JP7118287B2 - Golf club head and golf club head manufacturing method - Google Patents

Description

[Copyright Notice]
This disclosure may be subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by any person of this disclosure or related documents, as they appear in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. reserve.

TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates generally to sporting goods and, more particularly, to golf club heads and methods of making golf club heads.

In golf, a variety of factors can affect the distance and direction a golf ball travels. In particular, the center of gravity (CG) and/or moment of inertia (MOI) of the golf club head can affect the launch angle, spin rate, and direction of the golf ball at impact. Such factors vary greatly depending on the type of golf swing.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

2 is a bottom perspective view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1; FIG.

3 is a plan view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG.

4 is a bottom view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG.

5 is a front view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG.

6 is a rear view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG.

7 is a view showing the toe side of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG.

8 is a view showing the heel side of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG.

9 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 9-9 shown in FIG. 3; FIG.

10 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 10-10 shown in FIG. 3;

11 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 11-11 shown in FIG. 3;

12 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 12-12 shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 13 is a top view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 with the crown removed.

14 is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 14-14 shown in FIG. 3; FIG.

15 is a top view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 with a golf ball in close proximity to the face portion; FIG.

16 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary crown portion of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 16-16 shown in FIG. 15;

17 is an enlarged view of a portion of the crown illustrated in FIG. 16. FIG.

18 is an exploded view of an exemplary crown portion for the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1; FIG.

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

20 is a bottom perspective view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

21 is a front view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

22 is a rear view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

23 is a plan view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

24 is a view showing the toe side of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

25 is a bottom view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

26 is a view showing the heel side of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19. FIG.

FIG. 27 is a top perspective view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

28 is a bottom perspective view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27; FIG.

29 is a front view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27; FIG.

30 is a rear view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27. FIG.

31 is a view showing the heel side of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27. FIG.

32 is a view showing the toe side of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27. FIG.

33 is a plan view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27. FIG.

34 is a bottom view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27. FIG.

FIG. 35 is a top perspective view of an exemplary golf club head prior to crown attachment for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

FIG. 36 is a top perspective view of an exemplary golf club head prior to crown attachment for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

37 is a rear perspective view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 19 before the crown portion is attached; FIG.

38 is a rear perspective view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 27 before the crown portion is attached; FIG.

FIG. 39 is an exploded view of an exemplary crown portion for an exemplary golf club head;

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of an exemplary crown portion for an exemplary golf club head;

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of an exemplary crown portion for an exemplary golf club head;

FIG. 42 is a front perspective view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

43 is a front view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 42. FIG.

44 is a side cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 42. FIG.

45 is an exploded view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 42. FIG.

46 is a front perspective view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 42; FIG.

47 is a front view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 42. FIG.

48 is a side cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 42. FIG.

FIG. 49 is a front perspective view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

FIG. 50 is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary golf club head for one embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein.

For simplicity and clarity of explanation, the drawings show structures in a general manner, and descriptions and details of well-known functions and techniques are omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Sometimes. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of the disclosed embodiments.

Generally, golf club heads and methods of making golf club heads are described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited. 1-14, the golf club head 100 has a body having a top 130, a crown portion 135, a bottom portion 140, a toe portion 150, a heel portion 160, a front portion 170, and a rear portion 180. A portion 110 may be included. Bottom portion 140 extends across the periphery of golf club head 100 between top portion 130 and bottom portion 140 , except for front portion 170 , from toe portion 150 around rear portion 180 to heel portion 160 . A skirt portion 190 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 100 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 100 may not include skirt portion 190 . The front portion 170 may include a face portion 175 that strikes a golf ball (eg, shown generally as 1501 in FIG. 15). Face portion 175 may be integral with body portion 110 or may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to front portion 170 to seal an opening in front portion 170 . Body portion 110 may also include a hosel portion 165 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 165 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 165 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 110 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 165 . Body portion 110 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 110 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The golf club head 100 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 100 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 100 may have a club head volume of 300 cc or less. In particular, golf club head 100 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of the golf club head 100 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or The Golf Association of England (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 100. can be used. Although FIG. 1 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., fairway wood-based club heads). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Top portion 130 may include forward portion 131 extending a distance 134 between front portion 170 and crown portion 135, as shown in FIG. In one example, forward portion 131 may extend a distance 134 of at least 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In another example, forward portion 131 may extend a distance 134 of at least 16 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, forward portion 131 may extend a distance 134 of at least 20 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, the forward portion 131 may extend a distance 134 in the front-to-rear direction in the range of 12mm to 20mm. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include forward portions that extend a distance of less than 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. The forward portion 131 may increase the structural integrity of the golf club head 100 and resist backward deflection of the front portion 170 upon impact with a golf ball. Forward portion 131 can transmit impact force to crown portion 135 upon impact with a golf ball. The forward portion 131 can distribute the impact force along the surface of the crown portion adjacent to the joint 132 formed between the crown portion 135 and the forward portion 131 of the top portion 130 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 135 may be a separate piece that may be attached to top portion 130 . Crown portion 135 may seal the opening of top portion 130 . As shown in FIG. 13, for example, top portion 130 of golf club head 100 may include an opening prior to attachment of crown portion 135 . Crown portion 135 may be constructed from one or more materials, which may be the same as or different from the material of body portion 110 . In one example, crown portion 135 may be constructed at least partially from a composite material, such as a fiber-based composite material. Crown portion 135 may be attached to shoulder portion 133 of top portion 130 . Shoulder portion 133 may extend along all or part of the opening of top portion 130 . Shoulder portion 133 may support crown portion 135 . In one example, the shoulder portion 133 may extend a distance 1333 of at least 2 mm inwardly toward the opening of the top portion 130 . In another example, shoulder 133 may extend a distance 1333 of at least 6 mm. In yet another example, shoulder 133 may extend a distance 1333 of at least 8 mm. In yet another example, shoulder 133 may extend a distance 1333 in the range of 2 mm to 8 mm. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are for shoulder portions 133 that extend a distance 1333 of less than 2 mm inwardly toward the opening of the top portion 130. can include Shoulder portion 133 may be a continuous portion surrounding the opening of top portion 130 . Alternatively, shoulder 133 may include one or more separate shoulders positioned to support crown 135 . In another example, shoulder portion 133 may include a plurality of tabs arranged to support crown portion 135 . In yet another example, shoulder portion 133 may be omitted and crown portion 135 may be adhered to the outer surface of top portion 130 or the inner surface of top portion 130 . In yet another example, shoulder portion 133 may be omitted and crown portion 135 may include a protrusion extending from the bottom surface of crown portion 135 that provides an interference fit with the peripheral edge of the opening. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 135 may include one or more thinned portions, one of which is indicated generally as 1035 . The thinned portion 1035 can reduce the weight of the crown portion 135 and lower the CG of the golf club head 100 . In one example, thinned portion 1035 may have a thickness 1036 of less than 1.0 mm. In another example, thinned portion 1035 may have a thickness 1036 of less than 0.75 mm. In yet another example, thinned portion 1035 may have a thickness 1036 of less than 0.65 mm. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include one or more thinned portions 1035 having a thickness of 1.0 mm or greater. One or more thinned portions 1035 may extend from one or more relatively thicker crown reinforcement regions, one of which is generally indicated as 136 . In one example, thinned portion 1035 may form at least 50% of the external surface area of crown portion 135 . In another example, thinned portion 1035 may form at least 75% of the external surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, thinned portion 1035 may form at least 85% of the exterior surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, thinned portion 1035 may form at least 95% of the external surface area of crown portion 135 . Although the above examples describe specific percentages of crown portion 135, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein allow one or more thin-walled portions forming less than 75% of the external surface area of crown portion 135 to be formed. A portion 1035 may be included. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown reinforcing portion 136 can increase the rigidity of crown portion 135 . Crown reinforcement 136 may compensate for the presence of one or more relatively less stiff regions elsewhere in crown 135 . Crown reinforcement 136 may increase the overall stiffness of golf club head 100 . The crown reinforcing portion 136 can limit the distortion of the face portion 175 and/or the forward portion 131 of the top portion 130 toward the rear portion 180 in response to the face portion 175 colliding with the golf ball. Crown reinforcement 136 may limit physical compression of crown 135 in the front-to-rear direction in response to face portion 175 impacting a golf ball, and crown 135 may be made of two or more composite materials. In this example, the risk of cracking and delamination of the crown portion 135 can be reduced. Crown reinforcement 136 may be part of the raised portion. Crown reinforcement 136 may be part of the contoured portion. Crown reinforcement 136 may function as a visual alignment aid for the golfer aligning golf shots. Crown reinforcement 136 may improve the acoustic response of golf club head 100 in response to face portion 175 impacting the golf ball. Crown reinforcement 136 may have a greater thickness than thinned portion 1035 . Crown reinforcement 136 may have a thickness greater than the average thickness of crown 135 . Crown reinforcement 136 may be integral with crown 135 . Crown reinforcement 136 may be one or more separate pieces that are adhered or secured to the inner surface of crown 135 to provide structural reinforcement. Crown reinforcement 136 can be either one or more discrete portions that are adhered or secured to the outer surface of crown 135 to provide structural reinforcement. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As noted above, crown portion 135 comprises one or more crown reinforcements, examples of which are generally shown in FIG. 1 as first crown reinforcement 137, second crown reinforcement 138, and third crown reinforcement 139. can contain parts. A first crown reinforcement 137 may be positioned adjacent the forward portion 131 of the top portion 130 . First crown reinforcement 137 may extend along a junction 132 formed between crown portion 135 and forward portion 131 of top portion 130 . A first crown reinforcement 137 may be adjacent the junction 132 . First crown reinforcement 137 may have a surface that matches the contour of the forward portion adjacent joint 132 . First crown reinforcement 137 may have a thickness greater than the average thickness of crown 135 . In one example, the first crown reinforcement 137 can have a thickness greater than 2 mm. In another example, first crown reinforcement 137 may have a thickness of 2.2 mm or greater. In yet another example, first crown reinforcement 137 may have a thickness of 2.4 mm or greater. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include first crown reinforcement 137 having a thickness of 2 mm or less. The first crown reinforcement 137 may comprise two or more plies of fiber-based composite material 7614 (e.g., 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7-, 8-, or 9-ply fiber-based plies). composite material 7614, etc.). In one example, the first crown reinforcement 137 can have a length in the heel-toe direction of at least 1.25 cm. In another example, the first crown reinforcement 137 can have a length in the heel-toe direction of at least 2 cm. In yet another example, the first crown reinforcement 137 can have a length in the heel-toe direction of at least 3 cm. In yet another example, the first crown reinforcement 137 can have a length in the heel-toe direction of at least 4 cm. In another example, the first crown reinforcement 137 can have a length in the heel-toe direction in the range of 4-4.5 cm. Although the above examples describe specific lengths, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include first crown reinforcement 137 having a length of less than 3 cm. The first crown reinforcement 137 can reduce air resistance of the golf club head 100 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the rear portion 180 . A second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the rear portion 180 and toward the toe portion 150 . The second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the toe end of the first crown reinforcement 137 to the rear periphery of the crown 135 . The second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the toe side portion 281 of the protrusion 141 of the bottom portion 140 . The second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the toe-side peripheral edge 283 of the protrusion 141 of the bottom portion 140 . A second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward a weight port 237 in the bottom portion 140 . The second crown reinforcement 138 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the weight port 237 in the bottom portion 140, which weight port is closer to the toe portion 150 than the other weight ports in the bottom portion. close to The second crown reinforcement 138 may taper in the front-to-rear direction.

A second crown reinforcement 138 may act as a support structure between the forward portion 131 and the rear portion 180 . The second crown reinforcement 138 may resist the rearward deflection of the forward portion 131 in response to the face portion 175 impacting the golf ball. Second crown reinforcement 138 may have a thickness greater than the average thickness of crown 135 . The second crown reinforcement 138 can have a thickness greater than 2 mm. The second crown reinforcement 138 may have a thickness of 2.2 mm or greater. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include a second crown reinforcement 138 having a thickness of 2 mm or less. The second crown reinforcement 138 may be formed from two or more plies of fiber-based composite material 1514 (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 plies of fiber-based composite material 1514). etc.). In one example, the second crown reinforcement 138 can have a length of at least 2 cm. In another example, the second crown reinforcement 138 can have a length of at least 4 cm. Although the above examples describe specific lengths, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include a second crown reinforcement 138 having a length of less than 2 cm. The second crown reinforcement 138 can reduce the air resistance of the golf club head. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the rear portion 180 . A third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the rear portion 180 and toward the heel portion 160 . The third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the heel end of the first crown reinforcement 137 to the rear periphery of the crown 135 . The third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the heel side portion 282 of the protrusion 141 of the bottom portion 140 . The third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the heel side rim 284 of the protrusion 141 of the bottom portion 140 . A third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward the weight port 232 of the bottom portion 140 . A third crown reinforcement 139 may extend from the first crown reinforcement 137 toward a weight port 232 in the bottom portion 140, which weight port 232 is more in the heel than the other weight ports in the bottom portion. Close to 160. The third crown reinforcement 139 may taper in the front-to-rear direction.

