JP7541007B2 - Golf club head with reinforcing ribs - Google Patents

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/784,265, filed December 21, 2018, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/855,751, filed May 31, 2019, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/784,190, filed December 21, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/878,263, filed July 24, 2019, the contents of all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

This disclosure relates to a golf club head having structures or ribs that reinforce the club head.

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

Typically, wood-type golf clubs are primarily made of metal. In these club heads, a hollow shell body includes a thick face for ball impact and a thick sole to withstand the rubbing of the impact. The remainder of the club is manufactured as thin as possible to keep weight down. Recently, however, lightweight composite and plastic materials have been implemented into the hollow shell construction of golf clubs to further increase weight containment. The weight containment discussed above allows for mass localization through the use of external weights. Material weight containment and mass localization can allow for optimal CG and MOI characteristics.

In addition to containing material weight and providing ideal CG and MOI characteristics, golf club heads containing lightweight materials and weight systems must continue to meet consumer expectations for the wear life of the club. In the prior art, ribs were often used to add desired stiffness to the crown and sole of the club for lightweight support. These ribs serve to strengthen the club head body at high stress locations.

The prior art does not recognize that a club head, which contains both lightweight materials and localized mass, requires additional support for the club head's motion oscillations after impact.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a golf club head according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the golf club head of FIG.

3 shows a cross-sectional side view of the golf club head of FIG. 1 taken along line 3-3 of FIG.

FIG. 4 shows a sole view of the golf club head of FIG.

FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of the golf club head of FIG.

FIG. 6 illustrates a crown view of the first component of the golf club head of FIG.

FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of a second component of the golf club head of FIG.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a rib configuration for a golf club head according to another embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a rib configuration for a golf club head according to another embodiment.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a rib configuration for a golf club head according to another embodiment.

FIG. 11 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a rib configuration for a golf club head according to another embodiment.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a rib configuration for a golf club head according to another embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a rib configuration for a golf club head according to another embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows a graph of weight velocity measured in inches/second versus time measured in seconds for various rib embodiments described in this disclosure.

FIG. 15 shows a graph of weight velocity measured in inches/second versus time measured in seconds for various rib embodiments described in this disclosure.

FIG. 16 shows a graph of weight velocity measured in inches/second versus time measured in seconds for various rib embodiments described in this disclosure.

I. Multi-Material Golf Club Head With Ribs A. Introduction Described herein is a multi-material golf club having reinforcing ribs that act to support a weight system located at the rear of the club head during impact. The multi-material golf club head may be a hollow golf club body. The hollow golf club head body is defined by a first component and a second component that are bonded together. The first component is fabricated from a metallic material. The second component is fabricated from a non-metallic composite material. The first component includes a weight system. The weight system includes a weight portion having a fixed large mass and a rearmost point on the club body. Additionally, the weight system is constrained within a small arc area of the rear of the club head.

The restricted location and heavy mass of the weight system combine to allow the center of gravity (CG) to move toward the heel or toe without moving the CG forward. However, golf club heads including the above structure tend to reach fatigue failure at an accelerated rate when compared to golf club heads that are of single-material construction and include larger areas for weight placement. Following impact with a golf ball, the body of the club head recoils. During recoil, the club head flexes and elastically deforms at the location of the weight system. Return of the club to its original position causes the club head to oscillate near the weight system. In general, oscillation is undesirable due to the accelerated fatigue failure caused by the repetitive motion.

However, the degree to which bending and vibration occurs is directly proportional to mass and inversely proportional to stiffness. The reinforcing ribs described below stabilize the weight system of the golf club head, reducing club vibration and reducing bending of the club head for improved wear life.

As used herein, the term "integral" may be defined as two or more elements that are constructed from the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or more elements are "non-integral" if each element is constructed from a different piece of material.

The term "coupled" may be defined herein as connecting two or more elements, mechanically or otherwise. The coupling (whether mechanical or otherwise) may be for any length of time, e.g., permanent, semi-permanent, or momentary. Mechanical coupling, etc., should be understood broadly and should include all types of mechanical coupling. The absence of the words "removably", "detachable", etc., adjacent to the word "coupled" does not imply that the coupling in question is removable or non-removable.

The term or phrase "sole" may be defined as the bottom surface of a golf club head.

The term or phrase "attachment" may be defined herein as connecting or joining something. Attachment may be permanent or semi-permanent. Mechanical attachment, etc. should be understood broadly and include any type of mechanical attachment means. Integral attachment means should be understood broadly and include all types of integral attachment means that permanently connect two or more objects to one another.

The restricted location and heavy mass of the weight system combine to allow the center of gravity (CG) to move toward the heel or toe without moving the CG forward. However, golf club heads including the above structure tend to reach fatigue failure at an accelerated rate when compared to golf club heads that are of single-material construction and include larger areas for weight placement. Following impact with a golf ball, the body of the club head recoils. During recoil, the club head flexes and elastically deforms at the location of the weight system. Return of the club to its original position causes the club head to oscillate near the weight system. In general, oscillation is undesirable due to the accelerated fatigue failure caused by the repetitive motion.

If any, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. in this specification and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe a particular sequence or chronological order, and it should be understood that terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, e.g., the embodiments described herein may operate in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprise," "have," and any variations thereof are intended to encompass a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus comprising a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but includes other elements not descriptively listed in such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

"Ground surface" refers to a plane that is at an angle of 60 degrees to the hosel axis of the golf club head when viewed from the front and perpendicular to the hosel axis of the golf club head when viewed from the side, and that contacts the sole of the golf club head when the club head is in the address position. In addition, "front surface" refers to a vertical surface that contacts the leading edge point when viewed from the side and is also perpendicular to the ground surface.

If any, the terms "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "above," "below," and the like in this specification and claims are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to describe permanent relative positions. It should be understood that terms so used are interchangeable in appropriate circumstances such that embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are operable, for example, in orientations other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

Before any embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

B. Golf Club Head Described herein is a multi-material golf club head including at least one rib reinforcing the rear portion of the club head. The golf club head can include a first component and a second component. The first component includes a heavy weight system located at the rear portion of the club head. The weight system centralizes mass in the central rear portion of the club head to lower the CG and increase the MOI of the golf club head. The rib can operate to reduce vibrations caused by the weight system after impact. In some embodiments, the rib can extend arcuately from the sole onto the weight system. In other embodiments, the rib can extend from the weight system to the crown. In some embodiments, the rib has perforations to reduce the weight of the reinforcing rib.

1 shows a golf club head 100 according to one embodiment. The golf club head 100 includes a front portion 102 including a strike face 118, a rear portion 104 opposite the front portion 102, a heel end 106, a toe end 108, a crown 110, and a sole 112. Together, the front portion 102, the rear portion 104, the heel end 106, the toe end 108, the crown 110, and the sole 112 define a hollow structure having a plurality of interior surfaces therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the club head 100 is defined by a first component 120 and a second component 220 secured together.

The various embodiments and examples of the golf club head 100 described herein may have components and configurations having dimensions, geometric shapes, or orientations described according to reference points. Some of the reference indices shown in Figures 1-4 are described in detail below.

1, the strike face 118 of the club head 100 includes a geometric center 500. In some implementations, the geometric center 500 can be located at the geometric center point of the strike face 118 and the midpoint of the face height 504. In the same or other embodiments, the geometric center 500 can also be centered with respect to a designed impact zone, which can be defined by an area of a groove on the strike face 118. As an alternative approach, the geometric center 500 of the strike face 118 can be located according to a definition of a golf association, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, the geometric center 500 of the strike face 118 may be determined in accordance with Section 6.1 of the USGA Procedure for Measuring the Flexibility of a Golf Club Head (USGA-TPX3004, Rev. 1.0.0, May 1, 2008) (available at http://www.USGA.org/equipment/testing/protocols/Procedure-For-Measuring-The-Flexibility-Of-A-Golf-Club-Head/) ("Flexibility Procedure").

2-3, the golf club head 100 may include various reference planes and measurements. The golf club head 100 defines a front plane 40, a loft plane 50, and a ground plane 60. Additionally, the golf club head 100 includes a coordinate system having an origin at the geometric center 500 of the strike face 118. As shown in FIG. 2, the coordinate system may have an X-axis 10, a Y-axis 20, and a Z-axis 30. When the golf club head 100 is at address, the X-axis 10 extends through the geometric center 500 of the strike face in a heel-to-toe direction and parallel to the ground plane 60. The Y-axis 20 extends through the geometric center 500 from the crown 100 to the sole 112 and perpendicular to the X-axis 10 and the ground plane 60. The Z-axis 30 extends in a direction extending from the strike face 118 through the strike face center 500 to the rear end 104 of the golf club head 100. The Z-axis 30 is perpendicular to the X-axis 10 and the Y-axis 20.

Referring to FIG. 2, the coordinate system also defines a set of planes referenced to the geometric center 500 of the strike face 118. The XY plane is defined by the X and Y axes. In many embodiments, the XY plane is the front surface 40 (hereafter referred to as the "front surface 40"). The loft plane 50 is disposed at an acute angle to the front surface 40. The loft plane 50 is tangent to the strike face 118. The XZ plane is defined by the X and Z axes. The YZ plane is defined by the Y and Z axes. The planes XY, XZ, and YZ are perpendicular to each other.

3, the club head 100 further includes a length 506. The length 506 of the club head 100 may be determined according to guidelines outlined by the USGA. In general, the length 506 may be measured in the direction of the Z-axis 30 as the maximum distance from the front face 40 to the rear 104 of the club head 100. The height 504 of the club head 100 may be measured in the direction parallel to the Y-axis 20 as the furthest extent of the club head from the crown 110 to the sole 112 when viewed perpendicular to the front face 40. Similarly, the golf club head height 504 may be measured according to guidelines outlined by the USGA.

In these or other embodiments, the club head 100 can be viewed from a front view, with the strike face viewed perpendicular to the XY plane. Additionally, in these or other embodiments, the club head 100 can be viewed from a side view or side cross-sectional view, with the heel viewed perpendicular to the YZ plane.

Referring to FIG. 3, the club head 100 may further include a center of gravity (CG) 508. The location of the CG may be described according to the loft plane 50, the ground plane 60, and the front plane 40. The CG 508 is located at a head CG height 510 and a head CG depth 512. The CG height 510 may be measured in the direction of the Y-axis 20 from the ground plane 60 to the center of gravity 508. The CG depth 512 may be measured in the direction of the Z-axis 10 from the front plane 40 to the center of gravity 508.

