Patent ID: 12220619

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 present disclosure. 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 disclosure. 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 apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture 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, mechanically or otherwise. Coupling (whether mechanical or otherwise) may be for any length of time, e.g., permanent or semi-permanent or only for an instant.

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.

As defined herein, two or more elements are “integral” if they are comprised of the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or more elements are “non-integral” if each is comprised of a different piece of material.

DESCRIPTION

In one example, a golf club head can comprise a head body comprising a head interior and a hosel structure. The head interior can be bounded by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion. The hosel structure can have a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, where the bore can have a hosel axis. The golf club head can also comprise a head center of gravity, a head horizontal axis extending through the head center of gravity, from the head heel portion to the head toe portion, and parallel to a ground plane when the golf club head is at an address position over the ground plane, a hosel moment of inertia about the hosel axis, and a horizontal moment of inertia about the head horizontal axis. The horizontal moment of inertia can be greater than or equal to 39% of the hosel moment of inertia.

In one example, a golf club head can comprise a head body comprising a head interior and a hosel structure. The head interior can be bounded by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion. The hosel structure can have a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, where the bore can have a hosel axis. The golf club head can also comprise a head center of gravity, a head vertical axis extending through the head center of gravity, from the head top portion to the head sole portion, and perpendicular to a ground plane when the golf club head is at address over the ground plane, a hosel moment of inertia about the hosel axis, and a vertical moment of inertia about the head vertical axis. The vertical moment of inertia can be greater than or equal to 59% of the hosel moment of inertia.

In one implementation, a method for providing a golf club head can comprise providing a head body having a head interior and a hosel structure. The head interior can be bounded by a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head top portion, and a head sole portion. The hosel structure can have a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, where the bore can have a hosel axis. The method can also comprise coupling the golf club shaft to the hosel structure. A head horizontal axis can extend through a head center of gravity of the golf club head, from the head heel portion to the head toe portion, and parallel to a ground plane when the golf club head is at an address position over the ground plane. A head vertical axis can extend through the head center of gravity, from the head top portion to the head sole portion, and perpendicular to the ground plane when the golf club head is at address over the ground plane. In addition, providing the head body can comprise at least one of: (a) establishing a horizontal moment of inertia about the head horizontal axis to be greater than or equal to 39% of a hosel moment of inertia about the hosel axis, or (b) establishing a vertical moment of inertia about the head vertical axis to be greater than or equal to 59% of the hosel moment of inertia about the hosel axis.

In one example, a golf club head can comprise a head body comprising a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a hosel structure having a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, where the bore can have a hosel axis. The golf club head can also comprise a strikeface at the head front portion and comprising a strikeface centerpoint, a head volume measured in cc's and comprising a head volume magnitude greater than 420, a head center of gravity, and an optimization characteristic. When the golf club head is at an address position over a ground plane, a head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and a head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity, and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head can be tangent to the strikeface centerpoint. A front plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the hosel axis. A head depth plane can extend through the strikeface centerpoint, parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. A CG height can axis extends through the head center of gravity and can intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at a first intersection point. A head CG height of the head center of gravity can be measured, along the CG height axis, between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. A head CG depth of the head center of gravity can be measured, parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane, between (a) a second intersection point located at an intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane. The optimization characteristic can be defined by (a) the head volume magnitude added to (b) a ratio between the head CG depth divided by an absolute value of the head CG height. The optimization characteristic can be greater than or equal to 425.

In one example, a golf club head can comprise a head body comprising a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a hosel structure having a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, where the bore can have a hosel axis. The golf club head can also comprise a strikeface at the head front portion and comprising a strikeface centerpoint, and a head center of gravity. When the golf club head is at an address position over a ground plane, a head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and a head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity, and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head can be tangent to the strikeface centerpoint. A front plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the hosel axis. A top plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the ground plane. A head depth plane can extend through the strikeface centerpoint, parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. A CG height axis can extend through the head center of gravity and can intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at a first intersection point. A head CG height of the head center of gravity can be measured, along the CG height axis, between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. A head CG depth of the head center of gravity can be measured, parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane, between (a) a second intersection point located at an intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane. A head CG upper bound can be measured, along the head vertical axis, between the head center of gravity and a fourth intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the top plane. An absolute value of the head CG height can be less than or equal to 2.54 mm. The head CG depth can be greater than or equal to 40.64 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG depth can be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In further embodiments, the head CG depth can be greater than approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. The head CG upper bound can be approximately 0 mm to approximately −30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper bound can be less than approximately −8 mm, −9 mm, −10 mm, −11 mm, −12 mm, −13 mm, −14 mm, −15 mm, −20 mm, or −25 mm.

In one implementation, a method for providing a golf club head can comprise providing a head body comprising a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a hosel structure having a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, the bore having a hosel axis. The method can also comprise coupling a strikeface at the head front portion, and establishing an optimization characteristic of the golf club head. The strikeface comprises a strikeface centerpoint. A head volume of the golf club head can be measured in cc's and can comprise a head volume magnitude greater than 420. When the golf club head is at an address position over a ground plane, a head vertical axis can extend through the head center of gravity and can be orthogonal to the ground plane. A head horizontal axis can extend through the head center of gravity, and can be orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head can be tangent to the strikeface centerpoint. A front plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the hosel axis. A head depth plane can extend through the strikeface centerpoint, parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. A CG height axis can extend through the head center of gravity and can intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at a first intersection point. A head CG height of the head center of gravity can be measured, along the CG height axis, between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. A head CG depth of the head center of gravity can be measured, parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane, between (a) a second intersection point located at an intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane. The optimization characteristic can be established by (a) the head volume magnitude added to (b) a ratio between the head CG depth divided by an absolute value of the head CG height, where the optimization characteristic can be greater than or equal to 425.

In one example, a golf club head can comprise a head body, a face portion, and a head center of gravity, and at least one of a first performance characteristic or a second performance characteristic. The head body can comprise a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a hosel structure having a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, where the bore can have a hosel axis. The face portion can be at the head front portion and can comprise a strikeface centerpoint, a strikeface perimeter, and a face height bounded by the strikeface perimeter. When the golf club head is at an address position over a ground plane, a head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and a head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity, and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head can be tangent to the strikeface centerpoint. A front plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the hosel axis. A head depth plane can extend through the strikeface centerpoint, parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. A CG height axis can extend through the head center of gravity and can intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at a first intersection point. A head CG height of the head center of gravity can be measured, along the CG height axis, between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. A head CG depth of the head center of gravity can be measured, parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane, between (a) a second intersection point located at an intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane. The face height can be approximately 33 mm to approximately 71 mm, measured parallel to the loft plane. The first performance characteristic can comprise the head CG height being less than or equal to approximately 5.08 mm. The second performance characteristic can comprise a CG performance ratio of less than or equal to 0.56, as defined by (a) 76.2 mm minus the face height, divided by (b) the head CG depth.

In one example, a golf club head can comprise a head body, a face portion, and a head center of gravity. The head body can comprise a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a hosel structure having a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, the bore having a hosel axis. The hosel structure can comprise a hosel diameter. The face portion can be coupled to the head front portion and can comprise a strikeface having a strikeface centerpoint, a strikeface perimeter, and a face height. When the golf club head is at an address position over a ground plane, a head vertical axis extends through the head center of gravity and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and a head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity, and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head can be tangent to the strikeface centerpoint. A front plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the hosel axis. A top plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the ground plane. A head depth plane can extend through the strikeface centerpoint, parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. A CG height axis can extend through the head center of gravity and can intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at a first intersection point. A head CG height of the head center of gravity can be measured, along the CG height axis, between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. A head CG depth of the head center of gravity can be measured, parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane, between (a) a second intersection point located at an intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane. A head CG upper bound can be measured, along the head vertical axis, between the head center of gravity and a fourth intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the top plane. The face height can be approximately 33 mm to approximately 71 mm, as delimited by the strikeface perimeter and measured parallel to the loft plane. A CG performance ratio between (a) 76.2 mm minus the face height, and (b) the head CG depth, is less than or equal to 0.56. The head body can comprise a driver-type body. A head volume of the golf club head can be approximately 420 cc to approximately 470 cc. A head weight of the golf club head can be approximately 185 grams to approximately 225 grams. The head CG height can be approximately 0 mm to approximately 3.18 mm. The head CG depth can be approximately 25 mm to approximately 102 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG depth can be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In further embodiments, the head CG depth can be greater than approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. The head CG upper bound can be approximately 0 mm to approximately −30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper bound can be less than approximately −8 mm, −9 mm, −10 mm, −11 mm, −12 mm, −13 mm, −14 mm, −15 mm, −20 mm, or −25 mm. The head body can comprise a weight structure located towards the sole portion and the rear portion of the head body.

