JP7731454B2 - Golf club and golf club head structure - Google Patents

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 14/564,984, filed December 9, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference and made a part of the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention relate generally to golf clubs and golf club heads, and more particularly to golf clubs and golf club heads in which portions of the club head have been removed or opened up, thereby creating voids within the club head, in order to reduce or redistribute weight associated with the club head and enhance performance.

Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players, including players of different genders, ages, and/or skill levels. Golf club designers have successfully advanced the technology incorporated into golf clubs in response to golfers' continuing demands for improved performance. In one aspect, golfers tend to be sensitive to the "feel" of a golf club. The "feel" of a golf club includes the combination of the various component parts of the club and the various features associated with the club that create the sensation experienced by a player when swinging and/or striking a ball. Club weight, weight distribution, swing weight, aerodynamics, swing speed, etc., can all affect the "feel" of the club as it swings and strikes the ball. "Feel" has also been found to be related to the sound produced when the club head strikes the ball and sets it in motion. If the club head emits an unpleasant, undesirable, or startling sound upon impact, the user may flinch, stop swinging, slow down the swing, let go, and/or not follow through the swing completely, thereby affecting the distance, direction, and/or other performance aspects of the swing and the resulting ball movement. Even before striking the ball, the user's anticipation of this unpleasant, undesirable, or startling sound can affect the swing.

Additionally, the performance of a golf club can vary based on several factors, including the distribution of weight around the club head, which affects the location of the center of gravity of the golf club head. When the center of gravity is positioned behind the point of engagement on the contact surface, the golf ball will follow a generally straight path. However, when the center of gravity is spaced to the side of the point of engagement, the golf ball may fly in an unintended direction and/or may follow a path that curves left or right, including ball flights often referred to as "pull," "push," "draw," "fade," "hook," or "slice." Similarly, when the center of gravity is spaced above or below the point of engagement, the golf ball's flight may exhibit a more plodding or ascending trajectory, respectively.

Weight distribution around the club head can also affect the moment of inertia associated with the club head. Therefore, changing the moment of inertia can affect how the golf club performs, including how golf club head design affects heel and toe misses. Similarly, other factors such as the point of impact and launch angle can also affect how the ball travels when struck.

Club designers often seek new ways to distribute or redistribute weight associated with golf clubs and/or golf club heads. For example, club designers often look to distribute weight to provide more forgiveness within the club head, improved accuracy, a desired ball flight, and the like. In seeking such designs, club designers also face the challenge of maintaining a club head with the traditional aesthetic appearance desired by most golfers. Some prior art golf club and golf club head designs offer several advantageous features, but nevertheless have certain limitations. Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide golf clubs and golf club heads with weight reduction characteristics and improved weight distribution throughout the club head to enhance club performance. The present invention is provided to overcome some of the limitations and drawbacks of the prior art and to provide new features not previously available.

At least some aspects of the present disclosure relate to golf clubs and golf club heads with enhanced weight distribution for the club head. In one aspect, the golf club utilizes a geometric weight feature in the form of a void formed within the golf club head. The golf club head may include a cover that extends over the void, so that the void may not be visible from the top of the golf club head at address. The golf club head may further include one or more adjustable weight locations.

Aspects of the present invention relate to a golf club head including a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, and a toe. The body has a void defined by a periphery on the sole, and the body further defines a cover extending over the void and forming at least a portion of the crown. At least a portion of the periphery of the void includes a lip extending inwardly from the periphery into the void. The lip may extend around the entire periphery or around only a portion of the periphery.

According to one aspect, the head includes a weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having an opening in the sole, such that the weight receiving portion is configured to receive insertion of a weight through the opening. The weight receiving portion can be a receiving tube connected to an underside of the crown and an upper side of the sole and extending from the crown to the sole. The weight can be received in the receiving tube, and the weight can have a heavy portion and a light portion. In this configuration, the weight is removable and insertable into the receiving tube to multiple positions to adjust the weight characteristics of the head. The receiving tube can include a threaded portion proximate the opening, and a threaded fastener can be provided to releasably engage the threaded portion within the receiving tube to retain the weight within the receiving tube. The sole can also have a recessed area recessed inwardly relative to an adjacent area within the sole, and the recessed area can surround the opening.

According to another aspect, the head may also include at least one wall extending from the top to the sole and from the heel to the toe of the body to define a completely enclosed interior cavity between the at least one wall and the face, the wall thus separating the void from the interior cavity. In a head having a weight receiving portion, the head may include a first wall extending from the top to the sole and from the weight receiving portion to the toe of the body, and a second wall extending from the top to the sole and from the weight receiving portion to the heel of the body. The first and second walls define a completely enclosed interior cavity between the first and second walls and the face, the first and second walls separating the void from the interior cavity.

According to a further aspect, the periphery defines a U-shaped void having heel and toe portions extending from near the rear of the body toward the face, and a connecting portion adjacent the rear of the body connecting the heel and toe portions. The void defines a peninsula extending rearward from a point on the sole adjacent the face, with the heel and toe portions located on opposite sides of the peninsula. The lip may extend around at least the entire peninsula.

An additional aspect of the present invention relates to a golf club head including a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, and a toe, and a weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having an opening in the sole configured to receive a weight inserted therethrough. The body has a void defined by a periphery on the sole, and the body further defines a cover extending over the void and forming at least a portion of the crown. The weight receiving portion is a receiving tube connected to an underside of the crown and an upper side of the sole and extending from the crown to the sole, with at least a portion of the outer surface of the receiving tube exposed to the void. The head may further include any of the aspects and features described above, including a lip extending around at least a portion of the void.

According to one aspect, a weight may be received within the receiving tube, and the weight may have a heavy portion and a light portion. In this configuration, the weight is removable and insertable into the receiving tube to multiple positions to adjust the weight characteristics of the head. The receiving tube may include a threaded portion adjacent the opening, and a threaded fastener may be provided within the receiving tube to removably engage the threaded portion to retain the weight within the receiving tube.

According to another aspect, the first wall extends from the apex to the sole and from the receiving tube to the toe of the body. The second wall extends from the apex to the sole and from the receiving tube to the heel of the body. The first and second walls define a completely enclosed interior cavity between the first and second walls and the face, and the first and second walls separate the void from the interior cavity.

According to a further aspect, the receiving tube may be aligned with the vertical axis of the golf club head, or alternatively, may be angled relative to the vertical axis of the golf club head.

According to another aspect, the head includes a second weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a second opening therein, the second weight receiving portion configured to receive insertion of a second weight through the second opening. The second weight receiving portion is a second receiving tube connected to the underside of the crown and the upper side of the sole and extending from the crown to the sole. The first and second weight receiving portions are oriented at an oblique angle relative to each other. A weight may be received in each receiving tube, and each weight may have a heavy portion and a light portion. The weights are removable and insertable to multiple positions within each receiving tube to adjust the weight characteristics of the head.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a golf club head including a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, a toe, and an interface area adjacent a central region of the body; a first weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a first opening therein adjacent to the interface area; and a second weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a second opening therein adjacent to the interface area. The body further has a first leg extending away from the interface area toward the back surface and the heel, and a second leg extending away from the interface area toward the back surface and the toe, with a gap defined between the first and second legs. The first weight receiving portion is configured to receive a first weight inserted through the first opening, and the first weight receiving portion extends from the first opening along the first leg toward the back surface and the heel. The second weight receiving portion is configured to receive insertion of a second weight through the second opening, and the second weight receiving portion extends from the second opening along the second leg toward the back and heel. Each weight receiving portion may be a cylindrical receiving tube. The head may further include any of the aspects and features described above.