As shown in FIG. 4, the golf club head 100 can be described in terms of a clock grid that is aligned with the strike face 118 and can protrude from the ground surface 60 of the club head 100 to the sole 112. The clock grid can include a 12 o'clock ray 522 aligned with the geometric center 500 of the strike face 118 in this embodiment. The 12 o'clock ray 522 is perpendicular to a front intersection line 520 defined by the intersection of the loft plane 50 and the ground surface 60. The clock grid can be centered at a center point 518 along the 12 o'clock ray 522, midway between the front surface 40 and the rearmost end of the club head. In some examples, the clock grid center point 518 can be centered proximate to the geometric center 500 of the club head 100. The clock grid comprises a 3 o'clock radial line 528 extending toward the heel end 106, a 9 o'clock radial line 540 extending toward the toe end 108, and a 6 o'clock radial line 534 extending toward the rear portion 104. The clock grid comprises a 4 o'clock radial line 530 between the 3 o'clock radial line 528 and the 6 o'clock radial line 534, and an 8 o'clock radial line 538 between the 9 o'clock radial line 540 and the 6 o'clock radial line 534. The clock grid further comprises a 5 o'clock radial line 532 between the 4 o'clock radial line 530 and the 6 o'clock radial line 534, and a 7 o'clock radial line 536 between the 8 o'clock radial line 538 and the 6 o'clock radial line 534. The clock grid further comprises a 1 o'clock radial line 524, a 2 o'clock radial line 526, a 10 o'clock radial line 542, and an 11 o'clock radial line 544.

In many embodiments, the club head 100 can be a driver or fairway wood type golf club head having a weight system 136, and the ribs 300 are configured to stiffen the club head 100 at the location of the weight system 300. In many embodiments, the club head 100 can be a wood type golf club head (i.e., driver, fairway wood, hybrid).

In some embodiments, the club head 100 can include a driver. In these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head can be less than about 16°, less than about 15°, less than about 14°, less than about 13°, less than about 12°, less than about 11°, or less than about 10°. Additionally, in these examples, the volume of the club head can be greater than about 400cc, greater than about 425cc, greater than about 450cc, greater than about 475cc, greater than about 500cc, greater than about 525cc, greater than about 550cc, greater than about 575cc, greater than about 600cc, greater than about 625cc, greater than about 650cc, greater than about 675cc, or greater than about 700cc. In some embodiments, the club head volume can be about 400cc-600cc, 425cc-500cc, about 500cc-600cc, about 500cc-650cc, about 550cc-700cc, about 600cc-650cc, about 600cc-700cc, or about 600cc-800cc.

In some embodiments, the club head 100 may comprise a fairway wood. In these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head may be less than about 35°, less than about 34°, less than about 33°, less than about 32°, less than about 31°, or less than about 30°. Furthermore, in these examples, the loft angle of the club head may be greater than about 12°, greater than about 13°, greater than about 14°, greater than about 15°, greater than about 16°, greater than about 17°, greater than about 18°, greater than about 19°, or greater than about 20°. For example, in some embodiments, the loft angle of the club head may be between 12° and 35°, between 15° and 35°, between 20° and 35°, or between 12° and 30°.

In embodiments in which the club head 100 includes a fairway wood, the club head volume is less than about 400 cc, less than about 375 cc, less than about 350 cc, less than about 325 cc, less than about 300 cc, less than about 275 cc, less than about 250 cc, less than about 225 cc, or less than about 200 cc. In these examples, the club head volume can be about 160cc-200cc, about 160cc-250cc, about 160cc-300cc, about 160cc-350cc, about 160cc-400cc, about 300cc-400cc, about 325cc-400cc, about 350cc-400cc, about 250cc-400cc, about 250cc-350cc, or about 275cc-375cc.

In some embodiments, the club head 100 may include a hybrid. In these embodiments, the loft angle of the club head may be less than about 40°, less than about 39°, less than about 38°, less than about 37°, less than about 36°, less than about 35°, less than about 34°, less than about 33°, less than about 32°, less than about 31°, or less than about 30°. Additionally, in these examples, the loft angle of the club head 100 may be greater than about 16°, greater than about 17°, greater than about 18°, greater than about 19°, greater than about 20°, greater than about 21°, greater than about 22°, greater than about 23°, greater than about 24°, or greater than about 25°.

In embodiments in which the club head 100 includes a hybrid, the club head volume is less than about 200cc, less than about 175cc, less than about 160cc, less than about 125cc, less than about 100cc, or less than about 75cc. In some embodiments, the club head volume can be between about 100cc and 160cc, between about 75cc and 160cc, between about 100cc and 125cc, or between about 75cc and 125cc.

C. First and Second Golf Club Head Components FIGS. 1-7 illustrate an embodiment of a multi-material golf club head 100 that includes structure that affects the club head's response to impact, such as a rib located inside the hollow club head at the rear portion 104 and configured to reinforce the club head body and support the weight system 136. As described below, the golf club head 100 includes at least one rib that protrudes from an interior surface of the weight system 136. The rib can operate to reduce vibrations of the weight system 136 during and after impact. The structure of an embodiment of the golf club head 100 that includes this rib is described in more detail below. As described above, the golf club head 100 is a two-component golf club head that includes the weight system 136 and a rib.

First Component As mentioned above, the head of the golf club 100 includes a first component 120. The first component 120 includes a first material as specified below. The first material may be a metal. With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first component 120 may include a strike face 118, a crown return 122, a sole return 124, a sole extension 126, and a back rail 128. The back rail 128 may further include a skirt portion 130 and a weight system 136. The crown return 122 may form a portion of the crown 110 adjacent the strike face 118. The sole return 124, the sole extension 126, and the back rail 128 may form a portion of the sole 112. Additionally, the sole return 124, the sole extension 126, and the back rail define a peripheral edge of the first component 120. The first interface 180 may be created by thinning a portion of the first component 120 along its periphery. When viewed from the sole, the first component may be generally "T" shaped. The sole extension 126 and the back rail 128 form the vertical, stem portion of the "T" shape. The sole return 124 may form the horizontal, or top, portion of the "T" shape.

The crown return 122 and the sole return 124 extend rearward perpendicular to the strike face 118. The sole extension 126 is adjacent to the sole return 124. The sole extension 126 extends rearward from the sole return 124. The back rail 128 abuts the rearmost edge of the sole extension 126. The sole return 124, the sole extension 126, and the back rail 128 may be integral. In other embodiments, the sole extension 126 and the back rail 128 may be formed separately and then attached or secured to the first component 120.

6, in some embodiments, the first component 120 of the golf club head 100 may further include a crown bridge 132. The crown bridge 132 may extend from the crown return 122 to the back rail 128 of the first component 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the crown bridge 132 extends from the crown return 122 to the back rail 128. The crown bridge 132 may serve to support the first component 120 during manufacturing. Additionally, the crown bridge 132 may serve as an attachment point for the reinforcing ribs described above.

As shown in FIG. 6, the crown bridge 132 may further comprise a crown bridge width 134 measured in a heel-to-toe direction. The crown bridge width 134 may range from 0.25 inches to 2.0 inches. For example, the crown bridge width 134 may be 0.25 inches to 0.50 inches, 0.50 inches to 0.75 inches, 0.75 inches to 1.0 inches, 1.0 inches to 1.25 inches, 1.25 inches to 1.50 inches, 1.50 inches to 1.75 inches, or 1.75 inches to 2.0 inches.

Furthermore, the crown bridge may be positioned relative to the ZY plane 70. The crown bridge 132 may be offset from the ZY plane 70. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the crown bridge 132 is positioned toward the heel end 106 of the golf club 100 relative to the ZY plane 70. In other embodiments, the crown bridge 132 may be positioned closer to the toe end 108 of the golf club relative to the ZY plane 70. Alternatively, the crown bridge 132 may be positioned to be aligned with the ZY plane 70. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the crown bridge 132 may extend from the crown return 122 to the sole return 124 at an angle.

As previously discussed, the first component 120 can include a first material, where the first material is a metal. The first material includes a first material mass associated with a first material density. Similarly, the second component 220 can include a second material, where the second material is a composite material. The second material includes a material density less than the first material density.

As mentioned above, the mass of the first component 120 can be described as a percentage of the total mass of the complete club head 100. The total mass of the club head 100 can be the combined mass of the first component 120 and the second component 220 joined together. The mass of the first component 120 can be 85% to 96% of the mass of the entire club head 100. For example, the first component 120 can have a mass percentage of 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, or 96%. Similarly, the mass percentage of the second component 220 can be 4% to 15% of the mass of the complete club head 100. The first component 120 further includes a weight system 136 located in the back rail 128 portion of the club head 100.

In some embodiments, the first component 120 can be manufactured as a single piece. In other embodiments, the first component 120 can be formed as multiple pieces that are connected or secured together, for example, by using adhesives, adhesive tapes, or mechanical fasteners. The first component 120 can include metallic materials such as steel, tungsten, aluminum, titanium, vanadium chromium, cobalt, nickel, or other metals and metal alloys. In some embodiments, the first component can include titanium metal. In many embodiments, the first component 120 is made from a metallic material to withstand repeated impact stresses from hitting a golf ball. In some implementations, the first component 120 can be formed from stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, steel alloys (e.g., 455 steel, 475 steel, 431 steel, 17-4 stainless steel, maraging steel), titanium alloys (e.g., Ti 7-4, Ti 6-4, T-9S), aluminum alloys, or composite materials. In some embodiments, the strike face 118 of the golf club head 100 can include stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, steel alloys (e.g., 455 steel, 475 steel, 431 steel, 17-4 stainless steel, maraging steel), titanium alloys (e.g., Ti 7-4, Ti 6-4, T-9S), aluminum alloys, amorphous metal alloys, or composite materials.

In some embodiments, the first component 120 can be made of a single metal material. In other embodiments, the first component 120 can include multiple metal materials. For example, in some embodiments, the strike face 118 can include different materials than the crown return 122, the sole return 124, the sole extension 126, and the back rail 128.

In many embodiments, the first component 120 can be cast and formed as a single piece. In other embodiments, the first component 120 can be forged, pressed, rolled, extruded, machined, electroformed, 3D printed, or formed via any suitable manufacturing technique. In many embodiments, the first component 120 can be manufactured to further include reinforcing ribs to support the weight system 136 of the back rail 128.

Weight System As mentioned above, the first component 120 constitutes the majority of the mass of the entire club head. The first component 120 can include a weight system 136 that receives a movable weight portion 140. The weight system 136 can be located within the back rail 128 of the first component 120. Referring back to FIG. 5, the back rail 128 of the first component includes the weight system 136 and is configured to localize mass at the rearmost portion of the club. The localization of mass at the rear portion 104 of the club 100 can allow for the tuning of the mass properties of the club head 100, such as CG and MOI, according to the player's swing and impact characteristics. Ball flight can also be affected by the location of the weight portion 140 within the weight system 136.

4 and 5, the weight system 136 is located within the rear portion 104 and within the back rail 128 of the club head 100. The weight system 136 may further include a weight portion 140, a weight fastener 142, and at least one weight-receiving boss 144. The weight-receiving boss 144 may define an aperture 145 for receiving the weight fastener 142. The weight fastener 142 is configured to secure the weight portion 140 to the weight-receiving boss 144.

The weight system 136 may further include a plurality of walls for receiving the weight portion 140 via the weight receiving boss 144 and the weight fastener 142. Referring to FIG. 3, the walls may include an upper wall 150 and a rear wall 152. The weight system may further include a lip 154 protruding from the bottom of the rear wall 152. Together, the upper wall 150, the rear wall 152, and the lip 154 define the weight channel 138. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, the weight channel 132 is parallel to the ground plane and extends rearwardly and forwardly from the back rail 128 of the first component 120 toward the front face 40.

