JP7579825B2 - Golf club head with damping element for ball velocity control - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to a golf club head equipped with a damping element for controlling ball velocity.

For a golfer, it is a goal to reduce the total number of swings required to complete a round of golf, thereby reducing his or her overall score. To achieve that goal, it is generally desirable for the golfer to have the ball fly similar distances when hit with the same golf club, and for some clubs, to fly a long distance. For example, when a golfer slightly mis-hits a golf ball, the golfer does not want the golf ball to fly a significantly different distance. At the same time, the golfer does not want the overall distance to be significantly reduced every time the ball is hit, even when the ball is hit with the "sweet spot" of the golf club. Additionally, it is desirable to provide the golfer with a pleasing sound when the golf club strikes the golf ball.

JP 2018-015565 A

One non-limiting example of this technology includes a golf club head having a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearward from the striking face, and a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system including a y-axis that extends perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in an address position at a given loft and lie, an x-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extends to the heel of the golf club head, and a y-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extends to the heel of the golf club head. , the coordinate system having a z-axis extending through the striking face, the striking face having a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface, the golf club head further comprising a support arm spaced from the rear surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the perimeter portion, the support arm being attached to the perimeter portion at two distinct locations, and a damping element disposed between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face, the striking face being supported by a damping element disposed between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face, the damping element being attached to the perimeter portion at two distinct locations, the damping element being ... attached to the perimeter portion at two distinct locations, the damping element being attached to the perimeter portion at two distinct locations, the damping element being attached to the perimeter portion at two distinct locations, the damping element being attached to the perimeter portion at two distinct locations, the damping element being attached to the peri the damping element having a front surface in contact with the rear surface of the striking face and a rear surface in contact with the support arm, the peripheral portion having a sole extending rearwardly from a bottom of the striking face and a topline extending rearwardly from a top of the striking face, the support arm having a first portion extending from the sole toward the damping element and a second portion extending from the topline toward the damping element, the first portion of the support arm having a first thickness along the z-axis and a first thickness along the x-axis, The first thickness along the axis is greater than the first thickness along the x-axis, the second portion of the support arm has a second thickness along the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, the second thickness along the x-axis is greater than the second thickness along the z-axis, and the golf club head further includes a medallion attached to the peripheral portion of the golf club head, the medallion forming an internal cavity, the support arm and the damping element reside within the cavity, and the damping element includes an elastomer.

In an additional non-limiting example of this technology, the perimeter of the front surface of the damping element defines a support area, the support area has a geometric center, the striking face has a plurality of scorelines, the striking face has a heel reference plane extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel reference plane being offset from a heel limit of the scorelines by 1 millimeter toward the heel, the geometric center of the support area is positioned a support area offset length away from the heel reference plane in a toe direction when measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face has a striking face length measured parallel to the x-axis from the heel reference plane to a toe limit of the front surface of the striking face, and the golf club head has a support area offset ratio having the support area offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%, the support area offset ratio being 40% or greater.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology further includes a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element.

An additional non-limiting example of this technology includes a golf club head having a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding and extending rearward from the striking face, and a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system having a y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in an address position at a given loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extending to a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face, The striking face has a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface, and the golf club head further includes a support arm spaced from the rear surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the perimeter portion and attached to the perimeter portion at two separate locations, and a damping element disposed between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the rear surface of the striking face and a rear surface in contact with the support arm, the support arm extending substantially parallel to the y-axis.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the peripheral portion has a sole extending rearward from the bottom of the striking face and a topline extending rearward from the top of the striking face, and the support arm has a first portion extending from the sole toward the damping element and a second portion extending from the topline toward the damping element.

In an additional non-limiting example of this technique, the first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the z-axis and a first thickness along the x-axis, the first thickness along the z-axis being greater than the first thickness along the x-axis, and the second portion of the support arm has a second thickness along the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, the second thickness along the x-axis being greater than the second thickness along the z-axis.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of the technology further includes a medallion attached to the peripheral portion of the golf club head, the medallion defining an internal cavity, the support arm and the damping element residing within the cavity.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the damping element comprises an elastomer.

In an additional non-limiting example of this technology, the perimeter of the front surface of the damping element defines a support area, the support area has a geometric center, the striking face has a plurality of scorelines, the striking face has a heel reference plane extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel reference plane being offset from a heel limit of the scorelines by 1 millimeter toward the heel, the geometric center of the support area is positioned a support area offset length away from the heel reference plane in a toe direction when measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face has a striking face length measured parallel to the x-axis from the heel reference plane to a toe limit of the front surface of the striking face, and the golf club head has a support area offset ratio having the support area offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%, the support area offset ratio being 40% or greater.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology further includes a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element.

An additional non-limiting example of the technology includes a golf club head having a striking face, a peripheral portion surrounding and extending rearward from the striking face, and a coordinate system centered about the center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system having a y-axis extending perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in an address position at a given loft and lie, an x-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extending to a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extending through the striking face, the striking face having a front surface configured to strike a golf ball, and The golf club head has a front surface and a rear surface opposite the front surface, and further has a support arm spaced from the rear surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the perimeter portion and attached to the perimeter portion at two separate locations, and a damping element disposed between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the rear surface of the striking face and a rear surface in contact with the support arm, the support arm having a first portion extending from a heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element and a second portion extending from a toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology further includes a heel-side weight member and a toe-side weight member, the first portion of the support arm extending from the heel-side weight member and the second portion of the support arm extending from the toe-side weight member.

In an additional non-limiting example of this technique, the first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the x-axis and a first thickness along the z-axis, the first thickness along the x-axis being greater than the first thickness along the z-axis, and the second portion of the support arm has a second thickness along the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, the second thickness along the x-axis being greater than the second thickness along the z-axis.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology further includes a medallion attached to the peripheral portion of the golf club head, the medallion defining an internal cavity, and the support arm and the damping element residing within the cavity.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the damping element comprises an elastomer.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the first portion of the support arm is angled upwardly from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees relative to the x-axis.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology, the second portion of the support arm is angled upwardly from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees relative to the x-axis.

In an additional non-limiting example of this technology, the first portion of the support arm is angled upward from the heel side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees relative to the x-axis, and the second portion of the support arm is angled upward from the toe side of the golf club head toward the damping element at an angle greater than 5 degrees relative to the x-axis.

In an additional non-limiting example of this technology, the perimeter of the front surface of the damping element defines a support area, the support area has a geometric center, the striking face has a plurality of scorelines, the striking face has a heel reference plane extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel reference plane being offset from a heel limit of the scorelines by 1 millimeter toward the heel, the geometric center of the support area is positioned a support area offset length away from the heel reference plane in a toe direction when measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face has a striking face length measured parallel to the x-axis from the heel reference plane to a toe limit of the front surface of the striking face, and the golf club head has a support area offset ratio having the support area offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%, the support area offset ratio being 40% or greater.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of this technology further includes a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element.

The Summary described herein is provided to introduce selected inventive concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the subject matter described in the claims below, nor is it intended to limit the scope of such subject matter.

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following figures:

1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element. 1A-1B show perspective and cross-sectional views of the golf club head shown in FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face with a thickened central portion. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and a striking face with a thickened central portion. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element. 1 illustrates a perspective view of another example golf club head having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 4A. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another example golf club having an elastomeric element and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element. 3 shows a stress contour map for a golf club head that does not include an elastomeric element. 3 shows a stress contour map of a golf club head having an elastomeric element. 1 shows a front view of a golf club head. 6B shows a side view of the toe side of the golf club head of FIG. 6A. 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A along line AA. 6B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face. 6B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face, including the supported area. 1 shows a perspective view of a golf club head. 7B shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A. 7B shows a rear view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C taken along line BB. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C along the line CC. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C along line DD. 7B shows an additional cross-sectional view of the front of the golf club head of FIG. 7A , excluding the striking face. FIG. 9B shows the cross-sectional view of FIG. 9A with the deformable member removed. 7B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 7A oriented perpendicularly with the striking face including the supported area. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements. 7D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 7C including additional embodiments of elastomeric elements. 11B illustrates a periodogram power spectral density estimate of the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A. 11B shows an acoustic output estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 11A. 11E shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate of the golf club head shown in FIG. 11D. 11E shows an acoustic output estimate for the golf club head shown in FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element in which the rear portion is larger than the front portion. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element in which the rear portion is larger than the front portion. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element in which the rear portion is larger than the front portion. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14A but including a first material and a second material. FIG. 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14B but including a first material and a second material. FIG. 14D shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14C, but including a first material and a second material. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14A, but in which the center of the anterior section is offset from the center of the posterior section. FIG. 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14B, but in which the center of the anterior section is offset from the center of the posterior section. 14D shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14C, but in which the center of the anterior portion is offset from the center of the posterior portion. FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element that is necked down between a front portion and a rear portion. FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element that is necked down between a front portion and a rear portion. FIG. 14J shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element similar to that of FIG. 14J but including a first material and a second material. 1 shows a rear view of a golf club head. 15B shows a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows another perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 15A taken along the line EE. A cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A is shown without the tuning driver and elastomeric element installed. 15B shows a perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows a side view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 15B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver and elastomeric element of the golf club head of FIG. 15A. 1 shows a rear view of a golf club head. 19 shows an exploded view of the golf club head of FIG. 18. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head taken along the line FF. A cross-sectional view of the golf club head taken along the line G-G is shown. 1 shows a front view of a golf club head including a supported area. 13 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a golf club head and a second deformable member. 24 illustrates the second deformable member shown in FIG. 23. 25 shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head including the second deformable member shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 taken along the line FF. FIG. 26 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, lacking the weight member, the second damping element, and the first damping element. FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, minus the weight member and second damping element. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. 26, with the weight member missing. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view HH of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view II of the golf club head of FIG. 27, minus the weight member. FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view JJ of the golf club head of FIG. 34 illustrates a perspective view of the first and second damping elements of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 35 illustrates an additional perspective view of the first and second damping elements of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 36 illustrates a perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. 37 illustrates an additional perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 26. FIG. FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 39 shows a side view of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 40 shows a cross-sectional view KK of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 41 shows a cross-sectional view LL of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 42 shows a detailed view of FIG. FIG. 43 illustrates a cross-sectional view MM of the golf club head of FIG. 38, with the first damping element missing. 44 illustrates a perspective view of the second damping element of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. 46 illustrates a perspective view of the second damping element and the third damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 45. FIG. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of section NN of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 49 shows a side view of section NN of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 50 shows a detailed view of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 51 illustrates a perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 47, lacking the damping element. 52 shows a perspective view of section OO of the golf club head of FIG. 53 shows a side view of section OO of the golf club head of FIG. 54 illustrates a perspective view of the damping element of the golf club head of FIG. 55 shows an additional perspective view of the damping element of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of section PP of the damping element of FIG. FIG. 57 shows a side view of section PP of the damping element of FIG. FIG. 58 shows a detailed view of the damping element of FIG. FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a golf club head. 60 shows a side view of section QQ of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 61 illustrates an additional cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 59 including a golf club shaft and a sixth damping element. FIG. 62 illustrates a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional embodiment of a deformable member. FIG. 63 illustrates a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional embodiment of a deformable member. FIG. 64 illustrates a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional embodiment of a deformable member. FIG. 65 illustrates a cross-sectional view EE of the golf club head of FIG. 15A including an additional embodiment of a deformable member. FIG. 66 illustrates the deformable members and adjustment drivers of the golf club head of FIG. FIG. 67 illustrates a method of manufacturing a golf club head. FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of a golf club head. FIG. 69 shows a cross-sectional view R--R of the golf club head of FIG. 68 without the weight members. 70 shows a perspective view of the cross-section RR of the golf club head of FIG. 69. FIG. FIG. 71 shows a cross-sectional view SS of the golf club head of FIG. 68 without the weight members and damping members. FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of a golf club head lacking a striking face and dampening elements. FIG. 73 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 72, lacking the striking face and dampening element.