A third crown reinforcement 139 may serve as a support structure between the forward portion 131 and the rear portion 180 . The third crown reinforcement 139 may resist the rearward deflection of the forward portion 131 in response to the face portion 175 impacting the golf ball. Third crown reinforcement 139 may have a thickness greater than the average thickness of crown 135 . The third crown reinforcement 139 may have a thickness greater than 2mm. The third crown reinforcement 139 may have a thickness of 2.2 mm or greater. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a third crown reinforcement 139 having a thickness of 2 mm or less. The third crown reinforcement 139 may comprise two or more plies of fiber-based composite material 1514 (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 plies of fiber-based composite material 1514). etc.). The third crown reinforcement 139 may have a length of at least 2 cm. Third crown reinforcement 139 may have a length of at least 4 cm. The third crown reinforcement 139 can reduce the air resistance of the golf club head. Although the above examples describe a specific number of crown reinforcements, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include more or less crown reinforcements. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown 135 may include a central crown 331 , a toe crown 332 and a heel crown 333 . Central crown 331 may be a raised central crown. A raised central crown 331 may be positioned between a heel crown 333 and a toe crown 332 . The raised central crown portion 331 may have a maximum height that is greater than the maximum height of the toe side crown portion 332 . The raised central crown 331 may have a maximum height that is greater than the maximum height of the heel crown 333 . A raised central crown 331 may serve as a visual alignment aid. Raised central crown portion 331 may improve the aerodynamic performance of golf club head 100 . The raised central crown portion 331 may stiffen the crown portion 135 and reduce distortion (eg, bulging) of the crown portion 135 in response to the face portion 175 impacting the golf ball. It may be desirable to reduce the bulge of the crown portion 135 in order to reduce the shear stresses on the joint (eg, adhesive bond) between the crown portion 135 and the top portion 130 of the golf club head. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Central crown portion 331 may include a thinned portion 1035 . The toe crown portion 332 may include a thinned portion 1035 . The heel crown portion 333 may include a thinned portion 1035 . Thinned portion 1035 is desirable to reduce the overall mass of crown portion 135 , which can lower the CG of golf club head 100 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 135 may include a plurality of contoured surfaces. Multiple contoured surfaces can reduce the air resistance of the golf club head 100 . Multiple contoured surfaces can enhance the structural integrity of the golf club head 100 . The outer surface of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the outer surface of the toe-side crown portion 332 . The outer surface of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the outer surface of the heel crown portion 333 . Crown portion 135 may include a first contoured transition region 334 located between central crown portion 331 and toe crown portion 332 . Crown portion 135 may include a second contoured transition region 335 located between central crown portion 331 and heel side crown portion 333 . The location of the first contoured transition region 334 may coincide with the location of the second crown reinforcement 138 . The location of the second contoured transition region 335 may coincide with the location of the third crown reinforcement 139 . Central crown 331 , toe crown 332 , heel crown 333 , first contoured transition region 334 , and second contoured transition region 335 together may form multi-level crown 135 . Central crown 331 , toe crown 332 , heel crown 333 , first contoured transition region 334 , and second contoured transition region 335 together may form multi-thickness crown 135 . Central crown portion 331 , toe crown portion 332 , heel crown portion 333 , first contoured transition region 334 , and second contoured transition region 335 may together form multi-thickness and multi-tier crown portion 135 . . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 1 along line 12-12 shown in FIG. The outer surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the outer surface of the toe side crown portion 332 . In one example, the lateral surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the lateral surface of the toe crown portion 332 by a height of 0.5 mm or more. In another example, the lateral surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be raised by a height of 1.0 mm or more than the lateral surface of the toe side crown portion 332 . In yet another example, the lateral surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the lateral surface of the toe crown portion 332 by a height of 2.0 mm or more. The outer surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the outer surface 1233 of the heel crown portion 333 . In one example, the lateral surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the lateral surface 1233 of the heel crown portion 333 by a height of 0.5 mm or more. In another example, the lateral surface 1231 of the central crown 331 may be raised by a height of 1.0 mm or more than the lateral surface 1233 of the heel crown 333 . In yet another example, the lateral surface 1231 of the central crown portion 331 may be higher than the lateral surface 1233 of the heel crown portion 333 by a height of 2.0 mm or more. Although the above examples describe specific heights, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include lateral surfaces with height differences of less than 0.5 mm. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 11 , the outer surface 1233 of the heel crown portion 333 may be recessed below the forward portion 131 adjacent the joint 132 . Similarly, the outer surface 1232 of the toe crown portion 332 may be recessed below the forward portion 131 adjacent the joint 132 . In one example, the lateral surface 1233 of the heel crown portion 133 may be recessed below the forward portion 131 adjacent the joint 132 by a distance of 0.5 mm or more. In another example, the lateral surface 1233 of the heel crown portion 133 may be recessed below the forward portion 131 adjacent the joint 132 by a distance of 1.0 mm or more. In yet another example, the outer surface 1232 of the toe crown portion 132 may be recessed below the forward portion 131 adjacent the joint 132 by a distance of 0.5 mm or more. The outer surface 1232 of the toe crown portion 132 may be recessed below the forward portion 131 adjacent to the joint portion 132 by a distance of 1.0 mm or more. Although the examples above describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include an outer surface that is recessed to a distance of less than 0.5 mm. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Central crown 331 may be bounded by first contoured transition region 334 , second contoured transition region 335 , rear perimeter 951 of crown 135 , and front perimeter 1532 of crown 135 . Central crown portion 331 may be bounded by first crown reinforcement 137 , second crown reinforcement 138 , third crown reinforcement 139 , and rear perimeter 951 of crown 135 . A forward portion of the central crown portion 331 extends along a central vertical plane 715 that intersects the geometric center 176 of the face portion 175 (eg, at or near the "sweet spot" of the golf club head 100) and is perpendicular to the forward vertical plane 715. It may have a shape that is symmetrical about a plane (eg, one of which is shown generally as 1504). The forward portion of the central crown portion 331 may have an asymmetric shape with respect to a central vertical plane 1504 that intersects the geometric center 176 of the face portion 175 and is perpendicular to the forward vertical plane 715 . In one example, as shown in FIG. 15, the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 may extend in a front-to-rear direction. The central crown portion 331 may have an irregular polygon-like shape (eg, a quadrilateral-like shape). The distance between the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 at or near the front portion 170 is the distance between the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement at or near the rear portion 180 . It may be less than the distance between portions 139 . In another example, the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 may narrow in the front-to-rear direction. The distance between the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 at or near the front portion 170 is the distance between the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement at or near the rear portion 180 . It may be greater than the distance between portions 139 . In yet another example, the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 may narrow and then widen in the front-to-rear direction (see, eg, FIG. 40). In another example, the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 may widen and then narrow in a front-to-rear direction (see, eg, FIG. 41). In yet another example, the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 can be substantially parallel in the front-to-rear direction. The distance between the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement 139 at or near the front portion 170 is the distance between the second crown reinforcement 138 and the third crown reinforcement at or near the rear portion 180 . It may be equal to or substantially the same as the distance between portions 139 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, central crown 331 may be raised relative to toe crown 332 and heel crown 333, as shown in FIG. In another example, central crown 331 may be depressed relative to toe crown 332 and heel crown 333 . Changes in the relative heights of central crown 331 , toe crown 332 , and heel crown 333 can improve aerodynamic performance by reducing the drag coefficient associated with golf club head 100 . Changes in the relative heights of the central crown 331, toe crown 332, and heel crown 333 may provide a visual alignment aid. The relative height variations of the central crown 331, toe crown 332, and heel crown 333, along with contoured transition regions with integral ribs, may enhance the structural integrity of the crown 135. can. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The total surface area of crown portion 135 may include the surface areas of central crown portion 331 , toe crown portion 332 , heel crown portion 333 , first contoured transition region 334 , and second contoured transition region 335 . In one example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 10% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 20% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of said 331 can be at least 30% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 40% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 50% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 60% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 70% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 80% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of central crown portion 331 can be at least 90% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Toe crown 332 may be bounded by first contoured transition region 334 , toe perimeter 1533 of crown 135 , and front perimeter 1532 of crown 135 . In one example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 5% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 10% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 15% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 20% of the surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 25% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 30% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 35% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of toe crown portion 332 can be at least 40% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Heel side crown portion 333 may be bounded by second contoured transition region 335 , heel side perimeter 1531 of crown portion 135 , and front side perimeter 1532 of crown portion 135 . In one example, the surface area of heel-side crown portion 333 can be at least 5% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In another example, the surface area of heel crown portion 333 may be at least 10% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of heel crown portion 333 can be at least 15% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of heel-side crown portion 333 can be at least 20% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of heel crown portion 333 can be at least 25% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . In yet another example, the surface area of heel crown portion 333 can be at least 30% of the total surface area of crown portion 135 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, the central crown portion 331 may have an outer surface area 1231 that is 40% or more of the crown's total outer surface area, and the toe crown portion 332 is 30% or less of the crown's total outer surface area. May have an outer surface area 1232 and the heel crown portion 333 may have an outer surface area 1233 that is 15% or less of the total outer surface area of the crown portion. In another example, the central crown portion 331 may have an outer surface area 1231 that is 50% or more of the crown's total outer surface area, and the toe crown portion 332 is 15% or more of the crown's total outer surface area. and the heel crown 333 may have an outer surface area 1233 that is 5% or more of the total outer surface area of the crown. In yet another example, the central crown portion 331 may have an outer surface area 1231 that is 40% or more of the total crown outer surface area, and the toe crown portion 332 is 10% of the total crown outer surface area. The heel crown portion 333 may have an outer surface area 1232 that is greater than or equal to 5% of the total outer surface area of the crown portion. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 15 is a top view of golf club head 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 with golf ball 1501 proximate face portion 175 . Golf ball 1501 may be aligned with the geometric center (sweet spot) 176 of face portion 175 . Golf ball 1501 may have a diameter of approximately 1.68 inches. A central vertical plane 1504 may bisect golf ball 1501 and golf club head 100 . Toe side bounding plane 1505 bounds the toe side of golf club head 100 . Heel side bounding plane 1506 bounds the heel side of golf club head 100 . Toe side dividing plane 1502 bounds the toe side of golf ball 1501 . Heel-side splitting plane 1503 bounds the heel side of golf ball 1501 . Crown portion 135 may include perimeters including heel side perimeter 1531 , front side perimeter 1532 , toe side perimeter 1533 , and rear side perimeter 951 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of crown portion 135 of golf club head 100 illustrated in FIG. 15 along line 16-16. Crown portion 135 may include two or more layers of composite material. The crown portion 135 may include an outer layer 1510 of composite material and an inner layer 1515 of composite material. Crown portion 135 may include a plurality of integral ribs. Each integral rib may include multiple layers of composite material. Integral ribs (eg, generally indicated as 1525, 1530) may be disposed between the inner layer 1515 and the outer layer 1510 of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 , 1530 may form crown reinforcement 136 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Toe integral rib 1525 may extend from front perimeter 1532 of crown 135 to rear perimeter 951 of the crown. Toe integral rib 1525 may include multiple layers of composite material 1514, as shown in FIG. Toe integral rib 1525 may include two or more layers of composite material 1514 disposed between inner layer 1515 and outer layer 1510 of crown portion 135 . Toe integral rib 1525 may extend rearward from forward portion 131 . Toe integral rib 1525 may extend rearwardly from a starting position between central vertical plane 1504 and toe dividing plane 1502 and terminate at an ending position between toe boundary plane 1505 and toe dividing plane 1502. . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The thickness of integral toe rib 1525 may be equal to the thickness of the multiple layers of composite material 1514 located in inner layer 1515 and outer layer 1510 of crown portion 135 to form integral toe rib 1525 . good. In one example, the toe side integral rib 1525 can have a maximum thickness in the range of 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm. In another example, the integral toe rib 1525 may have a maximum thickness of 1.0 mm or greater. In another example, the integral toe rib 1525 may have a maximum thickness of 2.0 mm or greater. In yet another example, the integral toe rib 1525 may have a maximum thickness of 2.2 mm or greater. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of region 1700 of crown 135 shown in FIG. Crown portion 135 may include multiple layers of composite material 1514 . The crown portion 135 may include an outer layer 1510 of composite material and an inner layer 1515 of composite material. In one example, the inner layer of composite material 1515 may include a fiberglass (fiberglass) composite and the outer layer of composite 1510 may include a carbon fiber (carbon fiber) composite. In another example, the inner layer of composite material 1515 may comprise a carbon fiber composite and the outer layer of composite material 1510 may comprise a glass fiber composite. In yet another example, the inner layer of composite material 1515 may comprise a fiberglass composite and the outer layer of composite material 1510 may comprise a fiberglass composite. In yet another example, the inner layer of composite material 1515 may comprise a carbon fiber composite material and the outer layer of composite material 1510 may comprise a carbon fiber composite material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 135 may include a stack of composite layers forming integral ribs 1525 . Integral ribs 1525 may be disposed between outer layer 1510 of composite material and inner layer 1515 of composite material. Crown portion 135 may include one or more layers of composite material 1514 arranged in parallel or substantially parallel planes. Crown portion 135 may include one or more layers of composite material 1514 arranged in non-parallel planes. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, the crown portion 135 includes integral ribs 1525 having stacks of composite layers arranged in planes non-parallel to the plane associated with a particular layer of composite material within the crown portion 135. obtain. The non-parallel arrangement of layers within crown 135 can enhance the structural integrity of crown 135 . In one example, as shown in FIG. 17, four layers of integral rib 1525 may contact composite layer 1514 adjacent integral rib 1525 . In another example, two layers of integral rib 1525 may contact composite layer 1514 adjacent integral rib 1525 . The compressive strength of crown portion 135, determined along the front-rear axis, may be enhanced by having layers of composite material 1514 arranged in non-parallel (ie, non-uniformly oriented) planes. The tensile strength of crown portion 135, determined along the front-rear axis, may be enhanced by having layers of composite material 1514 arranged in non-parallel (ie, non-uniformly oriented) planes. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Integral ribs (eg, generally indicated as 1525 , 1530 , 1535 ) may provide structural support embedded within crown portion 135 . Each integral rib may be positioned in the crown reinforcement region adjacent one or more thinned portions 1035 . The crown portion 135 may have a contoured transition region (eg, shown generally as 334, 335) between the thin portion 1035 where the integral ribs 1525, 1530 reside and the thick crown reinforcement portion. The contoured transition regions 334, 335 avoid unwanted stress concentrations in the crown portion 135 by avoiding sharp edges (e.g., 137, 138, 139, etc.) between the thin portion 1035 and the adjacent thick portion. can be prevented or mitigated. Stress concentrations may be undesirable because the layers of the crown portion 135 may crack or delaminate during use of the golf club head 100 . For example, in alternative embodiments having non-integral ribs attached to either the inner or outer surface of the crown, the joint formed between the non-integral rib and the surface of crown 135 may There can be sharp edges, which can lead to undesirable stress concentrations. After hitting multiple balls, the presence of stress concentrations can cause cracking and delamination of the layers of the crown 135 adjacent the non-integral ribs. This physical deterioration of crown portion 135 can adversely affect the performance of golf club head 100 . For example, shot-to-shot variability can increase as the crown 135 physically degrades. Shot-to-shot variability may be unacceptable to those seeking consistent performance from the golf club head 100 . Physical deterioration of crown portion 135 can also adversely affect the appearance of golf club head 100 . Therefore, it is desirable to have the crown portion 135 with a contoured transition region between the thinned portion 1035 and the thickened portions of the integral ribs 1525, 1530 for long term durability, consistency and appearance. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 135 may include multiple composite layers 1512 disposed between inner structural layer 1515 and outer structural layer 1510 . As used herein, the term "structural layer" defines any suitable shape or shapes (e.g., flat, curved, or complex curved) and structural integrity of the crown portion 135. may represent any suitable layer or layers having any suitable dimension or dimensions that enhance the A plurality of composite layers 1512 and inner and outer structural layers (e.g., shown generally as 1510, 1515) together form the crown portion 135 when bonded to the body portion 110 to seal the opening in the top portion 130. can be formed and can improve the ability of the golf club 100 to withstand torsional and compressive forces applied during impact with a golf ball, which may improve performance or reduce miss hits. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Multiple composite layers 1512 may include multiple layers of composite material in a stacked arrangement. A layer of composite material 1514 may include a layer of fabric (fiber) combined with an amount of resin. The fabric may be composed of graphite fibers (commonly referred to as "carbon fibers"), glass fibers, aramid fibers, carbon nanotubes, or other suitable high performance fibers, combinations of these fibers, or materials. In some examples, the fabric can be a blend of two or more types of fibers, such as hybrid fibers consisting of carbon and aramid fibers. Examples of aramid fibers include KEVLAR, TWARON, NOMEX, NEW STAR, TECHNORA, and TEIJINCONEX fibers. The fabric may be configured as a woven, knitted, sewn, or non-woven (eg, unidirectional) fabric. Examples of suitable woven fabrics include Style 1625 Bi-directional E-Glass (Item No. 1094), Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Fabric (Item No. 1069), and KEVLAR Plain Weave Fabric (Item No. 2469). All are available from Fiber Glast Developments Corporation of Brookville, Ohio.

In some examples, the resin may be applied to the fabric during the lamination process either by hand or by an injection process. Alternatively, the fabric may be pre-impregnated with resin. Such fabrics are commonly referred to as "prepreg" fabrics. Prepreg fabrics may require refrigeration to prevent premature curing of the resin. During manufacture, the crown 135 is heated (e.g., in an oven or autoclave) to fully cure (i.e., polymerize) the resin such that the crown 135 acquires the desired structural attributes as the resin cures. may be necessary. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In some examples, the resin can be a thermosetting resin such as an epoxy resin, vinyl ester resin, polyester resin, or other suitable resin. Resin selection may be based, at least in part, on fabric compatibility and composite layer properties. Epoxy resin is suitable because it can be used to form a composite crown 135 that is dimensionally stable, strong and lightweight. A suitable epoxy resin is System 2000 Epoxy Resin available from Fiber Glast Developments Corporation (Item No. 2000-A).

The epoxy resin is a suitable resin such as 2020 Epoxy Hardener (Item No. 2020-A), 2060 Epoxy Hardener (Item No. 2060-A), or 2120 Epoxy Hardener (Item No. 2120-A) available from Fiber Glast Developments Corporation. It can be mixed with an epoxy hardener. The choice of epoxy hardener may be based, at least in part, on the desired pot life and working time, which may be determined by the size and complexity of the composite crown 135 to be manufactured. The choice of epoxy curing agent can also be based on the desired cure temperature and cure time. Epoxy curing agents can be selected to be compatible with the selected manufacturing temperature and time. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The crown 135 may be formed by any suitable process, such as a wet layup process in which a liquid resin is applied to the fabric made of fibers to wet the fabric. Liquid resin may be dispensed by hand, a resin infusion process, or any other suitable process. The wet layup process can utilize a release ply layer or release agent to prevent the composite crown 135 from adhering to the vacuum bag film during the vacuum bagging process. Examples of suitable peel ply layers are available from U.S.A., West Palm Beach, Fla. S. Composites, Inc. Peel Ply Release Fabric (catalog number VB-P56150) available from the company.

During the lay-up process, the fabric may be trimmed to size and then placed in a mold. Resin can then be applied to the surface of the fabric using a suitable tool such as a roller or brush. During the lamination process, the resin can be forced into the fabric so that it impregnates the fabric. If a prepreg fabric is used for the layup, the resin application step can be omitted as the fabric already contains an appropriate amount of resin to facilitate the lamination process. A layer of release ply can be inserted between the prepreg fabric and the vacuum bag film to prevent the composite carbon crown 135 from adhering to the vacuum bag film. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the layers of exemplary crown 135 prior to execution of the manufacturing process to produce contoured crown 135 shown in FIG. The crown portion 135 includes an upper plurality of composite layers 1850, a lower plurality of composite layers 1855, and a crown reinforcement portion 136 disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers and the lower plurality of composite layers. can contain. The presence of crown reinforcement 136 may allow for the utilization of a lighter weight thinned portion 1035 adjacent to crown reinforcement 136, as shown in FIG. Together, the crown reinforcement 136 and the adjacent thinned portion 1035 may produce a crown 135 that is lighter and/or stronger than a crown having a uniform thickness. Thinned portion 1035 can be any area within crown portion 135 that does not include crown reinforcement 136 . Crown reinforcement 136 may include multiple layers of composite material arranged in a stacked configuration. Each layer of composite material 1514 may include a layer of fabric combined with a resin. The fabric may be composed of carbon fibres, glass fibres, aramid fibres, carbon nanotubes or other suitable high performance fibres, combinations of these fibres, or materials. In some examples, the fabric can be a blend of two or more types of fibers, such as hybrid fibers consisting of carbon fibers and aramid fibers. The fabric may be constructed as a woven, knitted, sewn, or unidirectional fabric. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

During manufacture of the crown portion 135, multiple composite plies 1514 as shown in FIG. 18 may be placed in a contoured mold. To form contoured composite crown 135, pressure may be applied to layers 1514 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. To form crown 135, heat may be applied to the layers to promote bonding between adjacent layers. When the composite ply 1514 is pressed against the contoured surface of the mold, as shown in FIG. ) can be generated. Each subsequent composite layer in the stack of composite layers forming crown reinforcement region 136 is progressively wider (e.g., in descending order within the stack) to ensure a smooth transition region adjacent raised central crown portion 331 . , and the manufactured crown 135 can be provided with smooth transition regions 334 , 335 . In the example shown in FIG. 18, each composite layer of crown reinforcement 136 may have a front width (wF), a heel width (wH), and a toe width (wT). In one example, composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 may have widths (wF, wH, or wT) that are at least 1% greater than adjacent composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 . In another example, composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 may have widths (wF, wH, or wT) that are at least 5% greater than adjacent composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 . In yet another example, composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 may have widths (wF, wH, or wT) that are at least 10% greater than adjacent composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 . In yet another example, composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 may have widths (wF, wH, or wT) that are at least 15% greater than adjacent composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 . In yet another example, composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 may have widths (wF, wH, or wT) that are at least 30% greater than adjacent composite layers 1514 within crown reinforcement 136 . Although the above examples describe specific percentages, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein ensure that the composite layer 1514 within the crown reinforcement 136 is one of the adjacent composite layers 1514 within the crown reinforcement 136 . % width. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Inner structural layer 1515 may include a layer of fabric combined with resin. The fabric may be composed of carbon fibres, glass fibres, aramid fibres, carbon nanotubes or other suitable high performance fibres, combinations of these fibres, or materials. In some examples, the fabric can be a blend of two or more types of fibers, such as hybrid fibers consisting of carbon fibers and aramid fibers. The fabric may be constructed as a woven, knitted, sewn, or unidirectional fabric. In one example, inner structural layer 1515 may include a layer of fiberglass fabric impregnated with epoxy resin. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Outer structural layer 1510 may include a layer of fabric combined with resin. The fabric may be composed of carbon fibres, glass fibres, aramid fibres, carbon nanotubes or other suitable high performance fibres, combinations of these fibres, or materials. In some examples, the fabric can be a blend of two or more types of fibers, such as hybrid fibers consisting of carbon fibers and aramid fibers. The fabric may be constructed as a woven, knitted, sewn, or unidirectional fabric. In one example, outer structural layer 1510 may include a fiber layer of KEVLAR fiber fabric impregnated with epoxy resin. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Multiple composite layers 1512 may include multiple layers of composite material arranged in a stacked configuration. In one example, multiple composite layers 1512 may include two or more layers of prepreg unidirectional fabric. In another example, multiple composite layers 1512 may include three or more layers of prepreg unidirectional fabric. In yet another example, the plurality of composite layers 1512 are four layers of prepreg unidirectional fabric arranged in a four layer 0/90/0/90 configuration to enhance tensile strength along two orthogonal axes. It may contain one or more layers. In another example, the plurality of composite layers 1512 comprises two or more layers of prepreg unidirectional fabric with the two layers arranged in a 0/90 configuration to enhance tensile strength along two orthogonal axes. can contain. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Outer surface 1511 of crown 135 may be anti-glare finished. The outer surface of the crown portion 135 has a medium gloss such that it reduces the amount of light reflected upward toward the human eye when the golf club head 100 is aligned with the golf ball and a golf shot is executed. or may have a low gloss appearance. A relative gloss value is determined by projecting a light ray at a constant intensity and angle onto the outer surface 1511 of the crown 135 and measuring the amount of light reflected upwards towards the person in the same direction and in the opposite direction. obtain. On a scale of measurement, a specular reflectance of 0 gloss units (GU) is associated with a perfectly matte surface and a specular reflectance of 100 GU is associated with a highly polished black glass material. It may be desirable to provide crown portion 135 with relatively low specular reflectance to reduce perceived distraction of golf club head 100 by humans, which may reduce missed shots and thereby improve performance. In one example, the outer surface 1511 of the crown portion 135 can have a specular reflectance of less than 55 GU. In another example, the outer surface 1511 of the crown portion 135 can have a specular reflectance of less than 40 GU. In yet another example, the outer surface 1511 of the crown portion 135 can have a specular reflectance of less than 25 GU. In yet another example, the outer surface 1511 of the crown portion 135 can have a specular reflectance of less than 10 GU. Although the above examples describe a particular specular reflectance, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include outer surface 1511 of crown portion 135 having a specular reflectance of 55 GU or greater. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In some examples, outer surface 1511 of crown portion 135 may include an anti-reflective coating. In one example, the antireflective coating can have a specular reflectance of less than 55 GU. In another example, the antireflective coating can have a specular reflectance of less than 40 GU. In yet another example, the antireflective coating can have a specular reflectance of less than 25 GU. In yet another example, the antireflective coating can have a specular reflectance of less than 10 GU. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