3-5, the weight channel 138 includes a channel surface 148 configured to receive the weight portion 140. In many embodiments, the shape of the inner surface of the channel 138 is complementary to the shape of the weight portion 140. The top wall 150 of the weight channel 138 may be substantially parallel to the ground plane 60 when the golf club head 100 is at address. The rear wall 152 of the weight channel 138 may be substantially perpendicular to the ground plane 60 when the golf club head is at address. A lip 154 may protrude in the front-to-rear direction from the rear wall 152 closest to the ground plane 60. Additionally, the top wall 150 and the lip 154 may define a weight channel height 156 and a weight channel depth 158.

The weight channel height 156 can be measured as the vertical distance between the weight channel top wall 150 and the weight channel lip 154. The weight channel height 156 can range from 0.25 inches to 0.65 inches. In some embodiments, the channel height 156 can be approximately 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, or 0.35 inches.

The weight channel depth 158 can be measured from the rearmost end point of the back rail 128 to the junction of the top wall 150 and the rear wall 152. The channel depth 158 can range from 0.25 inches to 0.65 inches. In some embodiments, the channel depth 158 can be approximately 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, or 0.35 inches.

4, the weight channel 138 may further include a weight channel length 162 measured between the weight channel heel end 166 and the weight channel toe end 166. The length of the channel 162 may range between 1.6 inches and 3.0 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the channel may be 1.6 inches, 1.7 inches, 1.8 inches, 1.9 inches, or 2.0 inches, 2.1 inches, 2.2 inches, 2.3 inches, 2.4 inches, or 2.5 inches, 2.6 inches, 2.7 inches, 2.8 inches, 2.9 inches, or 3.0 inches. As mentioned above, the limited extent of the weight channel may act to prevent movement of the club head CG 508 toward the strike face 118.

In some embodiments, the location of the weight channel 138 may be described via the clock grid system described above. With reference to FIG. 4, the weight channel 138 is positioned toward the rear 104 of the golf club head 100. With further reference to FIG. 4, the weight channel 138 may be positioned relative to the hours on a clock. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the weight channel toe end 164 and the weight channel heel end 166 may be at least partially bounded by the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock rays. The location of the weight channel relative to the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock rays limits the CG to the very rear of the club. Alternatively, the CG can be limited to the rear of the club by placing the weight channel between the 4 o'clock and 7 o'clock rays, the 5 o'clock and 8 o'clock rays, or the 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock rays.

As discussed above, the weight system 136 can include multiple weight-receiving bosses 144. In some embodiments, the weight system 136 can include two to six bosses 144 configured to receive the weight portion 140 via the weight fastener 142. In some embodiments, the weight system 136 can include two, three, four, five, or six bosses 144. In most embodiments, adjacent bosses 144 are equally spaced, but in some embodiments, adjacent bosses are not equally spaced. In one embodiment, the weight system 136 can include three bosses 144 spaced apart such that adjacent bosses 144 include a space in the range of 0.5 inches to 0.6 inches.

4, the weight portion 140 can be configured to be received and secured within the weight channel 138 via a weight receiving boss 144. An aperture 145 of the boss 144 can be internally threaded to selectively receive a weight fastener 146. The weight fastener 142 can have a length equal to or less than the length of the aperture 145. The weight portion 140 defines a through hole 146 at a center of the weight portion 140. The through hole 146 can be further sized and configured to receive the weight fastener 142. In some embodiments, the through hole 146 of the weight portion 140 is at least partially threaded. Similarly, the weight fastener 142 can be threaded to be complementary to the threads of the through hole 146 and the boss 144.

5, the weight portion 140 may have a generally polygonal shape. The weight portion 140 may further include a weight portion mass. In some embodiments, the mass may range from 14g to 50g. For example, the removable weight mass may be 14g, 15g, 16g, 17g, 18g, 19g, 20g, 21g, 22g, 23g, 24g, 25g, 26g, 27g, 28g, 29g, 30g, 31g, 32g, 33g, 34g, 35g, 36g, 37g, 38g, 39g, 40g, 41g, 42g, 43g, 44g, 45g, 46g, 47g, 48g, 49g, or 50g. In some embodiments, the weight portion 140 may not include a mass less than 14g. In golf club head embodiments including weights having a mass greater than 13 g, the weight system 136 in the rear portion of the club head 100 can induce vibrations upon impact. In club heads lacking the reinforcing ribs described herein, the club head 100 can experience cyclic fatigue failure at accelerated speeds. Reinforcing rib embodiments described below can reduce vibrations of the weight system 136 in the rear portion 104 of the club head 100 for increased durability.

As mentioned, the weight portion 140 of the weight system 136 can move between adjacent bosses by 0.5 inches to 0.6 inches. Moving the weight portion 140 between the bosses 144 can result in an overall movement of the club head CG 508. For example, when secured to the center boss, the CG 508 of the club head 100 is positioned to produce a straight golf shot. When secured to the heel boss, the CG 508 of the club head 100 moves toward the heel, producing a fade type shot. A heel-facing positioning results in a ball flight trajectory that is generally left to right (left-handed golfers resulting in a right-to-left ball flight). Finally, when positioned on the toe boss, the CG of the club head moves toward the toe, producing a draw type golf shot. A toe-facing positioning results in a ball flight that is generally right to left (left to right for left-handed golfers).

As shown in FIG. 7, the weight system may further include a base structure 170 for supporting the weight boss 144 inside the club head. The base structure 170 may protrude from the inner surface of the sole extension 126 and abut the weight channel rear wall 152 to act for weight channel support. The weight receiving boss 144 may be located inside and/or on the base structure 170. In some embodiments, the boss 144 and the base structure 146 are integral.

The base structure may further include a front wall 172 and a top wall 174. In some embodiments, the front wall 172 is perpendicular to the top wall 174, forming a stepped geometry. The stepped geometry of the base structure 170 may help secure the boss 144 within the club head.

As described below, the golf club head may further include at least one reinforcing rib. The at least one reinforcing rib may be attached to the base structure 170 described above. In some embodiments, the rib may also be attached to one or more of the sole extension, the weight channel upper wall, the weight channel rear wall, the skirt, and the inner surface of the crown. The reinforcing rib may secure the inner surface of the club head to reinforce the club head body during impact. Attaching the reinforcing rib to the weight system may prevent fatigue failure of the club head by damping the vibratory motion of the weight system after impact.

Second Component As mentioned above, the golf club head 100 further includes a second component 220. The second component 220 may include a composite material. The second component 220 is attached to the first component to define the hollow club head 100. With reference to FIG. 2, the second component may include a crown portion 222, a toe wing 224, and a heel wing 226. In some embodiments, the second component 220 may be configured to fit over the first component 120 to define the complete golf club head 100. In the assembled configuration, the second component 220 forms a majority of the crown 110 and a portion of the sole 112 at the heel end 106 and toe end 108.

9, the toe side wing 224 and the heel side wing 226 can have a generally triangular geometric shape. The toe side wing 224 can be configured to fit within the toe end of the crown return 122, the sole extension 126, and the back rail 128 of the first component 120. Similarly, the heel side wing 226 can be configured to fit within the heel end 106 of the crown return 122, the sole extension 126, and the back rail 128 of the first component 120. As described above, the second component 220 can include a second material having a lower density than the material of the first component 120. The second component 220 can be a composite material. The composite material of the second component 220 can be integrated with fillers, such as fibers and beads, to enhance strength and durability. In other embodiments, the second component 220 can include any high-strength plastic material integrated or co-molded with carbon/glass fiber, glass/metal beads, powder (e.g., tungsten powder), or any other filler material to increase strength, durability, or weight.

In some embodiments, the second component 220 may include a composite material formed from a polymer resin and reinforcing fibers. The polymer resin may include a thermosetting resin or a thermoplastic resin. More specifically, in embodiments having a thermoplastic resin, the resin may include a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). For example, the resin may include polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide, polyamide such as PA6 or PA66, polyamideimide, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polycarbonate, engineering polyurethane, and/or other similar materials. The reinforcing fibers may include carbon fiber (or chopped carbon fiber), glass fiber (or chopped glass fiber), graphite fiber (or chopped graphite fiber), or any other suitable filler material. In other embodiments, the composite material of the second component may include beads (e.g., glass beads, metal beads) or powder (e.g., tungsten powder) for weight. In other embodiments, the composite material may include any reinforcing filler that adds strength, durability, and/or weight.

In some embodiments, the reinforcing fibers include a plurality of dispersed discontinuous fibers (i.e., "chopped fibers"). In some embodiments, the reinforcing fibers include a plurality of discontinuous "long fibers" having a design fiber length of about 3 mm to 25 mm. For example, in some embodiments, the fiber length is about 12.7 mm (0.5 inches) prior to the molding process. In another embodiment, the reinforcing fibers include discontinuous "short fibers" having a design fiber length of about 0.01 mm to 3 mm. Note that in either case (short or long fibers), the given length is a premixed length, and due to breakage during the molding process, some fibers may actually be shorter than the stated range in the final component. In some configurations, the discontinuous chopped fibers may be characterized by an aspect ratio (e.g., fiber length/diameter) of greater than about 10, or more preferably greater than about 50, and less than about 1500. Regardless of the particular type of discontinuous chopped fiber used, in certain configurations, the composite may have a fiber length of about 0.01 mm to about 25 mm.

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

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

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

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

As shown in FIG. 9, the second component can include multiple thinned portions. Each of the crown portion, heel side wing, and toe side wing of the second component can have one or more thinned portions. In the illustrated embodiment, the thinned portions are located in the center of the crown portion, heel side wing, and toe side wing. In this embodiment, the periphery and rear portion of the crown portion are not thinned. The periphery, or bonding surface, and the crown area closest to the weight portion essentially maintain their thickness for higher stress values. The thinned portions can reduce the overall mass of the second component, allowing weight to be reallocated to the weight system 136.

Connected First and Second Components As discussed above, the first component 120 and the second component 220 define the complete golf club head 100. With reference to Figure 6, the first component 120 may further include a first interface surface 180 or concave lip disposed along the periphery of the first component 120 that acts to join the first and second components. The first interface surface 180 is configured to overlap a portion of the second component 220 (second interface surface 232) to form the complete club head 100.

The first interface surface 180 may be formed by thinning the periphery of the crown return 122, sole extension 126, and back rail 128 of the first component 120 toward the inside of the club head. In other words, the first interface surface 180 may be recessed from the exterior surface of the golf club head 100, taking into account the combined thickness of the overlapping first interface surface 180 and second interface surface 232.

The first mating surface 180 may have a recess offset 182 ranging from 0.060 to 0.160 inches from the outer surface of the club head 100. In other embodiments, the first component 120 may have a recess offset 182 of 0.060 to 0.150 inches, 0.060 to 0.140 inches, 0.080 to 0.160 inches, 0.090 to 0.150 inches, or 0.090 to 0.160 inches. For example, the recess offset 182 may be 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.100 inches, 0.110 inches, 0.120 inches, 0.130 inches, 0.140 inches, 0.150 inches, or 0.160 inches.