The technology described herein contemplates an iron-type golf club head incorporating an elastomeric element to promote more uniform ball speed across the striking face of the golf club. Traditional thin-walled iron-type golf clubs generally produce non-uniform launch velocities across the striking face due to increased compliance at the geometric center of the striking face. For example, when a golf club strikes a golf ball, the striking face of the club flexes and then springs forward, accelerating the golf ball off the striking face. Although such a design may increase the distance of the golf ball when struck at the center of the face, strikes off the center of the golf ball result in a significant loss in golf ball distance. In comparison, a very thick face would result in a more uniform ball flight regardless of strike location, but would cause a significant loss in launch velocity. The present technology incorporates an elastomeric element between the rear of the hollow iron and the back surface of the striking face. The inclusion of an elastomeric element improves the uniformity of launch velocity across the striking face, although it would reduce the magnitude of the launch velocity for strikes at the center of the face. In some examples, the compression of the elastomeric element between the rear portion and the striking face may also be adjustable, allowing a golfer or golf club fitting professional to adjust the deflection of the striking face when striking a golf ball.

1A-1B show a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 100 having an elastomeric element 102. FIG. 1C shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the golf club head 100. FIGS. 1A-1C are described simultaneously. The golf club head 100 includes a striking face 118 and a rear portion 112. A cavity 120 is formed between the striking face 118 and the rear portion 112. The elastomeric element 102 is disposed within the cavity 120 between the striking face 118 and the rear portion 112. The rear portion of the elastomeric element 102 is held in place by a cradle 108. The cradle 108 is attached to the rear portion 112 of the golf club head 100 and includes a recess 109 to accommodate the rear portion of the elastomeric element 102. A lip on the cradle 108 prevents the elastomeric element 102 from slipping or otherwise becoming misaligned. The elastomeric element 102 may have a generally frustoconical shape, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. In other examples, the elastomeric element 102 may have a cylindrical, spherical, rectangular, or prismatic shape. The recess 109 of the cradle 108 is formed to substantially match the shape of the rear portion of the elastomeric element 102. The rear portion of the elastomeric element 102 contacts the inner wall of the recess 109 of the cradle 108. The cradle 108 may be welded or otherwise attached to the rear portion 112, or the cradle 108 may be formed during a casting or forging process as part of the rear portion 112. The rear portion 112 may also be machined to include the cradle 108.

The forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102 contacts the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. The forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102 may be held in place on the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 by a locking mechanism. The flange 110 protrudes from the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 into the cavity 120. The flange 110 receives the forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102 and substantially prevents the elastomeric element 102 from sliding along the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 may partially or completely surround the forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102. Similar to the cradle 108, the flange 110 conforms to the shape of the forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102 such that the surface of the forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102 contacts the inner surface of the flange 110. The flange 110 may be welded or otherwise attached to the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. The flange 110 may also be cast or forged during the formation of the striking face 118. For example, if the striking face 118 is a face insert, the flange 110 may be molded or incorporated into the face insert during casting. In other examples, the flange 110 and striking face 118 may be machined from a thicker face plate. Alternative fastening structures other than the flange 110 may also be used. For example, two or more posts may be included on the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118 around the perimeter of the forward portion 103 of the elastomeric element 102. As another example, an adhesive may be used to secure the elastomeric element 102 to the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118. In other embodiments, no fastening structure is utilized, and the elastomeric element 102 is generally held in place by compression between the cradle 108 and the rear surface 119 of the striking face 118.

1A-1C, the elastomeric element 102 is positioned behind approximately the geometric center of the striking face 118. In a traditional thin-face golf club, a strike at the geometric center of the striking face 118 results in the greatest displacement of the striking face 118 and therefore the greatest ball velocity. By locating the elastomeric element 102 at the geometric center of the striking face 118, the deflection of the striking face 118 at that point is reduced, resulting in reduced ball velocity. However, the portion of the striking face 118 that is not backed by the elastomeric element 102 continues to deflect into the cavity 120, contributing to the velocity of the golf ball. In this manner, a more uniform distribution of ball velocity resulting from a ball strike across the striking face 118 from heel to toe can be achieved. In other examples, the elastomeric element 102 may be positioned elsewhere within the golf club head 100.

The elasticity of the elastomeric element 102 also affects the deflection of the striking face 118. For example, a material with a lower modulus of elasticity will allow more deflection of the striking face 118, achieving a greater maximum ball velocity, but with less uniformity. In contrast, a material with a higher modulus of elasticity will prevent more deflection of the striking face 118, achieving a lower maximum ball velocity, but with a more uniform ball velocity. Various types of materials are discussed in more detail below with reference to Tables 2-3.

The golf club head 100 also includes a sole 105 having a sole channel 104 between the front sole portion 114 and the rear sole portion 116. The sole channel 104 extends along the sole 105 of the golf club head 100 from a point near the heel to a point near the toe. Although depicted as a hollow channel, the sole channel 104 may be filled or spun with plastic, rubber, polymer, or other material to prevent debris from entering the cavity 120. The sole channel 104 allows for additional flexing of the lower portion of the striking face 118. By allowing the lower portion of the striking face 118 to flex more, a higher ball velocity is achieved from a ball strike at the lower portion of the striking face 118, e.g., from a ball strike off of grass. Thus, the elastomeric element 102 and the sole channel 104 combine with one another to achieve a uniform ball velocity across the striking face 118 and increase the distance of the golf ball for grass strikes.

2A-2B show a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 200 having an elastomeric element 202 and a striking face 218 with a thickened central portion 222. The golf club head 200 is similar to the golf club head 100 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, except that a thickened portion 222 of the striking face 218 is utilized rather than a flange 110. The thickened portion 222 of the striking face 218 protrudes into a cavity 220. The forward portion 203 of the elastomeric element 202 contacts a rear surface 219 of the thickened portion 222. The rear portion of the elastomeric element 202 is received by a recess 209 within a cradle 208, which is attached to a rear portion 212, substantially similar to the cradle 108 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C. Due to the thickened portion 222 of the striking face 218, the elastomeric element 202 may be shorter in length than the elastomeric element 102 in FIGS. 1A-1C. The golf club head 200 also includes a sole channel 204 disposed between the front sole portion 214 and the rear sole portion 216. The sole channel 204 also provides benefits similar to those of the sole channel 104 described in FIGS. 1A-1C and may be filled with or covered with a material.

3A-3B show a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 300 having an elastomeric element 302 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element 302. The golf club head 300 includes a striking face 318 and a rear portion 312, with a cavity 320 formed between the rear portion 312 and the striking face 318. Similar to the golf club head 100 previously described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, a flange 310 is disposed on a rear surface 319 of the striking face 318, and the flange 310 receives the forward portion 303 of the elastomeric element 302. In the example shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, the elastomeric element 302 has a generally cylindrical shape. However, in other examples, the elastomeric element 302 may have a conical, frustoconical, spherical, rectangular, or prismatic shape.

The golf club head 300 also includes an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the compression of the elastomeric element 302 against the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, the adjustment mechanism includes an adjustment housing 306 and an adjustment driver 330. The adjustment housing 306 may be a structure having a through hole to the cavity 320, and the adjustment driver 330 may be a threaded part or screw, as shown. The through hole of the adjustment housing 306 includes a threaded inner surface for receiving the threaded part 330. The adjustment housing 306 may be formed as part of the forging or casting process of the rear portion 312, or may be formed by machining and tapping following the forging and casting process. The threaded part 330 includes an interface 334, such as a recess, that contacts or receives the rear portion of the elastomeric element 302. The threaded part 330 also includes a screw driver 332 that is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the golf club head 300 so that the screw driver 332 is accessible to the golfer. When the threaded part 330 is rotated via the screw driver 332, for example by a screw driver, an Allen wrench, or a torque wrench, the threaded part 330 moves further in or out of the cavity 320. In some examples, an interface 334 that contacts or receives the rear portion of the elastomeric element 302 is lubricated to prevent twisting or rotation of the elastomeric element 302 as the threaded part 330 is rotated. As the threaded part 330 moves further within the cavity 320, the compression of the elastomeric element 302 against the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318 increases, thereby changing the performance of the elastomeric element 302.

The higher compression of the elastomeric element 302 against the rear surface 319 of the striking face 318 further limits the deflection of the striking face 318. The further limiting of deflection, in turn, causes a more uniform ball speed across the striking face 318. However, the limiting of deflection also reduces the maximum ball speed from the center of the striking face 318. By making the compression of the elastomeric element 302 adjustable with an adjustment mechanism, a golfer or golf club fitting professional may adjust the compression to suit the golfer's particular needs. For example, a golfer who desires more maximum distance but does not require uniform ball speed across the striking face 318 can reduce the initial setting compression of the elastomeric element 302 by loosening the threaded part 330. In contrast, a golfer who desires ball speed across the striking face 318 can increase the initial setting compression of the elastomeric element 302 by tightening the threaded part 330.

Although the adjustment mechanism is shown in FIGS. 3A-3B as including a threaded component 330 and a threaded through hole, other adjustment mechanisms can be used to adjust the compression of the elastomeric element 302 against the rear surface of the striking face 318. For example, the adjustment mechanism can include a lever, the rotation of which can change the compression of the elastomeric element 302. The adjustment mechanism can also include a button that can be depressed to directly increase the compression of the elastomeric element 302. Other types of adjustment mechanisms can also be used.

The golf club head 300 also includes a sole channel 304 between the front sole portion 314 and the rear sole portion 316, similar to the sole channel 104 described above with reference to Figures 1A-1C. The sole channel 304 also provides benefits similar to those of the sole channel 104, and may be filled or covered with a material.

The golf club head 300 may also be manufactured or sold as a kit. In the illustrated example where the adjustment mechanism is a threaded part 330, such as a screw, the kit may include multiple threaded parts 330. Each of the threaded parts 330 may have a different weight so that a golfer can select a desired weight. For example, one golfer may prefer an overall light weight for an iron head, while another golfer may prefer a heavier weight. The multiple threaded parts 330 may also be configured to distribute the weight of each of the threaded parts 330 along its length, if desired. The multiple threaded parts 330 may also have different lengths. By having different lengths, each of the threaded parts 330 may have a maximum compression that can be applied to the elastomeric element 302. For example, a shorter threaded part 330 may not be able to apply as much force to the elastomeric element 302 as a longer one, depending on the configuration of the adjustment housing 306. The kit may also include a torque wrench for attaching the threaded part 330 to the adjustment housing 306. The torque wrench may include preset settings that correspond to different compression or performance levels.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of another example of a golf club head 400A having an elastomeric element 402 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element 402. FIG. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 400A. The golf club head 400A includes a striking face 418 and a rear portion 412 with a cavity 420 formed therebetween. Similar to the adjustment mechanism of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the adjustment mechanism of the golf club head 400A includes an adjustment housing 406 and an adjustment driver 430. In the illustrated example, the adjustment housing 406 is a structure having a threaded through-hole for receiving the adjustment driver 430, which is a screw. In some embodiments, the adjustment housing 406 may be formed by a threaded through-hole through the rear portion 412 without the need for additional structure.

The tip of the screw 430 contacts the cradle 408A that holds the rear portion of the elastomeric element 402. As the screw 430 is rotated, the lateral movement of the screw 430 moves the cradle 408A closer or further away. Thus, in some examples, the screw 430 extends substantially perpendicular to the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418. Because the cradle 408A holds the rear portion of the elastomeric element 402, the movement of the cradle 408A changes the compression of the elastomeric element 402 relative to the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418. In this manner, the compression of the elastomeric element 402 may be adjusted by rotating the screw 430 via the screw drive 432, similar to the manipulation of the threaded part 330 in the golf club head 300 shown in Figures 3A-3B.