If it is necessary to insert a resin or film adhesive layer between the inner structural layer 1515 and the adjacent composite layer to promote adhesion of the inner structural layer 1515 to the adjacent inner composite layer 1514 during the manufacturing process. There is It may be necessary to insert a resin or film adhesive layer between the outer structural layer 1510 and the adjacent composite layer to promote adhesion of the outer structural layer 1510 to the adjacent inner composite layer 1514 during the manufacturing process. The resin or film adhesive can be epoxy, epoxy foam, liquid resin, or any suitable film adhesive available from Collano AG of Germany. In one example, crown portion 135 may include a first film adhesive layer between inner structural layer 1515 and adjacent composite layer 1514 . A first film adhesive layer may adhere the outer structural layer 1510 to the top surface of an adjacent composite layer 1514 in the upper plurality of composite layers 1850 . Crown portion 135 may include a second film adhesive layer between inner structural layer 1515 and adjacent composite layer 1514 . A second film adhesive layer can adhere the inner structural layer 1515 to the bottom surface of an adjacent composite layer 1514 in the lower plurality of composite layers 1855 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of area 1700 of the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. Crown portion 135 may include integral ribs 1525 disposed between inner layer 1515 and outer layer 1510 . Integral ribs 1525 may include multiple layers of composite material 1512 . Integral ribs 1525 may include two or more layers of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include two or more layers of carbon fiber composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include three or more layers of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include four or more layers of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include five or more layers of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include six or more layers of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include seven or more layers of composite material. Integral ribs 1525 may include eight or more layers of composite material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The integral rib may be the toe side integral rib 1525 . Toe integral rib 1525 may extend from front perimeter 1532 of crown 135 to rear perimeter 951 of crown 135 . Toe integral rib 1525 may include multiple layers of composite material 1514 . Toe integral rib 1525 may include two or more layers of composite material disposed between inner layer 1515 and outer layer 1510 of crown portion 135 . Toe integral rib 1525 may extend rearward from forward portion 131 . Toe integral rib 1525 may extend rearwardly from a starting position between central vertical plane 1504 and toe dividing plane 1502 and terminate at an ending position between toe boundary plane 1505 and toe dividing plane 1502. . In one example, the toe side integral rib 1525 can have a maximum thickness of 2 mm or more. In another example, the integral toe rib 1525 may have a maximum thickness of 2.1 mm or greater. In yet another example, the integral toe rib 1525 may have a maximum thickness of 2.4 mm or greater. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include toe side integral ribs 1525 having a maximum thickness of less than 2 mm. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The crown portion 135 may include heel side integral ribs 1530 . Heel integral rib 1530 may extend from front perimeter 1532 of crown 135 to rear perimeter 951 of the crown. Heel side integral rib 1530 may include multiple layers of composite material 1514 . Heel side integral rib 1530 may include two or more layers of composite material disposed between inner layer 1515 and outer layer 1510 of the crown. A heel side integral rib 1530 may extend rearwardly from the forward portion 131 . Heel-side integral rib 1530 may extend rearwardly from a starting position between central vertical plane 1504 and heel-side splitting plane 1503 and terminate at an ending position between heel-side bounding plane 1506 and heel-side splitting plane 1503. . In one example, heel side integral rib 1530 may have a maximum thickness of 2.0 mm or greater. In another example, heel side integral rib 1530 may have a maximum thickness of 2.1 mm or greater. In yet another example, heel side integral rib 1530 may have a maximum thickness of 2.4 mm or greater. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include heel side integral ribs 1530 having a maximum thickness of less than 2 mm. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 135 may include a central integral rib 1535 . A central integral rib 1535 may extend along the front peripheral edge 1532 of the crown portion 135 . Central integral rib 1535 may extend from toe integral rib 1525 to heel integral rib 1530 . The central integral rib 1535 may extend from the forwardmost ends of the toe integral ribs 1525 to the forwardmost ends of the heel integral ribs 1530 . The central integral rib may extend a distance of at least 3 centimeters laterally to the junction 132 formed between the front peripheral edge 1532 of the crown portion 135 and the forward portion 131 of the top portion 130 . Central integral rib 1535 may include multiple layers of composite material 1514 . Central integral rib 1535 may include two or more layers of composite material disposed between inner layer 1515 and outer layer 1510 of crown portion 135 . A central integral rib 1535 may be positioned between the toe-side split plane 1502 and the heel-side split plane 1503 . In one example, central integral rib 1535 may have a maximum thickness of 2.0 mm or greater. In another example, central integral rib 1535 may have a maximum thickness of 2.1 mm or greater. In yet another example, central integral rib 1535 may have a maximum thickness of 2.4 mm or greater. Although the above examples describe specific thicknesses, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a central integral rib 1535 having a maximum thickness of less than 2 mm. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Integral ribs (eg, generally indicated as 1525 , 1530 , 1535 ) can increase the bending strength of crown portion 135 . Integral ribs 1525 , 1530 , 1535 may increase the compressive strength of crown 135 . Integral ribs 1525, 1530, 1535 may reduce outward deflection (eg, bulging) of crown portion 135 in response to impact forces transferred from body portion 110 to crown portion 135 upon impact with a golf ball. can. Integral ribs 1525 , 1530 , 1535 may reduce deflection of crown portion 135 inwardly of the interior cavity of golf club head 100 in response to downward forces applied to the outer surface of crown portion 135 . The inward strain of crown 135 may be easier than the outward strain to measure accurately in a test environment. In certain examples, resistance to inward strain may be correlated with resistance to outward strain. Inward strain can be measured by applying a downward force to the outer surface of the crown and measuring the physical strain with a suitable instrument. In one example, central crown portion 331 may deflect less than 0.025 inches when a downward force of 200 pounds force (lbf) is applied to central crown portion 331 . In another example, central crown portion 331 may deflect less than 0.015 inches when a downward force of 200 lbf is applied to central crown portion 331 . In another example, central crown portion 331 may deflect less than 0.012 inches when a downward force of 200 lbf is applied to central crown portion 331 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Certain rules or regulations imposed by the USGA or other governing bodies may limit the spring effect of certain golf club head designs, materials, or constructions. Accordingly, it may be desirable to minimize the spring effect due to certain sides of the club head to ensure that the club head complies with certain rules or regulations. For example, it may be desirable to minimize the spring effect of crown 135 by stiffening the crown to minimize strain during use. Integral ribs (eg, generally indicated as 1525, 1530, 1535) allow the crown 135 to resist distortion more than similar lightweight crowns without integral ribs. In one example, in response to applying a downward force of 200 lbf to each crown portion, the crown portion 135 with integral ribs can deflect inward about 0.012 inches, while the crown portion without integral ribs can be deflected inwardly by about 0.012 inches. The section can be warped about 0.020 inches. In another example, crown portions 135 with integral ribs (e.g., 2715, 2716, 2717) of fairway wood-based golf club head 2700 in response to applying a downward force of 200 lbf to each crown portion. , may distort inwardly by about 0.007 inches, while the crown portion without integral ribs of a similar golf club head may distort about 0.013 inches. In yet another example, crown portions 1935 with integral ribs (e.g., 1915, 1916, 1917) of hybrid golf club head 1900 may be forced to press 200 lbf of downward force on each crown portion. , may distort inward about 0.005 inches, while the crown portion without integral ribs of a similar golf club head may distort about 0.009 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 18, the crown portion 135 may include central integral ribs 1535 , toe integral ribs 1525 and heel integral ribs 1530 . The integral toe rib 1525 and the integral heel rib 1530 may extend along the crown portion 135 in the front-to-rear direction. In another example, as shown in FIG. 39, integral toe ribs 3925 and integral heel ribs 3930 may extend along crown portion 3930 in a front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 40, the integral toe rib 4025 and the integral heel rib 4030 may narrow and then widen in the front-to-rear direction along the crown portion 4035 . In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 41, integral toe rib 4125 and integral heel rib 4130 may widen in a front-to-rear direction along crown portion 4135 and then narrow. In another example, the integral toe rib and the integral heel rib may be substantially parallel in the front-to-rear direction along the crown. Although shown as a substantially straight portion, the integral toe rib 1525 may include one or more curved portions along its length. Similarly, heel side integral rib 1530 may include one or more curved portions along its length. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 39 is an exploded view of layers 3914 of exemplary crown 3935 prior to execution of the manufacturing process that produces the contoured crown. In one example, crown portion 3935 may replace crown portion 135 of golf club head 100 of FIG. The crown portion 3935 comprises an upper plurality of composite layers 3950, a lower plurality of composite layers 3955, and a crown reinforcement portion 3936 disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers and the lower plurality of composite layers. can contain. The presence of the crown reinforcement 3936 allows for the use of lighter weight thinned sections adjacent to the crown reinforcement 3936, both of which are lighter and/or stronger than crowns of uniform thickness. 3935 can be provided. Thinned portion 1035 can be any area within crown portion 3935 that does not include crown reinforcement 3936 . Crown reinforcement 3936 may include integral toe ribs 3925 and integral heel ribs 3930 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A toe side integral rib 3925 may be positioned between the inner layer 3910 and the outer layer 3915 . Toe integral ribs 3925 may be disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers 3950 and the lower plurality of composite layers 3955 . Toe integral rib 3925 may include one or more layers of composite material 3914 . Toe integral rib 3925 may include two or more layers of composite material 3914 . Toe integral rib 3925 may extend from the front of the crown to the rear of crown 3935 . Toe integral rib 3925 may extend from a position at or near front perimeter 3932 of crown 3935 to a position at or near rear perimeter 3951 of crown 3935 . Toe integral rib 3925 may extend from a location at or near front perimeter 3932 of crown 3935 toward toe perimeter 3933 of crown 3935 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A heel side integral rib 3930 may be disposed between the inner layer 3910 and the outer layer 3915 . A heel side integral rib 3930 may be disposed between an upper plurality of composite layers 3950 and a lower plurality of composite layers 3955 . Heel side integral rib 3930 may include one or more layers of composite material 3914 . Heel side integral rib 3930 may include two or more layers of composite material 3914 . A heel side integral rib 3930 may extend from a front portion of the crown portion 3935 to a rear portion of the crown portion 3935 . Heel integral rib 3930 may extend from a location at or near front perimeter 3932 of crown 3935 to a location at or near rear perimeter 3951 of crown 3935 . The integral heel rib 3930 may extend from a location at or near the front perimeter 3932 of the crown 3935 toward the heel perimeter 3931 of the crown 3935 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Toe integral rib 3925 and heel integral rib 3930 may diverge in a front-to-rear direction at crown portion 3935 . The upper plurality of composite layers 3950 can be similar to the upper plurality of composite layers 1850 described herein. The lower plurality of composite layers 3955 can be similar to the lower plurality of composite layers 1855 described herein. Outer layer 3910 can be similar to outer layer 1810 described herein. The inner layer 3915 can be similar to the outer layer 1815 described herein. Crown portion 3935 may be incorporated into any golf club head (eg, 100) described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

During manufacture of the crown portion 3935, multiple composite plies 3914 as shown in FIG. 39 may be placed in a contoured formwork. To form contoured composite crown 3935, pressure may be applied to layers 3914 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. To form crown 3935, heat may be applied to layer 3914 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. Composite ply 3914 may be pressed against the contoured surface of the mold to produce a raised central crown and a contoured transition region adjacent to the raised central crown. Each subsequent composite layer in the stack of composite layers forming crown reinforcement region 3936 is progressively wider (eg, in descending order within the stack) to ensure a smooth transition region adjacent to the raised central crown. resulting in a smooth transition region in the manufactured crown portion 3935 . In the example shown in FIG. 39, each composite layer of integral toe ribs 3925 may have a toe width (wT). Each composite layer of integral heel rib 3930 may have a heel width (wH). In one example, a composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 1% greater than an adjacent composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 . In another example, a composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 5% greater than an adjacent composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 . In yet another example, a composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 10% greater than an adjacent composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 . In yet another example, a composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 15% greater than an adjacent composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 . In yet another example, a composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 30% greater than an adjacent composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 3925 or 3930 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of the layers of exemplary crown 4035 prior to execution of the manufacturing process that produces the contoured crown. In one example, crown portion 4035 may replace crown portion 135 of golf club head 100 of FIG. The crown portion 4035 comprises an upper plurality of composite layers 4050, a lower plurality of composite layers 4055, and a crown reinforcement portion 4036 disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers and the lower plurality of composite layers. can contain. The presence of crown reinforcement 4036 allows for the use of lighter weight thinned sections adjacent to crown reinforcement 4036, both of which are lighter and/or stronger than crown sections 4035 having uniform thickness. can provide A thinned portion can be any area within crown portion 4035 that does not include crown reinforcement 4036 . The crown reinforcement 4036 may include integral toe ribs 4025 and integral heel ribs 4030 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A toe side integral rib 4025 may be positioned between the inner layer 4015 and the outer layer 4010 . The toe integral ribs 4025 may be disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers 4050 and the lower plurality of composite layers 4055 . Toe integral rib 4025 may include one or more layers of composite material 4014 . Toe integral rib 4025 may include two or more layers of composite material 4014 . Toe integral rib 4025 may extend from the front portion of crown portion 4035 to the rear portion of crown portion 4035 . Toe integral rib 4025 may extend from a position at or near front perimeter 4032 of crown 4035 to a position at or near rear perimeter 4051 of crown 4035 . Toe integral rib 4025 may extend from a location at or near front perimeter 4032 of crown 4035 toward toe perimeter 4033 of crown 4035 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A heel side integral rib 4030 may be disposed between the inner layer 4015 and the outer layer 4010 . A heel side integral rib 4030 may be disposed between an upper plurality of composite layers 4050 and a lower plurality of composite layers 4055 . Heel side integral rib 4030 may include one or more layers of composite material 4014 . Heel side integral rib 4030 may include two or more layers of composite material 4014 . The heel side integral rib 4030 may extend from the front portion of the crown portion 4035 to the rear portion of the crown portion 4035 . Heel integral rib 4030 may extend from a location at or near front perimeter 4032 of crown 4035 to a location at or near rear perimeter 4051 of crown 4035 . The integral heel rib 4030 may extend from a location at or near the front perimeter 4032 of the crown 4035 toward the heel perimeter 4031 of the crown 4035 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The integral toe rib 4025 and the integral heel rib 4030 may narrow and then widen in the front-to-rear direction at the crown portion 4035 . The toe integral rib 4025 may have a narrowing front portion and a widening rear portion. The heel side integral rib 4030 may have a narrowing front portion and a widening rear portion. The upper plurality of composite layers 4050 can be similar to the upper plurality of composite layers 1850 described herein. The lower plurality of composite layers 4055 can be similar to the lower plurality of composite layers 1855 described herein. Outer layer 4010 can be similar to outer layer 1810 described herein. The inner layer 4015 can be similar to the outer layer 1815 described herein. Crown portion 4035 may be incorporated into any golf club head (eg, 100) described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