According to one aspect, a cylindrical weight is received within each receptacle. Each weight may have a heavy portion and a light portion, such that the weight is removable and insertable to multiple positions within its respective receptacle to adjust the weight characteristics of the head. Each receptacle may include a threaded portion adjacent the opening, and a threaded fastener may removably engage the threaded portion to retain the weight within the receptacle.

According to another aspect, the body may further include a first recessed area on the first leg recessed inwardly relative to an adjacent area in the sole, the first recessed area surrounding a first opening, and a second recessed area on the second leg recessed inwardly relative to an adjacent area in the sole, the second recessed area surrounding a second opening. The body may also have a flattened keel at an interface area on the sole. The interface area may further include an inclined, planar central surface disposed between the two legs and extending inwardly from the sole to an underside of the crown, and two inclined, planar side surfaces disposed on either side of the central surface and oriented at an obtuse angle relative to the central surface, the side surfaces extending inwardly from the keel to the first and second recessed areas.

Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a golf club head including a body having a ball-striking face, a rear surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, and a toe; a first weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a first opening in the sole proximate a central region of the body; and a second weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a second opening proximate the rear surface of the body. The first weight receiving portion is configured to receive insertion of a first weight through the first opening, and the first weight receiving portion is a first receiving tube connected to the sole and extending inward from the sole toward the crown. The second weight receiving portion is configured to receive insertion of a second weight through the second opening, and the second weight receiving portion is a second receiving tube connected to the sole and extending forward from the rear surface of the body toward the face. The head may further include any of the aspects and features described above.

According to one aspect, the body also includes an interface area proximate a central region of the body, and the first receiving tube is disposed in the interface area. The body may further include a first leg extending away from the interface area toward the rear and heel, and a second leg extending away from the interface area toward the rear and toe, with a void defined between the first and second legs. In this configuration, the second receiving tube may extend rearward from the interface area between the first and second legs. The body may further include a rear rim extending around a portion of the rear of the body between the legs, such that the rear rim couples with the legs and the interface area to define the void. In this configuration, the rear rim supports and suspends the open end of the second receiving tube, and the interface area supports and suspends the closed end of the second receiving tube, such that the second receiving tube is suspended within the void.

According to one aspect, a cylindrical weight is received within each receptacle. Each weight may have a heavy portion and a light portion, such that the weight is removable and insertable to multiple positions within its respective receptacle to adjust the weight characteristics of the head. Each receptacle may have a threaded portion adjacent to the opening, and a threaded fastener may removably engage the threaded portion to retain the weight within the receptacle. The weight within the first receptacle may be configured to adjust the weight characteristics of the club head in the crown-sole direction, and the weight within the second receptacle may be configured to adjust the weight characteristics of the club head in the front-to-back direction. Each tube may have a threaded portion adjacent to the opening, and a threaded fastener may removably engage the threaded portion to retain the weight within the receptacle.

According to another aspect, the first receiving tube has a first axis and the second receiving tube has a second axis, the first axis and the second axis being perpendicular.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a golf club including the golf club head described above and a shaft connected to the golf club head.

These and additional features and advantages disclosed herein will be further understood from the following detailed disclosure of several embodiments.

In order that the present invention may be more fully understood, it will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1A-1C illustrate exemplary golf club and golf club head structures according to one or more aspects described herein. 1A-1C illustrate exemplary golf club and golf club head structures according to one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 1 is a bottom rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the head of FIG. 2.

FIG. 10 is a bottom rear perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the head of FIG. 4.

6 is a cross-sectional view of the head of FIGS. 4-5 taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5, showing the insertion of a weight into a receiver within the head.

7 is a cross-sectional view of the head of FIGS. 4-5 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein, showing the insertion of the weight into a receiver within the head.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein, showing the insertion of the weight into a receiver within the head.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having an adjustable weight arrangement according to one or more aspects described herein, showing the insertion of the weight into a receiver within the head.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein, showing the insertion of two weights into two receivers within the head.

FIG. 10 is a rear view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 10 is a bottom rear perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 10 is a bottom rear perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein, illustrating the insertion of two weights into two receivers within the head. FIG. 10 is a bottom rear perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a golf club head having adjustable weight placement according to one or more aspects described herein.

The above-referenced figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and should be understood to provide an explanation of certain embodiments of the present invention, are conceptual in nature, and merely illustrate the principles involved. For ease of explanation and understanding, some features of the golf club and golf club head structures shown in the figures have been enlarged or distorted relative to other features. In some instances, the same reference numbers have been used in the figures for similar or identical components and features shown in various alternative embodiments. The golf club and golf club head structures described herein may have configurations and components determined in part by the intended application and environment in which they will be used.

In the following description of various exemplary structures according to the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and in which various exemplary articles, including one or more golf club or golf club head structures, are illustrated by way of example. It should be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized, and that structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally, while terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "back," "side," "lower," and "overhead" may be used herein to describe various exemplary features and elements of the present invention, these terms are used herein for convenience, e.g., based on exemplary orientations shown in the figures and/or orientations in common use. Nothing herein should be construed as requiring a specific three-dimensional structure or spatial orientation of structures to fall within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention is generally described as relating to wood-type golf clubs. More specifically, the club heads disclosed herein are, in exemplary embodiments, drivers and fairway woods. However, aspects of the present invention may be used with any of several types of golf clubs, including hybrid-type golf clubs, utility clubs, putters, etc., and nothing in this specification or the figures should be construed as limiting the present invention to use with the wood-type golf clubs described.

FIG. 1 generally illustrates an exemplary golf club 100 and/or golf club head 102 according to the present invention. In addition to the golf club head 102, the overall golf club structure 100 of this example includes a hosel 104, a shaft 106 received within and/or inserted into and/or through the hosel 104, and a grip or handle 108 attached to the shaft 106. Optionally, if desired, the external hosel 104 may be eliminated, and the shaft 106 may be inserted directly into and/or otherwise attached to the head 102 (e.g., through an opening in the top of the club head 102, through an internal hosel (e.g., disposed within an internal chamber defined by the club head 102), etc.). The hosel 104 may be considered an integral part of the golf club head 102 or may be a separate structure attached to the golf club head 102.

The shaft 106 may be received within, engaged with, and/or attached to the club head 102 in any suitable or desirable manner, including conventional manners known and used in the art, without departing from this invention. As a more specific example, the shaft 106 may be engaged with the club head 102 via the hosel 104 and/or via, for example, adhesives, cements, welding, soldering, mechanical connectors (screws, retaining elements, etc.), a removable adjustable member or connector, or the like, directly to the club head structure 102, via a shaft-receiving sleeve or element extending into the body of the club head 102, etc. The shaft 106 may also be made from any suitable or desirable material, including conventional materials known and used in the art, such as graphite-based materials, composite materials or other non-metallic materials, steel materials (including stainless steel), aluminum materials, other metal alloy materials, polymeric materials, combinations of various materials, etc. Additionally, the grip or handle 108 may be attached to, engaged with, and/or extend from the shaft 106 in any suitable or desirable manner, including conventional manners known and used in the art, such as, for example, using glue or cement, via welding, soldering, adhesives, etc., via mechanical connectors (screws, retaining elements, etc.), etc. As another example, if desired, the grip or handle 108 may be integrally formed with the shaft 106 as a unitary, one-piece structure. Furthermore, any desirable grip or handle 108 material may be used without departing from this invention, including, for example, rubber materials, leather materials, rubber or other materials including cord or other fabric materials embedded therein, polymeric materials, etc.