Figure 4C shows a cross-sectional view of another example golf club head 400C having an elastomeric element 402 and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the compression of the elastomeric element 402. The golf club head 400C is substantially similar to the golf club head 400A shown in Figures 4A-4C, except that the golf club head 400C has a depth D that is greater than the depth of the relatively small cradle (e.g., cradle 408B of Figures 4A-4B having a depth d). The larger cradle 408C contains more of the elastomeric element 402 than the smaller cradle. By enclosing a greater portion of the elastomeric element 402, the cradle 408C further limits deformation of the elastomeric element 402 upon impact of a golf ball by the golf club head 400C. The limiting of deformation of the elastomeric element 402 also limits the maximum potential deflection of the striking face 418, which may reduce the maximum ball velocity of the golf club head 400C while increasing velocity uniformity across the striking face 418. The large cradle 408C does not contact the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418 at its maximum deflection. The cradle 408C itself can be manufactured from the same material as the rear portion 412, such as steel. The cradle 408C may also be made from titanium, composites, ceramics, or a variety of other materials.

The size of the cradle 408C may be selected based on the desired ball speed characteristics. For example, the cradle 408C may enclose about 25% or more of the volume of the elastomeric element 402, as shown in FIG. 4. In other examples, the cradle 408C may enclose about 25%-50% of the volume of the elastomeric element 402. In yet other examples, the cradle 408C may enclose about 10%-25% or less than about 10% of the volume of the elastomeric element 402. In yet other examples, the cradle 408C may enclose more than 50% of the volume of the elastomeric element 402. For the portion of the elastomeric element 402 that is enclose by the cradle 408C, substantially the entire periphery of that portion of the elastomeric element 402 may contact the inner surface of the recess 409 of the cradle 408C.

The connection between the cradle 408C and the adjustment driver 430 can also be seen more clearly in FIG. 4C. The tip of the adjustment driver 430 may be flat and contacts the back surface 407 of the cradle 408C. Thus, as the adjustment driver 430 moves into the cavity 420, the cradle 408C and the elastomeric element 402 are pushed toward the striking face 418. Conversely, as the adjustment driver 430 retracts from the cavity 420, the force provided by the compression of the elastomeric element 402 causes the cradle 408C to maintain contact with the adjustment driver 430. In some embodiments, the surface of the tip of the screw 430 and/or the back surface of the cradle 408C may be lubricated to prevent twisting of the cradle 408C. In other examples, the tip of the adjustment driver 430 may be attached to the cradle 408C such that the cradle 408C twists with the rotation of the adjustment driver 430. In such embodiments, the elastomeric element 402 may be substantially cylindrical, conical, or spherical. In another example, the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418 and/or the front surface of the elastomeric element 402 in contact with the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418 may be lubricated to allow the elastomeric element 402 to rotate relative to the rear surface 419 of the striking face 418.

Although the golf club heads 400A and 400C use a continuous sole 414 as shown rather than a sole channel as in the golf club head 300 of Figures 3A and 3B, other embodiments of the golf club heads 400A and 400C may include a sole channel. In addition, the golf club heads 400A and 400C may also be sold as a kit with a number of screws and/or a torque wrench, similar to the kit described above for the golf club head 300. An additional backplate may be added to the rear portion, but some of the screws may be left exposed for adjustment.

表１の結果から、エラストマーを有するゴルフクラブヘッド（例４）は、フェースの中心から比較的高いボールスピードを達成し、その一方でゴルフクラブのトウまたはヒールの近くでの打撃からのボール速度の損失が少ない。 Simulation results for different types of golf club heads further demonstrate the uniformity of ball speed across the face of golf club heads that include elastomeric elements. Table 1 shows that ball speed across the face of a golf club head is maintained for several different exemplary golf club heads. Example 1 is a baseline hollow iron with a 2.1 mm face thickness with a sole channel. Example 2 is a hollow iron with a 2.1 mm face with rigid rods extending from the rear to the striking face, also including a sole channel. Example 3 is a hollow iron with a thick center (6.1 mm) and thin perimeter (2.1 mm) striking face, also including a sole channel. Example 4 is a golf club head with elastomeric elements similar to the golf club head 100 shown in Figures 1A-1C. The "Center" column shows the ball speed resulting from a hit at the center of the golf club head, and the "1/2"heel" column shows the loss of ball speed from a hit half an inch from the center of the club head toward the heel. And the "1/2"Toe" row indicates the loss of ball speed from hits half an inch from the center of the club head toward the toe. All values in Table 1 are in miles per hour (mph).

From the results in Table 1, it can be seen that the golf club head having the elastomer (Example 4) achieves relatively high ball speeds from the center of the face while losing less ball speed from hits near the toe or heel of the golf club.

表２の結果から、エラストマー要素の材料の選択はゴルフクラブの性能を微調整するために使用することができる。表２に列挙された材料のいずれも、本技術で使用されるエラストマー要素を形成するのに使用するのに許容可できる。 Additionally, as discussed above, the type of material utilized for any of the elastomeric elements discussed herein will affect the displacement of the striking face. For example, an elastomeric element having a greater modulus of elasticity will resist compression of the striking face and therefore deflection of the striking face, resulting in lower ball velocities. For example, for a golf club head similar to golf club head 400A, Table 2 shows the ball velocities achieved by using materials with different elastic properties. All ball velocities are the result of strikes at the center of the face.

From the results in Table 2, it can be seen that the selection of materials for the elastomeric elements can be used to fine-tune the performance of the golf club. Any of the materials listed in Table 2 are acceptable for use in forming the elastomeric elements used in the present technology.

表３の結果から、より高い弾性率を有する材料は打撃フェース全体にわたってボール速度を良好に保持するけれども、フェースの中心での衝撃に対して最大ボール速度を失う。いくつかの用途では、約４～約１５ＧＰａのエラストマー要素の弾性率の範囲を使用することができる。他の用途では、約１～約４０または約５０ＧＰａのエラストマー要素の弾性率の範囲を使用することができる。 Different types of materials also have an effect on retaining ball speed across the striking face. For example, for a golf club head similar to golf club head 400A, Table 3 shows the ball speeds achieved across the striking face from heel to toe for different materials used as the elastomeric elements. The materials referenced in Table 3 are the same materials as in Table 2. All speeds in Table 3 are in mph.

From the results in Table 3, it can be seen that materials with higher modulus of elasticity retain ball velocity well across the striking face, but lose maximum ball velocity for impacts at the center of the face. In some applications, a range of modulus of elasticity for the elastomeric elements from about 4 to about 15 GPa can be used. In other applications, a range of modulus of elasticity for the elastomeric elements from about 1 to about 40 or about 50 GPa can be used.

As discussed above with reference to Figures 4A-4C, the size of the cradle can also affect ball velocity. With a smaller cradle, such as cradle 408A in Figures 4A-4B, and an elastomeric element made from a 13 GPa material, a loss of about 0.2 mph is observed for center impacts compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. With a larger cradle, about 5 mm deeper, such as cradle 408C in Figure 4C, and an elastomeric element made from a 13 GPa material, a loss of about 0.4 mph is observed for center impacts compared to the same club without the elastomeric element. With an elastomeric element made from a 0.4 GPa material in a similar larger cradle, a loss of only about 0.2 mph is observed for center impacts compared to the same club without the elastomeric element.

San Diego Plastics, National City, Calif., offers several plastics with moduli ranging from 2.6 GPa to 13 GPa, all of which are acceptable for use. These plastics also have acceptable yield strengths for use in the golf club heads contemplated herein. Table 4 lists several materials offered by San Diego Plastics and their respective modulus and yield strength values.

The inclusion of the elastomeric element also provides the benefit of reducing the stress levels generated by the striking face surface upon impact with a golf ball, thereby improving the durability of the club face. FIG. 5A shows a stress contour map of a golf club head 500A that does not include an elastomeric element. FIG. 5B shows a stress contour map of a golf club head 500B that does include an elastomeric element. In the golf club head 500A, the von Mises stress at the center of the face 502A is approximately 68% of the maximum von Mises stress generated at the bottom face edge 504A. Without the elastomeric element, the von Mises stress level is high, indicating that the club face may be susceptible to breakage and/or premature deterioration. In golf club head 500B, for an elastomeric element having a modulus of elasticity of 0.41 GPa, the von Mises stress on the face near the edge of elastomeric element 502B is reduced by about 16%, and the maximum von Mises stress occurring at the bottom face edge 504B is reduced by about 18%. These von Mises stresses are still relatively high, but are significantly reduced from those of golf club head 500A. In golf club head 500B, which has an elastomeric element having a modulus of elasticity of about 13 GPa, the von Mises stress on the face near the edge of elastomeric element 502B is reduced by about 50%, and the maximum von Mises stress occurring at the bottom face edge 504B is reduced by about 56%. Such von Mises stress values are indicative of a smaller, more durable golf club head that may be less likely to fail.

6A-6E show a golf club head 600 having an elastomeric element 602. FIG. 6A shows a front view of the golf club head 600. FIG. 6B shows a toe side view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C shows a cross-sectional view A-A of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6D shows a perspective view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face 618. FIG. 6E shows a perspective view of the golf club head 600 of FIG. 6A oriented perpendicular to the striking face 618 including the supported area 642. The golf club head 600 includes a striking face 618 configured to strike a ball, a sole 605 disposed at the bottom of the golf club head 600, and a rear portion 612.

As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the golf club head 600 includes a coordinate system centered on the center of gravity (CG) of the golf club head 600. The coordinate system includes a y-axis that extends perpendicular to the ground when the head 600 is placed in an address position with a given lie and loft α. The coordinate system includes an x-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the striking face 618 and extends toward the heel of the golf club head 600. The coordinate system includes a z-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and x-axis and extends through the striking face 618. The golf club head 600 has a rotational moment of inertia about the y-axis (MOI-Y), which is a value that represents the resistance of the golf club head to angular acceleration about the y-axis.

The elastomeric element 602 is disposed between the striking face 618 and the rear portion 612. The striking face 618 includes a rear surface 619. The forward portion 603 of the elastomeric element 602 contacts the rear surface 619 of the striking face 618. As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6E, the striking face 618 includes a supported region 642, i.e., the portion of the rear surface 619 that is supported by the elastomeric element 602, which is defined as the area within a supported region boundary 640, which is defined by the outer extent of the forward portion 603 of the elastomeric element 602 that contacts the rear surface 619 of the striking face 618. The supported region 642 is shown hatched in FIG. 6E. The supported region 642 is not normally visible from the front of the golf club head 600, but is added for illustrative purposes.

The striking face 618 includes a striking face region 652, which is defined as the area inside the striking face perimeter 650 as shown in FIG. 6D. As shown in FIG. 6C, the striking face perimeter is defined by an upper limit 654 and a lower limit 656. The upper limit 654 is located at the intersection of the substantially flat rear surface 619 and an upper radius 655 that extends to the topline of the golf club head 600. The lower limit 656 is located at the intersection of the substantially flat rear surface 619 and a lower radius 657 that extends to the sole 605 of the golf club head 600. The striking face perimeter is also defined (658) at the toe (not shown in cross section) of the golf club head 600. The heel portion of the striking face perimeter is defined by a plane 659 that extends parallel to the y-axis and x-axis and is offset heel-wise by 1 millimeter (mm) from the heel-most extent of the scorelines 660 formed in the striking face 618. In FIG. 6D, the striking face area 652 is shown hatched. The striking face perimeter boundaries 654, 656 are projected onto the striking face 618 for ease of illustration and understanding.