In one implementation, a method for providing a golf club head can comprise providing a head body having a head front portion, a head rear portion, a head heel portion, a head toe portion, a head sole portion, a head top portion, and a hosel structure having a bore for receiving a golf club shaft, the bore having a hosel axis. The method can also comprise coupling a face portion to the head front portion, the face portion comprising a strikeface having a strikeface centerpoint, a strikeface perimeter, and a face height bounded by the strikeface perimeter. The method an further comprise establishing at least one of: a first performance characteristic of the golf club head, or a second performance characteristic of the golf club head. When the golf club head is at an address position over a ground plane, a head vertical axis extends through a head center of gravity of the golf club head and is orthogonal to the ground plane, and a head horizontal axis extends through the head center of gravity, and is orthogonal to the head vertical axis. A loft plane of the golf club head can be tangent to the strikeface centerpoint. A front plane of the golf club head can extend through the strikeface centerpoint and parallel to the hosel axis. A head depth plane can extend through the strikeface centerpoint, parallel to the head horizontal axis and perpendicular to the loft plane. A CG height axis can extend through the head center of gravity and can intersect the head depth plane perpendicularly at a first intersection point. A head CG height of the golf club head can be measured, along the CG height axis, between the head center of gravity and the first intersection point. A head CG depth of the head center of gravity can be measured, parallel to the ground plane and orthogonal to the front plane, between: (a) a second intersection point located at an intersection between the front plane and the ground plane, and (b) a third intersection point located at an intersection between the head vertical axis and the ground plane. The face height can be approximately 33 mm to approximately 71 mm, measured parallel to the loft plane. The first performance characteristic can comprise the head CG height being less than or equal to approximately 5.08 mm. The second performance characteristic can comprise a CG performance ratio of less than or equal to 0.56, as defined by (a) 76.2 mm minus the face height, divided by (b) the head CG depth.

Other examples and embodiments are further disclosed herein. Such examples and embodiments may be found in the figures, in the claims, and/or in the present description.

Turning to the drawings,FIG.1illustrates a front view of golf club head1000, comprising head body1100and face portion1200. Face portion1200includes strikeface1210.FIG.2illustrates a side cross-sectional view of golf club head1000along line II-II ofFIG.1.FIG.3illustrates a bottom view of golf club head1000.FIGS.1-3present golf club head1000at an address position relative to ground plane1010, where hosel axis1710is at a 60-degree angle with ground plane1010with respect to a front view of golf club head1000(FIG.1), and where hosel axis1710is substantially orthogonal to ground plane1010with respect to a side view of golf club head1000(FIG.2).

In the present embodiment, head body1100and face portion1200comprise separate pieces of material coupled together, for example, via a welding process. In other examples, however, face portion1200may comprise a single piece of material with one or more portions of head body1100, such as head front portion1110, head top portion1120, head sole portion1130, head heel portion1140, head toe portion1150, and/or head rear portion2160. Head forward surface1160of golf club head1000comprises strikeface1210, face portion1200, and at least part of head front portion1110. In some embodiments, head forward surface1160also can include at least part of head sole portion1130. In the same or different embodiments, head front portion1110can include strikeface1210and/or face portion1200.

Face portion1200comprises strikeface1210having strikeface centerpoint1211, strikeface perimeter1212, and face height1213. Strikeface centerpoint1211is located at a geometric centerpoint of strikeface perimeter1212in the present example, and at a midpoint of face height1213. In the same or other examples, strikeface centerpoint1211also can be centered with respect to engineered impact zone1250, which can be defined by a region of grooves1259of strikeface1210. As another approach, strikeface centerpoint1211can be located in accordance with the definition of a golf governing body such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, strikeface centerpoint1211can be determined in accordance with Section 6.1 of the USGA's Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Clubhead (USGA-TPX3004, Rev. 1.0.0, May 1, 2008) (available at http://www.usga.org/equipment/testing/protocols/Procedure-For-Measuring-The-Flexibility-Of-A-Golf-Club-Head/) (the “Flexibility Procedure”).

Golf club head1000comprises loft plane2270(FIG.2), which is at least tangent to strikeface centerpoint1211at strikeface1210. Face height1213can be measured parallel to loft plane2270between strikeface top end1215and strikeface bottom end1216of strikeface perimeter1212, and can be of approximately 33 millimeters (mm) to approximately 71 mm in the present or other examples.

Strikeface perimeter1212, comprising strikeface top end1215and strikeface bottom end1216defining face height1213, need not bound an entirety of face portion1200. For example, as seen inFIG.1, strikeface1210is bounded by strikeface perimeter1212and is only part of face portion1200. In some examples, strikeface1210can comprise a roll radius and/or a bulge radius, and strikeface perimeter1212can be defined along a transition boundary where a contour of face portion1200departs from the roll radius and/or the bulge radius of strikeface1210. For example,FIG.2contains a zoom view of part of the top transition boundary of golf club head1000, highlighting vertical roll radius2170extending along strikeface1210, and showing how strikeface top end1215is located at the top transition boundary where head forward surface1160departs from vertical roll radius2170.FIG.2also contains a zoom view of part of the bottom transition boundary of golf club head1000, highlighting vertical roll radius2170extending vertically along strikeface1210, and showing how strikeface bottom end1216is located at the bottom transition boundary where head forward surface1160departs from vertical roll radius2170.

In the same or other embodiments, strikeface perimeter1212can be defined with respect to the edge of a strikeplate comprising the strikeface. For instance, face portion1200comprises strikeplate1220, where strikeface1210forms an exterior surface of faceplate1220, and where strikeplate1220is joined to head front portion1110along strikeplate edge1221. In the present example, strikeplate edge1221defines at least part of strikeface perimeter1212, including the top and bottom sections of strikeface perimeter1212where strikeface top end1215and strikeface bottom end1216are respectively located to define face height1213, but there can be other examples where the strikeplate edge of the strikeplate can define a majority or all of the strikeface perimeter of the strikeface.

As shown inFIG.2, golf club head1000also comprises head center of gravity (CG)2500, head depth plane2310, and CG height axis2320, where head depth plane2310extends through strikeface centerpoint1211and is perpendicular to loft plane2270, and where CG height axis2320extends through head center of gravity2500and intersects head depth plane2310perpendicularly at intersection point2801. Golf club head1000also comprises a top plane2330which extends through strikeface centerpoint1211, parallel to ground plane1010.

Head center of gravity2500comprises CG height2520and CG depth2510, which locate head center of gravity2500relative to golf club head1000. In the present example, CG height2520can be measured along CG height axis2320, between head center of gravity2500and intersection point2801. CG depth2510can be measured, as seen inFIG.2, parallel to ground plane1010and between intersection points2802-2803. In the present example, intersection point2802is defined by the intersection between ground plane1010and front plane2280, where front plane2280extends through strikeface centerpoint1211, is parallel to hosel axis1710, and is orthogonal to ground plane1010when golf club head1000is at the address position. In addition, intersection point2803is defined by the intersection between ground plane1010and head vertical axis1610, where head vertical axis1610extends through head center of gravity2500, and is orthogonal to ground plane1010when golf club head1000is at the address position. Head center of gravity2500can also be located relative to ground plane1010, where head CG elevation2530of head center of gravity2500can be measured along head vertical axis1610, between weight center2750and ground plane1010. Head center of gravity2500can also be located relative to a head CG upper bound2540, which can be measured along head vertical axis1610, between head center of gravity2500and a fourth intersection point2805located at an intersection between head vertical axis1610and the top plane2330. Head CG upper bound2540may be positive when measured above the top plane2330, and may be negative when measured below the top plane2330.

Head body1100of golf club head1000also comprises hosel structure1217(FIG.1) and hosel axis1710extending along a center of a bore of hosel structure1217. In the present example, a hosel coupling mechanism of golf club head1000comprises hosel structure1217and shaft sleeve1411, where shaft sleeve1411can be coupled to an end of golf shaft1410. Shaft sleeve1411can couple with hosel structure1217in a plurality of configurations, thereby permitting golf shaft1410to be secured to hosel structure1217at a plurality of angles relative to hosel axis1710. There can be other examples, however, where shaft1410can be non-adjustably secured to hosel structure1217.

Golf club heads in accordance with the present disclosure can be configured to exhibit one or more optimization characteristics that optimize or balance the performance thereof. For example, one characteristic of golf club heads that the present designs strive to optimize is that of face height and/or face size. Maximizing the face height and/or face size of a golf club head can have several benefits, such as increasing the target impact area of the strikeface to yield a more forgiving club head that produces better results for golf shots that are hit off-center of the strikeface centerpoint. In addition, a strikeface of larger height and/or size can provide for better energy transfer to the golf ball upon impact therewith, and may thus increase a characteristic time or a “spring effect” of the golf club head to achieve golf shots of longer distance. In some examples, the height or size of the strikeface may be augmented to achieve a characteristic time limit set by a golf governing body, such as the characteristic time limit of 239 microseconds (μs) set by the USGA in its Flexibility Procedure.

Indiscriminately increasing face height and/or size, however, can adversely affect performance in other areas, such as with respect to launch angle, ball spin, and/or ball speed of the golf ball upon impact with the strikeface. For example, increasing face height and/or size can decrease the CG depth between the center of gravity and the strikeface centerpoint of the golf club head to bring the center of gravity forward, thereby reducing the dynamic loft of the golf club head and thus decreasing the launch angle for the golf ball. As another example, increasing face height and/or size can raise the CG height between the center of gravity and the head depth plane to elevate the center of gravity away from the sole of the golf club head, thereby inhibiting a gear effect between the strikeface and the golf ball, thus preventing the golf club head from decreasing the amount of backspin of the golf ball created upon impact, and thus decreasing the distance the ball will travel due to the backspin.