The club head 102 itself may also be constructed in any suitable or desirable manner and/or from any suitable or desirable materials, including from conventional materials and/or in a conventional manner known and used in the art, without departing from this invention. For example, in the exemplary club head 102 shown in FIG. 1, the club head 102 generally includes a front surface 102a that includes a ball-striking surface 102b (optionally including a ball-striking face plate integrally formed with or attached to the club head, whereby the face plate and frame together comprise the entire ball-striking surface 102a). The front surface 102a may be considered the ball-striking face 102a. The club head 102 may further include a top portion 102c or crown, a sole 102d, a toe 107, and a heel 109. The club head 102 may also include a rear surface 111 (FIG. 1B).

A wide variety of overall club head structures are possible without departing from this invention. For example, if desired, some or all of the various individual parts of the club head 102 described above may be fabricated from multiple pieces connected to one another (e.g., by welding, adhesives, or other fusion techniques, by mechanical connectors, etc.). The various parts (e.g., crown, sole, front, back, etc.) may be fabricated from any desired material and combination of different materials, including materials conventionally known and used in the art, such as metallic materials, including lightweight metallic materials. More specific examples of suitable lightweight metallic materials include steel, titanium and titanium alloys, aluminum and aluminum alloys, magnesium and magnesium alloys, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the various parts of the club head may be formed from one or more composite materials. Injection-molded parts are also possible. The club head 102 may also be fabricated by forging, casting, or other desired processes, including club head forming processes conventionally known and used in the art. The golf club head 102 may even be formed from a single, integral piece.

The various individual parts comprising the club head structure 102, when fabricated from multiple pieces, may engage and/or connect with one another in any suitable or desirable manner, including conventional manners known and used in the art. For example, the various parts of the club head structure 102, such as the front surface 102a, the striking surface 102b, the top portion 102c, and the sole 102d, may be joined and/or secured to one another (directly or indirectly through intermediate members) by adhesives, cements, welding, soldering, or other joining or finishing techniques, by mechanical connectors (such as screws, screws, nuts, bolts, or other connectors), or the like. Where desired, the mating edges of the various parts of the club head structure 102 may include one or more raised ribs, tabs, protrusions, or other engaging elements that fit into or on corresponding grooves, slots, faces, protrusions, openings, or other structures within or on the opposing lateral edges to be joined. Cement, adhesives, mechanical connectors, finishing materials, etc. may be used in combination with the raised ribs/grooves/ledges/lips or other connecting structures described above that further help secure the various parts of the club head structure 102 together.

The dimensions and/or other characteristics of golf club head structures according to examples of this invention may vary significantly without departing from this invention, and the dimensions may be consistent with dimensions commonly used in the art for similar club heads and clubs.

Several embodiments of golf club heads are disclosed herein. It is understood that the description of the club head and various components described above with respect to FIGS. 1A and 1B applies to the other embodiments described herein. It will be understood that several different embodiments may utilize geometric weighting characteristics. The geometric weighting characteristics may provide for head weight reduction and/or weight redistribution to achieve desired performance. For example, more weight may be positioned toward the heel and toe back ends of the club head. In various embodiments disclosed herein, the golf club head may have a body with spaced-apart legs that define a void, space, or gap between the legs. The club heads herein may be considered to have portions removed to define the void, space, or gap. The body may include covers positioned over the voids and/or legs, which may be an integral component of the body or may be separately attached. Additional support members and/or weight assemblies may also be utilized with some embodiments.

As further shown in FIGS. 2-6, the golf club head 200 has a body 202 that includes and defines a front surface 210, a rear surface 212, a top or crown 214 (FIG. 6), a toe 216, a heel 218, and a sole 215. The front surface 210 generally defines a ball-striking face 211. The ball-striking face 211 may take a variety of shapes, and in one exemplary embodiment, may utilize a variable face thickness design, such as that disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13/211,961, which is incorporated herein by reference and forms a part of the present invention. The ball-striking face 211 may alternatively have a constant thickness. It is further understood that the ball-striking face 211 may be separately connected to the golf club head body 202, such as in a welding process. The club head 200 has a sole 215 extending from a base of the body 202 adjacent the ball-striking face 211 toward the rear surface 212 of the club head body 202. The golf club head 200, in some forms, includes a geometric weight characteristic. In one exemplary embodiment, the club head 200 has a void 230, gap, or space formed entirely within the rear surface 212 of the golf club head body 202. The void 230 may, in some instances, be generally V-shaped and/or extend completely through the golf club head 200 (e.g., from the crown to the sole). The void 230 opens to the rear surface of the golf club head. The body 202 may form a hosel at a heel 218 of the body 202. It is understood that various configurations of the body 202 may define an internal cavity having an internal volume.

The void 230 extends inward from an opening 236 in the body 202, which is defined by a perimeter 238. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-6, the void 230 may extend inward from the toe 216 and heel 218 around the rear 212 of the head 200 and may be wider near the rear 212 than near the heel 218 or toe 216. The void 230 may also extend from the sole 215 to the upper or crown 214, as also shown in FIGS. 2-6. The void 230 may contact at least a portion of the upper lateral side 215a of the sole 215 and at least a portion of the underside 214a of the crown 214, as shown in FIGS. 2-6. In one embodiment, the void 230 may extend inward all the way to the interior surface of the ball-striking face 211, as shown in FIGS. 2-3. In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4-5 , the head 200 may have one or more walls 232 extending from the sole 215 to the crown 214 and joining with the surface of the body 202 to define an enclosed interior cavity 234 behind the ball-striking face 211. In this embodiment, the void 230 may be bounded by and defined by the walls 232 and does not extend to the face 211. The void 230 in this embodiment represents an open section behind the enclosed interior cavity 234. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the enclosed interior cavity 234 accounts for 30-70% of the total displacement of the head 200, as determined using USGA official methods. Additional embodiments of the club head may have differently configured voids, such as the embodiments of FIGS. 12-14 , as described below. The voids 230 formed within the golf club head 200 may reduce the overall weight associated with the golf club head, redistribute the weight of the club, and aid in tuning the performance characteristics of the golf club head 200.

The opening 236 (and edge 238 defining the opening 236) for the void 230 has a generally U-shaped configuration in the embodiment of FIGS. 2-7. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the opening 238 has a first portion, or heel portion 239A, on the heel 218 of the body 202, a second portion, or toe portion 239B, on the toe 216 of the body 202, and a connecting portion 239C extending across the back surface 212 of the body 202 and connecting the heel portion 239A and the toe portion 239B. The heel portion 239A and the toe portion 239B extend generally from the back surface 212 toward the face 211, with the heel portion 239A also including an angled portion 239D adjacent the face 211 that is angled toward the heel 218 relative to the remainder of the heel portion 239A. In this configuration, the U-shaped void 230 defines a peninsula 265 on the sole 215 that extends rearward from a point proximate the face 211, with a heel portion 239A and a toe portion 239B positioned on either side of the peninsula 265. Additionally, in this embodiment, the opening 236 is defined on the sole 215 and is not visible from above when the club head 200 is in the address position. However, in other embodiments, at least a portion of the opening 236 extends through the crown 214 of the body 202.

In some exemplary embodiments, the golf club head 200 may be formed as a single piece including the body 202 having a cover 250 that forms at least a portion of the crown 214 of the head 200. For example, the front surface 210 (including the face 211), the back surface 212, the crown 214, the toe 216, the heel 218, and the sole 215 may be a single-piece unit. In another embodiment, the face 211 may be formed from a structure separate from the body 202, such as a face plate or cup-face structure. The body 202, in this embodiment, may be formed from a single piece or multiple pieces. The golf club head 200 and/or its metal components may be formed using known manufacturing methods, such as casting, molding, forging, etc., and various combinations thereof. Thus, in one example, the golf club head body 202 may be cast from a metal material, such as titanium. Weight receiver 242 may be formed with one or more other components of body 202, or may be formed separately and attached to body 202, in various embodiments, as described below. Void 230 may be formed in the golf club head during the initial manufacturing process of the golf club head (e.g., during casting), or may be formed into golf club head 200 using an additional process (e.g., by cutting).

