 cm3, such as between about 30 cm3and about 100 cm3, such as between about 40 cm3and about 90 cm3, such as between about 50 cm3and about 80 cm3, and such as between about 60 cm3and about 80 cm3. In addition, in some examples, one or both of the golf club head100and the golf club head200has an overall depth that is between about 15 mm and about 100 mm. For example, in some examples, one or both of the golf club head100and the golf club head200has an overall depth between about 20 mm and about 90 mm, such as between about 30 mm and about 80 mm and such as between about 40 mm and about 70 mm.

Although the golf club head100and the golf club head200have a hollow-body construction, in some examples, the features and advantages of the present disclosure can be applied equally to iron-type golf club heads having non-hollow constructions, such as muscle back iron heads, cavity back iron heads, and blade iron heads.

Referring toFIGS.12and21, the thicknesses of various portions of the golf club head100and the golf club head200are shown. The identified thicknesses and the corresponding values of the identified thicknesses, provided below, are the same for both the golf club head100and the golf club head200in certain examples. Each of the golf club head100and the golf club head200has a topline thickness Ttopline, a face minimum thickness Tfacemin, a face maximum thickness Tfacemax, a sole wrap thickness Tsolewrap, a sole thickness Tsole, and a rear thickness Trear. The topline thickness Ttoplineis the minimum thickness of the wall of the body defining the top portion of the body of the golf club head. The face minimum thickness Tfaceminis the minimum thickness of the wall or plate of the body defining the face portion of the body of the golf club head. In contrast, the face maximum thickness Tfacemaxis the maximum thickness of the wall or plate of the body defining the face portion of the body of the golf club head. The sole wrap thickness Tsolewrapis the minimum thickness of the wall of the body defining the transition between the face portion and the sole portion of the body of the golf club head. The sole thickness Tsoleis the minimum thickness of the wall of the body defining the sole portion of the body of the golf club head. The rear thickness Trearis the minimum thickness of the wall of the body defining the rear portion of the body or the rear panel of the golf club head. Additionally, each of the golf club head100and the golf club head200has an insert height Hinsert, which is the distance in a direction perpendicular to a ground plane between the ground plane and an uppermost portion of the high-density insert of the golf club head when the golf club head is in proper address position on the ground plane.

According to some examples, the topline thickness Ttoplineis between 1 mm and 3 mm, inclusive (e.g., between 1.4 mm and 1.8 mm, inclusive), the face minimum thickness Tfaceminis between 2.1 mm and 2.4 mm, inclusive, the face maximum thickness Tfacemaxis between 3.1 mm and 4.0 mm, inclusive, the sole wrap thickness Tsolewrapis between 1.2 and 3.3 mm, inclusive (e.g., between 1.5 mm and 2.8 mm, inclusive), the sole thickness Tsoleis between 1.2 mm and 3.3 mm, inclusive (e.g., between 1.7 mm and 2.75 mm, inclusive), and/or the rear thickness Trearis between 1 mm and 3 mm, inclusive (e.g., between 1.2 mm and 1.8 mm, inclusive). In certain examples, a ratio of the sole wrap thickness Tsolewrapto the face maximum thickness Tfacemaxis between 0.40 and 0.75, inclusive, a ratio of the sole wrap thickness Tsolewrapto the face maximum thickness Tfacemaxis between 0.4 and 0.75, inclusive (e.g., between 0.44 and 0.64, inclusive, or between 0.49 and 0.62, inclusive), a ratio of the topline thickness Ttoplineto the face maximum thickness Tfacemaxis between 0.4 and 1.0, inclusive (e.g., between 0.44 and 0.64, inclusive, or between 0.49 and 0.62, inclusive), and/or a ratio of the sole wrap thickness Tsolewrapto the insert height Hinsertis between 0.05 and 0.21, inclusive (e.g., between 0.07 and 0.15, inclusive).