During manufacture of crown 4035, multiple composite plies 4014 as shown in FIG. 40 may be placed in a contoured formwork. To form contoured composite crown 4035, pressure may be applied to layers 4014 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. To form crown 4035, heat may be applied to layer 4014 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. Composite ply 4014 may be pressed against the contoured surface of the mold to produce a raised central crown and a contoured transition region adjacent to the raised central crown. Each subsequent composite layer in the stack of composite layers forming crown reinforcement region 4036 is progressively wider (eg, in descending order within the stack) to ensure a smooth transition region adjacent to the raised central crown. resulting in a smooth transition region in the manufactured crown 4035 . In the example shown in FIG. 40, each composite layer of integral toe ribs 4025 may have a toe width (wT). Each composite layer of integral heel rib 4030 may have a heel width (wH). In one example, a composite layer 4014 within an integral rib 4025 or 4030 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 1% greater than an adjacent composite layer 4014 within an integral rib 4025 or 4030. In another example, a composite layer 4014 within an integral rib 4025 or 4030 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 5% greater than an adjacent composite layer 4014 within an integral rib 4025 or 4030. In yet another example, a composite layer 4014 within an integral rib 4025 or 4030 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 10% greater than an adjacent composite layer 4014 within an integral rib 4025 or 4030. In yet another example, the composite layer 4014 within the integral ribs 4025 or 4030 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 15% greater than the adjacent composite layer 3914 within the integral ribs 4025 or 4030. In yet another example, a composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 4025 or 4030 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 30% greater than an adjacent composite layer 3914 within integral ribs 4025 or 4030. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of the layers of exemplary crown 4135 prior to execution of the manufacturing process that produces the contoured crown. In one example, crown portion 4135 may replace crown portion 135 of golf club head 100 of FIG. The crown portion 4135 comprises an upper plurality of composite layers 4150, a lower plurality of composite layers 4155, and a crown reinforcement portion 4136 disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers and the lower plurality of composite layers. can contain. The presence of the crown reinforcement 4136 allows for the utilization of lighter weight thinned sections adjacent to the crown reinforcement 4136, both of which are lighter and/or thinner than a crown of uniform thickness (e.g., 4835). A strong crown 4135 may be provided. A thinned portion can be any area within crown portion 4135 that does not include crown reinforcement 4136 . The crown reinforcement 4136 may include integral toe ribs 4125 and integral heel ribs 4130 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A toe side integral rib 4125 may be disposed between the inner layer 4115 and the outer layer 4110 . The toe integral ribs 4125 may be disposed between the upper plurality of composite layers 4150 and the lower plurality of composite layers 4155 . Toe integral rib 4125 may include one or more layers of composite material 4114 . Toe integral rib 4125 may include two or more layers of composite material 4114 . Toe integral rib 4125 may extend from the front portion of crown portion 4135 to the rear portion of the crown portion. The integral toe rib 4125 may extend from a position at or near the front perimeter 4132 of the crown 4135 to a position at or near the rear perimeter 4151 of the crown 4135 . Toe integral rib 4125 may extend from a location at or near front perimeter 4132 of crown 4135 toward toe perimeter 4133 of crown 4135 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A heel side integral rib 4130 may be disposed between the inner layer 4115 and the outer layer 4110 . A heel side integral rib 4130 may be disposed between an upper plurality of composite layers 4150 and a lower plurality of composite layers 4155 . Heel side integral rib 4130 may include one or more layers of composite material 4114 . Heel side integral rib 4130 may include two or more layers of composite material 4114 . The heel side integral rib 4130 may extend from the front portion of the crown portion 4135 to the rear portion of the crown portion. Heel integral rib 4130 may extend from a position at or near front perimeter 4132 of crown 4135 to a position at or near rear perimeter 4151 of crown 4135 . The integral heel rib 4130 may extend from a location at or near the front perimeter 4132 of the crown 4135 toward the heel perimeter 4131 of the crown 4135 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Toe integral rib 4125 and heel integral rib 4130 may widen and then narrow in the front-to-rear direction at crown portion 4135 . The toe integral rib 4125 may have a widening front portion and a narrowing rear portion. The heel side integral rib 4130 may have a widening front portion and a narrowing rear portion. The upper plurality of composite layers 4150 can be similar to the upper plurality of composite layers 1850 described herein. The lower plurality of composite layers 4155 can be similar to the lower plurality of composite layers 1855 described herein. Outer layer 4110 can be similar to outer layer 1810 described herein. The inner layer 4115 can be similar to the outer layer 1815 described herein. Crown portion 4135 may be incorporated into any golf club head described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

During manufacture of crown 4135, multiple composite plies 4114 as shown in FIG. 41 may be placed in a contoured mold. To form contoured composite crown 4135, pressure may be applied to layers 4114 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. To form crown 4035, heat may be applied to layer 4114 to promote bonding between adjacent layers. Composite ply 4114 may be pressed against the contoured surface of the mold to produce a raised central crown and a contoured transition region adjacent to the raised central crown. Each subsequent composite layer in the stack of composite layers forming crown reinforcement region 4136 is progressively wider (eg, in descending order within the stack) to ensure a smooth transition region adjacent to the raised central crown. resulting in a smooth transition region in the manufactured crown 4135 . In the example shown in FIG. 41, each composite layer of integral toe ribs 4125 may have a toe width (wT). Each composite layer of integral heel rib 4130 may have a heel width (wH). In one example, composite layers 4114 within integral ribs (eg, 4125, 4130) can have widths (eg, wH or wT) that are at least 1% greater than adjacent composite layers 4114 within integral ribs. In another example, a composite layer 4114 within integral ribs 4125 or 4130 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 5% greater than an adjacent composite layer 4114 within integral ribs 4125 or 4130 . In yet another example, a composite layer 4114 within integral ribs 4125 or 4130 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 10% greater than an adjacent composite layer 4114 within integral ribs 4125 or 4130 . In yet another example, the composite layer 4114 within the integral ribs 4125 or 4130 can have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 15% greater than the adjacent composite layer 1514 within the integral ribs 4125 or 4130. In yet another example, a composite layer 4114 within integral ribs 4125 or 4130 may have a width (eg, wH or wT) that is at least 30% greater than an adjacent composite layer 4114 within integral ribs 4125 or 4130 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The body portion 110 may include protrusions 141, for example, as shown in FIG. Protrusions 141 may function to lower the CG of golf club head 100 . Protrusions 141 may function to shift the CG from face portion 175 toward rear portion 180 . The protruding portion 141 may have an arcuate shape that follows the contour of the rear portion 180 of the body portion 110 . Protrusions 141 may extend from skirt portion 190 . A protrusion 141 may extend from the bottom portion 140 . Protrusions 141 may extend from rear portion 180 . Protrusions 141 may extend from bottom portion 140 and skirt portion 190 . Protrusions 141 may extend from rear portion 180 and bottom portion 140 . Protrusions 141 may extend from rear portion 180 and skirt portion 190 . Protrusions 141 may extend from bottom portion 140 , skirt portion 190 and rear portion 180 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Protrusion 141 may extend a distance 746 beyond rear perimeter 951 of crown 135, as shown in FIG. In one example, protrusion 141 may extend rearwardly beyond rear perimeter 951 of crown 135 by at least 2 mm. In another example, protrusion 141 may extend rearwardly beyond rear perimeter 951 of crown 135 by at least 3 mm. In yet another example, protrusion 141 may extend rearwardly beyond rear perimeter 951 of crown 135 by at least 5 mm. The protrusion 141 may be located in the rear half of the golf club head 100 . Protrusion 141 may extend from toe portion 150 to heel portion 160 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Projection 141 may include a toe-side portion 281 proximate to toe 150 . A toe-side portion 281 of the protrusion 141 may include a toe-side perimeter 283 extending from the protrusion 141 to the bottom portion 140 . Protrusion 141 may include a heel side portion 282 proximate heel portion 160 . A heel side portion 282 of the protrusion 141 may include a heel side rim 284 that extends from the protrusion 141 to the bottom portion 140 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A neutral axis 706 of golf club head 100 may intersect protrusion 141 as shown in FIG. A portion of protrusion 141 may be positioned above neutral axis 706 . A portion of protrusion 141 may be positioned below neutral axis 706 . Protrusion 141 may be concave with respect to forward vertical plane 715 . Projection 141 may be concave with respect to front portion 170 . Protrusion 141 may be concave with respect to face portion 175 . Protrusions 141 may conform to the contours of rear portion 180 . Protrusion 141 may have a bottom surface 290 defining a first plane parallel to the second plane, the second plane including neutral axis 706 and perpendicular to central vertical plane 1504 . be. The protrusion 141 may be located in the rear third of the golf club head 100 . The protrusion 141 may be positioned below the horizontal center plane 705 of the golf club head 100 . Horizontal center plane 705 may be parallel to ground plane 710 and vertically offset and intersect geometric center 176 of face portion 175 . Geometric center 176 may correspond to the midpoint of face portion 175 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Due to the location and mass of protrusions 141, golf club head 100 may have a relatively low CG compared to other golf club heads. A lower CG height may result in relatively less ball spin, which may be desirable for some. In one example, the CG may be positioned along or proximate to the neutral axis 706 of the golf club head 100 . In another example, the CG can be positioned below the neutral axis 706, as shown in FIG. The CG can be positioned within 0.2 inches below the neutral axis 706 . The CG may be positioned between about 0.1 inch and about 0.2 inch below the neutral axis 706 . The CG may be positioned at least 0.1 inch below the neutral axis 706. The CG can be positioned at least 0.15 inches below the neutral axis 706 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Protrusions 141 may include one or more weight port regions. Each weight port region may contain one or more weight ports. In one example, protrusion 141 may include weight port region 230 . A weight port region 230 may be formed on the bottom surface 290 of the protrusion. Weight port region 230 may include a set of weight ports 231 (eg, shown generally as weight ports 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237). At least one of the weight ports may be formed in the toe side portion 281 of the protrusion 141 . Two or more of the weight ports may be formed in the toe side portion 281 of the protrusion 141 . At least one of the weight ports may be formed in the heel portion 282 of the protrusion. Two or more of the weight ports may be formed in the heel portion 282 of the protrusion. More than two weight ports may be formed in the heel portion 282 of the protrusion. Weight ports 231 may be positioned along arc 245 . Arc 245 may follow the contour of rear portion 180 . Arc 245 may be concave with respect to forward vertical plane 715 . Weight port region 230 may extend more than 50% of the maximum toe-to-heel club head distance. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 100 may include a plurality of weights, shown as set of weights 261 (generally shown as weights 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267). One or more weight ports in the set of weight ports 231 can accept a weight portion. Each of the weights can be associated with a mass. In one example, the weight portion may be made of a tungsten-based material. In another example, the weight portion may be made of an aluminum-based material. Further by way of example, one or more weight ports in the set of weight ports 231 may not include a weight portion. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 13, one or more weight ports (e.g., 233, 236) may include openings that access the interior volume of golf club head 100, allowing the interior volume of golf club head 100 to be filled. Addition of material can be facilitated. In one example, the interior volume of golf club head 100 may be completely filled with the filler material. In another example, the interior volume of golf club head 100 may be partially filled with a filler material. In further examples, the interior volume of the golf club head may not be filled with filler material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The filler material may be a resilient polymer or elastomeric material (e.g., a viscoelastic material such as Sorbothane® manufactured by Sorbothane, Inc., Kent, Ohio) to absorb shock, isolate vibration, and/or attenuate noise. urethane polymer materials), thermoplastic elastomer materials (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane materials (TPU), and/or other suitable types of materials. In another example, the filler material includes high density ethylene copolymer ionomers, fatty acid modified ethylene copolymer ionomers, high amorphous ethylene copolymer ionomers, ethylene acid acrylate terpolymer ionomers, magnesium ionomers. Ethylene copolymers, injection moldable ethylene copolymers used in conventional injection molding equipment to produce various shapes, ethylene copolymers usable in conventional extrusion equipment to produce various shapes, and/or thermosetting. It can be an ethylene copolymer with high compressibility and low resilience similar to polybutadiene rubber. For example, ethylene copolymers are available from E.I. I. Relating to the DuPont ^™ High Performance Resin (HPF) family of materials (e.g., DuPont ^™ HPF AD1172, DuPont ^™ HPF AD1035, DuPont® HPF 1000, and DuPont ^™ HPF 2000) manufactured by du Pont de Nemours and Company. may include any of the ethylene copolymers that The DuPont ^™ HPF family of ethylene copolymers are injection moldable, can be used with conventional injection molding equipment and molds, and offer low compressibility and high resilience. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

characteristics of each weight portion of the plurality of weight portions and each weight port of the plurality of weight ports (e.g., density, shape, volume, size, color, dimensions, depth, diameter, materials of construction, mass, method of formation, etc.); /or any other characteristics may be similar in many respects to each of the weight portions and weight ports of any golf club head described herein. In one example, the weight ports and weight portions of the golf club heads of FIGS. 1-14 each have dimensions (e.g., length, width, diameter , depth, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The set of weights 261 (eg, shown generally as weights 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267) may have similar or different masses. For those who use the golf club head 100 to adjust the overall mass at the weight port region 230 and/or the mass distribution at the weight port region 230 by using weight portions with similar or different masses at each weight port. Additionally, the swing weight, center of gravity, moment of inertia, and/or overall feel of the golf club head 100 can generally be optimized and/or adjusted. In one example, the set of weights 261 may collectively have a mass of at least 8 grams. In another example, the set of weights 261 may collectively have a mass of at least 12 grams. In yet another example, the set of weights 261 may collectively have a mass in the range of 8 grams to 13 grams. In yet another example, the set of weights 261 may collectively have a mass in the range of 12 grams to 16 grams. In yet another example, the set of weights 261 may collectively have a mass in the range of 15 grams to 19 grams. In yet another example, the set of weights 261 may collectively have a mass in the range of 18 grams to 22 grams. Although the above examples describe specific masses, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein include a set of weights 261 having a total mass of less than 8 grams or greater than 19 grams. obtain. Additionally, the protrusions 141 in combination with the set of weights 261 can have a mass of at least 15 grams. In another example, the protrusions 141 in combination with the set of weights 261 can have a mass of at least 18 grams. In yet another example, protrusions 141 in combination with set of weights 261 can have a mass of at least 24 grams. Although the above examples describe specific masses, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include protrusions 141 having a total mass of less than 15 grams in combination with set of weights 261. . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

One or more of the weight ports 231 may have a vertical, rearwardly angled axis. As shown by way of example in FIG. 9, the weight port 236 may have an axis 936 that is vertically angled back at an angle 938 . The rearward angled orientation of weight port 236 with respect to forward vertical plane 715 may position weight portion 266 lower than if weight port 236 were perpendicular to bottom portion 140 . The rearward angled orientation of weight ports 236 can lower the CG of golf club head 100 . The rearward angled orientation of the weight port 236 can shift the CG of the golf club head 100 rearward. In one example, angle 938 can be at least 5 degrees. In another example, angle 938 can be at least 10 degrees. In yet another example, angle 938 can be at least 15 degrees. Although the above examples describe specific angles, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include weight ports 236 having a rearward tilt orientation of less than 5 degrees. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Outer surface 142 and/or inner surface 144 of bottom portion 140 may include one or more inner supports (not shown) and/or one or more outer supports (not shown). Bottom portion 140 may have a thickness 145 of less than 1 mm. Bottom portion 140 may have a thickness 145 of less than 0.7 mm. Bottom portion 140 may have a thickness 145 of less than 0.6 mm. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Certain regions inside the body portion 110 of the golf club head 100 may include a resilient polymeric or elastomeric material, which may be referred to herein as a filler material. The filler material may dampen vibrations, dampen noise, lower the center of gravity, and/or provide a better feel and sound in response to golf club head 100 striking a golf ball. Golf club head 100 may have one or more interior regions that may include filler materials described herein. In one example, the filler material is injected into body portion 110 through one or more weight ports (eg, generally indicated as weight portions 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237), as described herein. can be The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Although crown portion 135 is shown in conjunction with a driver-based golf club head in certain figures, it is not so limited. Crown portion 135 may be resized for use with hybrid golf club heads, such as those shown in FIGS. 19-26, and fairway wood golf club heads, such as those shown in FIGS. 27-34. Any of the golf club heads described herein may include a crown having crown reinforcements described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein may include a crown portion having one or more integral ribs described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein may include a crown portion having a toe crown portion and a heel crown portion described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein can include a crown portion having a central crown portion, a toe side crown portion, and a heel side crown portion as described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein may include a crown portion having one or more contoured transition regions described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein may include the multi-level crown portion described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein may include a raised central crown portion described herein. Any of the golf club heads described herein can include a crown portion having a multi-layered composite structure described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