As described above and shown in FIGS. 2-6 , the golf club head 200 further includes a cover 250. In some examples, the cover 250 may cover the rear surface 212 of the golf club head body 202, or a portion of the rear surface 212, or may extend beyond the sole 215, such that the void 230 and the sole 215 are not visible when the golf club head 200 is in use, particularly when the golf club head 200 is in the address position and the golfer is standing above the golf club head 200. That is, with the cover 250 in place, the golf club head 200 may appear similar to a conventional golf club head that does not include the void 230 in the rear surface 212 of the golf club head 200. However, performance advantages (e.g., weight reduction, weight redistribution, etc.) may be provided. The cover 250 may, in some examples, extend over the crown 214 of the golf club head body 202 such that the void 230 may be visible when the golf club head 200 is viewed from the sole 215, but the void 230 may be prevented from being visible when viewed from the top of the club 200. Additionally or alternatively, the cover 250 may extend over the entire back surface 212 of the golf club head 200, covering the crown 214 and sole 215 of the golf club head such that the void is not visible when the golf club head is viewed from any angle.

In the embodiment of Figures 2-7, the cover 250 may be formed from the same material as the rest of the body 202 and may be formed from a single piece with the body 202. In another embodiment, the cover 250 may be formed separately and from a different material than the body 202. In such an embodiment, the cover 250 may be formed from any suitable material, such as a lightweight metal, alloy, composite, plastic, or the like. The polymer-based cover 250 may further have a nano-coating to provide a metallic-type finish or some other treatment to create such an appearance. The separate cover 250 may be connected to the golf club head using known connection methods, including mechanical fasteners, snap fits, screws, adhesives, friction fits, and the like. Additionally, while the cover 250 shown in Figures 2-6 forms the crown 214 of the body 202, in another embodiment, the cover 250 may cover at least a portion of the crown 214 of the body 202. Additionally, in some configurations, the cover 250 may be removable and/or interchangeable with other covers, which may have different performance characteristics. For example, the cover may be replaced with another cover having different weight characteristics. The alternative covers may also have different aesthetic characteristics or incorporate different training guides.

The head 200 may further include a hardened or reinforced structure to affect one or more properties of the head 202, such as vibration resistance, acoustics, or impact responsiveness, and/or to increase the durability and structural stability of the head 200. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2-6, the head 200 includes a lip 247 extending around the edge 238 defining the opening 236 of the void 230. The lip 247 extends inward into the void 230 and may be angled relative to some or all of the adjacent surfaces of the body 202. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, the lip 247 extends inward from the entire edge 238 defining the opening 236. In another embodiment, the lip 247 extends from at least a portion of the edge 238 and may be positioned intermittently around the edge 238, such as in areas where stress is more concentrated. The lip 247 may have a width that may be constant throughout or may vary at different locations. The thickness of the lip 247 may also be constant or may vary in various embodiments. FIG. 11 shows another embodiment in which the lip 247 has a greater width in the area around the receiving tube 242 than the lip 247 of FIGS. 2-6, which adds increased strength to that area. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2-6 and 11, a peninsula 265 on the sole 215 at least partially supports the receiving portion or receiver 242 for the weight 240, and the lip 247 around the peninsula 265 adds structural stability to the peninsula 265. In one embodiment, the lip 247 can extend around at least the entire peninsula 265.

In one embodiment, the head 200 has additional stiffening or reinforcing structure in the form of one or more walls 232 extending inward from the crown 214 and/or sole 215. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4-7, two walls 232 completely separate the ball-striking face 211 from the void 230, extending from the underside 214a of the crown 214 to the upper lateral sides 215a of the sole 215 and from the toe 216 and heel 218 to the weight receiver 242. In this configuration, the walls 232 combine with the surfaces of the body 202 to define an enclosed interior cavity 234 behind the ball-striking face 211, as described above. The void 230 may be bounded by and defined by the walls 232 in this embodiment, and does not extend to the face 211; the walls 232 separate the void 230 from the interior cavity 234. In another embodiment, the wall 232 may extend forward or rearward of the receiving tube 242 and may not be connected to the receiving tube 242. In a further embodiment, the head 200 may include a wall 232 that does not extend all the way from the crown 214 to the sole 215, does not extend all the way laterally across the body 202 (e.g., from the heel 218 to the toe 216), and/or does not completely separate the face 211 from the void 230, such as by having an opening or passage therein.

The golf club head 200 may utilize a weight assembly to further enhance the performance of the club head 200. In one exemplary embodiment, the head 200 includes a receiving portion or receiver 242, which may be in the form of a receiving tube 242, similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 2-7. The receiving tube 242 may be integrally formed with one or more portions of the golf club head 200, or may be formed as a separate portion and connected to the golf club head 200 using known connection methods, such as adhesives, mechanical fasteners, snap-fitting, welding, or the like. Furthermore, in one embodiment, at least a portion of the outer surface of the receiving portion (receiving tube 242) is exposed to the void 230. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2-3, the entire outer surface of the receiving tube 242 is exposed to the void 230, while in the embodiment of FIGS. 4-5, a portion of the outer surface of the receiving tube 242 is exposed to the void 230 and another portion is exposed to the inner cavity 234. Weight 240 of the weight assembly is configured to be received by receiving tube 242, which has an opening 243 in the sole 215 for insertion of weight 240. In another embodiment, opening 243 may additionally or alternatively be located in crown 214 of head 200. Figures 2-5 show weight 240 within tube 242, and Figure 6 shows weight 240 in an exploded configuration in the proper position for insertion into tube 242.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 2-7, the receiving tube 242 generally has a height that extends from the underside 214a of the crown 214 and/or the cover 250 to the bottom or sole surface 215b of the sole 215 of the club head body 202. In this configuration, the crown 214 and/or the cover 250 couples with the sole 215 to support the receiving tube 242. As shown in Figures 2, 4, and 6, the underside 214a of the crown 214/cover 250 has a platform 246 connected to the upper end of the receiving tube 242 to provide a stronger and more stable mounting surface, in one embodiment. The platform 246 shown in Figures 2-7 is formed by a thickened portion of the cover 250 and is integral with the cover 250. In other embodiments, the platform 246 may have a different structure and/or may be formed separately and connected to the underside 214a of the crown 214 of the body 202. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, the sole 215 has a recessed area 248 defined by sloped walls 249 disposed around the tube opening 243. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-6, the recessed area 248 is formed within a peninsula 265 on the sole 215. The receiving tube 242 is attached to the upper side 215a of the sole 215 in the recessed area 248, with the sloped walls 249 providing increased rigidity and strength to the area surrounding the attachment. The recessed area 248 also spaces the tube opening 243 from the playing surface during use. The receiving tube 242 may have varying heights as needed in other configurations and may alternatively be attached with one or both ends spaced from the inner surface of the crown 214 or sole 215. A closure 244 may also be provided for securing the weight 240 within the receiving tube 242. In the embodiment of Figures 2-6, the closure 244 takes the form of a threaded fastener 244 that mates with internal threads within the receiving tube 242 and secures the weight 240 within the receiving tube 242.