Considering the above, the height or size of the face of the golf club head should be balanced with respect to the location of the center of gravity. With respect to golf club head1000, strikeface1210has been increased to comprise an augmented face size and/or face height1213to provide a larger impact area and greater energy transfer to golf ball2900. In particular, golf club head1000can be configured so that face height1213can be of approximately 33 mm to approximately 71 mm to provide greater impact area and energy transfer upon impact with golf ball2900. In some examples, an area of strikeface1210, including the augmented face area, can be of approximately 23.6 centimeters squared (cm2) to approximately 45.2 cm2.

Notwithstanding the augmented face size and/or face height1213described above, golf club head1000still restricts CG height2520from increasing towards head top portion1120and/or from straying too far from head depth plane2310. For example, golf club head1000comprises a first optimization characteristic satisfying Relation 1 below:
|CG height2520|≤5.08 mm  [Relation 1]
There can be examples where CG height2520can be of approximately 0 mm up to Relation 1's limit of 5.08 mm. CG height2520can also be of up to a maximum of approximately 4.45 mm, 3.81 mm, or 3.18 mm in other examples. In some implementations, the first optimization characteristic can decrease the backspin of golf ball2900via a gear effect between strikeface1210and golf ball2900for better performance. Although head center of gravity2500is shown inFIG.2as being below depth plane2310, such that CG height2520extends between depth plane2310and head sole portion1130, there can be embodiments where head center of gravity2500can be above depth plane2310, such that CG height2520extends between depth plane2310and head top portion1120, while still satisfying Relation 1 above. In some implementations, the head CG upper bound2540can be approximately 0 mm to approximately −30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper bound2540can be less than approximately −8 mm, −9 mm, −10 mm, −11 mm, −12 mm, −13 mm, −14 mm, −15 mm, −20 mm, or −25 mm.

In addition, and considering the augmented face size and/or face height1213described above, golf club head1000still restricts center of gravity2500from moving towards strikeface1212, thereby preventing CG depth2510from unduly decreasing. For example, golf club head1000comprises a second optimization characteristic satisfying Relation 2 below:

76.2mm-face⁢height1213CG⁢depth2510≤0.56[Relation⁢2]

Accordingly, the relationship between face height1213and CG depth2510is balanced pursuant to Relation 2 to maintain the second optimization characteristic of less than or equal to 0.56, thereby limiting the amount that CG depth2510can decrease towards strikeface1210. There can be examples where CG depth2510can be approximately 25 mm to approximately 102 mm. In the same or other examples, CG depth2510can be at least approximately 39 mm. In the same or other examples, CG depth2510can be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In further examples, CG depth2510can be greater than approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. In some implementations, the second optimization characteristic can increase or optimize at least one of a dynamic loft of golf club head1000or a launch angle of golf ball2900upon impact therebetween.

In some examples, golf club head1000may be configured to comprise only one of the first or second optimization characteristics described above. For example, golf club head1000may comprise the first optimization characteristic and not the second optimization characteristic, thus satisfying Relation 1 without having to satisfy Relation 2. As another example, golf club head1000may comprise the second optimization characteristic and not the first optimization characteristic, thus satisfying Relation 2 without having to satisfy Relation 1. In addition, there can be embodiments where golf club head1000satisfies both Relations 1 and 2, and thus comprises the first and second optimization characteristics.

Golf club head1000can also comprise a third optimization characteristic with respect to head volume (HV)2600thereof. In the present example, head body1000of golf club head1000comprises a driver-type body with a head volume greater than or equal to 420 cubic centimeters (cc), and thus has a head volume magnitude greater than or equal to 420. For example, head body1000can comprise a head volume of 420 cc, thus having a head volume magnitude of 420. As another example, golf club head1000can comprise a head volume of 460 cc, thus having a head volume magnitude of 460. Golf club head1000can comprise a head volume up to approximately 470 cc, in some implementations, and/or a total head weight of approximately 185 grams to approximately 225 grams. In some specific examples, the total head weight can be approximately 202 grams, and/or the head volume can be of approximately 460 cc.

The third optimization characteristic can control the relationship between head volume2600and the location of center of gravity2500, and can be defined to satisfy Relation 3 below:

HV+CG⁢depth2510❘"\[LeftBracketingBar]"CG⁢height2520❘"\[RightBracketingBar]"≥425[Relation⁢3]

In some instances, head volume2600can be increased to adjust, for instance, a moment of inertia (MOI) of golf club head1000. An unrestrained increase in head volume, however, can have detrimental effects with respect to other characteristics of the golf club head. For example, increasing head volume2600can cause head center of gravity2500to shift towards head front portion1110, towards head top portion1120, towards other undesired directions, and/or away from a desired center of gravity location or direction(s), thereby hampering the performance of golf club head1000. Such undesired changes in the center of gravity location can detrimentally affect one or more characteristics of the golf club head, such as launch speed, launch angle, gear effect, backspin, and or shot distance. Accordingly, the third optimization characteristic used to balance the relationship between head volume2600and the location of head center of gravity2500can be established to yield desirable and balanced attributes for golf club head1000. For instance, a weight distribution of golf club head1000can be configured to satisfy Relation 3 so that golf club head1000can exhibit the third optimization characteristic, thereby permitting head volume2600to be augmented for greater moment of inertia and greater energy transfer to golf ball2900upon a golf impact between strikeface1210and golf ball2900. In the same or other implementations, the weight distribution of golf club head1000can be configured for restricting CG depth2510from decreasing towards head front portion1110due to the augmented head volume2600, thus increasing at least one of a dynamic loft of strikeface1210or a launch angle of golf ball2900upon the golf impact. In addition, the weight distribution of golf club head1000can be configured for restricting CG height2520from increasing towards head top portion1120as a result of the augmented head volume2600, thereby decreasing a backspin of golf ball2900via a gear effect between strikeface1210and golf ball2900upon the golf impact.

Considering the above, to attain the third optimization characteristic in compliance with Relation 3, CG depth2510can be configured to be greater than or equal to 40.64 mm. In other embodiments, CG depth2510can be greater than approximately 41 mm, and less than approximately 102 mm. In further embodiments, CG depth2510can be greater than approximately 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 65 mm, or 70 mm. In the same or other embodiments, the absolute value of CG height2520can be less than or equal to 2.54 mm. Note that CG height2520is characterized as an absolute value, considering that head center of gravity2500can be above or below head depth plane2310in some embodiments. The head CG upper bound2540can be approximately 0 mm to approximately −30 mm. In other embodiments, the head CG upper bound2540can be less than approximately −8 mm, −9 mm, −10 mm, −11 mm, −12 mm, −13 mm, −14 mm, −15 mm, −20 mm, or −25 mm. Although the third optimization characteristic has a lower bound of at least 425, there can be other embodiments where the third optimization characteristic can be defined with respect to other lower bounds. For instance, the third optimization characteristic can comprise a lower bound of at least 435 or 445 in some implementations. In other examples, the third optimization characteristics can comprise a lower bound of at least 460, at least 470, at least 480, at least 490, or at least 500. The location of head center of gravity2500can also be designed or configured with respect to other features of golf club head1000in order to satisfy Relation 3 and/or to attain the third optimization characteristic. For instance, the location of head center of gravity2500can be configured such that CG depth2510comprises between approximately 25% to approximately 80% of head depth length2312, where head depth length2312is measured from strikeface centerpoint1211to an intersection of an exterior of head rear portion2160by head depth plane2310. As another example, the location of head center of gravity2500can be configured such that CG height2520comprises between approximately 0% to approximately 13% of CG height axis length2322, where CG height axis length2322is measured from an intersection of an exterior of head top portion1120by CG height axis2320, to an intersection of an exterior of head sole portion1130by CG height axis2320.

The above described head CG depth2510and head CG height2520relate to driver type club heads. In embodiments where the club head is a fairway wood type club head, the head CG depth2510can be configured to be greater than or equal to 35 mm. In other embodiments of a fairway wood type club head, the CG depth2510can be greater than approximately 35 mm, and less than approximately 90 mm. In further embodiments of a fairway wood type club head, the CG depth2510can be greater than approximately 34.5 mm, 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, or 46 mm. Further, in embodiments where the club head is a fairway wood type club head, the head CG height2520, or the absolute value thereof, can be configured to be less than or equal to 12.8 mm. In other embodiments of a fairway wood type club head, the CG height2520, or the absolute value thereof, can be less than approximately 13.0 mm, 12.8 mm, 12.6 mm, 12.4 mm, 12.2 mm, 12.0 mm, 11.8 mm, 11.6 mm, 11.4 mm, 11.2 mm, or 11.0 mm. In these embodiments, the volume of the fairway wood type club head can be between 300 cc and 400 cc, and the mass of the fairway wood type club head can be between 190 grams and 240 grams.