19 to 26 and 37, the hybrid golf club head 1900 includes a top portion 1930, a crown portion 1935, a bottom portion 1940, a toe portion 1950, a heel portion 1960, a front portion 1970, A body portion 1910 having a rear portion 1980 may be included. Bottom portion 1940 extends across the periphery of golf club head 1900 from toe portion 1950 around rear portion 1980 to heel portion 1960 between top portion 1930 and bottom portion 1940 , except for front portion 1970 . A skirt portion 1990 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 1900 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 1900 may not include skirt portion 1990 . The front portion 1970 may include a face portion 1975 that strikes a golf ball (not shown). Face portion 1975 may be integral with body portion 1910 or may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to front portion 1970 to seal an opening in front portion 1970 . Body portion 1910 may also include a hosel portion 1965 configured to receive the shaft portion. Hosel portion 1965 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 1965 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 1910 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 1965 . Body portion 1910 may be made partially or wholly from any material described herein. Further, golf club head 1900 may be any type of golf club head having a club head volume similar to that of any golf club head described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Top portion 1930 may include forward portion 1911 extending between front portion 1970 and crown portion 1935 . In one example, the forward portion 1911 can extend a distance 2434 of at least 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In another example, forward portion 1911 may extend a distance 2434 of at least 16 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, forward portion 1911 may extend a distance 2434 of at least 20 mm in the front-to-rear direction. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a forward portion that extends a distance of at least less than 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. Forward portion 1911 may increase the structural integrity of golf club head 1900 and resist backward deflection of front portion 1970 upon impact with a golf ball. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 1935 may include central crown portion 1931 . Crown portion 1935 may include toe crown portion 1932 . Crown portion 1935 may include heel side crown portion 1933 . A first contoured transition region 1921 may separate the central crown portion 1931 and the toe crown portion 1932 . A second contoured transition region 1922 may separate the central crown portion 1931 and the heel side crown portion 1933 . Crown portion 1935 may include central integral rib 1915 , toe integral rib 1916 , and heel integral rib 1917 . Central integral rib 1915 may be positioned within crown 1935 near front perimeter 1903 of the crown. Toe integral rib 1916 may be positioned in crown portion 1935 near first contoured transition region 1921 . A heel side integral rib 1917 may be positioned in the crown portion 1935 near the second contoured transition region 1922 . Toe crown 1932 may be bounded by front perimeter 1903 of crown 1935 , toe perimeter 1901 of crown, and first contoured transition region 1921 . Heel crown 1933 may be bounded by front perimeter 1903 , crown heel perimeter 1902 , and second contoured transition region 1922 . Central crown portion 1931 may extend between first contoured transition region 1921 and second contoured transition region 1922 . The central crown 2731 may be bounded by the crown rear perimeter 1904 . In one example, central crown portion 1931 can have a surface area greater than 2 square inches. In another example, central crown portion 1931 may have a surface area in the range of 2-4 square inches. In yet another example, central crown portion 1931 can have a surface area in the range of 2.2 to 3.5 square inches. In yet another example, central crown portion 1931 can have a surface area in the range of 2.5 to 3.2 square inches. In one example, toe crown 1932 can have a surface area in the range of 0.2 to 1.5 square inches. In another example, toe crown 1932 may have a surface area in the range of 0.2 to 1.2 square inches. In yet another example, toe crown portion 1932 may have a surface area in the range of 0.3 to 0.8 square inches. In yet another example, toe crown 1932 may have a surface area in the range of 0.4 to 0.5 square inches. Although the above examples describe specific surface areas, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include toe crown portion 1932 having a surface area greater than 4 square inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 37, hybrid golf club head 1900 is shown prior to attachment of crown portion 1935 . Crown portion 1935 may be attached to shoulder portion 3701 of top portion 1930 . Shoulder portion 3701 may extend along all or part of the opening of top portion 1930 . Shoulder portion 3701 may support crown portion 1935 . In one example, shoulder portion 3701 may extend a distance 3702 of at least 2 mm inwardly toward the opening of top portion 1930 . In another example, shoulder 3701 can extend a distance 3702 of at least 6 mm. In yet another example, shoulder 3701 can extend a distance 3702 of at least 8 mm. In yet another example, shoulder 3701 may extend a distance 3702 ranging from 2 mm to 8 mm. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are suitable for shoulder portions 3701 that extend a distance 3702 of less than 2 mm inward toward the opening of the top portion 1930. can include Shoulder portion 3701 can be a continuous portion surrounding the opening of top portion 1930 . Alternatively, shoulder 3701 may include one or more separate shoulders arranged to support crown 1935 . In another example, shoulder portion 3701 may include a plurality of tabs arranged to support crown portion 1935 . In yet another example, shoulder portion 3701 may be omitted and crown portion 1935 may be adhered to the outer surface of top portion 1930 or the inner surface of top portion 1930 . In yet another example, shoulder 3701 may be omitted and crown 1935 may include a protrusion extending from the bottom surface of crown 1935 that provides an interference fit with the peripheral edge of the opening. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 37, an insert 3750 may be provided within the interior region of golf club head 1900 . The insert 3750 can damp vibrations within the golf club head 1900 resulting from impact with a golf ball and can improve the sound or feel perceived by a person. The insert 3750 may be made of a resilient polymer or elastomeric material (eg, a viscous material such as Sorbothane® manufactured by Sorbothane Inc., Kent, Ohio) to absorb shock, isolate vibration, and/or attenuate noise. elastic urethane polymer material), thermoplastic elastomer material (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane material (TPU), and/or other suitable types of materials. In another example, the insert 3750 includes a high density ethylene copolymer ionomer, a fatty acid modified ethylene copolymer ionomer, a high amorphous ethylene copolymer ionomer, an ethylene acid acrylate terpolymer ionomer, a magnesium ionomer. injection moldable ethylene copolymers that can be used in conventional injection molding equipment to create various shapes; ethylene copolymers that can be used in conventional extrusion equipment to create various shapes; It can be a highly compressible and low resilience ethylene copolymer similar to curable polybutadiene rubber. For example, ethylene copolymers are available from E.I. I. Relating to the DuPont ^™ High Performance Resin (HPF) family of materials (e.g., DuPont ^™ HPF AD1172, DuPont ^™ HPF AD1035, DuPont® HPF 1000, and DuPont ^™ HPF 2000) manufactured by du Pont de Nemours and Company. may include any of the ethylene copolymers that The DuPont ^™ HPF family of ethylene copolymers are injection moldable, can be used with conventional injection molding equipment and molds, and offer low compressibility and high resilience. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The insert 3750 may be bonded, coupled to the golf club head 1900 by a bond (not shown) to improve adhesion and/or reduce delamination between the body portion of the golf club head 1900 and the insert 3750. and/or connected. In one example, insert 3750 can be coupled, coupled, and/or connected to the inner surface of bottom portion 1940 . The bond may be a binder, an epoxy resin, a combination of binders, a bond structure or connector, a combination of bond structures and/or connectors, and/or one or more binders and/or one or more It can be a combination of coupling structures and/or one or more connectors. In one example, the bond may be a low viscosity organic solvent based solution and/or polymer and other reactive materials such as MEGUM ^™ , ROBOND ^™ , and/or THIXON ^™ materials available from The Dow Chemical Company of Auburn Hills, Michigan. It can be a chemical dispersion. In another example, the coupling can be LOCTITE® manufactured by Henkel Corporation, Rocky Hill, Connecticut. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

Golf club head 1900 may include a set of weight ports (eg, 2032-2039) located in bottom portion 1940 of golf club head 1900. As shown in FIG. Each weight port may include a weight portion (eg, 2070-2077). The set of weight ports may include a first set of weight ports 2001 , a second set of weight ports 2002 and a third set of weight ports 2003 . A first set of weight ports 2001 may be positioned closer to the front portion 1970 than to the rear portion 1980 . A second set of weight ports 2002 may be positioned closer to heel portion 1960 than toe portion 1950 . A second set of weight ports 2002 may be positioned closer to the rear portion 1980 than the front portion 1970 . The second set of weight ports 2002 may be positioned closer to the rear portion 1980 than the first set of weight ports 2001 . Second set of weight ports 2002 may have at least one weight port closer to toe 1950 than any weight port in first set of weight ports 2001 . A third set of weight ports 2003 may be positioned closer to the toe portion 1950 than the heel portion 1960 . A third set of weight ports 2003 may be positioned closer to the rear portion 1980 than the front portion 1970 . The third set of weight ports 2003 may be positioned closer to the rear section 1980 than the first set of weight ports 2001 . The third set of weight ports 2003 may have weight ports closer to the heel 1960 than any weight port in the first set of weight ports 2001 . A first set of weight ports 2001 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 3.5 grams or more. A first set of weight ports 2001 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 4 grams or more. A second set of weight ports 2002 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 0.5 grams or more. The second set of weight ports 2002 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of approximately 0.75 grams or greater. A third set of weight ports 2003 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 0.5 grams or more. A third set of weight ports 2003 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 0.75 grams or more. The second set of weight ports 2002 and the third set of weight ports 2003 may collectively have the same number of weight ports as the first set of weight ports 2001 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

The insert 3750 may extend from the first set of weight ports 2001 toward the rear portion 1980 of the golf club head 1900, as shown in FIG. The insert 3750 may extend from the first set of weight ports 2001 to the rear portion 1980 of the golf club head 1900 . The insert 3750 may extend between the second set of weight ports 2002 and the third set of weight ports 2003 . The insert 3750 may extend between the first set of weight ports 2001 , the second set of weight ports 2002 and the third set of weight ports 2003 . The insert 3750 can include a plurality of hexagonal holes that extend through or partially through the thickness of the insert 3750 . The hexagonal holes can be arranged in the insert 3750 to define a pattern similar to a honeycomb pattern. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

27 to 34 and 38, the fairway wood golf club head 2700 includes a top portion 2730, a crown portion 2735, a bottom portion 2740, a toe portion 2750, a heel portion 2760, and a front portion 2770. , and a rear portion 2780 . Bottom portion 2740 extends across the perimeter of golf club head 2700 from toe portion 2750 around rear portion 2780 to heel portion 2760 , with the exception of front portion 2770 , between top portion 2730 and bottom portion 2740 . A skirt portion 2790 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 2700 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 2700 may not include skirt portion 2790 . The front portion 2770 may include a face portion 2775 that strikes a golf ball (not shown). Face portion 2775 may be integral with body portion 2710 or may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to front portion 2770 to seal an opening in front portion 2770 . Body portion 2710 may also include a hosel portion 2765 configured to receive the shaft portion. Hosel portion 2765 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 2765 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 2710 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 2765 . Body portion 2710 may be made partially or wholly from any material described herein. Further, golf club head 2700 may be any type of golf club head having a club head volume similar to that of any golf club head described herein. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

Top portion 2730 may include forward portion 2711 extending between front portion 2770 and crown portion 2735 . In one example, forward portion 2711 may extend a distance 3234 of at least 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In another example, forward portion 1911 may extend a distance 3234 of at least 16 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, forward portion 2711 may extend a distance 3234 of at least 20 mm in the front-to-rear direction. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a forward portion that extends a distance of at least less than 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. Forward portion 2711 may increase the structural integrity of golf club head 2700 and resist backward deflection of front portion 2770 upon impact with a golf ball. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Crown portion 2735 may include central crown portion 2731 . Crown portion 2735 may include toe crown portion 2732 . Crown portion 2735 may include heel side crown portion 2733 . A first contoured transition region 2721 may separate the central crown portion 2731 and the toe crown portion 2732 . A second contoured transition region 2722 may separate the central crown portion 2731 and the heel side crown portion 2733 . Crown portion 2735 may include a central integral rib 2715 . Crown portion 2735 may include toe side integral ribs 2716 . Crown portion 2735 may include heel side integral ribs 2717 . Central integral rib 2715 may be positioned within crown 2735 near front perimeter 2703 of the crown. Toe integral rib 2716 may be positioned in crown portion 2735 near first contoured transition region 2721 . A heel side integral rib 2717 may be positioned in the crown portion 2735 near the second contoured transition region 2722 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

Central crown portion 2731 may extend between first contoured transition region 2721 and second contoured transition region 2722 . Central crown 2731 may be bounded by rear perimeter 2704 of crown 2735 . Central crown portion 2731 may be bounded by front perimeter edge 2703 of crown portion 2735 . Central crown 2731 may be raised relative to toe crown 2732 . Central crown 2731 may be raised relative to heel crown 2733 . In one example, the central crown portion 2731 can have a surface area greater than 3 square inches. In another example, central crown portion 2731 may have a surface area in the range of 2.5 to 6 square inches. In yet another example, central crown portion 2731 may have a surface area in the range of 3.0 to 4.5 square inches. In yet another example, central crown portion 2731 may have a surface area in the range of 3.2 to 4.2 square inches. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

Toe crown 2732 may be bounded by front perimeter 2703 of crown 2735 . Toe crown 2732 may be bounded by toe perimeter 2701 of crown 2735 . The toe crown 2732 may be bounded by a first contoured transition region 2721 . In one example, the toe crown portion 2732 can have a surface area in the range of 0.4 to 2.3 square inches. In another example, toe crown 2732 may have a surface area in the range of 0.8 to 1.5 square inches. In yet another example, the toe crown portion 2732 can have a surface area in the range of 1.0 to 1.4 square inches. In yet another example, the toe crown portion 2732 can have a surface area in the range of 1.1 to 1.3 square inches. Although the above examples describe specific surface areas, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a toe crown portion 2732 having a surface area greater than 2.3 square inches. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

Heel crown 2733 may be bounded by front perimeter 2703 of crown 2735 . Heel side crown portion 2733 may be bounded by heel side perimeter 2702 of crown portion 2735 . Heel crown 2733 may be bounded by a second contoured transition region 2722 . In one example, heel crown 2733 may have a surface area of less than 2 square inches. In another example, heel crown 2733 may have a surface area in the range of 0.2 to 1 square inch. In yet another example, heel crown 2733 may have a surface area in the range of 0.2 to 0.8 square inches. In yet another example, heel crown 2733 may have a surface area in the range of 0.3 to 0.6 square inches. Although the above examples describe specific surface areas, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include heel crown 2733 having a surface area greater than 2 square inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 38, insert 3850 may be provided within the interior region of golf club head 2700 . The insert 3850 can damp vibrations within the golf club head 2700 resulting from impact with a golf ball and can improve the sound or feel perceived by a person. The insert 3850 may be made of a resilient polymer or elastomeric material (eg, a viscous material such as Sorbothane® manufactured by Sorbothane, Inc., Kent, Ohio) to absorb shock, isolate vibration, and/or dampen noise. elastic urethane polymer material), thermoplastic elastomer material (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane material (TPU), and/or other suitable types of materials. In another example, the insert 3850 includes a high density ethylene copolymer ionomer, a fatty acid modified ethylene copolymer ionomer, a high amorphous ethylene copolymer ionomer, an ethylene acid acrylate terpolymer ionomer, a magnesium ionomer. injection moldable ethylene copolymers that can be used in conventional injection molding equipment to create various shapes; ethylene copolymers that can be used in conventional extrusion equipment to create various shapes; It can be a highly compressible and low resilience ethylene copolymer similar to curable polybutadiene rubber. For example, ethylene copolymers are available from E.I. I. Relating to the DuPont ^™ High Performance Resin (HPF) family of materials (e.g., DuPont ^™ HPF AD1172, DuPont ^™ HPF AD1035, DuPont® HPF 1000, and DuPont ^™ HPF 2000) manufactured by du Pont de Nemours and Company. may include any of the ethylene copolymers that The DuPont ^™ HPF family of ethylene copolymers are injection moldable, can be used with conventional injection molding equipment and molds, and offer low compressibility and high resilience. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The insert 3850 may be bonded, coupled to the golf club head 2700 by a bond (not shown) to improve adhesion and/or reduce delamination between the body portion of the golf club head 2700 and the insert 3850. and/or connected. In one example, the insert 3850 can be coupled, coupled and/or connected to the inner surface of the bottom portion 2740 . The bond may be a binder, an epoxy resin, a combination of binders, a bond structure or connector, a combination of bond structures and/or connectors, and/or one or more binders and/or one or more It can be a combination of coupling structures and/or one or more connectors. In one example, the bond may be a low viscosity organic solvent based solution and/or polymer and other reactive materials such as MEGUM ^™ , ROBOND ^™ , and/or THIXON ^™ materials available from The Dow Chemical Company of Auburn Hills, Michigan. It can be a chemical dispersion. In another example, the coupling can be LOCTITE® manufactured by Henkel Corporation, Rocky Hill, Connecticut. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

Golf club head 2700 may include a set of weight ports (eg, 2832-2839) located in bottom portion 2740 of golf club head 2700. As shown in FIG. The set of weight ports may include a first plurality of weight ports 2801 . The set of weight ports may include a second plurality of weight ports 2802 . The set of weight ports may include a third plurality of weight ports 2803 . Each weight port in the set of weight ports may include a weight portion (eg, 2865-2872). A first set of weight ports 2801 may be positioned closer to the front portion 2770 than to the rear portion 2780 . A second set of weight ports 2802 may be positioned closer to heel portion 2760 than toe portion 2750 . A second set of weight ports 2802 may be positioned closer to the rear portion 2780 than the front portion 2770 . At least one weight port in second set of weight ports 2802 may be positioned closer to heel portion 2760 than any weight port in first set of weight ports 2801 . The second set of weight ports 2802 may be positioned closer to the heel portion 2760 than any weight port in the first set of weight ports 2801 . A third set of weight ports 2803 may be positioned closer to the toe portion 2750 than the heel portion 2760 . A third set of weight ports 2803 may be positioned closer to the rear portion 2780 than the front portion 2770 . At least one weight port in third set of weight ports 2803 may be positioned closer to toe portion 2750 than any weight port in first set of weight ports 2801 . The third set of weight ports 2803 may be positioned closer to the toe section 2750 than any weight port in the first set of weight ports 2801 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

A first set of weight ports 2801 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 3.5 grams or more. A first set of weight ports 2801 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 4 grams or more. A second set of weight ports 2802 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 0.5 grams or more. The second set of weight ports 2802 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of approximately 0.75 grams or greater. A third set of weight ports 2803 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 0.5 grams or more. A third set of weight ports 2803 may include one or more weight portions having a mass of about 0.75 grams or greater. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture are not so limited.