As shown in FIG. 6, the width of the first mating surface 180 can range from 0.125 to 0.275 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the first mating surface 180 can be 0.125 inches, 0.150 inches, 0.175 inches, 0.200 inches, 0.225 inches, or 0.275 inches.

The first and second bonding surfaces 180 and 132 may be secured together via an epoxy or adhesive formulated to bond metals and composites. The adhesive may be a (wrist adhesive). Additionally, the first bonding surface 180 may include adhesion promoting features such as grooves or raised embossing. These features aid in uniform and controlled adhesive distribution over the first and second components during assembly.

II. Ribs The golf club head may further include ribs having dimensional and positional characteristics that may determine the club head performance, which relates to the impact response to the wear life of the club. The ribs may be located on the inner surface of the club head body to reinforce the rear of the club head and reduce vibrations caused by the centralized weight system after impact. As described below, the reinforcing ribs may dampen vibrations caused by the extreme concentration of mass at the rear of the club.

Following impact with a golf ball, the golf club head recoils. During recoil, the club head elastically flexes or deforms and then oscillates as a result of conservation of momentum. Generally, golf club head vibration is undesirable due to cyclic fatigue to the club head body structure. The degree to which bending or oscillation occurs is directly proportional to mass and inversely proportional to stiffness.

The weight system described above localizes the mass to the back rail of the first component. Placing a highly concentrated or localized mass at the rear of the club head requires additional reinforcement of the rear of the club head. The reinforcing ribs of the golf club head described herein support the weight system of the first component. Golf club heads having high rear mass and lacking reinforcing ribs, like the golf club head 100 described herein, will fail in cyclic fatigue at accelerated speeds. In particular, multi-material golf club heads lacking reinforcing ribs will experience delamination at the lap joints between the first and second components of the club head. Additionally, without reinforcing ribs to dampen the vibrations of the high mass weight system, multi-material golf club heads may experience material failure in the toe and heel wings, which are composite parts.

Stiffening the club head body above the location containing the mass is necessary to prevent bending and vibration at the junction of the weight support structure and the sole extension. It is mathematically understood that stiffening is most effective in the direction of the force. The golf club head in the described embodiment generally experiences forces in the front to rear and crown to sole directions during impact. Thus, referring to Figures 11-19, to stiffen the rear of the club with the weight system, the stiffening ribs extend in the front to rear direction and have a height in the crown to sole direction.

The embodiments shown in Figures 8-13 show a generally planar rib extending from front to rear. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 9-13, the rib may further include a lower front end point, a lower rear end point, an upper front end point, an upper rear end point, a front edge, a rear edge opposite the front edge, a lower edge, and an upper edge opposite the lower edge. The lower front end point is disposed toward the front surface on the inner surface of the sole. The lower rear end point is disposed opposite the front end point and proximal to the rear of the club. The front edge extends from the lower front end point to the upper front end point. The rear edge extends from the lower rear end point to the upper rear end point. The lower edge extends from the lower front end point to the lower rear end point. The upper edge extends from the upper front end point to the upper rear end point. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figure 8, the rib lacks an upper front end point and a front edge. In these embodiments, the rib upper edge extends from the lower front end point to the upper rear end point.

1. Dimensions The reinforcing rib can include multiple dimensions, such as width, height, thickness, etc. With reference to the embodiment of Figures 8-13, in some embodiments, the rib width can also be measured as the horizontal distance between opposing points along the leading and trailing edges of the rib. More specifically, the rib can include a maximum width measured as the horizontal distance between the lower forward end point and the lower aft end point.

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

In addition to width, the rib may further include a rib height dimension. The rib height may be measured in a direction perpendicular to the sole extension from the inner surface of the sole extension to the top edge of the rib. In general, the rib may have a maximum height range of 0.45 inches to 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the rib may have a maximum rib height between 0.45 inches to 0.75 inches, 0.75 inches to 1.0 inches, 1.0 inches to 1.25 inches, or 1.25 inches to 1.5 inches. In some implementations, the maximum rib height is 0.48 inches or 1.03 inches. In some embodiments, the rib height is constant across the rib width, and in some embodiments, the rib height varies across the rib width.

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

2. Location As noted above, in addition to dimensional characteristics, the extent to which a rib reinforces the rear of the club can be determined by the location of the rib. The location of the rib can be described relative to the front face of the golf club head. Generally, the ribs in the embodiments of Figures 8-13 are located within the rear 50% of the club head length. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower forward end point is located a perpendicular distance from the front face that is at least 50% of the club head length. In some embodiments, the ribs are located within the rear 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5%.

As discussed above, the lower edge of the reinforcing rib is attached to the inside surface of the sole portion of the club. Additionally, the reinforcing rib may extend onto the base structure 170 of the weight system. In some embodiments, the reinforcing rib extends between the weight-receiving bosses 144. In these embodiments, the reinforcing rib does not intersect the weight-receiving bosses 144. In some embodiments, locating the rib between adjacent weight-receiving bosses 144 further reinforces the base structure 170 by supporting areas of the base structure 170 with less material.

3. Rib Attachment In some embodiments, one or more support ribs can be integrally formed with the first component. For example, the one or more support ribs can be investment cast, lost wax cast, centrifugal cast, or die cast to form the one or more support ribs integrally with the first component. The one or more integrally cast support ribs can have a planar shape corresponding to the embodiments described below. The one or more integrally cast support ribs can be cast to join a portion of the interior surface of the base structure and a portion of the weight channel to the interior surface of the sole extension and skirt of the first component. Additionally, the one or more integrally cast support ribs can be cast to join the weight anchor and the interior surface of the weight channel to at least one of the interior surface of the crown bridge and the sole extension of the first component.

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

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

In some cases, mechanical bonding may also be implemented to permanently (or removably) bond one or more support ribs to the inner surface of the golf club head. In these examples (not shown), the ribs are slidably secured along at least one of the lower or upper edges via a rib channel. The rib channel may be disposed on the inner surface of at least one of the first or second components. The one or more support ribs may be bonded to at least one of the lower or upper edges via any mechanical fastening technique, such as a stud, screw, post, mechanical interference fit, swage, or any other suitable means of attaching the one or more support ribs.

In some embodiments, the first component or the first and second components include a rib receiving channel for receiving and retaining the rib. The rib channel may protrude along or be recessed within the inner surface of the club head. The channel may include a channel length corresponding to the width of the rib and a channel width corresponding to the thickness of the rib.

Additionally, the channel may include a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the rib channel length. The cross-sectional shape may comprise any shape capable of receiving and retaining the rib. For example, the rib channel may have a U-shape, V-shape, C-shape, dovetail shape, or any other shape suitable for receiving the rib. Similarly, the upper and lower edges of the rib may include an edge shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the rib channel. Other attachment means may be used in combination with mechanical bonding. For example, the rib may be secured to the inner surface of the club using both the channel and epoxy.

A. Arcuate Rib In some embodiments, the golf club head 1000 may include an arcuate rib 1300. The arcuate rib 1300 reinforces the rear of the club head body 1000, including the weight system 1136. In general, the golf club head 1000 is similar to the golf club head 100. As shown in FIG. 8 , the arcuate rib 1300 has a curved profile. The arcuate rib 1300 extends vertically midway between the inner surface of the crown portion 1110 and the sole portion 1112.

Many of the features of the club head 1000 shown in FIG. 8 are similar to those described above with respect to the club 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Similar features of the embodiment of FIG. 8 are referenced with similar reference numbers using the "1xxx" reference number series. Accordingly, some features may not be restated below or may not be described in as much detail. Additionally, some features of the club head 1000 may only be described with respect to their differences from the club head 100. Accordingly, specific drawings and figures are not required and may be duplicates of other drawings. Duplicate drawings are not included.

8, the golf club head 1000 includes a first component 1120. The first component includes a crown return 1122, a sole return 1124, a sole extension 1126, and a back rail 1128. The back rail 1128 further includes a weight system 1136. The weight system further includes a weight channel 1138 and a weight portion 1140 configured to be secured within the weight channel 1138. As described above, the weight channel 1138 may be defined by a top wall 1150, a rear wall 1152, and a bottom lip 1154. The weight portion 1140 is configured to be secured within the weight channel 1138 via a weight fastener 1142 and at least one weight receiving boss 1144. The club head interior 1000 further includes a base structure 1170.

As discussed above and shown in FIG. 8, the golf club head 1000 further includes an arcuate rib 1300. The arcuate rib may be defined and described by a number of end points, edges, and dimensions as described above. The arcuate rib 1300 includes a lower forward end point 1302 and a lower rear end point 1304 opposite the lower forward end point 1302. Additionally, the arcuate rib 1300 includes a lower edge 1310 adjacent the inner surface of the sole portion 1112 and an upper edge 1314 opposite the lower edge 1312. The arcuate rib 1300 may also include a rear edge 1316 and an upper rear end point 1308 above the lower rear end point 1304.

Embodiments of the arcuate rib 1300 include a rib width 1318, a rib height 1320, and a rib thickness 1322. The width 1318 of the arcuate rib 1300 can range from 0.5 inches to 2.50 inches. For example, the rib width can be about 0.5 inches to 1.0 inches, or 1.0 inches to 1.5 inches, or 1.5 inches to 2.0 inches, or 2.0 inches to 2.5 inches. In other embodiments, the rib width can be about 0.5 inches, about 1.0 inches, about 1.5 inches, about 2.0 inches, or about 2.5 inches.

The rib 1300 further comprises a rib height 1320, which may be measured in the manner outlined above. The maximum rib height may be measured as the maximum vertical distance between the sole extension 1126 and the top edge 1312 of the rib 1300. The maximum height 1320 of the arcuate rib 1300 may range from 0.40 inches to 0.60 inches. In some implementations, the maximum height 1320 of the arcuate rib 1300 may range from 0.40 inches to 0.50 inches or 0.50 inches to 0.60 inches. In some embodiments, the maximum height 1320 of the arcuate rib 1300 may be 0.48 inches. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the rib height 1320 varies across the width 1318 to define the arcuate profile of the rib 1300. The height 1320 of the rib 1300 increases in a front to back direction to create a curved shape.

The arcuate profile of the rib 1300 may be further described according to the radius of curvature 1324 along the upper edge 1312. The radius of curvature 1324 may have a range of 1.0 inches to 4.0 inches. For example, the radius of curvature 1324 may range from 1.0 inches to 2.0 inches, 2.0 inches to 3.0 inches, or 3.0 inches to 4.0 inches. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature 1324 may be approximately 1.0 inches, 1.5 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.5 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.5 inches, or 4.0 inches. The radius of curvature 1324 and the width 1318 are linked dimensions within the rib 1300 such that as the rib width 1318 increases, the rib radius of curvature 1324 increases, and vice versa.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 8, the arcuate rib 1300 projects from the inner surface of the sole extension 1126, the base structure 1170, and the inner surfaces of the top wall 1150 and the rear wall 1152 of the weight channel 1138. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the arcuate rib 1300 extends from the front to the rear such that the lower forward end point 1302 is positioned within the rear 50% of the club head body 1000. FIG. 8 shows an embodiment in which the rib 1300 is located in the rear 30% of the golf club head body 1000. In other embodiments, the rib 1300 can be located in the rear 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10% of the club head. For example, the ribs 1300 can be positioned 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% of the rear of the golf club head body 1000.