The receiving tube 242 and the weight 240 may have corresponding shapes so that the weight 240 can slide into the receiving tube 242. In some examples, the weight 240 and the receiving tube 242 may be cylindrical, square, rectangular, or the like. The receiving tube 242 may have a longitudinal axis, and the weight may also have a longitudinal axis, which generally correspond when the weight 240 is received within the tube 242. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the longitudinal axis of the tube 242 is generally vertical and generally parallel to the ball-striking face 211, with the understanding that the ball-striking face 211 may have a certain amount of loft. In the example shown in FIGS. 2-6, the receiving tube 242 is generally vertical in orientation (e.g., in a vertical position when the golf club head is in the address position). However, various other tube arrangements, positions, and the like may be used without departing from this invention. Some other arrangements, positions, and the like are described more fully below.

The receiving tube 242 may receive the weight 240, which may be a single weighted member or may have portions with different weight characteristics or values, allowing different weight characteristics and placement to alter the performance characteristics of the club head 200. For example, the weight 240 may have one end 240a that is heavier than the opposite end 240b, allowing the weight 240 to be reversed as needed. Such different weights may be achieved through the use of different materials and/or different concentrations of weight-additive materials (e.g., tungsten). Additionally, the differentially weighted weight 240 may be a combination of smaller weights permanently or releasably connected to one another. In some forms, the heavier end 240a may be positioned toward the crown 214 of the golf club head 200 to provide a first weight placement with a relatively high center of gravity (CG), or alternatively, toward the sole 215 of the golf club head 200 to provide a second weight placement with a relatively low CG. Different weight placement can affect the performance of the club head 200. In another embodiment, the weight 240 may have three or more differently weighted portions. In further embodiments, different and/or additional structures may be operatively associated with the head 200 that removably support the weight member thereon. In various embodiments described herein, the weight member 240 may be made from a heavier material than the rest of the golf club head 200 or portion thereof. In other exemplary embodiments, the weight member 240 may be made from the same material as the rest of the golf club head 200 or portion thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the weight member may be formed from steel, aluminum, titanium, magnesium, tungsten, graphite, polymers, or composites, as well as alloys and/or combinations thereof.

Additionally or alternatively, the weight member 240 may include multiple weights or portions of the weight 240 that can be received in the weight receiving portion 242 in different arrangements to achieve different weight characteristics, e.g., three pieces, with one piece being the heaviest. Such multiple weights may, in one embodiment, be releasably fastened to one another. The different weights may also have different weight values. In some examples, the heaviest member may be at an end of the member or in the center. Various other combinations of weight members may be used without departing from this invention. The overall height of the weight member 240, along with the length of the threaded fastener 244, may generally correspond to the height of the receiving tube 242, so that the weight 240 fits snugly within the tube 242 and does not slide within the tube during use. It is understood that the threads within the receiving tube 242 may be configured such that the fastener 244 can be threaded into the receiving tube 242 at different distances to engage and secure weights 240 having different lengths within the receiving tube 242. Additionally, the tube 242 and/or weight 240 may have shock absorbing features if desired, and a plug or filter may be inserted into the receiving tube 242 to ensure a snug fit for the weight 240, which has a length shorter than the receiving tube.

The location of the weight 240 and receiving tube 242 near the geometric center of the club head 200 can help adjust the center of gravity closer to the central region of the golf club head 200. The weights within the tube 242 can be concentrated within the tube 242 to provide a lower or higher center of gravity. The weights 240 can also be configured to provide a more neutral center of gravity. Inserting or removing weights 240 can add or remove additional weight from the overall weight of the golf club head 200, adding or removing weight from the central region, thereby adjusting the performance characteristics of the golf club head 200. Thus, different interchangeable weights 240 can be selected to increase or decrease the overall weight of the club head 200. Such weight characteristics provided by the weights 240 within the tube 242 can further affect golf ball trajectory by resulting in a change in ball spin. It has been determined that this weight characteristic can result in approximately a 500-600 rpm change in ball spin. By utilizing adjustable weights 240 within tubes 242 to affect ball spin, as well as taking into account launch angle and ball speed, a golfer can customize the golf club to achieve a desired ball trajectory, distance, and other characteristics. The adjustable weight characteristics can further be used to customize the club head 200 to produce a desired ball spin for the particular golf ball being used.

As further shown in Figures 2-5, the receiving tube 242 may have a window 245 to allow a person to view the weight 240 within the tube 242. The weight 240 may include indicia to allow easy determination of the specific weight placement provided by viewing through the window 245.

As shown in FIGS. 2-3, the entire exterior of the receiving tube 242 may be exposed, in one embodiment, such that the void 230 completely surrounds the receiving tube 242. In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4-5, the receiving tube 242 may be partially enclosed within the rear portion of the golf club head 200, such that a portion of the receiving tube 242 may be exposed to the void 230. The void 230, in these embodiments, may provide easy access to the weight 240 and/or fastener 244 for adjustment. In a further embodiment, the receiving tube 242 may be completely enclosed within the head 200 without departing from this invention. FIGS. 12-14 (described below) show the receiving tube 242 completely enclosed within the head 200.

In some forms, the receiving tube 242 may be angled relative to the vertical axis of the face 211, sole 215, and/or club head 200 when in the playing position. As described herein, the "vertical axis" extends along a line perpendicular to the flat playing surface when the club head 200 is in the playing position, the axis of the hosel 104 lies in a vertical plane, and the face 211 is set to the desired loft angle specified for the club head 200. Accordingly, the weight member may be adjusted in a hybrid manner, e.g., both high/low and forward/backward, by adjusting the weight 240 within such an angled receiving tube 242. In one embodiment, the axis of the receiving tube 242 may be 0-60° from the vertical axis. In other embodiments, the axis of the receiving tube 242 may be 0-50° or 20-50° from the vertical axis. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-6, the axis of the receiving tube 242 is generally parallel to the face 211 and is angled slightly (e.g., 15°) at the back surface 212 relative to the vertical axis V from the sole 215 toward the crown 214. Thus, the weight 240 in FIG. 6 can be flipped to adjust the CG upward and backward relative to the vertical axis, or forward and downward relative to the vertical axis. The receiving tube 242 shown in FIG. 6 lies in a plane perpendicular to the heel-toe direction (defined by the vertical axis), and it will be understood that the same applies to the tube 242 in FIGS. 8-10 described below. In further embodiments, the receiving tube 242 may additionally or alternatively be angled relative to the vertical axis in the heel-toe direction.

Other embodiments described herein illustrate various orientations of the receiving tube 242 relative to the vertical axis. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 8 , the axis of the receiving tube 242 is angled relative to the face 211 so that the receiving tube 242 is closer to the face 211 adjacent the crown 214 than adjacent the sole 215, and is angled (e.g., 15°) toward the face 211 relative to the vertical axis V from the sole 215 toward the crown 214. Thus, the weight 240 of FIG. 8 can be reversed to adjust the CG upward and forward or downward and rearward. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , the axis of the receiving tube 242 is angled relative to the face 211 so that the receiving tube 242 is closer to the face 211 adjacent the sole 215 than adjacent the crown 214, and is angled (e.g., 45°) away from the face 211 relative to the vertical axis V from the sole 215 toward the crown 214. Thus, the weight 240 of FIG. 9 is reversible to adjust the CG upward and backward or forward and downward. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, the axis of the receiving tube 242 is parallel or nearly parallel to the vertical axis V, slightly angled relative to the face 211 so that the receiving tube 242 is closer to the face 211 near the crown 214 than near the sole 215. Thus, the weight 240 of FIG. 6 is reversible to adjust the CG upward or downward. The embodiments of FIGS. 8-9A are otherwise similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 2-6 described above. Multiple receiving tubes 242 are also available in vertical, horizontal, or angled configurations. For example, FIGS. 10 and 12-14, described in more detail below, show an embodiment having two receiving tubes.