A set may include multiple golf club heads similar to the golf club head 600 described herein, each having a different loft α. Each golf club head may also have additional varying characteristics, which may include, for example, MOI-Y, striking face area, area of supported area, and unsupported face percentage. The unsupported face percentage is calculated by dividing the area of supported area by the area of the striking face, multiplying by 100%, and subtracting it from 100%. An example of a set of iron-type golf club heads is included in Table 5 below. The set in Table 5 includes lofts 21, 24, 27, and 30. Other sets may include a larger number of golf club heads and/or a wider range of loft α values, or may include fewer golf club heads and/or a narrower range of loft α values. Additionally, a set may include one or more golf club heads that include an elastomeric element and one or more golf club heads that do not include an elastomeric element.

An example set of additional example iron club heads is included in Table 6 below.

With all other characteristics held constant, the higher the MOI-Y value, the greater the ball velocity for off-center hits. For clubs with low MOI-Y, the greater the unsupported face percentage, the less loss of velocity for off-center balls. By supporting the face at a smaller percentage, more of the face is allowed to flex during impact, increasing the velocity of off-center balls. Thus, for the golf club set of this invention described in Table 5 above, MOI-Y increases throughout the set as loft α increases, and the unsupported face percentage decreases throughout the set as loft α increases. This relationship provides consistency in off-center ball velocity throughout a set of golf clubs.

A set of golf clubs can include a first golf club head having a loft of 20 degrees or more and 24 degrees or less, and a second golf club head having a loft of 28 degrees or more and 32 degrees or less. In one embodiment, the set can be configured such that the first golf club head has a greater unsupported face percentage than the second golf club head, and the first golf club head has a lower MOI-Y than the second golf club head.

More specific features of the embodiments described herein are described below: In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than 30 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than 40 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than 60 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than 65 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than 70 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be greater than 73 ^mm2 .

In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 140 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 1300 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 120 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 110 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 100 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 90 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 85 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 80 ^mm2 . In some embodiments, the area of the supported area may be less than 75 ^mm2 .

In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 70%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 75%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 80%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 85%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 90%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 95%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 96%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is greater than 97%.

In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 99.75%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 99.50%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 99.25%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 99.00%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 98.75%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 98.50%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 98.25%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 98.00%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 97.75%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 97.50%. In some embodiments, the percentage of unsupported faces is less than 97.25%. In some embodiments, the unsupported face percentage is less than 97.00%.

Figures 7A-10 show a golf club head 700 having an elastomeric element 702. Figure 7A shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700. Figure 7B shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 700 of Figure 7A. Figure 7C shows a rear view of the golf club head 700 of Figure 7A. Figure 8A shows a cross-sectional view B-B of the golf club head 700 of Figure 7C. Figure 8B shows a cross-sectional view CC of the golf club head 700 of Figure 7C. Figure 8C shows a cross-sectional view D-D of the golf club head 700 of Figure 7C. Figure 9A shows an additional perspective view of the front of the golf club head 700 of Figure 7A, showing the striking face removed. Figure 9B shows the cross-sectional view of Figure 9A, removing the elastomeric element. FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A oriented perpendicular to the striking face 718, which includes the supported area 742. It should be noted that although the golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 7A-10 is an iron-type cavity back golf club, the invention described herein is applicable to other types of golf club heads as well.

The golf club head 700 includes a deformable member 702 disposed between a striking face 718 and a rear portion 712. In one embodiment, the deformable member 702 is formed from an elastomer. A forward portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 contacts a rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The striking face 718 includes a supported region 742, i.e., the portion of the rear surface 719 that is supported by the elastomeric element 702, which is defined as the area inside a supported region perimeter 740 defined by the outer extent of the forward portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 that is in contact with the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The supported region 742 would not normally be visible from the front of the golf club head 700, but is included in FIG. 10 for ease of illustration.

The golf club head 700 shown in Figures 7A-10 is a cavity back construction and includes a perimeter 701 that surrounds a striking face 718 and extends rearward. The perimeter 701 includes a sole 705, a toe 706, and a topline 707. The perimeter 701 may include a weight pad 710. The golf club head 700 also includes a rear portion 712 that is configured to support the elastomeric element 702.

The rear portion 712 includes a cantilevered support arm 762 secured to the perimeter portion 701. The support arm 762 may include a cradle 708 configured to hold the elastomeric element 702 in place. The cradle 708 may include a lip 709 configured to position the elastomeric element 702 on the cradle 708 against the striking face 718. The lip 709 may surround a portion of the elastomeric element 702. Additionally, an adhesive may be used between the elastomer and the cradle 708 to secure the elastomeric element 702 to the cradle 708.

The support arm 762 extends from the weight pad 710 located at the intersection of the sole 705 and toe 706 of the perimeter 701 toward the supported area 742. The support arm 762 is oriented substantially parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The support arm 762 may include a rib 764 to increase the stiffness of the support arm 762. The rib 764 may extend rearward from the support arm 762 substantially perpendicular to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The advantage of the cantilevered support arm 762 is that it achieves a lower CG height than alternative beam designs such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A that are supported by the perimeter at both ends.

To provide a low CG height, the support arm 762 is cantilevered, meaning that it is only fixed to the perimeter 701 at one end of the support arm 762. The support arm is designed such that the distance H between the highest part of the support arm 762 and the ground plane GP when the golf club head 700 is in the address position is minimized as shown in FIG. 8C, while still positioning the elastomeric element 702 in an optimal position. In one embodiment, H is 50 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is less than 45 mm. In another embodiment, H is 40 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 35 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 30 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 29 mm or less. In another embodiment, H is 28 mm or less.

In one embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 25 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 24 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 23 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 22 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 21 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 20 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 19 mm or less. In another embodiment, the golf club head 700 can have a CG height CGH of 18 mm or less.

Another advantage of the illustrated support arm 762 is that it provides a high MOI-Y due to its orientation. By concentrating mass at the heel and toe ends of the golf club head 700, the MOI-Y can be increased. The support arm 762 is angled to concentrate most of its mass near the toe 706, increasing the MOI-Y compared to the more centrally located rear portion of the golf club head 700. In one embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is 200 kg- ^mm2 or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is 210 kg- ^mm2 or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is 220 kg- ^mm2 or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is 230 kg- ^mm2 or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of the golf club head 700 is 240 kg- ^mm2 or greater. In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 250 kg- ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 260 kg- ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the MOI-Y of golf club head 700 is greater than or equal to 270 kg- ^mm2 .

The support arm 762 can include an arm centerline CL, as shown in FIG. 8A, that is oriented parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and extends from the periphery 701 along the center of the support arm 762 toward the supported area 742. Angle α is measured between the ground plane GP and the centerline CL. In one embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than or equal to 45 degrees. In another embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 40 degrees. In another embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 15 degrees and less than or equal to 35 degrees. In another embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 20 degrees and less than or equal to 30 degrees. In another embodiment, angle α is greater than or equal to 23 degrees and less than or equal to 28 degrees.

The support arm 762 can have an arm width AW measured perpendicular to the arm centerline CL and parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The arm width AW can vary along the length of the support arm 762. In some embodiments, the arm width of at least a portion of the support arm is 6 mm or greater. In other embodiments, the arm width of at least a portion of the support arm is 8 mm or greater. In other embodiments, the arm width of at least a portion of the support arm is 10 mm or greater.

The support arm 762 can have an arm thickness AT measured perpendicular to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The arm thickness AT can vary along the length of the support arm 762. In one embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 2 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 3 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 4 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 5 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the arm thickness AT of at least a portion of the support arm is 6 mm or greater.

The rib 764 of the support arm 762 can have a rib width RW measured perpendicular to the arm centerline CL and parallel to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The rib width RW can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 1 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 2 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 3 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib width RW of at least some of the ribs is 4 mm or greater.

The rib 764 of the support arm 762 can have a rib thickness RT measured perpendicular to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The rib thickness RT can vary along the length of the rib. In one embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is 2 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is 3 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is 4 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is 5 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the rib thickness RT of at least a portion of the rib is 6 mm or greater.

10, the supported area 742 is positioned on the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. The striking face heel reference plane 759 extends parallel to the y-axis and z-axis and is offset 1 mm toward the heel from the heel-most scoreline 760 formed on the striking face 718. The geometric center 743 of the supported area 742 is offset toe-wise from the striking face heel reference plane 759 by the supported area offset length SROL, measured parallel to the ground plane GP and parallel to the striking face 718, when the golf club head 700 is in the address position. In one embodiment, the supported area offset length SROL is 20 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported area offset length SROL is 22 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported area offset length SROL is 24 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported area offset length SROL is 26 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 27 mm or more. In another embodiment, the supported region offset length SROL is 28 mm or more.

The striking face length SFL is measured parallel to the ground plane GP and parallel to the striking face 718 from the striking face heel reference plane 759 to the toe-most location of the striking face 718 when the golf club head 700 is in the address position. In one embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 60 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 65 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 70 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 71 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 72 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 73 mm or greater. In another embodiment, the striking face length SFL is 74 mm or greater.

In one embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is defined as the supported area offset length SROL divided by the striking face length SFL multiplied by 100%, and the supported area offset ratio is 40% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 41% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 42% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 43% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 44% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 45% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 46% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 47% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 48% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 49% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 50% or greater. In another embodiment, the supported area offset ratio is 51% or greater.

A further advantage of incorporating the supported region 742 is that a thinner striking face may be utilized. In the illustrated embodiment, the striking face 718 has a constant thickness. In other embodiments, the striking face may have a variable thickness. In one embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 2.5 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 2.4 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 2.3 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 2.2 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 2.1 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 2.0 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 1.9 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 1.8 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 1.7 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 1.6 mm or less. In another embodiment, the striking face has a thickness of 1.5 mm or less. In other embodiments, the striking face has a thickness of 1.4 mm or less.

11A-11D show the golf club head 700 of FIG. 7A with another embodiment of the elastomeric element 702. FIG. 11A shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 700 with another embodiment of the elastomeric element 702. The elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11A is circular, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A. The forward portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 abuts the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and has a front diameter FD, and the rear portion 744 abuts the cradle 708 and has a rear diameter RD. The front diameter FD is substantially similar to or equal to the rear diameter RD of the elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11A.

11B shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 700 including another embodiment of an elastomeric element 702. The elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11B is circular. The front diameter FD is larger than the rear diameter RD of the elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11B. The rear portion 744 of the elastomeric element 702 that contacts the cradle 708 includes a rear support region 747, which has an area.

FIG. 11C shows a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 700 including another embodiment of an elastomeric element 702. The elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11C is circular. The front diameter FD is greater than the rear diameter RD of the elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11C.

11D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf club head 700 including another embodiment of an elastomeric element 702. The elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 11D is circular. The front diameter FD is larger than the rear diameter RD of the elastomeric element 702 shown in FIG. 11D. Additionally, the rear portion 744 includes a constant diameter region 745 rearward of the tapered region 746 that extends toward the striking face 718. In one embodiment, the rear diameter RD is approximately 12.5 mm and the front diameter FD is approximately 18.5 mm.

The enlarged forward portion 703, and therefore the enlarged supported area 742, provided by the embodiment of the elastomeric element 702 shown in Figures 11B, 11C, and 11D has advantages. These advantages include more consistent off-center ball velocities and reduced sound energy, especially above 3800 Hz.

In one embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 75 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 100 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 125 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 175 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 200 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 225 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 250 square millimeters. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 255 millimeters2. In another embodiment, the area of the supported area can be greater than 260 ^mm2 . In further embodiments, the area of the supported area can be greater than 50 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In further examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 100 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 150 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In further examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 200 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters. In other examples, the area of the supported area can be greater than 250 square millimeters and less than 1000 square millimeters.