Additionally, the rib 1300 may extend such that the lower rear end point 1304 and the trailing edge 1316 abut the skirt portion 1130 of the club head body 1000, as shown in FIG. 8. In some implementations (not shown), the lower rear end point 1304 and the trailing edge 1316 may not abut the skirt 1130. In these embodiments, the skirt 1130 and the lower rear end point 1304 and the trailing edge 1316 may include spaces therebetween.

B. Crown-to-Sole Rib In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, the golf club head 2000 can include a crown-to-sole rib 2300. As shown, the rib 2300 extends between the inner surface of the sole 2112 and the inner surface of the crown 2110 and reinforces the rear portion 2104 of the club head body 2000. The rib 2300 can have a rectangular shape when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. As discussed above, the rib 2300 can reduce vibratory motion of the localized weight system 2136 upon impact.

Many of the features of the club head shown in FIG. 9 are similar to those described above with respect to club head 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Similar features of the embodiment of FIG. 9 are referenced with similar reference numbers using the "2xxx" reference number series. Accordingly, some features may not be restated below or may not be described in as much detail. Additionally, some features of club head 2000 may be described only with respect to their differences from club head 100. As such, specific drawings or illustrations may not be necessary.

9, the golf club head 2000 includes a crown-to-sole rib 2300. As described above, the rib 2300 may be defined and described by a number of end points, edges, and dimensions. The rib 2300 includes a lower forward end point 2302 and a lower rear end point 2304 opposite the lower forward end point 2302. Additionally, the rib 2300 includes an upper forward end point 2306 and an upper rear end point 2308 above the lower rear end point 2304. The lower forward end point 2302 and the lower rear end point 2304 may define a lower edge 2310. Similarly, the upper edge 2312 of the rib 2300 may be defined between the upper forward end point 2306 and the upper rear end point 2308. Additionally, the above-mentioned points may define a leading edge 2314 and a trailing edge 2316. The leading edge 2314 may be defined between the lower forward end point 2302 and the upper forward end point 2306. The trailing edge 2316 of the rib 2300 may be defined between the lower rear end point 2304 and the upper rear end point 2308. The leading edge 2314 and the trailing edge 2316 may be straight and approximately vertical when the club head 2000 is at address.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 9, the rib 2300 comprises a width 2318, a height 2320, and a thickness 2322. The width 2318 of the rib 2300 may be measured as described above, where the width is measured as the horizontal distance between opposing points of the leading edge 2314 and the trailing edge 2316 of the rib 2300. The width 2318 of the rib 2300 may range from 0.25 inches to 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the rib width 2318 may range from 0.25 inches to 0.35 inches, 0.35 inches to 0.45 inches, 0.45 inches to 0.55 inches, 0.55 inches to 0.65 inches, or 0.65 inches to 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the rib 2300 comprises a width of 0.46 inches.

Additionally, the rib 2300 includes a rib height 2320. The rib height 2320 may be measured as the vertical distance from the sole extension 2126 to any point along the top edge 2312 of the rib 2300. The maximum height of the rib may be 0.75 inches or more, 0.80 inches or more, 0.85 inches or more, 0.90 inches or more, 0.95 inches or more, or 1.0 inches or more. The thickness 2322 of the crown-to-sole rib 2300 may be measured perpendicular to the rib height 2320 and in the heel-to-toe direction and may have the thicknesses described above.

9, the crown-to-sole rib 2300 may include a generally rectangular profile. The rib 2300 extends from the sole to the inner surface of the crown portion as shown. Specifically, the lower edge of the rib 2310 projects from the inner surface of the sole extension 2126 and the rear wall 2152 and the upper wall 2150 of the base structure 2170 and the weight channel 2138. The upper edge 2312 of the rib 2300 abuts the crown 2110. In some embodiments, the upper edge 2312 may abut the crown bridge 2132 of the first component 2120. In some embodiments, the rib 2300 is integral with the first component 2120. In some embodiments, the club head 2300 may lack the crown bridge 2132 such that the rib upper edge 2312 abuts the composite second component 2220.

In some embodiments, the rib 2300 may be positioned such that the leading edge 2314 and trailing edge 2316 of the rib are free and do not abut the inside surface of the club head 2000. The lower rear end point 2304 of the rib 2300 may likewise be configured such that the skirt 2130 and the lower rear end point 2304 have a space therebetween. In these embodiments, the rib 2300 may be positioned such that the width 2318 is within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length.

C. Hourglass Crown-to-Sole Rib In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10, the golf club head 3000 can include an hourglass crown-to-sole rib 3300. The hourglass crown-to-sole rib 3300 can increase the stiffness of the rear portion of the club while minimizing the weight added by the inclusion of the rib 3300. As shown, the rib 3300 extends between the inner surface of the sole 3112 and the inner surface of the crown 3110 and reinforces the rear portion 3104 of the club head body 3000. The rib 3300 can include an hourglass shape when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. As discussed above, the rib 3300 can reduce the vibratory motion of the localized weight system 3136 during impact.

Many of the features of the hourglass crown-to-sole rib 3300 shown in FIG. 10 are similar to the features of the crown-to-sole rib described above with respect to the club 2000 of FIG. 9 and the golf club head 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Similar features of the embodiment of FIG. 10 are referenced with similar reference numbers using the "3xxx" numbering series. Similar features may not be described again or in greater detail below. Additionally, some features of rib 3300 may only be described with respect to their differences from rib 2300.

In some embodiments, the golf club head 3000 can include an hourglass shaped rib 3300. The rib 3300 includes a lower forward end point 3302 and a lower rear end point 3304 opposite the lower forward end point 3302. Additionally, the rib 3300 includes an upper forward end point 3306 and an upper rear end point 3308 above the lower rear end point 3304. The lower forward end point 3302 and the lower rear end point 3304 can define a lower edge 3310. Similarly, an upper edge 3312 of the rib 3300 can be defined between the upper forward end point 3306 and the upper rear end point 3308. Additionally, the above-mentioned points can define a leading edge 3314 and a trailing edge 3316. The leading edge 3314 can be defined between the lower forward end point 3302 and the upper forward end point 3306. The trailing edge 3316 of the rib 3300 may be defined between the lower rear end point 3304 and the upper rear end point 3308. When viewed from the front of the golf club head 3000, the leading edge 3314 may include a generally concave curve. Also, when viewed from the front, the trailing edge 3316 may include a generally convex curve.

The rib 3300 comprises a width 3318, a height 3320, and a thickness 3322. The width 3318 of the rib 3300 may be measured as described above, where the width is measured as the horizontal distance between opposing points of the leading edge 3314 and the trailing edge 3316 of the rib 3300. When viewed from the side, as shown in FIG. 11, the rib 3300 of the club head 3000 comprises a substantially hourglass or hyperbolic shape. The hourglass shape may be formed by the width 3318 varying across the height 3320 of the rib. In the sole-to-crown direction, the rib 3300 includes a rib width 3318 that decreases from the sole 3112 to a midpoint between the crown 3110 and the sole 3112, and increases from the midpoint to the crown 3110. The variation in rib width 3318 across the height creates a tapered shape described as an hourglass or hyperbolic to reduce the weight of the rib 3300.

In some embodiments, varying the width 3318 of the rib 3300 can reduce the weight of the rib 3300 compared to a substantially similar rib having a constant width. Minimizing the weight of the rib 3300 can provide stiffness without affecting the mass properties of the golf club head 3000. Weight reduction can vary depending on the minimum width value and material properties.

10, the rib 3300 extends from the inner surface of the sole 3112 to the crown 3110 as shown. As shown, the lower edge of the rib 3310 is proximate the inner surface of the sole extension 3126, the base structure 3170, and the rear wall 3152 and the upper wall 3150 of the weight channel 3138. The upper edge 3312 of the rib 3300 abuts the crown 3110. In some embodiments, the upper edge 3312 can abut the crown bridge 3132 of the first component 3120. In some embodiments, the rib 3300 is integral with the first component 3120. In some embodiments, the club head 3000 can lack the crown bridge 3132 such that the rib upper edge 2312 abuts the composite second component 3220.

In some embodiments, the rib 3300 can be positioned such that the leading edge 3314 and trailing edge 3316 of the rib are free and do not abut the inside surface of the club head 3000. The lower rear end point 3304 of the rib 3300 can be similarly configured such that the skirt 3130 and the lower rear end point 3304 include a space therebetween. In these or other embodiments, the rib 3300 can be positioned such that the width 3318 is within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length.

D. Base-to-Crown Rib Referring to FIG. 11, the golf club head 4000 can include a base-to-crown rib 4300. As shown, the rib 4300 extends between the base structure 4170 located on the inner surface of the sole 4112 and the inner surface of the crown 4110 to reinforce the rear portion 4104 of the club head body 4000. In this embodiment, the rib 4300 directly bonds the weight system 4136 to the crown 4110. The rib 4300 may include a rectangular shape when viewed from a side cross-sectional view. As described above, the rib 4300 can reduce localized vibration motion of the weight system 4136 upon impact by directly fastening the weight system 4136 to the crown 4110.

Many of the features of the base-to-crown rib 4300 shown in FIG. 11 are similar to the features of the rib described above with respect to the clubs 2000 and 3000 of FIGS. 9-10 and the golf club head 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Similar features of the embodiment of FIG. 11 are referenced with similar reference numbers using the "4xxx" numbering series. Similar features in the golf club head 4000 are not restated or described in greater detail below. Additionally, some features of the rib 4300 may be described only with respect to differences from the rib 3300.

As described above, the base-to-crown rib 4300 includes a lower forward end point 4302 and a lower aft end point 4304 opposite the lower forward end point 4302. Additionally, the rib 4300 includes an upper forward end point 4306 and an upper aft end point 4308 above the lower aft end point 4304. The lower forward end point 4302 and the lower aft end point 4304 can define a lower edge 4310. Similarly, an upper edge 4312 of the rib 4300 can be defined between the upper forward end point 4306 and the upper aft end point 4308. Additionally, the above-mentioned points can define a leading edge 4314 and a trailing edge 4316. The leading edge 4314 can be defined between the lower forward end point 4302 and the upper forward end point 4306. A trailing edge 4316 of the rib 4300 may be defined between a lower rear end point 4304 and an upper rear end point 4308. When viewed from a side cross-sectional view, the leading edge 4314 and the trailing edge 4316 may be generally vertical when the club head 4000 is in the address position as shown in FIG. 11. In some embodiments, the rib 4300 may have a generally rectangular profile.