Referring now toFIG.21, according to one example, a method300of making a golf club head, such as the golf club head100, includes (block302) enclosing the internal cavity132of the golf club head100. The method300additionally includes (block304) after enclosing the internal cavity132, which is hollow, inserting (e.g., sliding) the high-density insert140along the insert shelf134and through the first insert channel128and the second insert channel166in a toe-to-heel direction. The insert shelf134, the first insert channel128, and the second insert channel166are external to the internal cavity132. In certain implementations, the length of the high-density insert140is parallel to the toe-to-heel direction as the high-density insert140is inserted in the toe-to-heel direction along the insert shelf134and through the first insert channel128and the second insert channel166. Accordingly, the body102is approached by the high-density insert140from the toe portion114and inserted into retainment with the body102from the toe portion114.

According to some examples, the golf club head100and/or the golf club head200includes features or is made from processes described in one or more of U.S. Pat. No. 8,535,177, issued Sep. 17, 2013; U.S. Pat. No. 8,845,450, issued Sep. 20, 2014; U.S. Pat. No. 8,328,663, issued Dec. 11, 2012; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/565,057, filed Dec. 9, 2014; U.S. Pat. No. 9,975,018, issued May 22, 2018; U.S. Pat. No. 9,044,653, issued Jun. 2, 2015; U.S. Pat. No. 9,033,819, issued May 19, 2015; U.S. Pat. No. 6,811,496, issued Nov. 2, 2004; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/649,508, filed Jul. 13, 2017; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/859,274 filed Dec. 29, 2017; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/394,549, filed Dec. 29, 2016; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/706,632, filed Sep. 15, 2017; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/059,801, filed Aug. 9, 2018; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/161,337, filed Oct. 16, 2018; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/434,162, filed Jun. 6, 2019; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/681,678, filed Aug. 21, 2017; U.S. Pat. No. 8,088,025, issued Jan. 3, 2012; U.S. Pat. No. 10,155,143, issued Dec. 18, 2018; U.S. Pat. No. 9,731,176, issued Aug. 15, 2017, which are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Reference throughout this specification to “one example,” “an example,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one example of the present disclosure. Appearances of the phrases “in one example,” “in an example,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same example. Similarly, the use of the term “implementation” means an implementation having a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one or more examples of the present disclosure, however, absent an express correlation to indicate otherwise, an implementation may be associated with one or more examples.

The schematic flow chart diagrams included herein are generally set forth as logical flow chart diagrams. As such, the depicted order and labeled steps are indicative of one example of the presented method. Other steps and methods may be conceived that are equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more steps, or portions thereof, of the illustrated method. Additionally, the format and symbols employed are provided to explain the logical steps of the method and are understood not to limit the scope of the method. Although various arrow types and line types may be employed in the flow chart diagrams, they are understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding method. Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate only the logical flow of the method. For instance, an arrow may indicate a waiting or monitoring period of unspecified duration between enumerated steps of the depicted method. Additionally, the order in which a particular method occurs may or may not strictly adhere to the order of the corresponding steps shown.

In the above description, certain terms may be used such as “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “left,” “right,” “over,” “under” and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an “upper” surface can become a “lower” surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object. Further, the terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise. Further, the term “plurality” can be defined as “at least two.” The term “about” in some examples, can be defined to mean within +/−5% of a given value.

Additionally, instances in this specification where one element is “coupled” to another element can include direct and indirect coupling. Direct coupling can be defined as one element coupled to and in some contact with another element. Indirect coupling can be defined as coupling between two elements not in direct contact with each other, but having one or more additional elements between the coupled elements. Further, as used herein, securing one element to another element can include direct securing and indirect securing. Additionally, as used herein, “adjacent” does not necessarily denote contact. For example, one element can be adjacent another element without being in contact with that element.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of”, when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of the items in the list may be needed. The item may be a particular object, thing, or category. In other words, “at least one of” means any combination of items or number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list may be required. For example, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean item A; item A and item B; item B; item A, item B, and item C; or item B and item C. In some cases, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, “configured to” denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware which enable the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to” perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being “adapted to” and/or as being “operative to” perform that function.

The present subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described examples are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.