In one embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.2. In another embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.4. In another embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.6. In another embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 1.8. In another embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 2.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 3.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the rear diameter RD is greater than 4.0.

In one embodiment, the area of the supported region 742 is greater than the area of the rear support region 747. In one embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 1.2. In a further embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 1.4. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 1.6. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 1.8. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 2.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 2.5. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported region 742 divided by the area of the rear support region 747 is greater than 3.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 3.5. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 4.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 5.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 6.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 7.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 8.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 9.0. In another embodiment, the ratio of the supported area 742 divided by the area of the rear support area 747 is greater than 10.0.

The contact energy absorption coefficient is defined as the ratio of the front diameter FD divided by the diameter of the golf ball, which is approximately 42.75 mm. In one embodiment, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.1. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.2. In further embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.3. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.4. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.5. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.6. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.7. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.8. In further embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 0.9. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is greater than 1.0. In further embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.2. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.3. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.4. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.5. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.6. In further embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.7. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.8. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 0.9. In additional embodiments, the contact energy absorption coefficient is less than 1.0.

In other embodiments, the elastomeric elements 702 may not be circular. They may have other shapes, including square, rectangular, octagonal, etc.

Identical golf club heads with various elastomeric elements were subjected to acoustic testing to determine the effectiveness of different embodiments of the elastomeric elements. Testing was specifically performed with each club head striking a Titleist Pro V1 golf ball at an impact club head speed of approximately 95 miles per hour. The acoustic characteristics of the embodiments shown in Figures 11A and 11D were recorded as each golf club head struck a golf ball. Figures 12A and 12B reflect a recording of a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in Figure 11A striking a golf ball, and Figures 13A and 13B reflect a recording of a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element embodiment shown in Figure 11D striking a golf ball. Figure 12A shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the cylindrical embodiment of Figure 11A. Figure 12B shows an acoustic power estimate for the cylindrical embodiment of Figure 11A. FIG. 13A shows a periodogram power spectral density estimate for the tapered embodiment of FIG. 11D. FIG. 13B shows an acoustic power estimate for the tapered embodiment of FIG. 11D.

As shown in Figures 12A and 12B, the dominant frequency of the cylindrical elastomeric element 702 of Figure 11A is 4,279.7 Hz. As shown in Figures 13A and 13B, the dominant frequency of the tapered elastomeric element 702 of Figure 11D is 4317.4 Hz. Generally, when an iron-type golf club head strikes a golf ball, the interaction of the golf club with the golf ball and the resonance of the golf ball produces sound frequencies at acoustic frequencies between about 1,000 Hz and 3,800 Hz, but acoustic frequencies above about 3,800 Hz are produced only by the golf club head. Thus, the first acoustic power peak in the acoustic power estimation graphs of Figures 12B and 13B correlates primarily with the golf ball, and the subsequent acoustic power peaks correlate with the vibration of the striking face of the golf club head. As shown in Figures 12B and 13B, the peak acoustic power estimate below 3,800 Hz corresponding to the golf ball is about 1.00 x ^10-3 watts. As shown in Figure 12B, the sound power generated by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in Figure 11A peaks at about ^1.40x10-3 watts. As shown in Figure 13B, the sound power generated by a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element embodiment shown in Figure 11D peaks at about ^1.04x10-3 watts. The sound power level directly correlates to the loudness of the sound generated by a golf club striking a golf ball. Thus, the sound generated by a golf club head utilizing the cylindrical elastomeric element embodiment shown in Figure 11A is significantly quieter than the sound generated by a golf club head utilizing the tapered elastomeric element embodiment shown in Figure 11D.

Additionally, the sound power generated by a golf club head utilizing the embodiment of the cylindrical elastomeric element shown in FIG. 11A divided by the sound power generated by a golf ball is approximately 1.40. The sound power generated by a golf club head utilizing the embodiment of the cylindrical elastomeric element shown in FIG. 11D divided by the sound power generated by a golf ball is approximately 1.04. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by a golf ball is preferably less than 1.50. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by a golf ball is preferably less than 1.40. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by a golf ball is preferably less than 1.30. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by a golf ball is preferably less than 1.20. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.10. In some embodiments, the sound power generated by the golf club head divided by the sound power generated by the golf ball is preferably less than 1.00.

Figures 14A-L show other examples of elastomeric elements 702, also called deformable elements. These examples are designed with variable compression stiffness, spring constant, or flexural modulus. This can be achieved by combining different geometries and different co-molded materials of different durometers.

14A shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 having a rear portion 744 that is larger than the front portion 703. The front portion 703 and the rear portion 744 are substantially planar. FIG. 14B shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 having a rear portion 744 that is larger than the front portion 703. The rear portion 744 is substantially planar and the front portion 703 is hemispherical. FIG. 14C shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 having a rear portion 744 that is larger than the front portion 703. The elastomeric element 702 includes a front constant diameter region 746 and a rear constant diameter region 745, the rear constant diameter region 746 having a larger diameter than the front constant diameter region 745. FIG. 14D shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but including a first material 770 and a second material 780. In one embodiment, the first material 770 can be harder than the second material 780. In another embodiment, the second material 780 can be harder than the first material 770. FIG. 14E shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to FIG. 14E, but including a first material 770 and a second material 780. FIG. 14F shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to FIG. 14F, but including a first material 770 and a second material 780.

14G shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion 703 offset from the center of the rear portion 744. The offset may be directed at the topline, sole, toe, heel, or any combination thereof. FIG. 14H shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion 703 offset from the center of the rear portion 744. FIG. 14I shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but with the center of the front portion 703 offset from the center of the rear portion 744. FIG. 14J shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 with a contracted diameter between the front portion 703 and the rear portion 744. FIG. 14K shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 with a contracted diameter between the front portion 703 and the rear portion 744. FIG. 14L shows a cross-sectional view of an elastomeric element 702 similar to that of FIG. 14A but including a first material 770 and a second material 780.

Any of these embodiments of the elastomeric element 702 described herein can be inverted so that the rear portion 744 abuts the rear surface of the striking face and not the front portion. In a preferred embodiment, the elastomeric elements 702, 702, 704, 706, 708, 710, 711, 712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718, 719, 720, 721, 722, 723, 724, 725, 726, 727, 728, 729, 730, 731, 732, 733, 734, 735, 736, 737, 738, 739, 740, 741, 742, 743,

Figures 15A-15D show a golf club head 800 having an elastomeric element 702. Figure 15A shows a rear view of the golf club head 800. Figure 15B shows a perspective view of the golf club head 800 of Figure 15A. Figure 15C shows another perspective view of the golf club head 800 of Figure 15A. Figure 15D shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 800 of Figure 15A along line E-E. Figure 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the golf club head 800 of Figure 15 along line E-E without the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 attached. Figure 17A shows a perspective view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of the golf club head 800 of Figure 15A. Figure 17B shows another perspective view of the adjustment driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of the golf club head 800 of Figure 15A. FIG. 17C shows a side view of the tuning driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A. FIG. 17D shows a cross-sectional view of the tuning driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 17A. FIG. 17E shows another perspective view of the tuning driver 830 and elastomeric element 702 of FIG. 17A.

15D and 16, the golf club head 800 includes a striking face 818 having a rear surface 819. The golf club head 800 also includes a rear portion 812 configured to support the elastomeric element 702. The golf club head 800 is manufactured in a hollow body configuration, with the rear portion 812 covering a substantial portion of the rear of the golf club head 800. The rear portion 812 is positioned behind the striking face 818 and extends from the heel 804 to the toe 806 between the top line 807 and the sole 805 to form a cavity 820. The elastomeric element 702 is disposed within the cavity 820. As shown in FIG. 15D, the striking face 818 may be formed separately and welded to the remainder of the golf club head 800. More specifically, the separately formed striking face portion may include a portion of the sole to form an L-shaped striking face portion. In other embodiments, the striking face 818 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the golf club.

The golf club head 800 includes a tuning driver 830 similar to the tuning driver 330 previously described and shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. The golf club head 800 also includes a deformable member 702 disposed between the striking face 818 and the tuning driver 830. The deformable member 702 can take the form of any of the elastomeric elements described herein. The tuning driver 830 is configured to hold the elastomeric element 702 between the tuning driver 830 and the striking face 818, with a forward portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 contacting a rear surface 819 of the striking face 818 and a rear portion 744 of the elastomeric element 702 contacting the tuning driver 830. The tuning driver can include an interface 834 configured to hold the elastomeric element 702. The interface 834 can include a recess having a lip 809 surrounding at least a portion of the elastomeric element 702 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17A-17E.

The golf club head 800 may include an adjustment housing 890 similar to the adjustment receiver 306 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIG. 16, the adjustment housing 890 may include an opening formed in the rear portion 812 of the golf club head 800. The opening may include a threaded portion 893. The adjustment housing 890 may include a housing shelf 895 that engages when the adjustment driver 830 is attached to the adjustment housing 890, as shown in FIG. 15D. The adjustment driver 830 may include a threaded portion 833 configured to engage with the threaded portion 893 of the adjustment housing 890, as shown in FIGS. 15D and 17A-17E. Additionally, the adjustment driver 830 may include a flange 835 configured to engage with the housing shelf 895 of the adjustment housing 890 when the adjustment driver 830 is attached to the adjustment housing 890. The receiver shelf 895 and flange 835 ensure that the elastomeric element properly and consistently engages the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818, providing the necessary support for optimal performance. While the tuning driver 330 described above is configured to be adjustable after assembly, the preferred embodiment of the tuning driver 830 shown in FIGS. 15A-15D and 17A-17E is configured to be installed in a set position during assembly and remain in that position. The receiver shelf 895 and flange 835 help ensure that the tuning driver 830 is consistently installed and that the elastomeric element properly and consistently engages the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818, providing the necessary support for optimal performance. The tuning driver 830 can also include a screw drive 832 configured to receive a tool and rotate the tuning driver 830 relative to the golf club head 800. Finally, the tuning driver 830 can have a mass. In some embodiments, the mass of the golf club head can be adjusted by replacing the tuning driver 830 with another tuning driver 830 having a different mass. The difference in mass can be achieved by using different materials for the different tuning drivers, such as aluminum, brass, polymer, steel, titanium, tungsten, etc. In another embodiment not shown, a mass member is added to the tuning driver to change the mass. In one embodiment, a mass member can be added to a recess in the tuning driver. Additionally, a mass member added to the recess can be used to change the distance between the rear portion of the elastomeric element and the rear surface of the striking face to change the compression of the elastomeric element.

Figures 18-22 show a golf club head 900 similar to the golf club head 800 shown in Figures 15A-15D. However, the golf club head 900 includes a second deformable member 702B in addition to the first deformable member 702A. Figure 18 shows a rear view of the golf club head 900. Figure 19 shows an exploded view of the golf club head 900 of Figure 18. Figure 20 shows cross-sectional views F-F of the golf club head 900. Figure 21 shows cross-sectional views G-G of the golf club head 900. Figure 22 shows a front view of the golf club head 900 of Figure 18, which includes multiple supported regions.

18-22, the golf club head 900 includes a striking face 918 having a rear surface 919. The golf club head 900 also includes a rear portion 912 configured to support the first and second deformable members 702A and 702B. The first deformable member 702A may be the same as the elastomeric element described above. The first and second deformable members 702A and 702B may each take the form of any of the elastomeric elements described herein. They may take the same or different shapes. The golf club head 900 is made of a hollow body construction, with the rear portion 912 covering a substantial portion of the rear of the golf club head 900. The rear portion 912 is located behind the striking face 918 and extends from the heel 904 to the toe 906 between the top line 917 and the sole 905 to form a cavity 920. In the preferred illustrated embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is spaced apart from and does not contact the second deformable member 702B. In alternative embodiments, the first deformable member 702A may be in close spaced contact with the second deformable member 702B.