Figure 10 shows another embodiment having two receiving tubes 242A and 242B extending from the sole 215 to the crown 214 of the head 200, similar to the receiving tube 242 described above and shown in Figures 2-9A. In the embodiment of Figure 10, the two tubes have openings 243A and 243B adjacent to each other and both leading to the same recessed area 248 on the sole 215. Additionally, each of the receiving tubes 242A, 242B has a separate platform 246A and 246B positioned on the underside 214a of the crown 214 to support the respective receiving tube 242A, 242B. In this embodiment, the axis of first receiving tube 242A is angled relative to face 211 such that receiving tube 242A is closer to face 211 near crown 214 than near sole 215, and is angled (e.g., 15°) from sole 215 toward crown 214 relative to vertical axis V toward face 211. Thus, weight 240A of first receiving tube 242A is reversible to adjust CG upward and forward or downward and rearward. In this embodiment, the axis of second receiving tube 242B is generally parallel to face 211 and is angled (e.g., 15°) from sole 215 toward crown 214 relative to vertical axis V away from face 211. Thus, weight 240A of FIG. 9 is reversible to adjust CG upward and rearward or forward and rearward. The second receiving tube 242B may have at least a portion exposed to the cavity 230 in one embodiment, or may be completely contained within the inner cavity 234 in another embodiment in which the head 200 includes a wall 232, as shown in FIG. 7. In other embodiments, multiple receiving tubes 242 may be provided in different configurations or orientations. As one example, multiple receiving tubes 242 may share the same opening and be closed by a single fastener 244, rather than multiple fasteners 244 as shown in FIG. 10. As another example, three or more receiving tubes 242 may be utilized.

FIG. 12 shows another golf club head 300 having a void 340 formed in the rear surface and having an adjustable weight member. The golf club head body 302 further has a base 320, a first leg 322, and a second leg 324. The first leg 322 extends away from the front surface 310 and the ball-striking face 311, and the second leg 324 extends away from the ball-striking face 311. The legs 322, 324 also extend further away from each other from the front surface 310 toward the rear surface 312, creating a generally V-shaped void 330 defined between the first leg 322 and the second leg 324. As shown in FIG. 12, the void 330 can extend inward from the back edge 312a of the golf club head 300, toward the center or central region of the golf club head 300, and toward the ball-striking face 311. The void 330 may be wider near the spine edge 312a of the golf club head than near the center of the golf club head 300, thereby forming a V-shape. In one embodiment, the first leg 322 defines a first side 307 and the second leg defines a second side 309, with the sides 307, 309 generally in an opposing relationship. The sides 307, 309 of the V-shaped void 330 may be generally linear or generally planar, or in other words, the sides 307, 309 may provide a generally flat surface. It is understood that the sides 307, 309 may further be non-linear and/or non-planar, defining interrupted surfaces, non-flat surfaces, etc. The void 330 in the embodiment of FIG. 12 extends to the underside 314a of the crown 314 of the club head body 302, and both sides 307, 309 depend from the underside 314a of the crown 314 of the body 302. In this embodiment, the cover 350 is formed as a single piece with the rest of the body 302, although in other embodiments, the cover 350 may be formed from separate pieces that may be connected to the body 302 by a variety of different techniques, as described above.

As further shown in FIG. 12 , legs 322, 324 and sides 307, 309 converge toward ball-striking face 311 at an interface area 326 located between legs 322 and 324 and between sides 307 and 309. Interface area 326 may be positioned within or adjacent to a central region of club head 300, and this location may vary. For example, club head 300 defines a width dimension (front to rear), and interface area 326 may be positioned between 30% and 60% of the width dimension, as measured from face 311. As another example, interface area 326 may be positioned approximately 44% rearward of the width dimension, as measured from face 311. As a further example, interface area 326 may be positioned approximately 1.875 inches rearward from face 326. The sides 307, 309 and interface area 326 may have associated therewith certain performance and strength enhancing structures, such as gussets or other support or stiffening members, on the interior surfaces within the internal cavity defined by the club head body 302. The exterior surfaces of the sides 307, 309 also provide strength and/or rigidity.

The golf club head 300 includes two weight members 340a and 340b received within two weight receivers 342a and 342b. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, one weight receiver 342a is positioned closer to the toe 316, and the other weight receiver 342b is positioned closer to the heel 318. The two weight members 340a and 340b may be configured similar to the weights of FIGS. 2-10, such that one end may be heavier than the other end. In other embodiments, the weight members 340a and 340b and weight receivers 342a and 342b may additionally or alternatively be mounted in a different manner, such as with receiving tubes similar to those described above.

The weights 340a, b may be similar to the weights shown in FIGS. 6 and 8-10, having differently weighted ends or portions, and may similarly be removed, inverted, rotated, etc., independently of one another to adjust the overall weight distribution of the golf club head 300 and adjust the performance characteristics of the golf club head 300. The embodiment of FIG. 12 may also include weight receivers 342a, 342b, which may be in the form of weight-receiving tubes described above with respect to FIGS. 2-10. In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the weight receiver 342a adjacent the toe 316 extends along the first leg 322 and first side 307 in a direction that curves away from the centerline of the head 300 and more toward the toe 316 as the receiver 342a progresses from the front 310 toward the back 312 of the head 300. Thus, by flipping weight 340a, first weight 340a can be adjusted to adjust the CG to be closer to the front surface 310 and center of head 300, or closer to the back surface 312 and toe 316 of head 300. Furthermore, in this embodiment, weight receiver 342b proximate heel 318 extends along second leg 324 and second side 309 in a direction that curves away from the centerline of head 300 and more toward heel 318 as receiver 342a progresses from the front surface 310 toward the back surface 312 of head 300. Thus, second weight 340b can be adjusted to adjust the CG to be closer to the front surface 310 and center of head 300, or closer to the back surface 312 and heel 318 of head 300, by flipping weight 340b. Each weight can be pre-tuned independently of the other weights to customize the performance characteristics of the golf club head 300. The fasteners 344 described above may be utilized to hold the weights 340a, 340b within the receivers 342a, 342b. The head 300 may further include windows 345 located on the sides 307, 309 and/or legs 322, 324, which provide visibility into the interior of the weight receivers 342a, 342b.

As further shown in FIG. 12 , the club head 300 may have additional structure on the sole 315. For example, the club head 300 may have a channel 352 extending across the sole of the club head 352 from the heel 318 to the toe 316 and generally adjacent the ball-striking face 311. The channel 352 allows for a certain amount of compression of the club head 300 upon ball impact. This feature, in conjunction with other club head structure and weight characteristics, may further enhance club performance. Additionally, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 , a hole or access opening 353 for access to the internal connection structure of the hosel 304 for connection of a shaft (not shown in FIG. 12 ) is exposed within, intersects with, and communicates with the channel 352. The internal connection structure may be configured for a releasable and/or adjustable connection of the shaft 106, such as the adjustable connection structure shown and described in U.S. Patent Application Nos. 61/577,660 and 61/526,325, which are incorporated herein by reference. Other adjustable mechanisms may also be used. As another example, the club head 300 may have a flattened keel 351 on the sole 315 that extends rearward from the channel 352 to the interface area 326. As a further example, the legs 322, 324 may each have a recessed area 348 positioned adjacent the interface area 326, with the opening 343 of each weight receiver 342a, 342b positioned within the recessed area 348. The interface area 326 may include an inclined, planar central surface 326a disposed between the two legs and extending from the sole 315 to the underside 314a of the crown 314, as well as two inclined, planar side surfaces 349 disposed on either side of the central surface 326a at an obtuse angle relative to the central surface 326a. The side surfaces 349 extend inward from the keel 351 to recessed areas 348. Each recessed area 348 may be a generally planar surface in this embodiment.