For example, an insert 3850 may extend from the first set of weight ports 2801 toward the rear portion 2780 of the golf club head 2700, as shown in FIG. The insert 3850 may extend between the second set of weight ports 2802 and the third set of weight ports 2803 . The insert 3850 may have a front surface 3851 adjacent the first set of weight ports 2801 . The insert 3850 may have a heel side 3854 adjacent the second set of weight ports 2802 . The insert 3850 may have a toe side 3853 adjacent to the third set of weight ports 2803 . The insert 3850 can have a rear side 3852 that extends between the second set of weight ports 2802 and the third set of weight ports 2803 . A rear side 3852 of insert 3850 may be concave with respect to rear portion 2780 of golf club head 2700 . The insert 3850 may extend to a first set of weight ports 2801 , a second set of weight ports 2802 , and a third set of weight ports 2803 . The insert 3850 can include a plurality of hexagonal holes that extend through or partially through the thickness of the insert 3850 . The hexagonal holes can be arranged in the insert 3850 to define a pattern similar to a honeycomb pattern. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 35, golf club head 3500 is shown prior to attaching the crown portion to body portion 3510 . Body portion 3510 may include top portion 3530 , bottom portion 3540 , toe portion 3550 , heel portion 3560 , front portion 3570 and rear portion 3580 . Bottom portion 3540 extends across the periphery of golf club head 3500 from toe portion 3550 around rear portion 3580 to heel portion 3560 between top portion 3530 and bottom portion 3540 , with the exception of front portion 3570 . A skirt portion defined as a side portion of the golf club head 3500 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 3500 may not include a skirt portion. Front portion 3570 may include a face portion that strikes a golf ball (not shown). The face portion may be integral with body portion 3510 or may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to front portion 3570 to seal an opening in front portion 3570 . Body portion 3510 may also include a hosel portion 3565 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 3565 can be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 3565 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 3510 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 3565 . Body portion 3510 may be made partially or wholly from any material described herein. Further, golf club head 3500 may be any type of golf club head having a club head volume similar to that of any golf club head described herein. In one example, a golf club head may have a club head volume of less than 460 cubic centimeters. In another example, a golf club head may have a club head volume greater than 460 cubic centimeters. Further by way of example, a golf club head may have a club head volume greater than 500 cubic centimeters. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Top portion 3530 may include forward portion 3511 . In one example, forward portion 3511 may extend a distance 3515 of at least 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In another example, forward portion 3511 may extend a distance 3515 of at least 16 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, forward portion 3511 may extend a distance 3515 of at least 20 mm in the front-to-rear direction. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a forward portion that extends a distance of at least less than 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. The forward portion 3511 may increase the structural integrity of the golf club head 3500 and resist backward deflection of the front portion 3570 upon impact with a golf ball. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 3500 may include a crown similar to any crown described herein (eg, 135, 3935, 4035, 4135). The crown may include one or more integral ribs. The crown portion may include one or more thinned portions. The crown portion may include one or more crown reinforcement regions. The crown portion can be a separate piece that can be attached to the top portion 3530 . The crown portion may seal the top opening of the top portion 3530 . The crown portion may be constructed of one or more materials, which may be the same as or different than the material of body portion 3510 . In one example, the crown portion may be at least partially constructed of a composite material, such as a fiber-based composite material. The crown portion may be attached to the shoulder portion 3512 of the top portion 3530 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The shoulder portion 3512 may extend along the top opening of the top portion. The shoulder portion 3512 can support the crown portion. In one example, the shoulder portion 3512 can extend a distance 3513 of at least 2 mm inwardly toward the top opening of the top portion 3530 . In another example, shoulder 3512 can extend a distance 3513 of at least 6 mm. In yet another example, shoulder 3512 can extend a distance 3513 of at least 8 mm. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein allow the shoulder portion 3512 to extend inward toward the opening of the top portion 3530 a distance of less than 2 mm. can contain. The shoulder portion 3512 can be a continuous portion surrounding the opening of the top portion 3530 . Alternatively, shoulder 3512 may include one or more separate shoulders arranged to support the crown. In another example, shoulder portion 3512 may include a plurality of tabs arranged to support the crown portion. In yet another example, shoulder portion 3512 may be omitted and crown portion may be adhered to the outer surface of top portion 3530 . In yet another example, the shoulder 3512 may be omitted and the crown may include protrusions extending from the bottom surface of the crown that provide an interference fit with the peripheral edge of the opening. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 3500 may include a set of weight ports (eg, 3532-3536) in bottom portion 3540. As shown in FIG. A weight port may be located near the rear portion. The weight ports may be arranged in rows extending from the toe portion 3550 to the heel portion 3560 . The columns can be arcs that are concave with respect to the front portion 3570 . The columns can be arcs that follow the contour of the rear portion 3580 . Each weight port may be adapted to receive a weight portion. One or more weight ports (eg, 3532 - 3536 ) may include openings suitable for introducing fill into the interior volume of golf club head 3500 . The filler can be similar to any filler material described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 3500 may include an insert 3545 that is similar in material to any of the inserts described herein. As shown in FIG. 35, an insert 3545 may be positioned on the inner surface of the bottom portion 3540 of the golf club head 3500. As shown in FIG. Inserts 3545 may extend from a set of weight ports (eg, 3532 - 3536 ) in bottom portion 3540 toward front portion 3570 . Insert 3545 may be adjacent to one or more weight ports. Insert 3545 may contact one or more weight ports. The insert 3545 can damp vibrations from one or more weight ports. The insert 3545 can damp vibrations from the bottom portion 3540 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 36, golf club head 3600 is shown prior to attaching the crown portion to body portion 3610 . Body portion 3610 may include top portion 3630 , bottom portion 3640 , toe portion 3650 , heel portion 3660 , front portion 3670 and rear portion 3680 . Bottom portion 3640 extends across the periphery of golf club head 3600 from toe portion 3650 around rear portion 3680 to heel portion 3660 between top portion 3630 and bottom portion 3640 , except for front portion 3570 . A skirt portion defined as a side portion of the golf club head 3600 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 3600 may not include a skirt portion. Front portion 3670 may include a face portion that strikes a golf ball (not shown). The face portion may be integral with body portion 3610 or may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to front portion 3670 to seal an opening in front portion 3570 . Body portion 3610 may also include a hosel portion 3665 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 3665 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 3665 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 3610 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 3665 . Body portion 3610 may be made partially or wholly from any material described herein. Further, golf club head 3600 may be any type of golf club head having a club head volume similar to that of any golf club head described herein. In one example, a golf club head may have a club head volume of less than 460 cubic centimeters. In another example, a golf club head may have a club head volume greater than 460 cubic centimeters. Further by way of example, a golf club head may have a club head volume greater than 500 cubic centimeters. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Top portion 3630 may include forward portion 3611 . In one example, the forward portion 3611 can extend a distance 3615 of at least 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In another example, forward portion 3611 may extend a distance 3615 of at least 16 mm in the front-to-rear direction. In yet another example, forward portion 3611 may extend a distance 3615 of at least 20 mm in the front-to-rear direction. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein can include a forward portion that extends a distance of at least less than 12 mm in the front-to-rear direction. The forward portion 3611 may increase the structural integrity of the golf club head 3600 and resist backward deflection of the front portion 3670 upon impact with a golf ball. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 3600 may include a crown similar to any crown described herein (eg, 135, 3935, 4035, 4135). The crown may include one or more integral ribs. The crown portion may include one or more thinned portions. The crown portion may include one or more crown reinforcement regions. The crown portion can be a separate piece that can be attached to the top portion 3630 . The crown portion may seal the top opening of the top portion 3630 . The crown portion may be constructed of one or more materials, which may be the same as or different than the material of body portion 3610 . In one example, the crown portion may be at least partially constructed of a composite material, such as a fiber-based composite material. The crown portion may be attached to the shoulder portion 3612 of the top portion 3630 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The shoulder portion 3612 can extend along the top opening of the top portion. The shoulder portion 3612 can support the crown portion. In one example, the shoulder portion 3612 can extend a distance 3613 of at least 2 mm inwardly toward the top opening of the top portion 3630 . In another example, shoulder 3612 can extend a distance 3613 of at least 6 mm. In yet another example, shoulder 3612 can extend a distance 3613 of at least 8 mm. Although the above examples describe specific distances, the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein allow shoulder portion 3612 to extend inwardly toward the opening of top portion 3630 a distance of less than 2 mm. can contain. Shoulder portion 3612 can be a continuous portion surrounding the top opening of top portion 3630 . Alternatively, shoulder 3512 may include one or more separate shoulders arranged to support the crown. In another example, shoulder portion 3612 may include a plurality of tabs arranged to support the crown portion. In yet another example, shoulder portion 3612 may be omitted and crown portion may be adhered to the outer surface of top portion 3630 . In yet another example, the shoulder 3612 may be omitted and the crown may include protrusions extending from the bottom surface of the crown that provide an interference fit with the peripheral edge of the opening. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 3600 may include a set of weight ports (eg, 3631-3639) in bottom portion 3640. As shown in FIG. Each weight port may be adapted to receive a weight portion. The set of weight ports may include a first set of weight ports (eg, 3631, 3638, 3639). The set of weight ports may include a second set of weight ports (eg, 3632-3634). The set of weight ports may include a third set of weight ports (eg, 3635-3637). The weight ports may be arranged in rows extending from the toe portion 3650 to the heel portion 3660 . A first set of weight ports may be located closer to the front portion 3670 than to the rear portion 3680 . The first set of weight ports may include at least two weight ports. The first set of weight ports may include three or more weight ports. A second set of weight ports may be located closer to heel portion 3660 than toe portion 3650 . A second set of weight ports may be located closer to the rear portion 3680 than the front portion 3670 . The second set of weight ports may include at least two weight ports. The second set of weight ports may include three or more weight ports. A third set of weight ports may be located closer to the toe portion 3650 than the heel portion 3660 . A third set of weight ports may be located closer to the rear section 3680 than to the front section 3670 . The third set of weight ports may include at least two weight ports. The third set of weight ports may include three or more weight ports. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

One or more weight ports (eg, 3631 - 3639 ) may include openings suitable for introducing fill into the interior volume of golf club head 3600 . The filler can be similar to any filler material described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 3600 may include an insert 3645 that is similar in material to any of the inserts described herein. An insert 3645 may be provided within the interior region of the golf club head 3600 . As shown in FIG. 36, the insert 3645 may be positioned adjacent the inner surface of the bottom portion 3640 of the golf club head 3500. As shown in FIG. The insert 3645 can dampen vibrations within the golf club head 3600 resulting from impact with a golf ball and can improve the sound or feel perceived by a person. Insert 3645 may be adjacent to one or more weight ports (eg, 3631-3639). Insert 3645 may surround one or more weight ports (eg, 3631-3639). An insert 3645 may surround the first set of weight ports. An insert 3645 may be adjacent to the second set of weight ports. An insert 3645 may be adjacent to the third set of weight ports. The insert 3645 may extend from the first set of weight ports to the second set of weight ports. The insert 3645 may extend from the first set of weight ports to the third set of weight ports. The insert may extend from the second set of weight ports to the third set of weight ports. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Insert 3645 may include central opening 3651 . Central opening 3651 may improve weight distribution of insert 3645 within golf club head 3600 . The size and location of central opening 3651 of insert 3645 can increase the MOI of golf club head 3600 by reducing the weight of the central sole region of golf club head 3600 . The central opening 3651 may have an area of about 10% or more of the total internal surface area 3616 of the bottom portion of the golf club head. The central opening 3651 may have an area of about 15% or more of the total internal surface area 3616 of the bottom portion of the golf club head. The central opening 3651 may have an area of about 20% or more of the total internal surface area 3616 of the bottom portion of the golf club head. The central opening 3651 may have an area of about 25% or more of the total internal surface area 3616 of the sole portion of the golf club head. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Certain areas within the body portion may comprise a resilient polymeric or elastomeric material similar to any of the golf club heads described herein. The filler material may dampen vibrations of the golf club head when striking a golf ball (not shown), dampen noise, lower the center of gravity, and/or provide a better feel and sound. A golf club head may have one or more interior regions that may include the filler material described herein. In one example, the filler material may be injected into the body portion through one or more weight ports as described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