The rib 4300 includes a width 4318, a height 4320, and a thickness 4322. The width 4318 of the rib 4300 may be measured between opposing points on the leading edge 4314 and the trailing edge 4316 of the rib 4300 in the manner described above. The rib 4300 may include the ranges of heights and thicknesses described in connection with the embodiments and golf club head 100 above.

The width 4318 of the rib 4300 can range from 0.20 inches to 1.0 inches. In some embodiments, the rib can have a width ranging from 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches, 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches, 0.40 inches to 0.50 inches, 0.50 inches to 0.60 inches, 0.60 inches to 0.70 inches, 0.70 inches to 0.80 inches, 0.80 inches to 0.90 inches, or 0.90 inches to 1.0 inches. In some embodiments, the rib width 4318 can be constant across the rib height 4320. FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a club head 4000 that includes a constant rib width 4318. In some embodiments, the rib width 4318 can vary across the rib height 4320. Varying the width 4318 of the rib 4300 can reduce the mass of the rib while maintaining structural integrity.

In some embodiments, the rib 4300 can protrude from the base structure 4170 and the rear wall 4152 and the top wall 4150 of the weight channel 4138. Additionally, in some embodiments, the rib 4300 can be positioned to protrude from the base structure 4170 between adjacent weight bosses 4144. The upper edge 4312 of the rib 4300 can abut the crown 4110. In some embodiments, the upper edge 4312 can abut the crown bridge 4132 of the first component 4120. In some embodiments, the rib 4300 is integral with the first component 4120. In some embodiments, the club head 4300 can lack the crown bridge 4132 such that the rib upper edge 4312 abuts the composite second component 4220.

In some embodiments, the rib 4300 may be positioned such that the leading edge 4314 and the trailing edge 2316 of the rib are free and do not abut the inner surface of the club head 4000. Also, the lower rear end point 4304 of the rib 4300 may be configured to be spaced away from the skirt portion 4130 of the club head 4000 as shown in FIG. 11. Additionally, the rib 4300 may be positioned such that the width 4318 is within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length. For example, the rib 1300 may be positioned 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% of the rear of the golf club head 4000.

E. Perforated Ribs Turning to FIG. 12 , the multi-component golf club head 5000 may further include perforated ribs 5300 to reinforce the rear of the club head body 5000 while reducing mass. More specifically, the perforated ribs 5300 may be configured to stabilize a weight system 5136 disposed within the back rail 5128. The perforated ribs 5300 may reinforce the club head body 5000 in a weight efficient manner such that the addition of the ribs 5300 does not affect the mass properties of the club head 5000.

Many of the features of the perforated rib 5300 shown in FIG. 12 are similar to the features of the rib described above with respect to the club heads 1000-4000 of FIGS. 8-11 and the golf club head 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Similar features of the embodiment of FIG. 12 are referenced with similar reference numbers using the "5xxx" numbering series. Similar features in the golf club head 5000 are not restated or described in more detail below. Additionally, some features of the rib 5300 can only be described with respect to their differences from the rib 4300.

In this embodiment, the rib 5300 can define at least one perforation 5330 or opening through the substantially planar rib 5300. As shown in FIG. 12, the perforation 5330 can be localized in a planar region of the rib 5300 above the base structure 5170.

12, the perforated rib 5300 can include a lower forward end point 5302 and a lower aft end point 5304 opposite the lower forward end point 5302. Additionally, the rib 5300 can include an upper forward end point 5306 and an upper aft end point 5308 above the lower aft end point 5304. The lower forward end point 5302 and the lower aft end point 5304 can define a lower edge 5310. Similarly, the upper edge 5312 of the rib 5300 can be defined between the upper forward end point 5306 and the upper aft end point 5308. Additionally, the above-mentioned points can define a leading edge 5314 and a trailing edge 5316. The leading edge 5314 can be defined between the lower forward end point 5302 and the upper forward end point 5306. A trailing edge 5316 of the rib 5300 may be defined between the lower rear end point 5304 and the upper rear end point 4308. When viewed from a side cross-sectional view, the leading edge 5314 and the trailing edge 5316 may be generally vertical when the club head 5000 is in the address position as shown in FIG. 12. In some embodiments, the rib 5300 may have a generally rectangular profile.

The lower rear end point 5304 of the rib 5300 can be configured to be spaced from the skirt portion 5130 of the club head 5000, as shown in FIG. 12. Additionally, the rib 5300 can be positioned such that the width 5318 is within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length. For example, the rib 5300 can be positioned 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% of the rear of the golf club head 5000.

As discussed above, the rib 5300 defines at least one perforation 5330. The perforation can provide weight savings to the rib 5300 compared to a similar rib having a solid material construction. In some embodiments, weight savings are maximized by arranging the perforations 5330 according to a nesting technique. The nesting technique can comprise positioning the perforations 5330 in a spaced apart manner to maximize weight savings while maintaining the structural integrity of the rib 5300. The embodiment of the rib 5300 shown in FIG. 12 includes perforations 5330 nested in a hexagonal fill pattern. In this configuration, the rib 5300 can provide comparable structural integrity when compared to a solid rib having similar dimensions.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the perforated rib 5300 includes a plurality of circular perforations 5330. As shown, the perforated rib 5300 includes 14 circular perforations 5330 that include a diameter of 0.010 inches. In some embodiments, the rib 5300 may include more or less perforations. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one perforation 5330 may include a diameter greater than 0.010 inches. In some embodiments, at least one perforation 5330 may include a diameter less than 0.010 inches.

In some embodiments, the perforated rib can have a profile having a rectangular shape as shown in FIG. 12. In other embodiments, the perforated rib 5300 can include an arcuate profile as in FIG. 8, or an hourglass profile as in FIG. 10. In other embodiments, the rib 5300 can include any profile shape suitable for reinforcing the club head 5000.

As noted above, the rib 5300 may have width, height, and thickness dimensions associated with any of the club head and rib embodiments described above. Additionally, the rib 5300 may be positioned according to any of the golf club head and rib embodiments described above.

F. Truss Rib As shown in FIG. 13, the multi-piece golf club head 6000 may include a truss rib 6300 for stiffening the rear of the club head body 6000. More specifically, the truss 6300 may be configured to stabilize a weight system 6136 located within the back rail 6128. The truss rib 6300 may stiffen the club head body 6000 in a weight efficient manner such that the addition of the rib 6300 does not affect the mass properties of the club head 6000.

Many of the features of the truss rib 6300 shown in FIG. 13 are similar to the features of the rib described above with respect to the club heads 1000-5000 of FIGS. 8-12 and the golf club head 100 of FIGS. 1-7. Similar features of the embodiment of FIG. 13 are referenced with similar reference numbers using the "6xxx" numbering series. Similar features in the golf club head 6000 are not restated or described in greater detail below. Additionally, some features of the rib 6300 can only be described with respect to their differences from the rib 5300.

In this embodiment, the rib 6300 can include a truss. The truss defines at least one opening 6330 in the substantially planar rib 6300. The at least one opening 6330 can include a polygonal geometric shape. For example, the at least one opening can have a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, or a polygonal shape. The polygonal opening 6330 can include 3-8 sides. In some embodiments, the rib 6300 can include multiple openings 6330. In some embodiments, the openings 6330 can include substantially similar geometric shapes. In some embodiments, the openings 6330 can include different geometric shapes.

13, the truss can be localized in a planar region of the rib 6300 above the base 6170. The perforated rib 6300 can include a lower forward end point 6302 and a lower aft end point 5304 opposite the lower forward end point 5302. Additionally, the rib 5300 includes an upper forward end point 6306 and an upper aft end point 6308 above the lower aft end point 6304. The lower forward end point 6302 and the lower aft end point 6304 can define a lower edge 6310. Similarly, the upper edge 6312 of the rib 6300 can be defined between the upper forward end point 6306 and the upper aft end point 6308. Additionally, the above-mentioned points can define a leading edge 6314 and a trailing edge 6316. The leading edge 6314 can be defined between the lower forward end point 6302 and the upper forward end point 6306. A trailing edge 6316 of the rib 6300 may be defined between a lower rear end point 6304 and an upper rear end point 6308. When viewed from a side cross-sectional view, the leading edge 6314 and the trailing edge 6316 may be generally vertical when the club head 6000 is in the address position as shown in FIG. 13. In some embodiments, the rib 6300 may have a generally rectangular profile.

As discussed above, the rib 6300 includes perforations 6330. The perforations 6330 can reduce the weight of the rib 6300 compared to a similar rib having a solid material construction.

In some implementations, the truss rib 6300 can have a profile having a rectangular shape, as shown in FIG. 13. In other embodiments, the perforated rib 6300 can include an arcuate profile, as shown in FIG. 8, or an hourglass profile, as shown in FIG. 10. In other embodiments, the rib 5300 can include any profile shape suitable for stiffening the club head 6000.

The lower rear end point 6304 of the rib 6300 can be configured to be spaced from the skirt portion 6130 of the club head 6000, as shown in FIG. 12. Additionally, the rib 6300 can be positioned such that the width 6318 is within the rear 30% to 5% of the club head length. For example, the rib 6300 can be positioned 5%, or 6%, or 7%, or 8%, or 9%, or 10%, or 11%, or 12%, or 13%, or 14%, or 15% of the rear of the golf club head 6000.

EXAMPLES As previously discussed, the dimensions and configuration of the support ribs detailed in the above embodiments affect the magnitude to which the weight system vibrates after impact. Lower vibration is desirable and is associated with reduced levels of material fatigue for longer club life. The vibration of the weight portion can be reflected by measuring the velocity of the weight portion during and after impact. The velocity of the weight portion can be measured away from the overall twisting and face deformation of the club head during the golf swing. To that end, the velocity of the weight portion is measured relative to a reference plane. The reference plane is parallel to the loft plane and offset 1.0 inch rearward from the loft plane. The reference plane was located where the club head experiences the least amount of overall twisting and translation during impact with a golf ball. The positioning of the reference plane allowed for an isolated measurement of the velocity of the weight portion relative to the structure of the club head. The reference plane defines a Y' axis that extends in a plane in a direction extending from the sole to the crown. The velocity of the weight portion was measured generally in the direction of the Y' axis.

The amplitude and velocity of the weighted portion can be measured relative to the Y' axis. The Y' axis velocity measurement indicates the amount of movement of the weighted portion over time. Smaller magnitude and frequency values are desirable to increase the durability of the club head.

In the following examples, finite element analysis (FEA) was used to record the velocity of the weight portion. In each example, the golf club head includes a substantially similar structure and configuration of the weight portion. The examples include a distinct rib configuration. The example golf club heads include first and second components similar to golf club heads 100, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, and/or 6000 described above. Each example club head was compared to a control club head. The control club head was similar to the example club heads but lacked reinforcing or support ribs.