13 and 14 show another golf club head arrangement with adjustable weights. The club head 400 has a pair of spaced apart legs 422, 424 that define a void 430 under the cover 450 or crown 414 of the club head 400, similarly as described above with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 12. The legs 422, 424 also extend further away from each other from the front face 410 toward the rear face 412, as described above, to define the void 430 in a generally V-shaped configuration. The legs 422, 424 define legs 407, 409 that depend from the underside 414a of the crown 414 of the club head 400, as further described above. Furthermore, in this embodiment, legs 422, 424 and sides 407, 409 converge toward the ball-striking face 411 at an interface area 426 located between legs 422 and 424 and between sides 407 and 409. Interface area 426 may be positioned within or adjacent to the central region of club head 400, as described above with respect to FIG. 12, and this location may vary. Sides 407, 409 and interface area 426 may also have several performance and strength-enhancing structures associated therewith, as described above. Furthermore, body 402 may have a hole or access opening 453 for access to the internal connection structure of hosel 404 for connection of a shaft (not shown), as described above. Access opening 453 is exposed on sole 415, as shown in FIGS. 13-14.

The illustrated weight arrangement includes two adjustable weights 440a, 440b received in a first receiver or receptacle 442a and a second receiver or receptacle 442b, respectively. Similar to the configurations described above, the adjustable weights 440a, 440b may have differently weighted ends or portions and may also be made from multiple weight members releasably connected to one another and having various weight values. In one exemplary embodiment, the first receiver is a first receiving tube 442a and the second receiver is a second receiving tube 442b. The first receiving tube 442a has a vertical configuration positioned proximate the interface area 426 at a central location on the body 402 and extends inwardly into the body 402 from an opening 443a in the sole 415. The second receiving tube 442b has a generally horizontal configuration and extends from near the first receiving tube 442a and the interface area 426 toward the rear surface 412 of the club head 400. The end of the second receiving tube 442b is connected to the rear periphery of the club head 400. While two weights are shown, it is understood that more or fewer weights may be used as needed. The first receiving tube 442a may be located at the base of the V-shaped void 430, and as shown in FIGS. 13-14 , the interface area 426 generally supports the first receiving tube 442a at the junction of the first leg 422 and the second leg 424, such that the first leg 422 and the second leg 424 converge at the receiving tube 442. The first receiving tube 442a may be fully nested in the interface area 426 and/or may be supported at the interface area 426 by the interface area 426 and any internal structural reinforcements. The first receiving tube 442a also has a recessed area 446a around the opening 443a, and a sloped wall 449a slopes inward from the sole 415 to define a recessed area 448a.

13-14, the second receiving tube 442b extends along the void 430, with a space or gap 460 defined between the tube 442a and the underside 414a or crown 414 of the cover 450. The opening 443b to the second receiving tube 442b is positioned at an open end 463 proximate the rear surface 412 of the club head 400. The second receiving tube 442b also has a closed end 461 proximate the interface portion 426 and the open end 443a of the first receiving tube 442a. In this embodiment, the second receiving tube 442b is suspended at the closed end 461 by the interface portion 426 and suspended at the open end 463 proximate the rear surface 412 of the club head 400, spacing the receiving tube 442b from the underside 414a of the crown 414. The body 402 includes a rear rim 462 that extends around a portion of the rear surface 412 of the club head 400 between the ends of the legs 422, 424, and that joins with the legs 422, 424 and the interface area 426 to define the void 430. In this embodiment, the rear rim 462 supports and suspends the open end 463 of the second receiving tube 443b, such that an opening 443b is defined in the rear rim 462. The second receiving tube 442b also has a recessed area 448b around the opening 443b, with a sloped wall 449b sloping inward from the rear rim 462 to define the recessed area 448b. As also described above, the second receiving tube 442b may have a window 445 to allow a person to view the weight 440b within the tube 442b.

Similar to some of the configurations described above, the weights 440a, 440b are contained within receiving tubes 442a, 442b within the golf club head 400. In some examples, the position of the weights 440a, 440b within the receiving tubes may be maintained by fasteners 444, such as screws or other threaded fasteners. The receiving tubes may be visible, such as the second receiving tube 442b, or may be contained within a portion of the golf club head 400 so that they are not visible from outside the club, such as the first receiving tube 442a.

The weights 440a, 440b may be rotatable, removable, adjustable, etc., to adjust the performance characteristics of the golf club head. For example, adjusting the second weight 440b may adjust the weight distribution and CG of the golf club head 400 in a front-to-back direction. That is, by positioning the heavier end of the second weight 440b closer to the interface area 426, the overall weight and CG of the club head 400 is adjusted toward the front 410 or face 411 of the golf club head 402. Alternatively, by positioning the heavier end of the second weight 440b toward the rear 412 of the golf club head 400, the overall weight and CG of the club head 400 may be shifted toward the rear or back 412 of the golf club head 400.

The first weight 440a may also be adjustable, removable, rotatable, etc., to adjust the overall weight characteristics of the golf club head 400. For example, adjusting the first weight 440a may adjust the weight distribution and CG of the golf club head 400 in a high-to-low direction. That is, by inserting the heavier end first (i.e., positioning the heavier end toward the crown 414, as the first receiving tube 442a is accessed from the sole 415 of the golf club head 400), the overall weight and CG may be adjusted toward the crown 414 of the golf club head 400. Alternatively, by inserting the lighter end first (i.e., toward the crown 414), the overall weight and CG are adjusted toward the bottom or sole 415 of the golf club head 400.

The weights 440a, 440b may be adjusted independently of one another. As described above, by adjusting, rotating, etc., the weights 440a, 440b, the center of gravity of the golf club head 400 may be shifted or adjusted as needed. A hybrid arrangement of adjusting the weights in both the front/back and high/low, or sole/crown, directions may provide further customization of the weighting and/or performance characteristics of the golf club head 400. It is also understood that the receiving tubes 442a, 442b may be supported by a pivotable support, providing further adjustability. It is further understood that the receivers 442a, 442b have a generally longitudinal axis, and that the weights 440a, 440b are received along the longitudinal axis. In the embodiment of FIGS. 13-14, the longitudinal axes of the second receiving tube 442b and second weight 440b are generally perpendicular to the ball-striking face 411. In this embodiment, the longitudinal axes of the first receiving tube 442a and the first weight 440a are generally parallel to the ball striking face 411. In yet other constructions, either or both of these longitudinal axes may be positioned at an oblique angle relative to the ball striking face 411.

Several different embodiments of golf club heads of the present invention are described herein. The various embodiments have several different features and structures that provide benefits and enhanced performance characteristics. It is understood that any of the various features and structures may be combined to form a particular club head of the present invention.