Golf club head1000can also comprise a hosel diameter of hosel structure1217. The hosel diameter can be maintained to a minimum and/or relatively unchanged from a hosel diameter of a corresponding regular golf club head. In some examples, the hosel diameter can be less than approximately 0.78 inch (20 mm). For example, the hosel diameter can be less than approximately 0.78 inch and greater than approximately 0.50 inch. A hosel diameter within this range can impart performance benefits to a golf club head1000. When the hosel diameter is within this range, the hosel can possess greater structural integrity, and the stresses experienced in the hosel during a golf club swing can be reduced. In addition to having a hosel diameter within this range, golf club head1000can further comprise the optimization characteristics relating to the center of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MOI) as described herein.

In further examples, the hosel diameter can be less than approximately 0.50 inch, 0.49 inch, 0.48 inch, 0.47 inch, 0.46 inch, 0.45 inch, 0.44 inch, 0.43 inch, 0.42 inch, 0.41 inch, or 0.40 inch. A hosel diameter less than 0.50 inch can impart additional performance benefits to golf club head1000. When the hosel diameter is minimized as described above, the aerodynamic characteristics of golf club head1000can be improved as a result of the reduced aerodynamic drag from hosel structure1217. In addition to having a hosel diameter within this range, golf club head1000can further comprise the optimization characteristics relating to the center of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MOI) as described herein.

Golf club head1000also can comprise a fourth optimization characteristic with respect to a balance between hosel MOI1711(FIG.1) and horizontal MOI1811(FIG.1). Hosel MOI1711is defined about hosel axis1710. Horizontal MOI1811is defined about head horizontal axis1810, which extends through head center of gravity2500, from head heel portion1140to head toe portion1150, and parallel to ground plane1010when golf club head1000is at the address position over ground plane1010.

In some examples, horizontal MOI1811can be increased to restrict a rotation of golf club head1000about head horizontal axis1810when strikeface1210hits golf ball2600off-center towards head top portion1120or head sole portion1130, thereby increasing the forgiveness of golf club head1000for such high or low mis-hits. For instance, to increase horizontal MOI1811, weight may be added or repositioned towards head front portion1110and/or head rear portion2160. In the same or other examples, golf club head1000can be lengthened towards head front portion1110and/or head rear portion2160.

Such adjustments or changes to increase horizontal MOI1811can be made up to a point, however, before they start affecting other golf club head characteristics. For example, unrestrained adjustments to increase horizontal MOI1811can lead to an undue increase in hosel MOI1711if not properly balanced, thereby increasing the resistance of golf club head1000to rotate about hosel axis1710, an thus making it hard for a person to “turn over” the golf club during a golf swing for proper positioning or “squaring” of golf club head1000at impact with golf ball2600. An increase in hosel MOI1711also can restrict or reduce a gearing effect between golf ball2600and strikeface1210that would otherwise impart some corrective spin to golf ball2600during off-center impacts.

To reduce hosel MOI1711, golf club head1000can be designed to limit the distance between hosel axis1710and any additional or discretionary mass of golf club head1000. Such approaches to decrease hosel MOI1711, if not properly balanced, can be incompatible with some of the approaches described above to increase horizontal MOI1811. Accordingly, weight addition or redistribution for golf club head1000to increase horizontal MOI1811should be balanced with respect to maintaining or restricting an increase in hosel MOI1711.

In light of the above, the fourth optimization characteristic of golf club head1000controls the relationship between horizontal MOI1811and hosel MOI1711to satisfy to satisfy Relation 4 below:
(Horizontal MOI1811)≥39% (Hosel MOI1711)  [Relation 4]

There can be examples where golf club head1000can be configured so that its fourth optimization characteristic can surpass the requirements of Relation 4. As an example, in some implementations, the fourth optimization characteristic of golf club head1000can be configured so that horizontal MOI1811is greater than or equal to 40% of hosel MOI1711, greater than or equal to 45% of hosel MOI1711, or greater than or equal to 50% of hosel MOI1711. In the present example, horizontal MOI1811is approximately 3740 grams-square-centimeter (g·cm2), but there can be examples where it can range between approximately 2800 g˜cm2to approximately 4300 g·cm2. In many embodiments, the horizontal MOI1811can be greater than approximately 2800 g·cm2, greater than approximately 3000 g·cm2, greater than approximately 3200 g·cm2, greater than approximately 3400 g·cm2, greater than approximately 3600 g·cm2, greater than approximately 3800 g·cm2, greater than approximately 4000 g·cm2, or greater than approximately 4200 g·cm2. Hosel MOI1711is approximately 9370 g·cm2in the present example, but can range between approximately 7000 g·cm2and approximately 11,000 g·cm2in the same or other examples. In many embodiments, the hosel MOI1711can be greater than approximately 7000 g·cm2, greater than approximately 7500 g·cm2, greater than approximately 8000 g·cm2, greater than approximately 8500 g·cm2, greater than approximately 9000 g·cm2, greater than approximately 9500 g·cm2, greater than approximately 10,000 g·cm2, greater than approximately 10,500 g·cm2, or greater than approximately 11,000 g·cm2.

Golf club head1000also can comprise a fifth optimization characteristic with respect to a balance between hosel MOI1711and vertical MOI1611(FIG.1). Vertical MOI1611is defined about head vertical axis1610, which extends through head center of gravity2500, from head top portion1120to head sole portion1130, and orthogonal to ground plane1010when golf club head1000is at the address position. Vertical MOI1611is approximately 5300 g·cm2in the present example, but can range between approximately 4700 g·cm2and approximately 6000 g·cm2in the same or other examples. In many embodiments, the vertical MOI1611can be greater than approximately 4700 g·cm2, greater than approximately 4900 g·cm2, greater than approximately 5100 g·cm2, greater than approximately 5300 g·cm2, greater than approximately 5500 g·cm2, greater than approximately 5700 g·cm2, or greater than approximately 5900 g·cm2.

In some examples, vertical MOI1611can be increased to restrict a rotation of golf club head1000about head vertical axis1610when strikeface1210hits golf ball2600off-center towards head heel portion1140or towards head toe portion1150, thereby increasing the forgiveness of golf club head1000for such heel-side or toe-side mis-hits. For instance, to increase vertical MOI1611, weight can be added or repositioned towards head heel portion1140and/or head toe portion1150. In the same or other examples, the golf club head can be lengthened towards head heel portion1140and/or head toe portion1150.

Such adjustments or changes to increase vertical MOI1611can be made up to a point, however, before they start affecting other golf club head characteristics. For example, unrestrained adjustments to increase vertical MOI1611can lead to undue increase in hosel MOI1711if not properly balanced, thereby increasing the resistance of golf club head1000to rotate about hosel axis1710as described above. In addition, some approaches to decrease hosel MOI1711, if not properly balanced, can be incompatible with some of the approaches described above to increase vertical MOI1611. Accordingly, weight addition or redistribution for golf club head1000to increase vertical MOI1611should be balanced with respect to maintaining or restricting an increase in hosel MOI1711.

In light of the above, the fifth optimization characteristic of golf club head1000controls the relationship between vertical MOI1611and hosel MOI1711to satisfy Relation 5 below:
(Vertical MOI1611)≥59% (Hosel MOI1711)  [Relation 5]

There can be examples where golf club head1000can be configured so that its fifth optimization characteristic can surpass the requirements of Relation 5. As an example, in some implementations, the fifth optimization characteristic of golf club head1000can be configured so that vertical MOI1611is greater than or equal to 60% of hosel MOI1711, greater than or equal to 65% of hosel MOI1711, or greater than or equal to 70% of hosel MOI1711. In some examples, golf club head1000can be configured so that its fourth optimization characteristic satisfies Relation 4, while its fifth optimization characteristic also satisfies Relation 5.

Weight Structure

In some implementations, golf club head1000can be configured to exhibit the head CG depth, the head CG height, the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics described above by adjusting a distribution of mass or a relationship between different elements of golf club head1000. To such ends, golf club head1000can comprise weight structure2700, located towards head sole portion1130and head rear portion2160, as seen inFIGS.2-3. In some configurations, weight structure2700can be designed and/or located to satisfy the constraints imposed by Relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5, thereby balancing the face height or size of strikeface1210, head volume2600, the location of center of gravity2500, and/or the different moments of inertia of golf club head1000.

As can be seen inFIG.3, weight structure2700can be located relative to clock grid3500, which can be aligned with respect to strikeface1210. For example, clock grid3500comprises 12 o'clock ray3512, which is aligned with strikeface centerpoint1211in the present embodiment. 12 o'clock ray3512is orthogonal to front intersection line 3271, which is defined by the intersection of loft plane2270(FIGS.2-3) and ground plane1010(FIGS.1-2). Clock grid3500can be centered along 12 o'clock ray3512, at a midpoint between a front end of front portion1110and a rear end of rear portion2160. In the same or other examples, clock grid centerpoint3515can be centered proximate to a geometric centerpoint of golf club head1000. Clock grid3500also comprises 3 o'clock ray3503extending towards head heel portion1140, and 9 o'clock ray3509extending towards head toe portion1150.