42-48, golf club head 4200 includes top portion 4230, crown portion 4235, bottom portion 4240, toe portion 4250, heel portion 4260, front portion 4270, and rear portion 4280. It may include a body portion 4210 having. Bottom portion 4240 extends across the periphery of golf club head 4200 from toe portion 4250 around rear portion 4280 to heel portion 4260 between top portion 4230 and bottom portion 4240 , with the exception of front portion 4270 . A skirt portion 4290 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 4200 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 4200 may not include skirt portion 4290 . The front portion 4270 may include a face portion 4275 that strikes a golf ball. Face portion 4275 may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to golf club head 4200 . Body portion 4210 may also include a hosel portion 4265 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 4265 can be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 4265 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 4210 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 4265 . Body portion 4210 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 4210 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 4200 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 4200 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 4200 may have a club head volume of 300cc or less. In particular, golf club head 4200 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of golf club head 4200 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or the British Golf Association (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 4200. can be used. Although FIG. 42 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., a fairway wood-based club head). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the examples described herein, the face portion (e.g., 175, 1975, 2775) may be a separate piece that attaches to the front opening of the front portion (e.g., 170, 1970, 2770). It can be bonded to a golf club head (eg, 100, 1900, 2700) to seal the opening. Alternatively, the face portion (eg, 175, 1975, 2775) may be an integral part of the golf club head (eg, 100, 1900, 2700), such as part of a common casting. In another example shown in FIGS. 42-48, front portion 4270 of golf club head 4200 may include front pocket 4276 configured to receive separate face portion 4275 . In another example shown in FIG. 51, a front portion 5170 of a golf club head 5100 includes a separate face portion 5175 and a filler material 5199 within a face cavity 5198 located between the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket and the face portion 5175. A front pocket portion 5176 configured to receive may be included. In another example shown in FIG. 52, a front portion 5270 of a golf club head 5200 includes a separate face portion 5275 and a polymer insert 5211 within a face cavity 5298 located between the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket and the face portion 5275. may include a front pocket 5277 configured to receive a In another example shown in FIG. 53, a front portion 5370 of a golf club head 5300 includes a separate face portion 535, a polymer insert 5311, and a face cavity 5398 located between the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket and the face portion 5375. of filler material 5399 and a front pocket portion 5376 configured to receive the same. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 4275 may be positioned within front pocket 4276 . Face portion 4275 may include a front surface 4291, a rear surface 4293, side surfaces, a front peripheral edge, and a rear peripheral edge. The face portion 4275 may be joined (eg, welded) to the side walls 4279 of the front pocket portion. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Front pocket 4276 may be defined by inner wall 4278 and side wall 4279 . The inner wall 4278 can have an inner surface 4277 . Front pocket 4276 may have an outer peripheral edge 4281 . Front pocket 4276 can serve as an assembly aid that allows easy and accurate placement of face portion 4275 relative to front portion 4270 during a bonding process, such as a welding process in which face portion 4275 is welded to front portion 4270. . Precise placement of face portion 4275 relative to front portion 4270 during the bonding process can reduce the time and expense associated with subsequent finishing processes such as sanding or polishing processes. Also, variability between manufactured golf club heads can be reduced to improve performance consistency. An inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 can reinforce and support the face portion 4275 upon impact with a golf ball. Front pocket 4276 may improve the structural integrity of golf club head 4200 . Front pocket 4276 may improve performance of golf club head 4200 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Front pocket 4276 may be defined by inner wall 4278 and side walls 4279 . Outer peripheral edge 4281 may surround front pocket 4276 . The inner surface 4277 of the front pocket 4276 can be the surface of the inner wall 4278 . The inner wall 4278 may extend in a heel-toe direction. The inner wall 4278 may extend in a bottom-top direction. The inner wall 4278 can have a thickness 4477 extending in the front-to-rear direction. In one example, the inner wall 4278 can have a thickness 4477 ranging from 0.020 inches to 0.030 inches. In another example, inner wall 4278 may have a thickness 4477 of less than 0.030 inches. In another example, the inner wall 4278 can have a thickness 4477 of 0.035 inches or less. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. . In another example, the inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 can be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. . The material of the inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 can have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 can have a density of at least 4.4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams/cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 can be the same material as the body portion 4210 of the golf club head. The material of the inner wall 4278 of the front pocket 4276 may be a different material than the body portion 4210 of the golf club head 4200. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, there may be a gap 4815 between the outer peripheral edge 4281 of the face portion 4275 and the outer peripheral edge 4281 of the front pocket 4276, as shown in FIG. During manufacture, gap 4815 may be wholly or partially filled with weld material during the welding process in which face portion 4575 is joined to front portion 4270 . A sanding or polishing process that removes excess weld material may follow to produce a smooth surface over the front portion 4270 of the golf club head 4200 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The face portion 4575 can include a front surface 4591, a side surface 4592, a rear surface 4593, a front peripheral edge 4590, and a rear peripheral edge 4594, as shown in FIG. In one example, the face portion 4575 can have a thickness ranging from 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. In another example, face portion 4575 may have a thickness in the range of 0.090 inches to 0.110 inches. In another example, face portion 4575 may have a thickness of less than 0.115 inches. In yet another example, face portion 4575 may have a thickness of less than 0.125 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 4575 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, face portion 4575 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The material of face portion 4575 may have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 4575 may have a density of at least 4.4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 4575 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 4575 may have a higher density than the material of inner wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 . The material of face portion 4275 may have a higher yield strength than the material of inner wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 . For example, the material of face portion 4575 can have a yield strength that is at least 40% higher than the material of inner wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 . In another example, the material of face portion 4575 can have a yield strength that is at least 45% higher than the material of inner wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The entire rear surface of face portion 4575 may contact inner wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 as shown in FIG. In another example, only a portion of the rear surface of face portion 4275 may contact inner wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 . In another example shown in FIG. 50, the rear surface of face portion 5075 may not contact the inner wall 5078 of front pocket portion 5076, leaving an empty volume 5098 between the rear surface of face portion 5075 and inner wall 5078. can exist in In another example shown in FIG. 51, the rear surface of face portion 5175 may not contact inner wall 5178 of front pocket portion 5176, and filler material 5199 fills the volume between the inner wall and the rear surface of face portion 5175. 5198 can be partially or completely filled. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In instances where the rear surface of the face portion only partially contacts the inner wall, or does not contact the inner wall, a face cavity can exist in the front pocket between the rear surface of the face portion and the inner wall of the front pocket. For example, as shown in FIG. 50, the face cavity 5098 can extend from the rear surface of the face portion 5075 to the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket in a front-to-rear direction. In one example, the face cavity can have a depth, measured front-to-rear, ranging from 0.020 inches to 0.250 inches. In another example, the face cavity can have a depth in the range of 0.030 inches to 0.110 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity may have a depth of less than 0.030 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity can have a depth greater than 0.250 inches, measured front-to-rear. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The face cavity may contain a filler material. The filler material may support the face portion and limit backward deflection of the face portion. The filler material can dampen vibrations resulting from impact with a golf ball. The filler material can effectively reduce the CT value measured across the face to ensure compliance with certain rules or regulations. As shown in FIG. 51, the face cavity 5198 can be filled with a filler material 5199 . In another example, the face cavity may be partially filled with a filler material. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 50, the face cavity may not be filled with a filler material. In another example, the face cavity can include a polymer insert 5311 and a filler material 5399, as shown in FIG. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The filler material may be a resilient polymer or elastomeric material (e.g., a viscoelastic material such as Sorbothane® manufactured by Sorbothane, Inc., Kent, Ohio) to absorb shock, isolate vibration, and/or attenuate noise. urethane polymer materials), thermoplastic elastomer materials (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane materials (TPU), and/or other suitable types of materials. In another example, the filler material includes high density ethylene copolymer ionomers, fatty acid modified ethylene copolymer ionomers, high amorphous ethylene copolymer ionomers, ethylene acid acrylate terpolymer ionomers, magnesium ionomers. Ethylene copolymers, injection moldable ethylene copolymers used in conventional injection molding equipment to produce various shapes, ethylene copolymers usable in conventional extrusion equipment to produce various shapes, and/or thermosetting. It can be an ethylene copolymer with high compressibility and low resilience similar to polybutadiene rubber. For example, ethylene copolymers are available from E.I. I. Relating to the DuPont ^™ High Performance Resin (HPF) family of materials (e.g., DuPont ^™ HPF AD1172, DuPont ^™ HPF AD1035, DuPont® HPF 1000, and DuPont ^™ HPF 2000) manufactured by du Pont de Nemours and Company. may include any of the ethylene copolymers that The DuPont ^™ HPF family of ethylene copolymers are injection moldable, can be used with conventional injection molding equipment and molds, and offer low compressibility and high resilience. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Filler material may be added to front pocket 4276 prior to joining face portion 4575 to front portion 4270 . Alternatively, the filler material can be added to the face cavity after joining face portion 4575 to front portion 4270 . In examples where filler material is added to the face cavity after the face portion 4575 is attached to the front pocket 4276, the filler material may be added to the front pocket 4276 through one or more access holes. The access hole may extend through any interface of the face cavity. For example, an access hole may extend from the interior volume of golf club head 4200 through interior wall 4278 of front pocket 4276 . Alternatively, access holes may be provided through sidewalls 4279 of front pocket 4276 or through face portion 4575 . One or more access holes may be provided to allow air to escape from the face cavity during the filling process. A port hole may extend through any interface of the face cavity. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The fill material can be liquid, solid, gas, or a combination thereof. In one example, the filler material can be a solid filler material with air bubbles entrapped within the solid filler material. In another example, the fill material can be a solution of liquid fill material with suspended solid particles. If the filler material comprises a liquid or gaseous filler material, the face cavity may be a cavity that is sealed to avoid loss of filler material. If the filler material comprises a liquid or gaseous filler material, the contents of the face cavity can be pressurized to a pressure above atmospheric pressure. In one example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure in the range of 1.1 atmospheres to 25 atmospheres. In another example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure in the range of 1.1 atmospheres to 10 atmospheres. In another example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure in the range of 1.1 atmospheres to 5 atmospheres. In another example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure greater than 1 atmosphere. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 49, a golf club head 4900 includes a body portion having a top portion 4930, a crown portion 4935, a bottom portion 4940, a toe portion 4950, a heel portion 4960, a front portion 4970, and a rear portion 4980. 4910 may be included. Bottom portion 4940 extends across the periphery of golf club head 4900 from toe portion 4950 around rear portion 4980 to heel portion 4960 between top portion 4930 and bottom portion 4940 , except for front portion 4970 . A skirt portion 4990 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 4900 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 4900 may not include skirt portion 4990 . The front portion 4970 may include a face portion 4975 that strikes a golf ball. Face portion 4975 may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to golf club head 4900 . Body portion 4910 may also include a hosel portion 4965 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 4965 can be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 4965 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 4910 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 4965 . Body portion 4910 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 4910 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 4900 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 4900 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 4900 may have a club head volume of 300cc or less. In particular, golf club head 4900 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of golf club head 4900 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or The Golf Association of England (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 4900. can be used. Although FIG. 49 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., a fairway wood-based club head). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 4900 may include front opening 4971 in front portion 4970 . A front pocket portion 4976 may seal the front opening 4971 . Front pocket portion 4976 may include a front pocket 4977 defined by inner wall 4978 and side walls 4979 . A polymer insert 4911 can be placed in the front pocket 4977 . A polymer insert 4911 may be positioned between the face portion 4975 and the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 . Polymer insert 4911 may extend from face portion 4975 to inner wall 4978 of front pocket portion 4976 . Polymer insert 4911 may be compressed between face portion 4975 and inner wall 4978 of front pocket portion 4976 . Polymer insert 4911 may be disc-shaped or any other suitable shape. Polymer insert 4911 may comprise any polymeric material described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 4975 may be positioned within front pocket 4977 . Face portion 4975 may include a front surface, a rear surface, side surfaces, a front peripheral edge, and a rear peripheral edge. The face portion 4975 may be joined (eg, welded) to the side walls 4979 of the front pocket portion. The polymer insert 4911 can provide structural support between the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 and the face portion 4975, thereby supporting the face portion and reducing the inward deflection of the face portion during ball striking. limit. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 4977 can serve as an assembly aid that allows the face portion 4975 to be easily and accurately positioned relative to the front portion 4970 during a bonding process, such as a welding process in which the face portion 4975 is welded to the front portion 4970. . Precise placement of face portion 4975 relative to front portion 4970 during the bonding process can reduce the time and expense associated with subsequent finishing processes such as sanding or polishing processes. Also, variability between manufactured golf club heads can be reduced to improve performance consistency. An inner wall 4978 of the front pocket 4977 can reinforce and support the face portion 4975 upon impact with a golf ball. Front pocket 4977 and polymer insert 4911 can improve the structural integrity of golf club head 4900 . Front pocket 4977 and polymer insert 4911 can improve the performance of golf club head 4900 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 4977 may be defined by inner and outer surfaces. The outer perimeter edge can surround the front pocket 4977 . The inner surface of the front pocket can be the surface of inner wall 4978 . The inner wall 4978 may extend in a heel-toe direction. The inner wall 4978 can have a thickness extending in the front-to-rear direction. In one example, inner wall 4978 can have a thickness in the range of 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch. In another example, inner wall 4978 can have a thickness of less than 0.030 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 is partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. In another example, the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 is partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. The material of the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 can have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 can have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 can be the same material as the body portion 4910 of the golf club head 4900 . The material of the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976 can be a different material than the body portion 4910 of the golf club head 4900 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, the face portion 4975 can have a thickness ranging from 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. In another example, face portion 4975 may have a thickness in the range of 0.090 inches to 0.110 inches. In another example, face portion 4975 may have a thickness of 0.125 inches or less. In another example, face portion 4975 may have a thickness of 0.115 inches or less. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 4975 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, face portion 4975 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The material of face portion 4975 may have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 4975 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 4975 may have a higher density than the material of inner wall 4978 of front pocket 4976 . The material of face portion 4975 may have a higher yield strength than the material of the inner wall of the front pocket. For example, the material of the face portion 4975 can have a yield strength that is at least 40% higher than the yield strength of the material of the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, the polymer insert can contact the entire rear surface of face portion 4975 . In another example shown in FIG. 49, polymer insert 4911 may contact a portion of the rear surface of face portion 4975 . In another example, the rear surface of the face portion may not directly contact the polymer insert in the front pocket. In examples where the rear surface of the face portion only partially contacts the polymer insert 4911 or does not contact the polymer insert 4911, the face cavity is formed between the rear surface of the face portion 4975 and the inner wall 4978 of the front pocket portion 4976. can reside in the front pocket 4977 between. In one example, the face cavity can have a depth, measured front-to-rear, ranging from 0.020 inches to 0.250 inches. In another example, the face cavity can have a depth in the range of 0.030 inches to 0.110 inches, measured front-to-rear. In another example, the face cavity may have a depth of less than 0.110 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity may have a depth of less than 0.030 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity can have a depth greater than 0.250 inches, measured front-to-rear. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face cavity 4998 may contain a filler material. In one example, face cavity 4998 can be completely filled with a filler material. In another example, face cavity 4998 may be partially filled with a filler material. A filler material may be injected around the perimeter of the polymeric insert 4911 . The filler material may have a higher durometer (hardness measurement) than the material of the polymer insert 4911 . The filler material may have a lower durometer than the material of the polymer insert 4911. The filler material may contact the polymer insert 4911 , inner wall 4978 and face portion 4975 . A filler material may surround the perimeter of the polymeric insert 4911 . A filler material may be disposed between the inner wall 4978 and the polymer insert 4911 . A filler material may be disposed between face portion 4975 and polymer insert 4911 . A filler material may be disposed between the inner wall 4978 and the polymeric insert 4911 and between the face portion 4975 and the polymeric insert 4911 . In another example, face cavity 4998 may not be filled with a filler material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The filler material may be a resilient polymer or elastomeric material (e.g., a viscoelastic material such as Sorbothane® manufactured by Sorbothane, Inc., Kent, Ohio) to absorb shock, isolate vibration, and/or attenuate noise. urethane polymer materials), thermoplastic elastomer materials (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane materials (TPU), and/or other suitable types of materials. In another example, the filler material includes high density ethylene copolymer ionomers, fatty acid modified ethylene copolymer ionomers, high amorphous ethylene copolymer ionomers, ethylene acid acrylate terpolymer ionomers, magnesium ionomers. Ethylene copolymers, injection moldable ethylene copolymers used in conventional injection molding equipment to produce various shapes, ethylene copolymers usable in conventional extrusion equipment to produce various shapes, and/or thermosetting. It can be an ethylene copolymer with high compressibility and low resilience similar to polybutadiene rubber. For example, ethylene copolymers are available from E.I. I. Relating to the DuPont ^™ High Performance Resin (HPF) family of materials (e.g., DuPont ^™ HPF AD1172, DuPont ^™ HPF AD1035, DuPont® HPF 1000, and DuPont ^™ HPF 2000) manufactured by du Pont de Nemours and Company. may include any of the ethylene copolymers that The DuPont ^™ HPF family of ethylene copolymers are injection moldable, can be used with conventional injection molding equipment and molds, and offer low compressibility and high resilience. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Filler material may be added to front pocket 4977 prior to joining face portion 4975 to front portion 4970 . Alternatively, the filler material can be added to the face cavity after joining the face portion to the front portion. In examples where filler material is added to the face cavity after the face portion 4975 is attached to the front pocket 4977, the filler material may be added to the front pocket through one or more access holes. The access hole may extend through any interface of the face cavity. For example, an access hole may extend from the interior volume of golf club head 8200 through interior wall 4978 of front pocket 4977 . Alternatively, access holes may be provided through sidewalls 4979 of front pocket portion 4976 or through face portion 4975 . One or more access holes may be provided to allow air to escape from the face cavity during the filling process. A port hole may extend through any interface of the face cavity. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The fill material can be liquid, solid, gas, or a combination thereof. In one example, the filler material can be a solid filler material with air bubbles entrapped within the solid filler material. In another example, the fill material can be a solution of liquid fill material with suspended solid particles. If the fill material comprises a liquid or gaseous fill material, the face cavity can be a sealed cavity. If the filler material comprises a liquid or gaseous filler material, the contents of the face cavity can be pressurized to a pressure above atmospheric pressure. In one example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure in the range of 1.1 atmospheres to 25 atmospheres. In another example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure in the range of 1.1 atmospheres to 10 atmospheres. In another example, the fill material can be pressurized to a pressure in the range of 1.1 atmospheres to 5 atmospheres. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 50, a golf club head 5000 includes a top portion 5030, a crown portion (not shown), a bottom portion 5040, a toe portion 5050, a heel portion 5060, a front portion 5070, and a rear portion 5080. It may include a body portion 5010 having. The bottom portion 5040 extends across the periphery of the golf club head 5000 from the toe portion 5050 around the rear portion 5080 to the heel portion 5060 between the top portion 5030 and the bottom portion 5040 , except for the front portion 5070 . A skirt portion 5090 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 5000 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 5000 may not include skirt portion 5090 . The front portion 5070 may include a face portion 5075 that strikes a golf ball. Face portion 5075 may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to golf club head 5000 . Body portion 5010 may also include a hosel portion 5065 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 5065 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 5065 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 5010 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 5065 . Body portion 5010 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 5010 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5000 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 5000 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 5000 may have a club head volume of 300cc or less. In particular, golf club head 5000 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of golf club head 5000 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or The Golf Association of England (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 5000. can be used. Although FIG. 50 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., a fairway wood-based club head). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5000 may include front opening 5071 in front portion 5070 . A front pocket portion 5076 may be joined to the front portion 5070 to seal the front opening 5071 . Front pocket portion 5076 may include a front pocket 5077 defined by inner wall 5078 and side walls 5079 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5075 may be positioned within front pocket 5077 . Face portion 5075 may include a front surface, a rear surface, side surfaces, a front peripheral edge, and a rear peripheral edge. The face portion 5075 may be joined (eg, welded) to the side walls 5079 of the front pocket portion. Front pocket 5077 serves as an assembly aid that allows easy and accurate placement of face portion 5075 relative to front portion 5070 during a bonding process, such as a welding process in which face portion 5075 is welded to front pocket portion 5076. obtain. Precise positioning of face portion 5075 relative to front portion 5070 during the bonding process can reduce the time and expense associated with subsequent finishing processes such as sanding or polishing processes. Also, variability between manufactured golf club heads can be reduced to improve performance consistency. An inner wall 5078 of the front pocket 5077 can reinforce and support the front portion 5070 upon impact with a golf ball. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 5077 may be defined by inner and outer surfaces. The outer perimeter edge can surround the front pocket 5077 . The inner surface of the front pocket can be the surface of inner wall 5078 . The inner wall 5078 may extend in a heel-toe direction. The inner wall 5078 can have a thickness extending in the front-to-rear direction. In one example, inner wall 5078 can have a thickness in the range of 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch. In another example, inner wall 5078 can have a thickness of less than 0.030 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion 5076 is partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. In another example, the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion 5076 is partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. The material of the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion 5076 can have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion 5076 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion 5076 can be the same material as the body portion 5010 of the golf club head 5000 . The material of the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion 5076 can be a different material than the body portion 5010 of the golf club head 5000 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, the face portion 5075 can have a thickness ranging from 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. In another example, face portion 5075 may have a thickness in the range of 0.090 inches to 0.110 inches. In yet another example, face portion 5075 may have a thickness of less than 0.115 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5075 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, face portion 5075 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The material of face portion 5075 may have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5075 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5075 may have a higher density than the material of inner wall 5078 of front pocket portion 5076 . The material of the face portion 5075 may have a higher yield strength than the material of the inner wall 5078 of the front pocket portion. For example, the material of face portion 5075 may have a yield strength that is at least 40% higher than the yield strength of the material of inner wall 5078 of front pocket portion 5076 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 50, there may be a gap 5015 between the outer peripheral edge of face portion 5075 and the outer peripheral edge of front pocket portion 5076 . During manufacture, gap 5015 may be wholly or partially filled with weld material during the welding process in which face portion 5075 is joined to front portion 5070 . A sanding or polishing process that removes excess weld material may follow to produce a smooth surface over the front portion 5070 of the golf club head 5000 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 51, a golf club head 5100 includes a top portion 5130, a crown portion (not shown), a bottom portion 5140, a toe portion 5150, a heel portion 5160, a front portion 5170, and a rear portion 5180. It may include a body portion 5110 having. The bottom portion 5140 extends across the periphery of the golf club head 5100 from the toe portion 5150 around the rear portion 5180 to the heel portion 5160 between the top portion 5130 and the bottom portion 5140 , except for the front portion 5170 . A skirt portion 5190 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 5100 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 5100 may not include skirt portion 5190 . The front portion 5170 may include a face portion 5175 that strikes a golf ball. Face portion 5175 may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to golf club head 5100 . Body portion 5110 may also include a hosel portion 5165 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 5165 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 5165 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 5110 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 5165 . Body portion 5110 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 5110 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5100 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 5100 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 5100 may have a club head volume of 300cc or less. In particular, golf club head 5100 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of golf club head 5100 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or The Golf Association of England (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 5100. can be used. Although FIG. 51 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., a fairway wood-based club head). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5100 may include front opening 5171 in front portion 5170 . A front pocket portion 5176 may be joined to the front portion 5170 to seal the front opening 5171 . Front pocket portion 5176 may include a front pocket 5177 defined by inner wall 5178 and side wall 5179 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5175 may be positioned within front pocket 5177 . Face portion 5175 may include a front surface, a rear surface, side surfaces, a front peripheral edge, and a rear peripheral edge. Face portion 5175 may be joined (eg, welded) to side walls 5179 of front pocket portion 5176 . A filler material 5199 can occupy the face cavity 5198 and provide structural support between the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 and the face portion 5175 . The filler material may support the face portion 5175 and limit rearward deflection of the face portion during ball striking. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Front pocket portion 5176 serves as an assembly aid that allows easy and accurate placement of face portion 5175 relative to front portion 5170 during a bonding process, such as a welding process in which face portion 5175 is welded to front portion 5170. obtain. Precise positioning of face portion 5175 relative to front portion 5170 during the bonding process can reduce the time and expense associated with subsequent finishing processes such as sanding or polishing processes. Also, variability between manufactured golf club heads can be reduced to improve performance consistency. An inner wall 5178 of the front pocket 5177 can reinforce and support the face portion 5175 upon impact with a golf ball. Front pocket 5177 and filler material 5199 can improve the structural integrity of golf club head 5100 . Front pocket 5177 and filler material 5199 can improve the performance of golf club head 5300 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 5177 may be defined by inner and outer surfaces. The outer peripheral edge can surround the front pocket 5177 . The inner surface of the front pocket can be the surface of inner wall 5178 . The inner wall 5178 may extend in a heel-toe direction. The inner wall 5178 can have a thickness extending in the front-to-rear direction. In one example, inner wall 5178 can have a thickness in the range of 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch. In another example, inner wall 5178 can have a thickness of less than 0.030 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 is partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. In another example, the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 is partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. The material of the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 can have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 can have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 can be the same material as the body portion 5110 of the golf club head 5100 . The material of the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket portion 5176 can be a different material than the body portion 5110 of the golf club head 5100 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, face portion 5175 can have a thickness in the range of 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. In another example, face portion 5175 may have a thickness in the range of 0.090 inches to 0.110 inches. In yet another example, face portion 5175 may have a thickness of less than 0.115 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5175 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, face portion 5175 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The material of face portion 5175 may have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5175 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5175 may have a higher density than the material of inner wall 5178 of front pocket portion 5176 . The material of the face portion 5175 may have a higher yield strength than the material of the inner wall of the front pocket. For example, the material of the face portion 5175 can have a yield strength that is at least 40% higher than the yield strength of the material of the inner wall 5178 of the front pocket. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 51, there may be a gap 5115 between the outer peripheral edge of face portion 5175 and the outer peripheral edge of front pocket portion 5176 . During manufacture, gap 5115 may be wholly or partially filled with weld material during the welding process in which face portion 5175 is joined to front portion 5170 . A sanding or polishing process that removes excess weld material may follow to produce a smooth surface over the front portion 5170 of the golf club head 5100 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 52, a golf club head 5200 includes a top portion 5230, a crown portion (not shown), a bottom portion 5240, a toe portion 5250, a heel portion 5260, a front portion 5270, and a rear portion 5280. It may include a body portion 5210 having. The bottom portion 5240 extends across the periphery of the golf club head 5200 from the toe portion 5250 around the rear portion 5280 to the heel portion 5260 between the top portion 5230 and the bottom portion 5240 , except for the front portion 5270 . A skirt portion 5290 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 5200 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 5200 may not include skirt portion 5290 . The front portion 5270 may include a face portion 5275 that strikes a golf ball. Face portion 5275 may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to golf club head 5200 . Body portion 5210 may also include a hosel portion 5265 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 5265 can be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 5265 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 5210 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 5265 . Body portion 5210 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 5210 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5200 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 5200 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 5200 may have a club head volume of 300cc or less. In particular, golf club head 5200 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of golf club head 5200 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or The Golf Association of England (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 5200. can be used. Although FIG. 52 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., fairway wood-based club heads). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5200 may include front opening 5271 in front portion 5270 . A front pocket portion 5276 may seal the front opening 5271 . Front pocket portion 5276 may include a front pocket 5277 defined by inner wall 5278 and side walls 5279 . A polymer insert 5211 may be positioned within the front pocket 5277 . A polymer insert 5211 may be disposed between the face portion 5275 and the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 . Polymer insert 5211 may extend from face portion 5275 to inner wall 5278 of front pocket portion 5276 . Polymer insert 5211 may be compressed between face portion 5275 and inner wall 5278 of front pocket portion 5276 . Polymer insert 5211 may be disc-shaped or any other suitable shape. Polymer insert 5211 may comprise any polymeric material described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5275 may be positioned within front pocket 5277 . Face portion 5275 may include a front surface, a rear surface, side surfaces, a front peripheral edge, and a rear peripheral edge. The face portion 5275 may be joined (eg, welded) to the side walls 5279 of the front pocket portion. The polymer insert 5211 can provide structural support between the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 and the face portion 5275, thereby supporting the face portion and reducing the inward deflection of the face portion during ball striking. limit. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Front pocket 5277 can serve as an assembly aid that allows easy and accurate placement of face portion 5275 relative to front portion 5270 during a bonding process, such as a welding process in which face portion 5275 is welded to front portion 5270. . Precise placement of face portion 5275 relative to front portion 5270 during the bonding process can reduce the time and expense associated with subsequent finishing processes such as sanding or polishing processes. Also, variability between manufactured golf club heads can be reduced to improve performance consistency. An inner wall 5278 of the front pocket 5277 can reinforce and support the face portion 5275 upon impact with a golf ball. Front pocket 5277 and filler material 5211 may improve the structural integrity of golf club head 5200 . Front pocket 5277 and filler material 5211 can improve the performance of golf club head 5200 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 5277 may be defined by inner and outer surfaces. The outer perimeter edge can surround the front pocket 5277 . The inner surface of the front pocket can be the surface of inner wall 5278 . The inner wall 5278 may extend in a heel-toe direction. The inner wall 5278 can have a thickness extending in the front-to-rear direction. In one example, inner wall 5278 can have a thickness in the range of 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch. In another example, inner wall 5278 can have a thickness of less than 0.030 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 is partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. In another example, the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 is partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. The material of the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 can have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 can have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 can be the same material as the body portion 5210 of the golf club head 5200 . The material of the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 can be a different material than the body portion 5210 of the golf club head 5200 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, the face portion 5275 can have a thickness ranging from 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. In another example, face portion 5275 may have a thickness in the range of 0.090 inches to 0.110 inches. In yet another example, face portion 5275 may have a thickness of less than 0.115 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5275 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, face portion 5275 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The material of face portion 5275 may have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5275 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5275 may have a higher density than the material of inner wall 5278 of front pocket portion 5276 . The material of the face portion 5275 may have a higher yield strength than the material of the inner wall of the front pocket. For example, the material of the face portion 5275 can have a yield strength that is at least 40% higher than the yield strength of the material of the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A face cavity 5298 can reside within the front pocket 5277 between the rear surface of the face portion 5275 and the inner wall 5278 of the front pocket portion 5276 . In one example, the face cavity can have a depth, measured front-to-rear, ranging from 0.020 inches to 0.250 inches. In another example, the face cavity can have a depth in the range of 0.030 inches to 0.110 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity may have a depth of less than 0.030 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity can have a depth greater than 0.250 inches, measured front-to-rear. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 52, there may be a gap 5215 between the outer peripheral edge of face portion 5275 and the outer peripheral edge of front pocket portion 5276 . During manufacture, gap 5215 may be wholly or partially filled with weld material during the welding process in which face portion 5275 is joined to front portion 5270 . A sanding or polishing process that removes excess weld material may follow to produce a smooth surface over the front portion 5270 of the golf club head 5200 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In the example of FIG. 53, a golf club head 5300 includes a top portion 5330, a crown portion (not shown), a bottom portion 5340, a toe portion 5350, a heel portion 5360, a front portion 5370, and a rear portion 5380. It may include a body portion 5310 having. The bottom portion 5340 extends across the periphery of the golf club head 5300 from the toe portion 5350 around the rear portion 5380 to the heel portion 5360 , except for the front portion 5370 , between the top portion 5330 and the bottom portion 5340 . A skirt portion 5390 defined as a side portion of the golf club head 5300 may be present. Alternatively, golf club head 5300 may not include skirt portion 5390 . The front portion 5370 may include a face portion 5375 that strikes a golf ball. Face portion 5375 may be a separate face portion that is coupled (eg, welded) to golf club head 5300 . Body portion 5310 may also include a hosel portion 5365 configured to receive a shaft portion (not shown). Hosel portion 5365 may be similar in many respects to any hosel portion described herein. Hosel portion 5365 may include a replaceable hosel sleeve. Alternatively, body portion 5310 may include a bore in place of hosel portion 5365 . Body portion 5310 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, body portion 5310 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5300 may have a club head volume of 300 cubic centimeters (cm ³ or cc) or greater. In one example, golf club head 5300 may be approximately 460cc. Alternatively, golf club head 5300 may have a club head volume of 300cc or less. In particular, golf club head 5300 may have a club head volume of between 100cc and 200cc. The club head volume of golf club head 5300 can be measured using a weighted water displacement method (ie, Archimedes' principle). For example, procedures defined by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or The Golf Association of England (R&A) may be used to measure the club head volume of golf club head 5300. can be used. Although FIG. 53 illustrates a particular type of club head (e.g., a driver-based club head), the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be used with other types of club heads (e.g., a fairway wood-based club head). , hybrid club heads, iron club heads, putter club heads, etc.). The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Golf club head 5300 may include front opening 5371 in front portion 5370 . A front pocket portion 5376 may seal the front opening 5371 . Front pocket portion 5376 may include a front pocket 5377 defined by inner wall 5378 and side wall 5379 . A polymer insert 5311 can be placed in the front pocket 5377 . A polymer insert 5311 may be positioned between the face portion 5375 and the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 . Polymer insert 5311 may extend from face portion 5375 to inner wall 5378 of front pocket portion 5376 . Polymer insert 5311 may be compressed between face portion 5375 and inner wall 5378 of front pocket portion 5376 . Polymer insert 5311 may be disc-shaped or any other suitable shape. Polymer insert 5311 may comprise any polymeric material described herein. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5375 may be positioned within front pocket 5377 . Face portion 5375 may include a front surface, a rear surface, side surfaces, a front peripheral edge, and a rear peripheral edge. The face portion 5375 may be joined (eg, welded) to the side walls 5379 of the front pocket portion. The polymer insert 5311 can provide structural support between the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 and the face portion 5375, thereby supporting the face portion and reducing the inward deflection of the face portion during ball striking. limit. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 5377 can serve as an assembly aid that allows the face portion 5375 to be easily and accurately positioned relative to the front portion 5370 during a bonding process, such as a welding process in which the face portion 5375 is welded to the front portion 5370. . Precise placement of face portion 5375 relative to front portion 5370 during the bonding process can reduce the time and expense associated with subsequent finishing processes such as sanding or polishing processes. Also, variability between manufactured golf club heads can be reduced to improve performance consistency. An inner wall 5378 of the front pocket 5377 can reinforce and support the face portion 5375 upon impact with a golf ball. Front pocket 5377 and filler material 5311 may improve the structural integrity of golf club head 5300 . Front pocket 5377 and filler material 5311 can improve the performance of golf club head 5300 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The front pocket 5377 may be defined by inner and outer surfaces. The outer perimeter edge can surround the front pocket 5377 . The inner surface of the front pocket can be the surface of inner wall 5378 . The inner wall 5378 may extend in a heel-toe direction. The inner wall 5378 can have a thickness extending in the front-to-rear direction. In one example, inner wall 5378 can have a thickness in the range of 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch. In another example, inner wall 5378 may have a thickness of less than 0.030 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 is partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. In another example, the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 is partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. obtain. The material of the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 can have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 can have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 can be the same material as the body portion 5310 of the golf club head 5300 . The material of the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 can be a different material than the body portion 5310 of the golf club head 5300 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