The golf club head 900 includes an adjustment driver 830 configured to hold the first deformable member 702A, similar to the golf club head 800. The front portion 703A of the first deformable member 702A contacts the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. The rear portion 912 of the golf club head 900 includes a rear cover 913. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear cover 913 includes a recess 915. The front portion 703B of the second deformable member 702B is configured to hold the second deformable member 702B such that the front portion 703B of the second deformable member 702B contacts the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. The rear cover 913 also includes an opening 914 for the adjustment driver 830. In one embodiment, the second deformable member is attached to the rear cover 913 with an adhesive. Additionally, the rear cover 913 can be attached to the remainder of the golf club head 900 with an adhesive, which may be, for example, double-sided tape. In one embodiment, the striking face 918 of the golf club head 900 is made from a high density material, such as steel, while the rear cover 913 is made from a low density material, such as, for example, plastic, which may include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. In an alternative embodiment, the rear cover may also be made from a high density material.

22, the striking face includes a plurality of supported regions. A first supported region 742A is formed by the portion of the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918 supported by the first deformable member 702A, which is defined by an area inside a first supported region perimeter 740A defined by an outer extent of the forward portion 703A of the first deformable member 702A in contact with the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. A second supported region 742B is formed by the portion of the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918 supported by the second deformable member 702B, which is defined by an area inside a second supported region perimeter 740B defined by an outer extent of the forward portion 703B of the second deformable member 702B in contact with the rear surface 919 of the striking face 918. The first supported area 742A and the second supported area 742B are not normally visible from the front of the golf club head 900, but are added to FIG. 22 for ease of explanation.

The first geometric center 743A of the first supported area 742A is offset in the toe direction from the striking face heel reference plane 959 by an offset length SROL1, measured parallel to the ground and parallel to the striking face 918 with the golf club head 900 in the address position. The second geometric center 743B of the second supported area 742B is offset in the toe direction from the striking face heel reference plane 959 by a second supported area offset length SROL2, measured parallel to the ground and parallel to the striking face 918 with the golf club head 900 in the address position.

In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 is about 36.0 mm and SROL2 is about 17.6 mm. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 is greater than SROL2. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.0. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.25. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.50. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 1.75. In a preferred embodiment, SROL1 divided by SROL2 is greater than 2.0. In an alternative embodiment not shown, SROL2 is greater than SROL1, not shown.

In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of the same material as the second deformable member 702B and therefore has the same hardness. In another embodiment, the first deformable member 702A is made of a material having a higher hardness than the material of the second deformable member 702B. In an alternative embodiment, the material of the first deformable member 702A has a lower modulus of elasticity than the material of the second deformable member 702B. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A 50 durometer and the second deformable member has a Shore A 10 durometer. In one embodiment, the first deformable member 702A has a Shore A durometer greater than 25 and the second deformable member has a Shore A durometer less than 25.

It should be noted that the first deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported in the same manner as the second deformable member, and the second deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported in the same manner as the first deformable member. Furthermore, the first deformable member and the second deformable member may be housed, structured, or supported in any manner described herein.

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a golf club head 900 and a second deformable member 702C. The second deformable member 702C is shown in exploded form behind the golf club head 900. FIG. 24 shows the second deformable member 702C shown in FIG. 23. FIG. 25 shows cross-sectional views F-F of a golf club head 900 including the second deformable member 702C shown in FIGS. 23 and 24. The rear portion 912 of the golf club head 900 includes an opening 930 configured to receive the second deformable member 702C, or alternatively, the second deformable member 702B. As shown in FIGS. 23-25, the second deformable member 702C includes an annular groove 940 configured to engage around the opening 930 of the rear portion 912 of the golf club head 900 and secure the second deformable member 702C to the golf club head 900. The portion of the second deformable member 702C can be configured to deform when attached to the opening 930 of the golf club head 900 until the groove 940 engages the opening 930.

Additional examples of golf club heads incorporating various damping elements are described below, many of which are applied to the backside of the striking face. The damping elements described below may include any of the deformable members or elastomers described herein, including their materials, properties, shapes, and characteristics, as well as additional details described below. The damping elements help reduce vibrations generated when the golf club head strikes the golf ball and improve sound by providing more comfort to the golfer's ears.

26-33 show additional examples of golf club heads 700 having a first damping element 702A and a second damping element 702D. FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700. FIG. 27 shows a side view of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26. FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view H-H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, lacking the weight member 710, the second damping element 702D, and the first damping element 702A. FIG. 29 shows a cross-sectional view H-H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, lacking the weight member 710 and the second damping element 702D. FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view H-H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26, lacking the weight member 710. FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view H-H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 26. FIG. 32 shows a cross-sectional view I-I of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 27, lacking the weight member 710. FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view J-J of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 27. FIGS. 34 and 35 show perspective views of the first damping element 702A and the second damping element 702D. FIGS. 36 and 37 show perspective views of the second damping element 702D.

26-33 is an iron having a cavity back construction and includes a peripheral portion 701 surrounding and extending rearward from a striking face 718. The peripheral portion 701 includes a sole 705, a toe 706, and a top line 707. The peripheral portion 701 may also include a weight member 710. The peripheral portion may also include a rear portion 712 that may partially surround a cavity 720, as shown in FIG. 26. In other embodiments, the rear portion may substantially surround the cavity, as shown in FIG. 15A. The peripheral portion 701 of the golf club head 700 may include a cantilever support arm attached to and extending from the sole 705. As shown in FIG. 28, the support arm 762 may extend substantially parallel to the striking face 718. As shown in FIG. 29, the golf club head 700 may include a first damping element 702A disposed between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the cantilever support arm 762. As shown in FIG. 26, the first damping element 702A includes a front surface 703A (FIG. 20) that contacts a central portion of the striking face 718. The damping element 702A may support the striking face 718 and provide damping properties as described above. In other embodiments, the rear portion may substantially enclose a cavity, as shown in FIG. 15A. In such embodiments, the first damping element may be disposed between the rear surface and the rear portion of the striking face.

26 and 30-33, the golf club head may include a second damping element 702D, which is shown with the first damping element 702A in FIGS. 34 and 35 and alone in FIGS. 36 and 37. As shown, a portion of the second damping element 702D may be disposed between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may be disposed further away from the geometric center of the striking face 718 than the first damping element 702A. More specifically, the second damping element 702D may be disposed closer to the sole 705. The second damping element 702D includes a front surface 703B (FIG. 21) that contacts the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and a rear surface 781 that contacts the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a toe portion 782 extending forward of the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a heel portion 783 extending toward the heel of the support arm 762. The second damping element 702D may include a rearward portion 784 that extends around the support arm 762 and defines a cavity 785 configured to receive the support arm. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 31 , the golf club head may include a weight member 710 spaced rearward of the support arm, and the rearward portion 784 of the second damping element 702D may be disposed between the weight member 710 and the support arm 762. The weight member 710 may be integrally formed with another portion of the golf club head 700 or may be a different material coupled to the golf club head 700. The second damping element 702D may include a relief 786 formed on top of the first damping element 702A and configured to be complementary in shape to the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702D may be formed of an elastomeric material that is deformable and provides damping properties. In one embodiment, the first damping element 702A has a higher elastic modulus than the second damping element 702D. In an alternative embodiment, the second damping element 702D has a higher elastic modulus than the first damping element 702A. In yet another embodiment, the first damping element 702A has a substantially similar elastic modulus to the second damping element 702D.

In addition to the materials already disclosed, the damping element, and more specifically, the second damping element 702D, may include a damping foam. In one embodiment, the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently attached. In another embodiment, the second damping element 702D may be co-molded with the golf club head to specifically fit the shape of that particular club. In another embodiment, the second damping element 702D may be specially selected or formed to fill the particular shape of a particular golf club head.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the first damping element 702A and the second damping element 702D may be monolithically formed from a single piece of material such that a single damping element includes features of both the first and second damping elements. In yet other embodiments, multiple pieces of material may include the first and/or second damping elements.

Figures 38-42 show additional examples of golf club heads 700 with a first damping element 702A and a second damping element 702E. Figure 38 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 700. Figure 39 shows a side view of the golf club head 700 of Figure 38. Figure 40 shows a cross-section K-K of the golf club head 700 of Figure 38. Figure 41 shows a cross-section L-L of the golf club head 700 of Figure 38. Figure 42 shows a detailed view of Figure 41. Figure 43 shows a cross-section M-M of the golf club head 700 of Figure 38, with the first damping element 702A missing. Figure 44 shows a perspective view of the second damping element 702E of the golf club head 700 of Figure 38.

The golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 38-43 includes a first damping element 702A similar to that previously described and shown in FIGS. 26-33, and a second damping element 702E embodiment different from the golf club heads shown in FIGS. 26-33. The second damping element 702E can be affixed to a rear surface 719 of a striking face 718. In some embodiments, the second damping element 702E can be secured to the striking face via an adhesive 711. The adhesive 711 can be a double-sided tape, such as 3M Very High Adhesive Tape, an epoxy, a glue, or a mechanical adhesive such as a fastener, a rivet, a backing plate, or the like. As shown, at least a portion of the second damping element 702E can be disposed under the first damping element 702A. The second damping element 702E can extend in a toe direction of the first damping element 702A and in a heel direction of the first damping element 702A, and can extend substantially from the heel 704 to the toe 706 as shown in FIG. 43. The second damping element 702E can have a relief configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. In an alternative embodiment, the second damping element 702E can cover a majority of the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 that is not covered by the first damping element 702A.

As shown in FIG. 44, the cover 717 may be attached to an outer surface of the second damping element 702E. The outer surface of the second damping element 702E is located opposite the striking face 718 of the second damping element 702E. In one embodiment, the thickness of the cover 717 is less than the thickness of the second damping element 702E. In one embodiment, the elastic modulus of the cover 717 is greater than the elastic modulus of the second damping element 702E. In one embodiment, the hardness of the cover 717 is greater than the elastic modulus of the second damping element 702E.

The golf club head 700 of FIGS. 38-43 also includes a medallion 790 that improves the appearance of the golf club head 700. Additionally, the medallion 790 can improve the damping qualities of the golf club head 700. In FIGS. 38, 40, 41, and 42, a first portion 791 of the medallion 790 is bonded to the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718, and a second portion 792 extends rearwardly away from the striking face 718 and at the rear of the support arm 762. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, a third damping element 702F is disposed between the rear of the support arm 762 and the medallion 790.

FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of the golf club head 700. FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of the second damping element 702G and the third damping element 702H of the golf club head 700 of FIG. 45. The golf club head 700 includes a first damping element, a second damping element 702G, and a third damping element 702H hidden behind a medallion 790. The second damping element 702G is very similar to the damping element 702E of FIGS. 33-44 in that it has a first portion 796 disposed on the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718, except that in this embodiment, the second damping element 702G also has a second portion 779 that extends rearwardly from the striking face 718 along the sole 705. In one embodiment, the golf club head 700 may also include a third damping element 702H, similar to the second damping element 702F, except that the third damping element 702H covers an upper portion of the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718. In one embodiment, the third damping element 702H is disposed between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the medallion 790. The third damping element 702H may include a relief configured to complement the shape of the first damping element 702A. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the second damping element 702G and the third damping element 702H may be monolithically formed from a single piece of material such that a single damping element includes features of both the second and third damping elements. In yet another embodiment, two or more pieces of material may include the second and/or third damping elements.

Further, and with particular reference to Figures 26-46, each of the golf club head embodiments described herein may include a second damping element and/or a third damping element described herein without including a first damping element. Furthermore, any combination of the damping elements described herein may form a single damping element that combines features of each damping element described herein.