Weight perimeter2705of weight structure2700is located in the present embodiment towards head rear portion2160, at least partially bounded between 4 o'clock ray3504and 8 o'clock ray3508of clock grid3500, while weight center2750is located between 5 o'clock ray3505and 7 o'clock ray3507. In examples such as the present one, weight perimeter2705is fully bounded between 4 o'clock ray3504and 8 o'clock ray3508. Although weight perimeter2705is defined external to golf club head1000in the present example, there can be other examples where weight perimeter may extend into an interior of, or be defined within, golf club head1000. In some examples, the location of weight2700can be established with respect to a broader area. For instance, in such examples, weight perimeter2705of weight structure2700can be located towards head rear portion2160, at least partially bounded between 4 o'clock ray3504and 9 o'clock ray3509of clock grid3500, while weight center2750can be located between 5 o'clock ray3505and 8 o'clock ray3508.

In the same or other embodiments, weight structure2700can extend or be shifted towards heel portion1140. For instance, weight perimeter2705and/or weight center2750can be shifted towards 4 o'clock ray3504than towards 9 o'clock ray3509. Biasing weight structure2700towards head heel end1140can permit a decrease in hosel MOI1711about hosel axis1710by limiting the distance between hosel axis1710and weight structure2700, thereby allowing easier turning of golf club head1000about hosel axis1710during a swing.

In some examples, weight structure2700can comprise a mass of approximately 2 grams to approximately 50 grams, and/or a volume of approximately 1 cc to approximately 30 cc. In the present example, weight structure2700protrudes from the external contour of head sole portion1130, and is thus at least partially external to allow for greater adjustment of head center of gravity2500.

Weight structure2700can comprise removable weight2790in the same or other examples, where removable weight2790can comprise a mass of approximately 0.5 grams to approximately 30 grams, and can be replaced with one or more other similar weights to adjust the location of head center of gravity2500if needed to satisfy Relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5. In the same or other examples, weight center2750can comprise at least one of a center of gravity of weight structure2700, a center of gravity of removable weight2790, a geometric center of weight structure2700, and/or a geometric center of removable weight2790.

Weight center2750can be located with respect to ground plane1010and weight center elevation axis2340, which extends between weight center2750and ground plane1010. Weight center elevation axis2340is orthogonal to ground plane1010when golf club head1000is at the address position. Weight center elevation2730for weight center2750can thus be measured along weight center elevation axis2340, between weight center2750and ground plane1010. In addition, weight center depth2710for weight center2750can be measured, parallel to ground plane1010, between intersection points2802and2804. In the present example, intersection point2804is defined by the intersection between ground plane1010and weight center elevation axis2340when golf club head1000is at the address position. Weight center2750can be located in the same or other embodiments such that weight distance2751(FIG.2), which separates head center of gravity2500from weight center2750, can be approximately 25 mm to approximately 102 mm.

There can also be embodiments where face portion1200can comprise a reduced thickness, which may be reinforced as needed with one or more reinforcing structures at the backside of strikeface1210and/or at the junction between face portion1200and head front portion1110. Other mass redistribution mechanisms can be employed as well if desired to satisfy Relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5.

In some implementations, a relationship or ratio between head center of gravity2500and weight center2750can be configured to permit one or more or Relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to be satisfied. For example, an elevation ratio, defined by the ratio of weight center elevation2730over head CG elevation2530, can be greater than 0.44 to help maintain head center of gravity2500closer to head sole portion1130. As another example, a depth ratio, defined by the ratio of weight center depth2710over head CG depth2510, can be less than 2.54 to preventing CG depth2510from unduly decreasing towards head front portion1110. There can be some implementations where head CG elevation2530can be less than approximately 28.5 mm, where weight center elevation2730can be less than approximately 12.5 mm, and/or where weight center depth2710can be greater than approximately 99.7 mm.

In the same or other embodiments, the distribution of mass within golf club head1000can further be adjusted such that golf club head1000is configured to exhibit the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics described above. To such ends, golf club head1000can comprise one or more weight members comprised of an adhesive material, distributed towards head sole portion1130. The one or more weight members can be disposed on an inner surface of head sole portion1130. In some configurations, the one or more weight members can be designed and/or located to satisfy the constraints imposed by Relation(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, and/or 5, thereby balancing the face height or size of strikeface1210, head volume2600, the location of center of gravity2500, and/or the different moments of inertia of golf club head1000.

In some examples, each of the one or more weight members can comprise a mass of approximately 2 grams to approximately 50 grams, and/or a volume of approximately 1 cc to approximately 30 cc. In some configurations, the one or more weight members can comprise a gluing agent, such as an acrylic or epoxy-based resin adhesive. The one or more weight members can optionally be comprised of a mixture of a gluing agent and a metallic powder. Alternatively, the one or more weight members can comprise a combination of an adhesive and one or more mass elements. Each of the one or more mass elements can weigh between approximately 0.5 grams and approximately 30 grams. In some examples, each of the one or more mass elements can comprise a uniform material, such as metal, metal alloy, or some other material having high density.

In addition to adjusting the distribution of mass within golf club head1000such that golf club head1000is configured to exhibit the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristics described above, the one or more weight members can impart golf club head1000with additional performance benefits. In some examples, the adhesive material comprising the one or more weight members can maintain its sticky or adhesive properties such that loose fragments within club head1000will adhere to the one or more weight members during use of golf club head1000. In the same or other examples, the one or more weight members disposed on the inner surface of head sole portion1130can provide vibration damping and/or sound attenuation during impact of golf club head1000with golf ball2900. In the same or further examples, the one or more weight members can be located on the inner surface of head sole portion1130in certain positions, and in certain quantities, such that desirable acoustic characteristics of golf club1000may be achieved during impact with golf ball2900.

Thin Regions

In some embodiments, golf club head1000can be configured to exhibit the head CG depth, the head CG height, the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristic described above by adjusting a distribution of mass or a relationship between different elements of golf club head1000. To such ends, golf club head1000can comprise one or more thin regions, located in various regions of club head1000. The club head1000can include thin regions instead of or in addition to the weight structure2700. Thin regions increase discretionary weight of golf club head1000, such that the added discretionary weight can be positioned within the weight structure, on an inner or outer peripheral surface of club head1000, and/or other areas of club head1000to achieve the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth performance characteristic.

The thin regions can be positioned on any region of the club head1000. For example, the thin regions can be positioned on one or more of the head top portion1120, head sole portion1130, head heel portion1140, head toe portion1150, head rear portion2160, or face portion1200.

In many embodiments, the thin regions comprise a thickness less than approximately 0.020 inches. In other embodiments, the thin regions comprise a thickness less than 0.025 inches, less than 0.020 inches, less than 0.015 inches, or less than 0.010 inches. For example, the thin regions can comprise a thickness between approximately 0.010-0.025 inches, between approximately 0.015-0.020 inches, between approximately 0.016-0.020 inches, between approximately 0.017-0.020 inches, or between approximately 0.018-0.020 inches

In the illustrated embodiment, the thin regions vary in shape and position and cover approximately 25% of the surface area of club head1000. In other embodiments, the thin regions can cover approximately 20-30%, approximately 15-35%, approximately 15-25%, approximately 10-25%, approximately 15-30%, or approximately 20-50% of the surface area of club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the thin regions can cover up to 5%, up to 10%, up to 15%, up to 20%, up to 25%, up to 30%, up to 35%, up to 40%, up to 45%, or up to 50% of the surface area of club head1000.

In many embodiments, a portion of the thin regions are positioned on the head top portion1120such that approximately 51% of the surface area of the head top portion1120comprises thin regions. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the thin regions can be positioned on the head top portion1120such that up to 20%, up to 25%, up to 30%, up to 35%, up to 40%, up to 45%, up to 50%, up to 55%, up to 60%, up to 65%, up to 70%, or up to 75% of the head top portion1120comprises thin regions. For example, in some embodiments, approximately 40-60% of the head top portion1120can comprise thin regions. For further example, in other embodiments, approximately 35-65%, approximately 30-70%, or approximately 25-75% of the head top portion1120can comprise thin regions.

In many embodiments, a portion of the thin regions are positioned on the head sole portion1130such that approximately 64% of the surface area of the head sole portion1130comprises thin regions. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the thin regions can be positioned on the head sole portion1130such that up to 20%, up to 25%, up to 30%, up to 35%, up to 40%, up to 45%, up to 50%, up to 55%, up to 60%, up to 65%, up to 70%, or up to 75% of the head sole portion1130comprises thin regions. For example, in some embodiments, approximately 40-60% of the head sole portion1130can comprise thin regions. For further example, in other embodiments, approximately 35-65%, approximately 30-70%, or approximately 25-75% of the head sole portion1130can comprise thin regions.

In many embodiments, club head1000having thin regions can be manufacturing using centrifugal casting. In other embodiments, portions of club head1000having thin regions can be manufactured using other suitable methods, such as stamping, forging, or machining. In embodiments where portions of the club head1000having thin regions are manufactured using stamping, forging, or machining, the portions of the club head1000can be coupled using epoxy, tape, welding, mechanical fasteners, or other suitable methods.