For each example, a golf ball impact was simulated at 120 mph. The weight section was fixed to a central boss and contained a mass of 30 grams. The velocity of the center of mass of the weight section was recorded along the Y' axis, as shown in Figures 14-16. Example club heads including rib supported weight structures reduced the velocity of the weight section after impact by 45% to over 91% compared to the control club head.

a. Example 1
The stability of the weight portion in the first club head upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weight portion in a control club head. The first club head was similar to club head 1000 and FIG. 8 described above. The first club head included first and second arcuate ribs. The arcuate ribs extend from the inner surface at a forward end point to the skirt portion of the first club head, similar to embodiment 1000. Both the first and second ribs join the inner surfaces of the first metal part of the head of the first embodiment: the skirt portion, the top wall of the weight channel, the rear wall of the weight channel, the base structure supporting the boss extension, and the sole extension.

The first rib protruded from the inner surface of the first component and was disposed between the heel boss and the central boss of the base structure. The second rib protruded from the inner surface of the first component and was disposed between the central boss and the toe boss of the plurality of receiving bosses. Further, the first rib included a width of 1.70 inches, a height of 0.48 inches, and a thickness of 0.0025 inches. The second rib was configured with a width of 1.45 inches, a height of 0.48 inches, and a thickness of 0.0025 inches. The first and second ribs had a radius of curvature of 2.0 inches.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 14, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the first and control club heads. The FEA analysis of the first club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of approximately 10.2 in/sec. For the control club head, the weight portion velocity abruptly peaks at approximately 30.7 in/sec. In addition to high speeds causing material fatigue, the abrupt peaking of the weight portion velocity can add stress to the weight system that increases material fatigue and causes durability issues. The abrupt peaking of the weight portion velocity in the control club head is caused by the weight portion impacting the top wall of the weight channel.

When compared to the control club head, the velocity of the weight section was reduced by approximately 66%. Reducing the velocity of the weight section (corresponding to the vibration of the rear section of the club head) by 40% or more prevents the club head from breaking. Reducing the velocity of the weight section by a greater percentage reduces the cyclic fatigue experienced by the club head, thereby increasing the durability of the club. Reducing the velocity of the weight section limits the movement of the high mass weight system, thus preventing vibrations that, if not dampened, could delaminate the second composite component from the first metal component. This example shows that the arcuate first and second ribs of the first club head create a rigid connection between the sole and the weight system that reduces the vibration of the weight section after impact and increases the durability of the club head.

b. Example 2
The stability of the weight portion in the club head of the second embodiment upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head. The second club head was similar to the club head 2000 described above and shown in FIG. 9. The second club head included a first metal component having a crown bridge and a constant width rib extending from the sole extension to the crown bridge. The rectangular rib joined the sole extension of the first metal component, the base structure, the top wall of the weight channel, the rear wall of the weight channel, and the inner surface of the crown bridge. The crown bridge was constructed with a crown bridge width of less than 0.75 inches. The maximum rib width was 0.46 inches. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inches.

Additionally, the rib was positioned to protrude from the face of the base structure between the heel boss and the center boss. The rib was positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The lower forward end point of the rib along the inner surface of the sole portion was 4.0 inches away from the front face of the club head. Additionally, the lower rear end point of the rib was 0.25 inches away from the skirt.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 15, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the second club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the second club head resulted in a maximum weight portion velocity of approximately 3 inches/second after impact. The control club head was performed as described above for Example 1. Compared to the maximum velocity of the weight portion in the control club head, the velocity of the weight portion in the second club head was reduced by 85%.

As explained in Example 1, reducing the velocity of the weight section (corresponding to the vibration of the rear of the club head) by 40% or more prevents the club head from breaking. Reducing the velocity of the weight section by a greater percentage reduces the cyclic fatigue experienced by the club head, thereby increasing the durability of the club. This example shows that the wide crown-to-sole ribs of the second club head significantly stiffen the rear of the club head such that the weight system barely vibrates.

c. Example 3
The stability of the weight portion in the third club head upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head. The third club head was similar to club head 4000 described above and shown in FIG. 11. The third club head included a constant width crown-to-sole rib. The third club head rib was bonded to the base structure, the top wall of the weight channel, the rear wall of the weight channel, and the inner surface of the crown bridge.

The ribs had a substantially rectangular profile similar to the ribs of the second embodiment club head. However, the third club head ribs had a reduced rib width such that the ribs did not conform to the inner surface of the sole extension. In other words, the third club head ribs were connected to the weight system but not directly to the sole extension. The rib width measured 0.26 inches. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inches.

Additionally, the rib was positioned to protrude from the face of the base support between the heel boss and the central boss. The rib was positioned in the rear 15% of the golf club head. The lower forward end point of the rib along the inner surface of the sole portion was 4.5 inches away from the front face of the club head. Additionally, the lower rear end point of the heel was 0.25 inches away from the skirt.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 15, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the third club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the third club head yielded a maximum weight portion velocity of approximately 20 inches/second after impact. The control club head was performed as described above for Example 1. Compared to the maximum weight portion velocity in the control club head, the weight portion velocity in the third club head was reduced by 43%.

This example shows that ribs having a smaller width than the second embodiment club head ribs do not stiffen the club head as much. However, the smaller width ribs of the third embodiment club head still provide a significant advantage over the control club head. Additionally, the smaller width ribs of the third club head contain less mass than the wider ribs of the second club head. Thus, the smaller width ribs of the third golf club head provide stiffness and support to the weight system while preserving the desired mass properties.

d. Example 4
The stability of the weighted portion of the fourth club head upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weighted portion of the control club head. The fourth club head included a substantially rectangular rib having a constant width.

The reinforcing ribs of the fourth club head were dimensionally similar to the ribs of the third embodiment club head. For example, the rib width was 0.26 inches and the rib thickness was 0.0025 inches. However, in the fourth club head, the ribs were positioned closer to the front surface of the golf club head. In particular, the ribs were located forward of the base structure and no portion of the ribs contacted any portion of the weight structure. In other words, the ribs were decoupled, separated, or unconnected from the weight system. The rearward end points of the ribs along the inner surface of the sole extension were spaced 0.01 inches from the sidewall of the base structure.

In the fourth club head, the rib was located in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The lower forward end point of the rib along the inner surface of the sole was spaced greater than 4.0 inches from the front face of the club head.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 15, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the fourth club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the fourth club head yielded a maximum weight portion velocity of about 34 inches/second. The control club head was performed as described above for Example 1. Compared to the maximum weight portion velocity in the control club head, the weight portion velocity in the fourth example club head was reduced by 3%.

The fourth golf club head performed substantially similarly to the control golf club. This example shows that when the club head includes a rib that is separate from the weight system, the rib has minimal effect in preventing vibration of the weight portion. Thus, to effectively reduce the velocity of the weight portion, the support or reinforcing rib must contact or engage at least a portion of the weight system. In particular, to effectively reduce vibration of the weight portion, the rib must contact one or more of the base structure, the rear wall of the weight channel, and the top wall of the weight channel. Attaching the rib to the weight system can transfer and distribute stresses experienced by the weight system to the rib. In embodiments where the rib extends from the sole onto the weight system, the rib can prevent the rear wall of the weight channel and the top wall of the weight channel from buckling or hinged against each other upon impact.

e. Example 5
The stability of the weight portion of the fifth club head upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weight portion of the control club head. The fifth club head was similar to the club head 3000 described above and shown in FIG. 10. The fifth club head included an hourglass crown-to-sole rib. More specifically, the golf club head included a first metal component and a second composite component, the first component including a crown bridge. The hourglass rib joined the sole extension, the base structure, the top wall of the weight channel, the rear wall of the weight channel, and the inner surface of the crown bridge.

In this fifth club head, the ribs included an hourglass shaped profile with variable rib widths. The rib width measured horizontally along the sole from the lower forward end point to the lower rear end point was 0.46 inches. The rib width measured horizontally along the crown from the upper forward end point to the upper rear end point was 0.46 inches. The minimum width of the ribs was about 0.15 inches to 0.23 inches. The rib thickness was 0.0025 inches.

The ribs were also positioned to protrude from the base structure between the heel boss and the center boss. The ribs were also positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head such that the forward end points of the ribs on the inner surface of the sole portion were greater than 4.5 inches from the front surface of the club head. Additionally, the rear end points of the ribs were 0.25 inches from the skirt.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 16, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the fifth club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the fifth club head yielded a maximum weight portion velocity of approximately 5 inches/second. The control club head was performed as described above for Example 1. Compared to the maximum weight portion velocity in the control club head, the weight portion velocity in the fifth club head was reduced by 85%.

The hourglass ribs of the fifth club head reduced the velocity of the weight section by approximately the same percentage as the rectangular ribs of the second club head described above in Example 2. Because the hourglass ribs contain less volume than the rectangular ribs, the hourglass ribs also contain less mass than the rectangular ribs. Thus, the hourglass ribs of the fifth club head prevent vibration of the weight system without adding unnecessary structural mass to the club head. In addition, the hourglass ribs provide the same surface area stiffness as the rectangular ribs. In some embodiments, the hourglass ribs provide greater surface area stiffness by contacting a greater surface area of the sole and/or crown than the rectangular ribs.

f. Example 6
The stability of the weight portion of the sixth club head upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weight portion of the control club head. The sixth club head was similar to the club head 6000 described above and shown in FIG. 13. The sixth club head included a trussed crown-to-sole rib. The rib of the sixth club head included a substantially rectangular profile similar to the second club head rib. The rib of the sixth club head had a constant width. The rib was bonded to the sole extension of the first metal component, the base structure, the top wall of the weight channel, the rear wall of the weight channel, and the inner surface of the crown bridge. The width of the rib was 0.46 inches. The thickness of the rib was 0.0025 inches.

The ribs were positioned to protrude from the inner surface of the base structure between the heel boss and the central boss. Additionally, the ribs were positioned in the rearward 20% of the golf club head. The forward end points of the ribs along the inner surface of the sole portion were spaced more than 4.5 inches from the front surface of the golf club head. The rearward end points of the ribs on the inner surface of the sole were spaced 0.25 inches from the skirt.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 16, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the sixth club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the sixth club head yielded a maximum weight portion velocity of approximately 10 inches/second. The control club head was performed as described above for Example 1. Compared to the maximum weight portion velocity in the control club head, the weight portion velocity in the sixth club head was reduced by 71%.

The truss structure of the ribs of the sixth club head reduces the mass of the ribs while still supporting and stiffening the rear of the club head. The sixth club head does not slow the weight section as much as the rectangular ribs of Example 2. This slight decrease in performance may be due to a decrease in the structural integrity of the ribs. The proximity of the truss openings to the edges of the ribs may contribute to a decrease in the structural strength of the ribs. In an alternative embodiment, the truss openings or structure may be concentrated within the central portion of the rib, thereby increasing the strength of the rib and making it more effective against vibrations in the weight system.

g. Example 7
The stability of the weight portion in the seventh club head upon impact with a golf ball was compared to the stability of the weight portion in the control club head. The seventh club head was similar to the club head 5000 described above and shown in FIG. 12. The seventh club head included perforated crown-to-sole ribs. Specifically, the ribs were provided with circular perforations measuring 0.01 inches in diameter. Further, the circular perforations or cutouts were arranged in a hexagonal fill pattern. The cutouts were localized in an area at least 0.25 inches above the sole extension.