One goal of the damping elements described herein is to dissipate energy in the golf club head after striking a golf ball. When the striking face and other portions of the golf club head vibrate, the damping elements in contact with those surfaces may dissipate energy. This may alter the sound produced by the golf club head by reducing the loudness and/or duration of the sound produced when the golf club head strikes a golf ball. The damping elements, elastomers, and deformable members described herein may be formed of viscoelastic materials. Tan δ represents the ratio of the viscous response to the elastic response of a viscoelastic material, which is the energy dissipation potential of the viscoelastic material. The larger Tan δ, the more dissipative the material is. More specifically, Tan δ=E"/E', where E" is the loss modulus, which represents the energy dissipated by the system, and E' is the storage modulus, which represents the energy stored elastically by the system. Tan δ varies with temperature and frequency of vibration. The damping elements described herein are preferably formed from a viscoelastic material having a peak Tan δ between 3 kHz and 9 kHz, more preferably between 5 kHz and 7 kHz, within a temperature range of 200° C. to 500° C. In some embodiments, the damping elements may be formed from different viscoelastic materials, where one damping element has a Tan δ that peaks at a higher frequency than another. In particular, referring to the golf club head 700 of FIGS. 26-37, a first damping element 702A is formed from a first viscoelastic material and a second damping element 702D is formed from a second viscoelastic material, where the Tan δ of the first viscoelastic material peaks at a first frequency and the Tan δ of the second viscoelastic material peaks at a second frequency, the first frequency being lower than the second frequency. This particular configuration allows the first damping element to better damp vibrations of the striking face and the second damping element to better damp vibrations of the support arm.

47-58 show additional embodiments of the golf club head 1000 including the damping element 1002. FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of the additional embodiment of the golf club head 1000. FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of the section N-N of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 49 shows a side view of the section N-N of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 50 shows a detailed view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 49. FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47, lacking the damping element 1002. FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of the section O-O of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 51. FIG. 53 shows a side view of the section O-O of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 51. FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of the damping element 1002 of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 55 shows an additional perspective view of the damping element 1002 of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 47. FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of the damping element 1002 of FIG. 54 at section P-P. FIG. 57 shows a side view of the damping element 1002 of FIG. 54 at section P-P. FIG. 58 shows a detailed view of the damping element 1002 of FIG. 57.

The golf club head 1000 includes a striking face 1018 having a rear surface 1019. The golf club head 1000 includes a rear portion 1012 configured to support the damping element 1002. The illustrated golf club head 1000 is a hollow body structure, with the rear portion 1012 covering a substantial portion of the rear of the golf club head 1000. The rear portion 1012 is located behind the striking face 1018 and extends from the heel 1004 to the toe 1006 between the topline 1017 and the sole 1005, forming a cavity 1020.

As shown in FIGS. 51-53, the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000 can include an opening 1013. The opening 1013 can be surrounded by a shelf 1014. The opening 1013 is configured to receive the damping element 1002, and the shelf 1014 is configured to engage and retain the damping element 1002, as shown in FIGS. 48-50.

As shown in FIGS. 54-57, the damping element 1002 includes an outer portion 1103 and a damping portion 1104. The outer portion 1103 is primarily behind the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000. The damping portion 1104 is primarily within the golf cavity 1020. The club head 1000 is configured to be adjacent to the rear surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 as shown in FIGS. 48-50. A channel 1105 is formed between the outer portion 1103 and the damping portion 1104, and the channel 1105 is configured to engage the shelf 1014 of the rear portion 1012 of the golf club head 1000. In FIGS. 48, 49, 55, and 57, the damping element 1002 can include a recess formed inwardly of the damping portion 1104 and extending to the outer portion 1103. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the damping element 1002 may not include the recess 1106.

The exterior portion 1103 of the damping element 1002 can include a flange surface 1107 configured to abut the ledge 1014 of the golf club head 1000. The exterior portion 1103 can also include an exterior surface 1108 opposite the flange surface 1107. Being an exterior surface, it is designed to be aesthetically appealing to golfers and to be an alternative to a traditional medallion. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 50, adhesive 1112 can be between the leading flange surface 1107 of the leading damping element 1002 and the ledge 1014 of the leading rear portion 1012.

As shown in FIGS. 48-50, at least a portion of the damping portion 1104 of the damping element 1002 resides between the shelf 1014 and the rear surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 and is in contact with both the shelf 1014 and the rear surface. As shown in FIG. 58, the damping portion 1104 of the damping element 1002 can include a front surface 1109 configured to abut the rear surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 and a rear surface 1110 configured to abut the shelf 1014.

In the illustrated embodiment, the damping portion 1104 and the outer portion 1103 of the damping element are monolithically formed of the same material. In other, not illustrated, embodiments, the damping portion 1104 and the outer portion 1103 may be formed of different materials and bonded together. The damping portion 1104, and therefore in the preferred embodiment, the damping element 1102 as a whole, may be formed of any of the materials disclosed herein when referring to the damping element, deformable member, and elastomer. These materials may include silicone having a Shore A durometer of about 50-70, which may have a compression set of about 10% at 212°F, 70 hours, and a tensile strength of about 1400 psi. The damping element 1102, like the other damping elements, deformable members, and elastomers described herein, is configured to deform when the striking face 1018 deforms upon impact with a golf ball. As shown in FIG. 58, the damping portion 1104 can also include a relief 1111 configured to aid in the ability of the damping portion 1104 to deform and absorb energy during impact.

50, the striking face can have a central non-supported region 1016 surrounded by a support region 1015. The support region 1015 is defined by the portion of the rear surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 that contacts the front surface 1109 of the dampening portion 1104. The central non-supported region 1016 is defined by the portion of the rear surface 1019 of the striking face 1018 that is centrally located in the support region 1015.

In one embodiment, the central non-supported area 1016 can be greater than 100 ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the central non-supported area 1016 can be greater than 200 ^mm2 . In yet another embodiment, the central non-supported area 1016 can be greater than 300 ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the central non-supported area 1016 can be greater than 400 ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the central non-supported area 1016 can be greater than 500 ^mm2 . In one embodiment, the support area 1015 can be less than 300 ^mm2 . In one embodiment, the support area 1015 can be less than 250 ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the support area 1015 can be less than 200 ^mm2 . In another embodiment, the support area 1015 can be less than 150 ^mm2 . In yet another embodiment, the support area 1015 can be less than 125 ^mm2 . In other embodiments, the support area 1015 may be less than 100 ^mm2 . In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 1.0 or greater. In other embodiments, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 1.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 2.0 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 2.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 3.0 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 3.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of the central non-supported area 1016 divided by the support area 1015 is 4.0 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of central unsupported area 1016 divided by supported area 1015 is 4.5 or greater. In one embodiment, the ratio of central unsupported area 1016 divided by supported area 1015 is 5.0 or greater.

FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the golf club head 1000. FIG. 60 shows a side view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 59 at section Q-Q. The golf club head 100 shown in FIGS. 59 and 60 includes several additional features. In one embodiment, the golf club head 1000 includes a second damping element 1120. In the illustrated embodiment, the second damping element 1120 is an O-ring shaped elastomer that resides between the striking face 1018 and the rear portion 1012. The second damping element 1120 can form a continuous loop that surrounds the damping element 1002. In some embodiments, the rear portion can include a relief configured to receive a portion of the second damping element.

In one embodiment, the golf club head can include a third damping element 1130. The third damping element can be present around the top (shown in FIG. 60), bottom (shown in FIG. 60), heel side (not shown), and toe side (not shown) of the damping element 1102 between the outer portion 1103 and the rear portion of the golf club head.

In one embodiment, the golf club head 1000 includes a fourth damping element 1140. The fourth damping element 1140 may be in a recess 1106 of the damping element 1102. In one embodiment, the fourth damping element 1140 may include a hot melt. In another embodiment, it may include an elastomer. In another embodiment, it may include a rubber. In another embodiment, it may include a foam. In another embodiment, the fourth damping element 1140 may be softer than the damping element 1002 and therefore have a lower hardness value. In one embodiment, the fourth damping element 1140 may be formed of silicone.

In one embodiment, the golf club head 1000 includes a fifth damping element 1150. The golf club head may include a slot configured to receive the fifth damping element 1150, which is preferably rubber. In one embodiment, the slot may be formed in the rear portion 1112 of the golf club head. In other embodiments, the slot may be formed in one or more of the rear portion 1112, the topline 1007, the toe 1006, and the sole 1005.

61 shows an additional cross-sectional view of the golf club head 1000 of FIG. 59, including a golf club shaft 1089 and a sixth damping element 1160. A hosel 1098 of the golf club head includes a hosel bore 1099 configured to receive the shaft 1089. In one embodiment, the hosel bore 1099 can also receive the sixth damping element 1160, which can take the form of a plug as shown in FIG. 60.

FIGS. 62-65 show additional embodiments of the deformable member 702 of the golf club head 800 shown in FIGS. 15A-15E described above. FIG. 62 shows a cross-sectional view E-E of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of the deformable member 702. FIG. 63 shows a cross-sectional view E-E of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of the deformable member 702. FIG. 64 shows a cross-sectional view E-E of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of the deformable member 702. FIG. 65 shows a cross-sectional view E-E of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 15A, which includes another embodiment of the deformable member 702. FIG. 66 shows the deformable member 702 and the adjustment driver 830 of the golf club head 800 of FIG. 62.

As shown in FIGS. 62-65, the golf club head 800 includes a striking face 818 having a rear surface 819. The golf club head 800 also includes a rear portion 812 configured to support the deformable member 702. The golf club head 800 is made of a hollow body construction. The rear portion 812 covers a substantial portion of the rear of the golf club head 800. The rear portion 812 is located behind the striking face 818 and extends between the topline 807 and the sole 805, forming a cavity 820 from heel to toe. The deformable member 702 is disposed within the cavity 820.

The rear portion of the golf club head 800 includes a tuning driver 830. The deformable member 702 is disposed between the striking face 818 and the tuning driver 830. The tuning driver 830 is configured to hold the elastomeric element 702 between the tuning driver 830 and the striking face 818, with the front portion 703 of the elastomeric element 702 contacting the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818 and the rear portion 744 of the elastomeric element 702 contacting the tuning driver 830.

As shown in FIG. 66, the deformable member 702 has a free thickness FT. As shown in FIG. 62, the deformable member 702 has a mounting thickness IT. In some embodiments, the free thickness FT and the mounting thickness IT of the deformable member 702 may be substantially the same. In this case, there will be little or no preload of the deformable member 702 against the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818. In other embodiments, the mounting thickness IT may be less than the free thickness FT, resulting in a preload load on the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818. This preload load can change the coefficient of restitution of the striking face 818, a value that affects the speed at which a golf ball leaves the striking face when struck by a golf club head at a particular club head speed. In some embodiments, the rear portion 812, including the tuning driver 830, may be configured to have a particular mounting IT to achieve a particular coefficient of restitution. Multiple versions of the tuning driver 830 are available to fine-tune the coefficient of restitution to a desired value. In other embodiments, multiple versions of the deformable member 702 may be available with different free thicknesses FT to achieve a particular coefficient of restitution. Alternatively, the material of the deformable member 702 may be changed to change its stiffness, thereby changing the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head.

63, the tuning driver 830 can also include a spacer 1200 configured to change the mounting thickness IT of the deformable member 702. By changing the thickness of the spacer 1200, the mounting thickness IT can be varied, which in turn can change the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head.