Fixed Weight

In some embodiments, golf club head1000can be configured to exhibit the head CG depth, the head CG height, the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristic described above by adjusting a distribution of mass or a relationship between different elements of golf club head1000. To such ends, golf club head1000can comprise one or more fixed weights3100having a specific gravity greater than the specific gravity of the body, as illustrated inFIGS.8and9. The club head1000can include the one or more fixed weights3100instead of or in addition to the weight structure2700. Further, the club head1000can include the one or more fixed weights3100instead of or in addition to the thin regions. Further, in embodiments where the club head includes one or more fixed weights3100in addition to the weight structure2700, the one or more fixed weights3100can be located within the weight structure2700, or the one or more fixed weights3100can be located outside of, or separate from the weight structure2700.

In these or other embodiments, referring toFIGS.8and9, the one or more fixed weights3100are positioned on the sole of the club head near the perimeter2162of the head rear portion2160of the club head1000. For example, in many embodiments, the one or more fixed weights3100are positioned within 1.0 inch from the perimeter2162of the head rear portion2160. In other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights3100can be positioned within 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, or 2.0 inches from the perimeter2162of the head rear portion2160.

Further, in these or other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights3100can be positioned a distance from the front plane2280of the club head1000greater than 3.75 inches, greater than 4.0 inches, greater than 4.25 inches, greater than 4.50 inches, or greater than 4.75 inches. Further still, in these or other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights3100can be positioned a distance from the head CG2500of the club head1000greater than 1.5 inches, greater than 1.75 inches, greater than 2.0 inches, greater than 2.25 inches, or greater than 2.5 inches.

The body1100of the club head1000comprises a first material. The one or more fixed weights3100comprise a second high density material, such as tungsten, gold, hafnium, iridium, mercury,neptunium, osmium, palladium, platinum, plutonium, protactinium, rhenium, rhodium, ruthenium, tantalum, uranium, or any other high density material. In many embodiments, the second material has a specific gravity greater than 12.0. In other embodiments, the second material can have a specific gravity greater than 10.0, greater than 11.0, greater than 12.0, greater than 13.0, greater than 14.0, greater than 15.0, greater than 16.0, greater than 17.0, or greater than 18.0. For example, in some embodiments, the second material can have a specific gravity between 10.0 and 18.0, between 12.0 and 18.0, or between 14.0 and 18.0.

In many embodiments, one or more of the fixed weights3100can comprise a mass greater than 12 grams. In other embodiments, one or more of the fixed weights3100can comprise a mass greater than 8 grams, greater than 9 grams, greater than 10 grams, greater than 11 grams, or greater tham 12 grams.

In some embodiments, the fixed weight3100can be formed integrally with the body of the club head by casting, comolding, or any other suitable method. In other embodiments, the fixed weight3100can be formed separately from the body of the club head and coupled to the club head by welding (e.g. with the fixed weight sintered to a less dense, weldable material), brazing, adhesives (such as epoxy), rivets, screws, or any other suitable method. In many embodiments, the one or more fixed weights are permanently coupled to the club head. In other embodiments, the one or more fixed weights can be removably coupled to the club head.

Relative Mass Properties

Various embodiments of the mass properties of the golf club head1000are described below to relative to exemplary driver, fairway wood, and hybrid type golf club heads, to achieve the above described head CG depth, the head CG height, the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristic.

In many embodiments, the golf club head1000can include a first rear region comprising a portion of the rear end of the club head1000located within the last or rearmost 20% of the length2910of the club head1000. Further, golf club head1000can include a second rear region comprising a portion of the rear end of the club head1000located within the last or rearmost 10% of the length2910of the club head1000. In these or other embodiments, the length2910of the club head1000is the greatest distance from the leading edge2912to the rear end of the club head measured in a direction from the face portion1200to the head rear portion2160, perpendicular to the front plane2280.

An exemplary driver type club head1000can have a volume greater than approximately 400 cc, and a golf club length greater than 44 inches. In other embodiments, the exemplary driver type club head can comprise a volume greater than 400 cc, greater than 410 cc, greater than 420 cc, greater than 430 cc, greater than 440 cc, or greater than 450 cc. Further, in other embodiments, the exemplary driver type club head can comprise a golf club length greater than 44 inches, greater than 45 inches, greater than 46 inches, or greater than 47 inches. Further still, in other embodiments, the exemplary driver type club head can comprise a golf club length between 44-48 inches, between 45-48 inches, or between 46-48 inches.

In many embodiments of the exemplary driver type club head, the first material of the body1100comprises a titanium alloy such as Ti-6-4 or Ti-9s. In other embodiments, the first material of the body1100can comprise any suitable material having a specific gravity less than 5.0. For example, the first material of the body1100can comprise titanium, aluminum, barium, beryllium, scandium, strontium, or yttrium. In many embodiments of an exemplary driver type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is less than approximately 0.4. In other embodiments of an exemplary driver type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight can be less than approximately 0.6, less than approximately 0.5, less than approximately 0.4, less than approximately 0.3, or less than approximately 0.2. Further, in other embodiments of an exemplary driver type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight can range from approximately 0.35-0.45, from approximately 0.3-0.5, or from approximately 0.2-0.6.

In the illustrated embodiment of the exemplary driver type club head, the first rear region comprises approximately 20.6% of the total mass of the club head1000. In other embodiments, the first rear region of a driver type club head1000can comprise greater than 15%, greater than approximately 16%, greater than approximately 17%, greater than approximately 18%, greater than approximately 19%, greater than approximately 20%, greater than approximately 22.5%, or greater than approximately 25% of the total mass of the club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the first rear region of the driver type club head can comprise between 15-20%, between 17.5-25%, or between 20-30% of the total mass of the club head1000.

In the illustrated embodiment of the exemplary driver type club head, the second rear region comprises approximately 10.0% of the total mass of the club head1000. In other embodiments, the second rear region of a driver type club head1000, can comprise greater than approximately 5%, greater than approximately 6%, greater than approximately 7%, greater than approximately 8%, greater than approximately 9%, greater than approximately 10%, greater than approximately 12.5%, or greater than approximately 15% of the total mass of club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the second rear region of a driver type club head can comprise between 5-10%, between 7.5-15%, or between 10-20% of the total mass of the club head1000.

An exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head can have a volume less than approximately 400 cc, and a golf club length less than 44 inches. In other embodiments, the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head can comprise a volume less than 420 cc, less than 410 cc, less than 400 cc, less than 390 cc, less than 380 cc, or less than 370 cc. In some embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood type club head, the volume of the club head can be approximately 300 cc-400 cc, approximately 325 cc-400 cc, approximately 350 cc-400 cc, approximately 250 cc-400 cc, approximately 250-350 cc, or approximately 275-375 cc. In some embodiments of the exemplary hybrid type club head, the volume of the club head can be approximately 100 cc-150 cc, approximately 75 cc-150 cc, approximately 100 cc-125 cc, or approximately 75 cc-125 cc. Further, in other embodiments, the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head can comprise a golf club length less than 45 inches, less than 44 inches, less than 43 inches, or less than 42 inches. Further still, in other embodiments, the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head can comprise a golf club length between 40-44 inches, between 37-40 inches, or between 35-40 inches.

In many embodiments of the exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head, the first material of the body1100comprises a steel alloy. In other embodiments, the first material of the body1100can comprise any suitable material having a specific gravity less than 10.0. For example, the first material of the body1100can comprise titanium, aluminum, barium, bismuth, cadmium, cerium, chromium, cobalt, copper, dysprosium, europium, gadolinium, gallium, holmium, indium, iron, steel, steel alloys, lanthanum, lutetium, neodymium, nickel, niobium, polonium, praseodymium, promethium, terbium, thulium, tin, vanadium, zinc, zirconium, beryllium, scandium, strontium, or yttrium. In many embodiments of an exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight is less than approximately 0.8. In other embodiments of an exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight can be less than approximately 0.9, less than approximately 0.8, less than approximately 0.7, less than approximately 0.6, or less than approximately 0.5. Further, in other embodiments of an exemplary fairway wood or hybrid type club head, the ratio of the specific gravity of the first material of the body to the specific gravity of the second material of the weight can range from approximately 0.75-0.85, from approximately 0.7-0.9, or from approximately 0.3-0.9.

In embodiments of the club head1000comprising a fairway wood type club head, the first rear region can comprise greater than approximately 13%, greater than approximately 14%, greater than approximately 15%, greater than approximately 16%, greater than approximately 17%, greater than approximately 18%, greater than approximately 19%, greater than approximately 20%, greater than approximately 22.5%, greater than approximately 25% of the total mass of the club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the first region of the fairway wood type club head can comprise between 13-20%, between 17.5-25%, or between 20-30% of the total mass of the club head1000. For example, in one embodiment of a fairway wood type club head, the first rear region comprises approximately 20.0% of the total mass of the club head1000.

In the same or other embodiments of the club head1000comprising a fairway wood type club head, the second rear region can comprise greater than approximately 5%, greater than approximately 6%, greater than approximately 7%, greater than approximately 8%, greater than approximately 9%, greater than approximately 10%, greater than approximately 11%, greater than approximately 12%, greater than approximately 15%, greater than approximately 18%, greater than approximately 21% of the total mass of club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the second rear region of the fairway wood type club head can comprise between 5-10%, between 7.5-15%, between 12.5-20%, or between 17.5-25% of the total mass of the club head1000. For example, in one embodiment of a fairway wood type club head, the second rear region comprises approximately 8% of the total mass of the club head1000.