The ribs were positioned to protrude from the face of the base structure between the heel boss and the central boss. The ribs were positioned in the rear 20% of the golf club head. The forward end point of the ribs along the inner surface of the sole portion was more than 4.0 inches from the front face of the club head. In addition, the rearward end point of the ribs was 0.25 inches from the skirt.

As shown in the graph of FIG. 16, the FEA analysis tracked the velocity of the weight portion measured at the center of gravity of the weight portion with respect to time in seconds after impact with a golf ball for both the seventh club head and the control club head. The FEA analysis of the seventh club head yielded a maximum weight portion velocity of approximately 6 inches/second. The control club head was performed as described above for Example 1. Compared to the maximum weight portion velocity in the control club head, the weight portion velocity in the seventh club head was reduced by 83%.

The circular perforated structure of the seventh club head rib reduces the mass of the rib while still supporting and reinforcing the rear of the club head. The seventh circular perforated rib reduces the velocity of the weight section even more than the sixth truss rib. The seventh club head rib reduces the weight of the rib while reducing the velocity of the weight section to the same extent as the generally rectangular second club head rib. The circular perforated rib provides both structural strength and weight savings.

Clause 1: A golf club head comprising a first component bonded to a second component to define a closed internal volume therebetween, the golf club head having a strike face configured to strike a golf ball, a rear portion opposing the strike face, a crown, a sole opposing the crown, a heel end, and a toe end opposing the heel end, the first component having a crown return extending rearward from the strike face and forming a part of the crown, a sole return extending rearward from the strike face and forming a part of the sole, a sole extension extending rearward from the sole return and forming a part of the sole, and a back rail joined to the sole extension, the back rail being joined to the sole extension, The back rail includes a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip, the top wall, the rear wall, and the lip together defining a channel extending along the back rail in a heel-to-toe direction, the second component has a heel-side wing extending from the crown to the sole around the heel end of the club head and a toe-side wing extending from the crown to the sole around the toe end of the club head, the sole extension extends a greater distance away from the strike face than the return when measured in a rearward direction from the strike face, the channel is configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 grams, and the first component comprises approximately 85%-90% of the total mass of the golf club head.

Clause 2: The club head of clause 1, wherein ribs are disposed on the inner surface of the closed interior volume of the club head.

Clause 3: The club head described in clause 2, wherein the rib is disposed on the inner surface adjacent the back rail and the sole extension.

Clause 4: The club head described in clause 1, wherein the rib further includes a rib height measured perpendicular to the inner surface of the sole extension.

Clause 5: The club head described in clause 4, in which the rib height increases in an arcuate manner from front to rear.

Clause 6: The club head described in clause 1, further comprising a crown bridge formed integrally with the crown return and the back rail and extending in a direction from the strike face to the rear portion.

Clause 7: The club head described in clause 6, wherein the rib extends from the inner surface of the sole extension to the crown bridge.

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

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

Clause 10: The club head described in clause 7, wherein the rib defines a plurality of perforations.

11: A golf club head comprising a first component bonded to a second component to define a closed internal volume therebetween, the golf club head having a strike face configured to strike a golf ball, a rear portion opposing the strike face, a crown, a sole opposing the crown, a heel end, and a toe end opposing the heel end, the first component having a crown return extending rearwardly from the strike face and forming a part of the crown, a sole return extending rearwardly from the strike face and forming a part of the sole, a sole extension extending rearwardly from the sole return and forming a part of the sole, and a back rail joined to the sole extension, the back rail including a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip, the top wall and the rear wall being in contact with each other, the back rail being in contact with the top wall and the rear wall. and the lip together define a channel extending along the back rail in a heel-to-toe direction, the rear wall of the channel having a plurality of weight-receiving bosses, the second component having a heel-side wing extending from the crown to the sole around the heel end of the club head and a toe-side wing extending from the crown to the sole around the toe end of the club head, the sole extension extending a greater distance away from the strike face than the return when measured in a rearward direction from the strike face, the channel configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 grams, the first component comprising approximately 85%-90% of the total mass of the golf club head, and a rib disposed on the inner surface of the closed interior volume of the club head.

Clause 12: The club head described in clause 11, in which the rib extends between the weight-receiving bosses and is integral with the inner surface of the back rail and the sole extension.

Clause 13: The club head of clause 11, wherein the rib has a first arcuate surface extending from the crown bridge to the sole extension, the first arcuate surface being convex when viewed perpendicular to the strike face, and the rib has a second arcuate surface extending from the crown bridge to the sole extension, the second arcuate surface being concave when viewed perpendicular to the strike face.

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

Clause 15: The club head of clause 14, wherein the plurality of perforations include shapes from the group consisting of circles, triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, trapezoids, octagons, and rectangles.

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

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

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

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

Clause 20: The club head of clause 19, wherein the thinned portion is between 0.002 inches and 0.035 inches.

21. A method of forming a golf club head, comprising forming a first component and a second component, the first component being made of a metal material and the second component being made of a composite material, and bonding the first component to the second component to form a golf club head, the golf club head comprising a strike face, a crown, a sole, a heel end, a toe end, and a rear portion, the first component comprising the strike face, the crown return, the sole return, the sole extension, and a back rail, the back rail further comprising a top wall, a rear wall, and a bottom lip, the top wall, the rear wall, and the bottom lip being bonded to each other. defines a channel, the channel is configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 g, the sole extension connects the sole return to the back rail, the sole extension includes an inner surface, at least one rib extends from the inner surface of the sole extension to the back rail and joins the inner surface of the sole extension, the inner surface of the top wall, and the inner surface of the rear wall, the second component includes a crown, a toe side wing, and a heel side wing, the toe side wing and the heel side wing connect the crown to the sole, and the first component comprises 85% to 90% of the total mass of the golf club head.

Because the rules of golf may change from time to time (e.g., new rules may be adopted or old rules may be eliminated or modified by golf standards and/or governing bodies), golf equipment related to the methods, apparatus, and/or products described herein may or may not conform to the Rules of Golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the methods, apparatus, and/or products described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The methods, apparatus, and/or products described herein are not limited in this respect.

Although a particular order of operations is described above, these operations may be performed in other time sequences. For example, two or more of the actions described above may be performed sequentially, consecutively, or simultaneously. Alternatively, two or more of the actions may be performed in reverse order. Additionally, one or more of the actions described above may not be performed at all. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this respect.

While the invention has been described in connection with various embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is capable of further modifications. This application is intended to cover generally any variations, uses, or applications of the invention which conform to the principles of the invention and include departures from the present disclosure which come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains.

Claims (20)

A golf club,
1. A golf club head comprising: a first component bonded to a second component defining a closed interior volume therebetween, the golf club head having a strike face configured to strike a golf ball, a rear portion opposite the strike face, a crown, a sole opposite the crown, a heel end, and a toe end opposite the heel end;
The first component comprises:
a crown return extending rearwardly from the strike face and forming a portion of the crown;
a sole return extending rearwardly from the strike face and forming a portion of the sole;
a sole extension extending rearwardly from the sole return and forming a portion of the sole;
a back rail joined to the sole extension,
The back rail includes a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip.
the top wall, the rear wall and the lip together define a channel extending along the back rail in a heel-to-toe direction;
The upper wall extends rearwardly and parallel to the lip,
The second component comprises:
a heel wing extending from the crown to the sole around the heel end of the golf club head;
a toe wing extending from the crown to the sole around the toe end of the golf club head,
the sole extension extends a greater distance away from the strike face than the sole return, when measured in a rearward direction from the strike face;
the channel is configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 grams;
The first component comprises approximately 85% to 90% of a total mass of the golf club head. The golf club of claim 1, wherein a rib is disposed on an inner surface of the closed internal volume of the golf club head. The golf club of claim 2, wherein the rib is disposed on the inner surface adjacent the back rail and the sole extension. The golf club of claim 2, wherein the rib further includes a rib height measured perpendicular to the inner surface of the sole extension. The golf club of claim 4, wherein the rib height increases in an arcuate manner from the front to the rear. The golf club according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the golf club head further comprises a crown bridge that is integrally formed with the crown return and the back rail and extends in a direction from the strike face to the rear portion. The golf club according to claim 6, wherein the rib extends from the inner surface of the sole extension to the crown bridge. The golf club according to claim 7, wherein the rib is positioned within 20% of the rearmost point of the rear portion. The golf club according to claim 7, wherein the rib is positioned within 10% of the rearmost point of the rear portion. A golf club according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the rib forms a plurality of perforations. A golf club,
1. A golf club head comprising a first component bonded to a second component defining a closed interior volume therebetween, the golf club head having a strike face configured to strike a golf ball, a rear portion opposite the strike face, a crown, a sole opposite the crown, a heel end, and a toe end opposite the heel end;
The first component comprises:
a crown return extending rearwardly from the strike face and forming a portion of the crown;
a sole return extending rearwardly from the strike face and forming a portion of the sole;
a sole extension extending rearwardly from the sole return and forming a portion of the sole;
a back rail joined to the sole extension,
The back rail includes a top wall, a rear wall, and a lip.
The upper wall extends rearwardly and parallel to the lip,
the top wall, the rear wall and the lip together define a channel extending along the back rail in a heel-to-toe direction, the rear wall of the channel having a plurality of weight-receiving bosses;
The second component comprises:
a heel wing extending from the crown to the sole around the heel end of the golf club head;
a toe wing extending from the crown to the sole around the toe end of the golf club head,
the sole extension extends a greater distance away from the strike face than the sole return, when measured in a rearward direction from the strike face;
the channel is configured to receive a weight portion of at least 14 grams;
the first component comprises approximately 85%-90% of a total mass of the golf club head;
A golf club, wherein a rib is disposed on an inner surface of the closed interior volume of the golf club head. The golf club of claim 11, wherein the rib extends between the weight-receiving bosses and is integral with the inner surface of the back rail and the sole extension. a crown bridge formed integrally with the crown return and the back rail and extending in a direction from the strike face to the rear portion,
13. The golf club of claim 11 or 12, wherein the rib has a first arcuate surface extending from the crown bridge to the sole extension, the first arcuate surface being convex when viewed perpendicular to the strike face, and the rib has a second arcuate surface extending from the crown bridge to the sole extension, the second arcuate surface being concave when viewed perpendicular to the strike face. The golf club of claim 13, wherein the rib defines a plurality of perforations. The golf club of claim 14, wherein the plurality of perforations include a shape from the group consisting of a circle, a triangle, a square, a pentagon, a hexagon, a trapezoid, an octagon, and a rectangle. The golf club of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the first component and the second component define a lap joint or concave lip therebetween, and the second component is bonded to the first component across the lap. The golf club of claim 16, wherein the lap joint includes a plurality of adhesion-promoting features across a surface of the lap joint. A golf club according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the rib extends across the entire width of the channel. A golf club according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the second component includes one or more thinned portions to reduce an overall weight of the second component. The golf club of claim 19, wherein the thinned portion is between 0.002 inches and 0.035 inches.

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