In one example, face portion 5375 can have a thickness in the range of 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. In another example, face portion 5375 may have a thickness in the range of 0.090 inches to 0.110 inches. In yet another example, face portion 5375 may have a thickness of less than 0.115 inches. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face portion 5375 may be partially or wholly made of an aluminum-based material, a magnesium-based material, a steel-based material, a titanium-based material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. In another example, face portion 5375 may be partially or wholly made of a non-metallic material such as a ceramic material, a composite material, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material. The material of face portion 5375 may have a density of at least 4 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5375 may have a density of at least 4.5 grams per cubic centimeter. The material of face portion 5375 may have a higher density than the material of inner wall 5378 of front pocket portion 5376 . The material of the face portion 5375 may have a higher yield strength than the material of the inner wall of the front pocket. For example, the material of the face portion 5375 can have a yield strength that is at least 40% higher than the yield strength of the material of the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A face cavity 5398 can reside within the front pocket 5377 between the rear surface of the face portion 5375 and the inner wall 5378 of the front pocket portion 5376 . In one example, the face cavity 5398 can have a depth in the range of 0.020 inches to 0.250 inches, measured front-to-rear. In another example, the face cavity may have a depth, measured front-to-rear, ranging from 0.030 inches to 0.110 inches. In yet another example, the face cavity may have a depth of less than 0.030 inches, measured front-to-rear. In yet another example, the face cavity can have a depth greater than 0.250 inches, measured front-to-rear. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Face cavity 5398 may contain a filler material. In one example, face cavity 5398 can be completely filled with a filler material. In another example, face cavity 5398 may be partially filled with a filler material. The filler material may occupy at least 50% of the face cavity 5398. The filler material may occupy at least 75% of the face cavity 5398. The filler material may occupy at least 95% of the face cavity 5398. Fill material may occupy at least 25% of the volume of front pocket 5377 . Fill material may occupy at least 45% of the volume of front pocket 5377 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

A filler material may be injected around the perimeter of the polymeric insert 5311 . The filler material may contact the polymer insert 5311 , inner wall 5378 and face portion 5375 . A filler material may surround the perimeter of the polymeric insert 5311 . Filler material 5399 may have a higher durometer than the material of polymeric insert 5311 . Filler material 5399 may have a lower durometer than the material of polymeric insert 5311 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

As shown in FIG. 53, there may be a gap 5315 between the outer peripheral edge of face portion 5375 and the outer peripheral edge of front pocket portion 5376 . During manufacture, gap 5315 may be wholly or partially filled with weld material during the welding process in which face portion 5375 is joined to front portion 5370 . A sanding or polishing process that removes excess weld material may follow to produce a smooth surface over the front portion 5370 of the golf club head 5300 . The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Any of the golf club heads described herein can be part of a golf club. A golf club may include a shaft (not shown) extending from a golf club head. The shaft may have a first end attached to the hosel of the golf club head and a second end opposite the first end. The golf club may include a grip at or near the second end of the shaft. The shaft may be formed from metallic material, composite material, or any other suitable material or combination of materials. The grip may be formed from rubber material, polymer material, or other suitable material, or a combination of materials. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may include one or more club identifiers (eg, serial numbers, matrix barcodes, brand names, club numbers, loft angles, letters, etc.). For example, a golf club head may include a visual identifier such as a club number to identify the type of golf club head. In one example, the club number may correspond to the loft angle of the golf club head (eg, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9). In one example, a number 7 iron golf club head may be marked with a "7". In another example, a golf club head may be marked with a loft angle. For example, a 54 degree wedge golf club head may be marked "54". In yet another example, a 10.5 degree driver-type golf club head may be marked "10.5." A club identifier may be a trademark that identifies a brand name or model of golf club head. A club identifier is another type of visual identification, such as a product number or serial number, to identify golf club 100 as genuine equipment, to track inventory, or to distinguish golf clubs from counterfeit or counterfeit products. can be a unique identifier. Alternatively, the club identifier can be a digital signature or machine-readable optical representation of information or data about the golf club head (e.g., numeric, alphanumeric, bytes, one-dimensional barcodes such as UPC (Universal Product Code), QR (such as a two-dimensional barcode such as a Quick Response code). Club identifiers may be placed in various locations (e.g., hosel, face, sole, etc.) of the golf club head using various methods (e.g., laser etching, stamping, molding, or molding into the golf club head). can be placed in For example, the club identifier may be a serial number laser etched into the hosel portion of the golf club head. Instead of being an integral part of the golf club head, the club identifier can be a separate component (eg, a label attached via glue or epoxy) that is coupled to the golf club head.

The terms "and" and "or" can have both conjunctive and disjunctive meanings. The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless otherwise indicated in this disclosure. The term "coupled" and any variations thereof refers to chemically, mechanically, and/or otherwise directly or indirectly connecting two or more elements. The phrase "removably connected" is defined so that two elements that are "removably connected" can be separated from each other without destroying or impairing the usefulness of either element. be.

The term "substantially," when used to describe a feature, parameter, property, or value of an element, means that the feature, parameter, property, or value that the element is intended to provide. It can represent non-destructive deviations or fluctuations. Deviations or variations in element characteristics, parameters, properties, or values may be based, for example, on tolerances, measurement errors, measurement accuracy limits, and other factors. The term "proximate" can be used to refer to "adjacent", "close", "immediate", "nearby", "neighboring", etc. and these terms may be used interchangeably as they appear in this disclosure.

The apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture described herein can be implemented in various embodiments and the above description of some of these embodiments is not necessarily a complete description of all possible embodiments. It does not represent Instead, the drawing description, and the drawings themselves, may disclose at least one embodiment, and alternative embodiments.

The Rules of Golf may change from time to time (e.g., new rules may be adopted by golf standards bodies and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA), the Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A), or old rules may be replaced). may be revoked or altered), golf equipment associated with the apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture described herein may or may not comply with the Rules of Golf at any particular time. good. Accordingly, golf equipment associated with the apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, marketed and/or sold as compliant or non-compliant golf equipment. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not so limited.

Furthermore, although the above examples describe golf club heads, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are applicable to other suitable types of golf club heads, such as fishing rods, hockey sticks, ski poles, tennis rackets, and the like. It can be applied to sporting goods.

Although certain example apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture have been described herein, the scope of the disclosure is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this disclosure covers all apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the appended claims either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims (20)

a body portion having a front portion, a rear portion, a toe portion, a heel portion, a top portion and a bottom portion;
a front opening in the front portion;
a front pocket portion joined to the front portion and sealing the front opening, the front pocket portion including a front pocket defined by an inner wall and a side wall;
a polymeric insert disposed within the front pocket and including a front surface, a rear surface, and a side surface, the rear surface contacting the inner wall;
a face portion disposed within the front pocket and in contact with the front surface of the polymeric insert, the face portion being bonded to the side wall of the front pocket portion;
an access hole provided in the inner wall or the side wall of the front pocket portion, or the face portion;
a filler material added through the access hole into the front pocket with the face portion attached, the filler material contacting the inner wall, the face portion, and the side surfaces of the polymer insert; said filler material;
A golf club head comprising: The golf club head of claim 1, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said polymeric insert is disc-shaped and centered behind a sweet spot of said face portion. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein
the front pocket portion includes a first material having a first yield strength;
A golf club head, wherein the face portion includes a second material having a second yield strength that is at least 40% greater than the first yield strength. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said inner wall of said front pocket portion has a thickness in the range of 0.020 inch to 0.030 inch. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said inner wall of said front pocket portion has a thickness of 0.035 inches or less. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein
A golf club head, wherein the face portion has a thickness ranging from 0.075 inches to 0.125 inches. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein
A golf club head, wherein the face portion has a thickness of 0.125 inches or less. a body portion having a front portion, a rear portion, a toe portion, a heel portion, a top portion and a bottom portion;
a front opening in the front portion;
a front pocket portion joined to the front portion and sealing the front opening, the front pocket portion including a front pocket defined by an inner wall, the inner wall having a first density having a first density; said front pocket portion comprising a material of
A face portion disposed within the front pocket and joined to the front portion, the face portion including a second material having a second density, the second density being equal to the first density. the face portion having a greater density;
A polymer insert within the front pocket, the polymer insert extending from the rear surface of the face portion to the inner wall of the front pocket portion, the polymer insert having a third density. and wherein the third density is less than the first density and less than the second density; and
a filler material within the front pocket, the filler material contacting the inner wall, the face portion, and side surfaces of the polymeric insert;
A golf club head comprising: 9. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said polymer insert is disc-shaped and is bonded to said rear surface of said face portion by an adhesive. 9. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein
The golf club head, wherein the second material has a yield strength that is at least 45% greater than the yield strength of the first material. 9. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said front pocket has a depth of less than 0.110 inches. 9. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein
further comprising a gap between the side surface of the face portion and the side wall of the front pocket portion;
A golf club head, wherein the gap is at least partially filled with welding material. 9. The golf club head of claim 8, wherein
said front pocket portion comprising a first material having a density greater than 4.4 grams per cubic centimeter;
A golf club head, wherein the face portion includes a second material having a density greater than 4.4 grams per cubic centimeter. a body portion having a front portion, a rear portion, a toe portion, a heel portion, a top portion and a bottom portion;
The front part is
a front pocket within the front portion, the front pocket including an inner wall;
a polymeric insert disposed within the front pocket and including a front surface, a rear surface, and a side surface, the rear surface contacting the inner wall;
a face portion disposed within the front pocket and in contact with the front surface of the polymeric insert, the face portion being bonded to the front portion;
a gap between a side surface of the face portion and a sidewall of the front pocket, the gap being at least partially filled with welding material;
a filler material within the front pocket, the filler material contacting the inner wall, the face portion, and the side surfaces of the polymeric insert;
A golf club head comprising: 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein
the front pocket comprises a first titanium-based material;
the face portion includes a second titanium-based material;
A golf club head, wherein the second titanium-based material has a yield strength that is at least 50% greater than the yield strength of the first titanium-based material. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said inner wall has a thickness of 0.30 inches or less. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein
A golf club head, wherein said front pocket has a depth ranging from 0.020 inches to 0.250 inches. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein
A golf club head, wherein the filler material has a higher durometer than the material of the polymeric insert. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein
A golf club head, wherein the filler material has a lower durometer than the material of the polymeric insert. 15. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein
The golf club head, wherein the filler material occupies at least 25% of the volume of the front pocket.

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