In embodiments of the club head1000comprising a hybrid type club head, the first rear region can comprise greater than approximately 12.5%, greater than approximately 15%, greater than approximately 16%, greater than approximately 17%, greater than approximately 18%, greater than approximately 19%, greater than approximately 20%, greater than approximately 22.5%, greater than approximately 25% of the total mass of the club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the first rear region of the hybrid type club head can comprise between 12.5-20%, between 15-20%, between 17.5-25%, or between 20-30% of the total mass of the club head1000. For example, in one embodiment of a hybrid type club head, the first rear region comprises approximately 17.5% of the total mass of the club head1000.

In the same or other embodiments of the club head1000comprising a hybrid type club head, the second rear region can comprise greater than approximately 3%, greater than approximately 4%, greater than approximately 5%, greater than approximately 6%, greater than approximately 7%, greater than approximately 8%, greater than approximately 9%, greater than approximately 12%, greater than approximately 15% of the total mass of the club head1000. Further, in other embodiments, the second rear region of the hybrid type club head can comprise between 3-7.5%, between 5-10%, between 7.5-15%, or between 12-20% of the total mass of the club head1000. For example, in one embodiment of a hybrid type club head, the second rear region comprises approximately 6% of the total mass of the club head1000.

Crown Angle

In some embodiments, golf club head1000can be configured to exhibit the head CG depth, the head CG height, the first, second, third, fourth, and/or fifth optimization characteristic described above by adjusting a distribution of mass or a relationship between different elements of golf club head1000. To such ends, golf club head1000can comprise a steep crown angle1660near the center region, heel portion1140and/or the toe portion1150of the club head1000. In many embodiments, the steep crown angle1660can aid in lowering the position of the head CG height2510and/or increasing the head CG depth2520.

The club head1000can include the steep crown angle1660instead of or in addition to the weight structure2700. Further, the club head1000can include the steep crown angle1660instead of or in addition to the thin regions. Further still, the club head1000can include the steep crown angle1660instead of or in addition to the one or more fixed weights3100.

The steep crown angle1660is defined relative to various points and axes on the top transition boundary and rear transition boundary of the club head, as described below. Referring toFIG.5, the top transition boundary extends between the strikeface perimeter1212and the head top portion1120of the golf club head1000, from near the head heel portion1140to near the head toe portion1150. The strikeface perimeter1212can be defined along a transition boundary where a contour of face portion1200departs from the roll radius and/or the bulge radius of strikeface1210. The top transition boundary includes a top transition boundary profile1500when viewed from a side cross sectional view. In these embodiments, the side cross sectional view of the top transition boundary profile1500can be taken along any point of the club head1000from near the head heel portion1140to near the head toe portion1150.

The top transition boundary profile1500includes a top portion radius of curvature1515. The top portion radius of curvature1515is defined by a first top transition point1510and a second top transition point1520. The first top transition point1510is positioned on the top transition boundary where the contour of the club head1000departs from the roll radius and/or the bulge radius of the strikeface1210(i.e. on the strikeface perimeter1212). The second top transition point1520is positioned along the top transition boundary where the profile deviates from the top portion radius of curvature1515. The first top portion radius of curvature1515extends from the first top transition point1510to the second top transition point1520.

Referring toFIG.5, in the illustrated embodiment, the top portion radius of curvature1515is substantially constant from the head heel portion1140to the head toe portion1150of the club head1000. In other embodiments, the top portion radius of curvature1515may vary from the heel portion1140to the toe portion1150of the club head1000. For example, the top portion radius of curvature1515may be greater towards the head heel portion1140of the club head1000, toward the head toe portion1150of the club head1000, in the center of the club head1000, or in any combination of the above described positions. The top portion radius of curvature1515may vary from the head heel portion1140to the head toe portion1150according to any profile, such as, for example, linear, parabolic, quadratic, exponential, or any other profile.

In the illustrated embodiment, the top transition boundary profile1500has two transition points and one radii of curvature. In other embodiments, the top boundary transition profile1500may include any number of transition points, and any number of radii of curvature. For example, the top transition boundary profile1500may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or any number of transition points. For further example, the top transition boundary profile1500may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or any number of radii of curvature.

Referring toFIG.6, a rear transition boundary extends between the head rear portion2160and the head top portion1120of the golf club head1000, from near the head heel portion1140to near the head toe portion1150. The rear transition boundary includes a rear transition boundary profile1600when viewed from a side cross sectional view. In these embodiments, the side cross sectional view of the rear transition boundary profile1600can be taken along any point of the club head1000from near the head heel portion1140to near the head toe portion1150.

The rear transition profile1600further includes a rear radius of curvature1615positioned between a first rear transition point1610and a second rear transition point1620. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear transition point1610is located at an edge of the head top portion1120near the head rear portion2160where the curvature of the head top portion1120deviates in the cross sectional view. In the same or other embodiments, the first rear transition point1610can be located on the rear transition profile of the club head1000in the cross sectional view where the rear radius of curvature1615starts. The second rear transition point1620is located on the head rear portion2160of the club head1000in the cross sectional view where the rear radius of curvature1615ends.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rear radius of curvature1615is substantially constant from the head heel portion1140to the head toe portion1150along the head rear portion2160of the golf club head1000. In other embodiments, the rear radius of curvature1615may vary from the head heel portion1140to the head toe portion1150along the head rear portion2160of the golf club head1000. The rear radius of curvature may be greater near the head heel portion1140, near the head toe portion1150, near the center of the golf club head1000, or any combination of the above described positions. For example, the rear radius of curvature1615may be greater near the head heel portion1140and the head toe portion1150than in the center of the head rear portion2160of the golf club head1000. The rear radius of curvature1615may vary from the head heel portion1140to the head toe portion1150according to any profile, such as, for example, linear, parabolic, quadratic, exponential, or any other profile.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rear transition profile1600has two rear transition points and one radius of curvature. In other embodiments, the rear transition profile may include any number of rear transition points, and any number of radii of curvature. For example, the rear transition profile1600may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or any number of rear transition points. For further example, the rear transition profile1600may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or any number of radii of curvature.

Referring toFIG.7, the head top portion1120of the golf club head1000further includes a crown axis1650when viewed from a side cross sectional view. In these embodiments, the side cross sectional view can be taken along any point of the club head1000from near the head heel portion1140to near the head toe portion1150. The crown axis1650extends through the second top transition point1520and the first rear transition point1610.

The crown axis1650intersects with the front plane2280at a point in front of the golf club head1000. The crown angle1660is defined as the acute angle between the crown axis1650and the front plane2280. The crown angle1660can vary when the side cross sectional view is taken at different locations relative to the head heel portion1140and/or the head toe portion1150.

In the illustrated embodiment, the crown angle1660near the head toe portion1150is approximately 72.25 degrees, the crown angle1660near the head heel portion1140is approximately 64.5 degrees, and the crown angle1660near the center of the golf club head1000is approximately 64.2 degrees. In other embodiments, the crown angle1660near the head toe portion1150of the club head1000can be less than approximately 79 degrees, less than approximately 78 degrees, less than approximately 77 degrees, less than approximately 76 degrees, less than approximately 75 degrees, less than approximately 74 degrees, less than approximately 73 degrees, less than approximately 72 degrees, less than approximately 71 degrees, less than approximately 70 degrees, less than approximately 69 degrees, or less than approximately 68 degrees. For example, the crown angle1660measured in a side cross sectional view of the club head taken through a point positioned approximately 1.0 inch toward the head toe portion1150from the geometric centerpoint of the strikeface can be less than 79 degrees, less than 78 degrees, less than 77 degrees, less than 76 degrees, less than 75 degrees, less than 74 degrees, less than 73 degrees, less than 72 degrees, less than 71 degrees, less than 70 degrees, less than 69 degrees, or less than 68 degrees.

In some embodiments, the crown angle1660near the head heel portion1140can be less than approximately 70 degrees, less than approximately 69 degrees, less than approximately 68 degrees, less than approximately 67 degrees, less than approximately 66 degrees, less than approximately 65 degrees, less than approximately 64 degrees, less than approximately 63 degrees, less than approximately 62 degrees, less than approximately 61 degrees, less than approximately 60 degrees, less than approximately 59 degrees. For example, the crown angle1660measured in a side cross sectional view of the club head taken through a point positioned approximately 1.0 inch toward the head heel portion1140from the geometric centerpoint of the strikeface can be less than approximately 70 degrees, less than approximately 69 degrees, less than approximately 68 degrees, less than approximately 67 degrees, less than approximately 66 degrees, less than approximately 65 degrees, less than approximately 64 degrees, less than approximately 63 degrees, less than approximately 62 degrees, less than approximately 61 degrees, less than approximately 60 degrees, less than approximately 59 degrees.