As shown in FIG. 64, the deformable member 702 can include a first material 770 and a second material 780. Multi-material deformable members have been described with reference to FIGS. 14D, 14E, and 14Lwo. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 64, the first material 770 contacts the back surface 819 of the striking face 818, and the second material 780 contacts the adjustment driver 830. In one embodiment, the first material can have a higher hardness than the second material. In another embodiment, the second material can have a higher hardness than the first material. In a preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value lower than the Shore A hardness value of the second material. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value less than 50, and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value greater than 15. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 40 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 25. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 30 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 35. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 20 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 40. In a more preferred embodiment, the first material can have a Shore A hardness value of less than 15 and the second material can have a Shore A hardness value of greater than 45. The inclusion of multiple materials can support the face and modify the coefficient of restitution as well as achieve additional benefits including reduced vibration for better feel and sound.

As shown in FIG. 65, the golf club head 800 and the deformable member 702 can be configured to substantially deform in shape when the deformable member 702 is attached to the golf club head 800. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 64, the deformable member 702 of FIG. 65 can include a first material 770 and a second material 770. The deformable member 702 has a substantial difference between a free thickness FT and a mounting thickness IT, and the deformable member 702 is preloaded against the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818. In one embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 5% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In another embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 10% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In another embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 15% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In another embodiment, the free thickness FT of the deformable member is at least 20% greater than the mounting thickness IT. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 65, a portion of the deformable member 702 can be deformed such that the diameter of the front portion 703 that abuts the rear surface 819 of the striking face 818 when attached to the golf club head 800 is greater than the diameter of the adjustment receiver 890 through which the deformable member 702 is mounted.

One method of utilizing the embodiments described herein is outlined in FIG. 67. During construction of the golf club head 800, a target coefficient of restitution for the golf club head can be identified (1211), a deformable member configuration that achieves the target coefficient of restitution value can then be selected (1212), the selected deformable member configuration can be implemented in the golf club head (1213), and then, optionally, the coefficient of restitution of the golf club head can be tested and the deformable member configuration 1214 can be modified as necessary (1214), and the previous steps can then be repeated as necessary (1215). Alternatively, instead of utilizing the coefficient of restitution as the measured and target value for the golf club head, a characteristic time can be utilized, which is similar to the coefficient of restitution, but is easier to measure.

Although the methods and deformable members 702 described above with reference to Figures 62-67 are illustrated and described in the context of golf club head 800, they may be utilized with any of the golf club head embodiments described herein.

As mentioned above, the golf club head 700 illustrated in FIGS. 26-33 includes a second damping element 702D. The second damping element 702D may be between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the support arm 762. Additionally, there may be at least one weight member 710, and the second damping element 702D may be disposed between the rear surface 719 of the striking face 718 and the weight member 710, or between the support arm 762 and the weight member 710. It is noted that the second damping element 702D may be formed separately from the golf club head and subsequently attached, or may be co-molded with the golf club head to specifically fit the shape of a particular club. The co-molding process could include an injected filler material that hardens after being inserted into the golf club head. The injected filler material may use a first component and a second component that are mixed together and begin to harden when inserted into the golf club head. Additionally, the second damping element 702D may include a combination of both an injected portion as well as a preformed member attached to the golf club head. The injected portion may help fill gaps between the preformed member and the striking face 718, the support arm 762, the weight member 710, or the rear portion 712 of the golf club head 700. The injected portion may reduce misalignment between the clubs due to part and assembly tolerances and ensure flush contact with the intended surface of the golf club head. Examples of injectable filler materials that may be used in the golf club head include FlexSeal ^™ liquid rubber or DipSeal ^™ cellulose-based plastic coating. In other embodiments, a foam material may be used instead of the injected rubber material. The foam may be preformed, injected cast-in-place foam, or a combination of the two. Additionally, as previously discussed, injected cast-in-place foam may be used in addition to the preformed elastomeric member. Adhesives may be used in combination with any of the previous embodiments and combinations to help secure the damping element in place.

FIGS. 68-71 show additional examples of golf club heads 1300 with damping elements 702. FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1300. FIG. 69 shows a cross-section R-R of the golf club head 1300 of FIG. 68, where the weight member 1311 is missing. FIG. 70 shows a perspective view of the cross-section R-R of the golf club head 1300 of FIG. 69. FIG. 71 shows a cross-section S-S of the golf club head 1300 of FIG. 68, where the weight member 1311 and damping elements 702 are missing. The golf club head 1300 of FIGS. 68-71 shares many features and qualities with the golf club head 700 shown in FIGS. 26-33 and described above, but incorporates several unique features.

The golf club head 1300 illustrated in FIGS. 68-71 is an iron having a cavity back construction and includes a peripheral portion 1301 surrounding and extending rearward from a striking face 1318. The peripheral portion 1301 includes a sole 1305, a toe 1306, a heel 1304, and a top line 1307. The peripheral portion 701 may include one or more weight members 1310, 1311. The peripheral portion 1301 may also include a rear portion 1312 that may partially surround a cavity 1320. The peripheral portion 1301 of the golf club head 1300 may include a support arm 1366. As illustrated in FIGS. 68-71, the support arm 1366 may extend from the sole 1305 to the top line 1307. The support arm 1366 may include a first portion 1365, a cradle 1308, and a second portion 1366. The first portion 1365 extends from the sole 1305. As illustrated, the first portion 1365 may be at least partially incorporated into the rear portion 1312. The first portion 1365 is connected to the cradle 1308, which is configured to support a damping element 702 disposed between the rear surface 1319 of the striking face 1318 and the cradle 1308 of the support arm 1362. The second portion 1366 extends between the top line 1307 and the cradle 1308. The damping element 702 may support the striking face 1318 and provide damping properties as previously discussed. In other embodiments, the golf club head 1300 may also incorporate additional damping elements as in the previous embodiments. In other embodiments, the rear portion may substantially enclose a cavity. In other embodiments, an additional member, such as a medallion, can be attached to the rear of the golf club head. In some embodiments, the medallion can obscure the support arm 1362 and the damping element 702 from view.

As illustrated, the first portion 1365 is substantially thicker in the front-to-back direction than in the heel-toe direction, and the second portion 1366 is substantially thicker in the heel-toe direction than in the front-to-back direction. In other embodiments, this can be reversed. In other embodiments, both the first portion 1365 and the second portion 1366 can be substantially thicker in the front-to-back direction than in the heel-toe direction. In other embodiments, both the first portion 1365 and the second portion 1366 can be substantially thicker in the heel-toe direction than in the front-to-back direction.

72 and 73 show an additional embodiment of a golf club head 1400 that is an alternative construction to the golf club head 1300 shown in FIGS. 68-71. FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of the golf club head 1400 that lacks a striking face and damping elements. FIG. 73 shows an additional perspective view of the golf club head 1400 of FIG. 72, again lacking a striking face and damping elements. The golf club head 1400 of FIGS. 72 and 73 shares many features and qualities with the golf club head 1300 shown in FIGS. 68-71 and previously described. The main difference between the embodiments is the support arm 1462. The golf club head 1400 includes a support arm 1462 that is substantially horizontally disposed, as opposed to the substantially vertical support arm 1362 of the golf club head 1300. A first portion 1465 and a second portion 1466 extend from the peripheral portion 1401 and each connect to a cradle 1408 configured to support the damping element 702. The first portion 1465 extends from a heel side 1404 of the golf club head 1400. The heel side 1404 of the golf club head 1400 can include a weight member 1410 and the first portion 1465 can extend in a toe direction from the weight member 1410 to the cradle 1408. The second portion 1466 extends from a toe side 1406 of the golf club head 1400. The toe side 1406 of the golf club head 1400 can include a weight member 1411 and the second portion 1466 can extend in a heel direction from the weight member 1411 to the cradle 1408. In alternative embodiments, the golf club head 1400 may not include a damping element. In such an embodiment, the support arms may directly contact the rear surface of the striking face. Alternatively, the support arms may be offset from the rear surface of the striking face by a small distance, for example 0.5 mm, such that when a golf ball impacts the striking face, the striking face deflects into the support arms, which reduce deflection of the striking face and support it in the central region.

The first portion 1465 of the support arm is angled upward from the heel side 1404 toward the cradle 1408 as measured relative to the x-axis. In some embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upward by more than 5 degrees. In other embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upward by more than 10 degrees. In other embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upward by more than 15 degrees. In other embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upward by more than 20 degrees. In other embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upward by more than 25 degrees. In other embodiments, the first portion 1465 can be angled upward by more than 30 degrees. The second portion 1466 of the support arm is angled upward from the toe side 1406 toward the cradle 1408 as measured relative to the x-axis. In some embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 5 degrees. In other embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 10 degrees. In other embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 15 degrees. In other embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 20 degrees. In other embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 25 degrees. In other embodiments, the second portion 1466 can be angled upwardly by more than 30 degrees.

Although certain embodiments and aspects have been described herein and certain examples have been given, the scope of the invention is not limited to those particular embodiments and examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize other embodiments or modifications that are consistent with the scope and spirit of the invention. Thus, the specific structures, operations, or media are disclosed as exemplary embodiments only. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and any equivalents.

702 Damping element 1300 Golf club head 1301 Periphery portion 1304 Heel 1305 Sole 1306 Toe 1307 Top line 1308 Cradle 1310, 1311 Weight member 1312 Rear portion 1318 Striking face 1319 Back surface 1320 Cavity 1362 Support arm 1365 First portion 1366 Second portion 1400 Golf club head 1401 Periphery portion 1404 Heel side 1406 Toe side 1408 Cradle 1410, 1411 Weight member 1462 Support arm 1465 First portion 1466 Second portion

Claims (3)

In the golf club head,
A striking face and
a peripheral portion surrounding the striking face and extending rearwardly from the striking face;
a coordinate system centered about the center of gravity of the golf club head, the coordinate system having a y-axis that extends perpendicular to the ground when the golf club head is in an address position at a given loft and lie, an x-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and parallel to the plane of the striking face and extends to a heel of the golf club head, and a z-axis that is perpendicular to the y-axis and the x-axis and extends through the striking face;
the striking face having a front surface configured to strike a golf ball and a back surface opposite the front surface;
a support arm spaced from the rear surface of the striking face, the support arm extending from the perimeter portion, the support arm being attached to the perimeter portion at two separate locations;
a damping element disposed between the support arm and the rear surface of the striking face, the damping element having a front surface in contact with the rear surface of the striking face and a rear surface in contact with the support arm;
the peripheral portion having a sole extending rearwardly from a bottom of the striking face and a topline extending rearwardly from a top of the striking face;
the support arm has a contact portion in contact with the rear surface of the damping element, a first portion extending from the sole toward the contact portion and continuous with the contact portion, and a second portion extending from the top line toward the contact portion and continuous with the contact portion;
the first portion of the support arm has a first thickness along the z-axis and a first thickness along the x-axis, the first thickness along the z-axis being greater than the first thickness along the x-axis;
the second portion of the support arm has a second thickness along the x-axis and a second thickness along the z-axis, the second thickness along the x-axis being greater than the second thickness along the z-axis;
a medallion attached to the peripheral portion of the golf club head, the medallion defining an interior cavity, the support arm and the damping element residing within the interior cavity;
The golf club head, wherein the damping element comprises an elastomer. 2. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein a perimeter of the front surface of the damping element defines a support area, the support area having a geometric center, the striking face having a plurality of scorelines, the striking face having a heel datum plane extending parallel to the y-axis and the z-axis, the heel datum plane being offset from a heel limit of the scorelines by 1 millimeter toward the heel, the geometric center of the support area being positioned a support area offset length in a toe direction from the heel datum plane when measured parallel to the x-axis, the striking face having a striking face length measured parallel to the x- axis from the heel datum plane to a toe limit of the front surface of the striking face, and the golf club head has a support area offset ratio having a support area offset length divided by the striking face length multiplied by 100%, the support area offset ratio being 40% or greater. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a second damping element in contact with the striking face, the second damping element being separate and distinct from the damping element.

Images