In some embodiments, the crown angle1660near the center of the club head1000can be less than approximately 70 degrees, less than approximately 69 degrees, less than approximately 68 degrees, less than approximately 67 degrees, less than approximately 66 degrees, less than approximately 65 degrees, less than approximately 64 degrees, less than approximately 63 degrees, less than approximately 62 degrees, less than approximately 61 degrees, less than approximately 60 degrees, less than approximately 59 degrees. For example, the crown angle1660measured in a side cross sectional view of the club head taken through the geometric centerpoint of the strikeface can be less than approximately 70 degrees, less than approximately 69 degrees, less than approximately 68 degrees, less than approximately 67 degrees, less than approximately 66 degrees, less than approximately 65 degrees, less than approximately 64 degrees, less than approximately 63 degrees, less than approximately 62 degrees, less than approximately 61 degrees, less than approximately 60 degrees, less than approximately 59 degrees.

In many embodiments, reducing the crown angle1660compared to current club heads generates a steeper head top portion1120or a head top portion1120positioned closer to the ground. Accordingly, the reduced crown angle1660can result in a lower head CG position.

In some embodiments, reducing the crown angle1660to form a steeper head top portion1120and lower head CG position may result in an undesired increase in aerodynamic drag. To prevent increased drag associated with a steeper head top portion1120, a maximum head top portion height1670can be increased. Referring again toFIG.7, the maximum head top portion height1670, defined as the greatest distance between the head top portion1120and the crown axis1650taken at any side cross sectional view. In many embodiments, a greater head top portion height1670results in the head top portion1120having a greater curvature. A greater curvature in the head top portion1120moves the location of the airflow separation during a swing further back on the club head1000. In other words, a greater curvature allows the airflow to stay attached to club head1000for a longer distance across the head top portion1120as the club is swung. Moving the airflow separation point back on the golf club head1000can result in less drag and faster club head speeds.

In some embodiments the maximum head top portion height1670can be approximately 16.5 mm (or approximately 0.65 inches). In other embodiments, the maximum head top portion height1670can be greater than approximately 5 mm, greater than approximately 7.5 mm, greater than approximately 10 mm, greater than approximately 12.5 mm, greater than approximately 15 mm, greater than approximately 17.5 mm, greater than approximately 20 mm, greater than approximately 22.5 mm, or greater than approximately 25 mm. Further, in other embodiments, the maximum head top portion height1670can be within the range of 5 mm to 15 mm, or 10 mm to 20 mm, or 15 mm to 25 mm.

Method to Manufacture Club Head

FIG.4illustrates a flowchart for method4000, which can be used to provide, form, and/or manufacture a golf club head in accordance with the present disclosure. In some examples, the golf club head can be similar to golf club head1000(FIGS.1-3) presented above.

Method4000comprises block4100for providing a head body of a golf club head comprising a head front portion. In some examples, the head body can be similar to head body1100(FIGS.1-3), and the head front portion can be similar to head front portion1110(FIGS.1-3).

Block4200of method4000comprises coupling a face portion to the head front portion, the head front portion comprising a strikeface with an augmented face size. In some examples, the face portion can be similar to face portion1200(FIGS.1-2), with strikeface1210having the augmented face size described above with respect thereto. For example, the augmented face size of the strikeface may permit its face height to be of up to approximately 71 mm in some examples.

Method4000can comprise block4300for configuring the golf club head to comprise a first optimization characteristic, where a CG height between a center of gravity of the golf club head and a head depth plane of the golf club head can be approximately 0 mm to approximately 5.08 mm or 0.200 inches. In some examples, the first optimization characteristic can be similar to that described above with respect to Relation 1 for balancing golf club head face height or size with respect to center of gravity height. In some examples, the CG height may be similar to CG height2520(FIG.2); the center of gravity may be similar to head center of gravity2500(FIG.2); and the head depth plane can be similar to head depth plane2310(FIG.2).

There can be implementations where method4000can comprise block4400for configuring the golf club head to comprise a second optimization characteristic, where a ratio between (a) 76.2 mm (or approximately 3.0 inches) minus the face height and (b) a CG depth between the strikeface centerpoint and the center of gravity, is less than 0.56. In some examples, the second optimization characteristic can be similar to that described above with respect to Relation 2 for balancing golf club head face height or size with respect to center of gravity depth. For example, the face height can be similar to face height1213, and the CG depth can be similar to CG depth2510.

In some examples, method4000can comprise block4500for configuring the golf club head to comprise a third optimization characteristic where a head volume magnitude, added to a ratio between the CG depth and the CG height, is greater than or equal to 425. In some implementations, the third optimization characteristic can be similar to that described above with respect to Relation 3 for balancing head volume relative to center of gravity location. For example, the head volume magnitude can be similar to the magnitude of head volume2600(FIG.2), the CG depth can be similar to CG depth2510, and the CG height can be similar to CG height2520.

Method4000can comprise block4600in some embodiments for configuring the golf club head to comprise a fourth optimization characteristic, where the golf club head's horizontal moment of inertia is greater than or equal to 39% of its hosel moment of inertia. In some implementations, the fourth optimization characteristic can be similar to that described above with respect to Relation 4 for balancing horizontal MOI1811with respect to hosel MOI1711(FIG.1). In the same or other examples, the magnitude of the horizontal moment of inertia can be similar to that described above with respect to horizontal MOI1811. In addition, the magnitude of the hosel moment of inertia can be similar to that described above with respect to hosel MOI1711. There can also be examples where the horizontal moment of inertia and/or the hosel moment of inertia can be balanced with respect to other features, such as with respect to a vertical moment of inertia of the golf club head.

Block4700of method4000can be carried out in some implementations for configuring the golf club head to comprise a fifth optimization characteristic, where the golf club head's vertical moment of inertia is greater than or equal to 59% of its hosel moment of inertia. In some implementations, the fifth optimization characteristic can be similar to that described above with respect to Relation 5 for balancing vertical MOI1611with respect to hosel MOI1711(FIG.1). In the same or other examples, the magnitude of the vertical moment of inertia can be similar to that described above with respect to vertical MOI1611. In addition, the magnitude of the hosel moment of inertia can be similar to that described above with respect to hosel MOI1711. There can also be examples where the vertical moment of inertia and/or the hosel moment of inertia can be balanced with respect to other features, such as with respect to the horizontal moment of inertia of block4500.

In the present example, method4000also comprises block4800for providing a mass redistribution mechanism to adjust the center of gravity of the golf club head. In some examples, the mass redistribution mechanism can be configured to permit the golf club head to achieve the requirements of block4300, block4400, block4500, block4600, and/or block4700of method4000. The mass redistribution mechanism can comprise a weight structure, such as weight structure2700(FIGS.2-3), which can adjust the location of the center of gravity towards the sole and/or the rear portion of the golf club head if desired. In the same or other embodiments, the mass redistribution mechanism can comprise a reduced thickness of the face portion of the golf club head, which may be reinforced if needed with one or more reinforcing structures, such as at the backside of the strikeface, and/or at a junction between the face portion and the head body of the golf club head.

In some examples, one or more of the different blocks of method4000can be combined into a single block or performed simultaneously, and/or the sequence of such blocks can be changed. For example, blocks4100and4200may be combined in some embodiments, such as where the face portion and at least one portion of the head body comprise a single piece of material. Block4800may be combined with one or more of blocks4100,4300,4400,4500,4600, and/or4700in the same or other examples, and may be achieved simultaneously by adjusting the center of gravity, the face height, the face size, the head volume, and/or one or more moments of inertia of the golf club head, such as via the mass redistribution mechanism of block4800. In the same or other examples, some of the blocks of method4000can be subdivided into several sub-blocks. For example, block4100can be subdivided into several sub-blocks for providing different portions of the head body of the golf club head. There can also be examples where method4000can comprise further or different blocks. As an example, method4000may comprise another block for providing or coupling a golf club shaft to the head body of block4100. In addition, there may be examples where method4100can comprise only part of the blocks described above. For example, one or more of blocks4300,4400,4500,4600, and/or4700may be optional in some implementations, and/or block4800may be skipped if not needed to achieve the requirements of block4300, block4400, block4500, block4600, and/or block4700. Other variations can be implemented for method4000without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Although the golf club heads with optimized characteristics and related methods herein have been described with reference to specific embodiments, various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. For instance, while the above examples may be described in connection with a driver-type golf club, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable to other types of golf club such as a fairway wood-type golf club, a hybrid-type golf club, an iron-type golf club, a wedge-type golf club, or a putter-type golf club. Alternatively, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable other type of sports equipment such as a hockey stick, a tennis racket, a fishing pole, a ski pole, etc.

Additional examples of such changes and others have been given in the foregoing description. Other permutations of the different embodiments having one or more of the features of the various figures are likewise contemplated. Accordingly, the specification, claims, and drawings herein are intended to be illustrative of the scope of the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the scope of this application shall be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims.

The golf club heads with optimized characteristics and related methods discussed herein may be implemented in a variety of embodiments, and the foregoing discussion of certain of these embodiments does not necessarily represent a complete description of all possible embodiments. Rather, the detailed description of the drawings, and the drawings themselves, disclose at least one preferred embodiment, and may disclose alternative embodiments.

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 claims.

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&A), etc.), golf equipment related to the apparatus, methods, and 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 apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The apparatus, methods, and articles 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.