The golf club head structure disclosed herein provides several benefits. The unique shape of the golf club head provides beneficial modifications to the mass properties of the golf club head. The geometric weight characteristics result in reduced weight and/or improved weight redistribution. Because material is removed from a conventional golf club head, voids are defined in place of such material that would normally be present, the voids defined within the club head can reduce overall weight. The voids also aid in strategically distributing weight throughout the club head to provide improved performance characteristics. The voids result in weight distribution toward the rear corners of the club head at the toe and heel. An increased moment of inertia is achieved while optimizing the location of the club head's center of gravity. This can provide a more forgiving golf club head and a golf club head that can provide more easily lofted golf shots. In some exemplary embodiments, the weight associated with the portion of the golf club head removed to form the voids can be approximately 4 to 15 grams, more specifically, approximately 8 to 9 grams. In other exemplary embodiments, this weight reduction can be redistributed to other areas of the club head, such as toward the back at the toe and heel. In some exemplary embodiments, approximately 2% to 7.5% of weight is redistributed from more traditional golf club head designs. In yet another example, the void can be considered to have a volume defined by an imaginary plane extending from the sole surface and back of the club, cooperating with the sides of the legs and the lower portion of the cover. The internal cavity may also have some volume. The volume is sized to affect desired performance characteristics. It is further understood that some portions of the club head can be formed from alternative materials to provide weight reduction or other weight redistribution. In one exemplary embodiment, the walls defining the void may be made from other materials, such as composite or polymer-based materials.

As described, weight can be redistributed to more desirable locations on the club head for improved performance. For example, with a centrally located void and legs extending outward toward the back on the heel and toe sides, more weight is placed in those areas, resulting in more desirable moment of inertia properties. With the designs described herein, the moment of inertia (MOI) (Izz) about a vertical axis (z-axis) passing through the center of gravity of the club head can range from approximately 1500 gm-cm² to 5900 gm-cm² depending on the type of golf club. In one exemplary embodiment for a driver-type golf club, the moment of inertia (Izz) about a vertical axis (z-axis) passing through the center of gravity of the club head can range from approximately 3800 gm-cm² to 5900 gm-cm², and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 4300 gm-cm² to 5200 gm-cm². In one exemplary embodiment for a fairway wood type golf club, the moment of inertia (Izz) about a vertical axis (z-axis) passing through the center of gravity of the club head can range from approximately 2000 gm-cm to 3500 gm-cm, and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 2200 gm-cm to 3000 gm-cm. In one exemplary embodiment for a hybrid type golf club, the moment of inertia (Izz) about a vertical axis (z-axis) passing through the center of gravity of the club head can range from approximately 2000 gm-cm to 3500 gm-cm, and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 2200 gm-cm to 3000 gm-cm, and in a further exemplary embodiment, the Izz moment of inertia can range from 1800 gm-cm to 2800 gm-cm. In one particular embodiment utilizing an adjustable attachment mechanism within the hosel, the Izz moment of inertia is approximately 4400 gm-cm2 to 4700 gm-cm2. These values may vary. With such moment of inertia characteristics, improved ball distance is achievable with on-center strikes. Also, with such moment of inertia characteristics, the club head has greater resistance to twisting when struck off-center, resulting in less distance lost and still achieving less ball curvature. Thus, a more forgiving club head design is achieved. As a result, golfers can feel more confident as their golf club swing speed increases.

Additionally, the center of gravity of the club head can be positioned to enhance performance through strategic weighting as described herein. In exemplary embodiment golf club head constructions, the center of gravity is positioned outside of the void space of the club head and within an internal cavity or volume of the club head. In some exemplary embodiments, the center of gravity is located between the interior surface of the ball-striking face and the interior surface of the base support wall, or within the internal cavity.

Additionally, the shape and structure of the golf club head provide improved sound characteristics. In some embodiments, the first natural frequency of the golf club head, distinct from the six rigid body modes of the golf club head, may be in the range of 2750-3200 Hz. In additional exemplary embodiments, the first natural frequency of the golf club head may be at least 3000 Hz. It has been found that golf club head structures providing such frequencies below 2500 Hz may be more prone to user discomfort by providing undesirable sensations, including sound and/or tactile feedback. The structures provided herein provide increased frequencies at more desirable levels.

Additionally, the movable weight mechanisms used herein provide additional options for distributing weight, resulting in further adjustability of moment of inertia and center of gravity characteristics. For example, embodiments described herein that provide movable weights further toward the back of the club head at the heel and toe can provide for more easily lofted golf shots. Weights can also be positioned closer toward the front of the club head to provide for more penetrating shots, such as those desirable in high wind conditions. Weights, in some embodiments, can also be positioned closer toward the crown or sole and/or heel or toe of the golf club head. Such movable weight characteristics provide additional customization.

Finally, an adjustable connection mechanism can be used with the club head to provide adjustability for the club head with respect to face angle, loft angle, and/or lie angle. The access openings described above may provide access to such connection structures or mechanisms. Further embodiments utilizing the adjustable connection mechanism described above allow a golfer to adjust parameters of the golf club, such as the loft angle of the golf club. Some golfers may desire lower loft angle settings, such as, but not limited to, 7.5 degrees, 8 degrees, 8.5 degrees, or even 9 degrees. Such lower loft angle settings may provide lower ball spin at ball impact. Movable weight mechanisms, such as those shown in FIGS. 2-14, can be utilized to place heavier weights lower toward the sole of the golf club head. This weighting configuration can result in increased ball spin at lower loft angle settings. Some other golfers may desire higher loft settings, such as, but not limited to, 11 degrees, 11.5 degrees, 12 degrees, or 12.5 degrees. Such high loft angle settings can provide higher ball spin at ball impact. Movable weight mechanisms are available to place heavier weights higher, toward the top of the golf club head. This weighting configuration can result in reduced ball spin at high loft angle settings. Additional movable weight mechanisms, such as those provided in FIGS. 2-14, can provide combinations of high/low and front/rear weighting configurations to affect performance characteristics and provide specific desired launch conditions at specific loft angle settings.

Thus, while the essential novel features of the various embodiments have been illustrated, described, and pointed out, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the illustrated devices and their operation may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements and/or steps that perform substantially the same function in substantially the same way to achieve the same results are within the scope of the invention. Substitutions of elements from one described embodiment to another are also fully intended and contemplated. Accordingly, it is the intention to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto.

The disclosure of this specification encompasses at least the embodiments described in the following items.
[Item 1]
1. A golf club head comprising: a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, and a toe, the body having a void defined by a periphery on the sole, the body further defining a cover extending over the void and forming at least a portion of the crown, at least a portion of the periphery of the void including a lip extending inwardly from the periphery into the void.
[Item 2]
2. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having an opening in the sole, the weight receiving portion configured to receive an insertion of a weight through the opening.
[Item 3]
3. The golf club head according to claim 2, wherein the weight receiving portion includes a receiving tube connected to a lower side of the crown and an upper side of the sole and extending from the crown to the sole.
[Item 4]
4. The golf club head of claim 3, further comprising a weight received within the receiving tube, the weight having a heavy portion and a light portion, the weight being removable and insertable into a plurality of positions within the receiving tube to adjust the weight characteristics of the head.
[Item 5]
5. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein the receiving tube includes a threaded portion proximate the opening, and the head further includes a threaded fastener within the receiving tube that removably engages the threaded portion to retain the weight within the receiving tube.
[Item 6]
4. The golf club head of claim 3, wherein the sole has a recessed area recessed inward relative to an adjacent area within the sole, the recessed area surrounding the opening.
[Item 7]
3. The golf club head of claim 2, further comprising: a first wall extending from a top to the sole and from the weight receiving portion to the toe of the body; and a second wall extending from the top to the sole and from the weight receiving portion to the heel of the body, wherein the first wall and the second wall define a completely enclosed inner cavity between the first wall and the second wall and the face, and the first wall and the second wall separate the gap from the inner cavity.
[Item 8]
Item 2. The golf club head of item 1, wherein the lip extends around the entire periphery.
[Item 9]
2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the periphery defines the gap in a U-shape, the U-shape having a heel portion and a toe portion extending from near the rear surface of the body toward the face, and a connecting portion connecting the heel portion and the toe portion near the rear surface of the body, the gap defining a peninsula extending rearward from a point on the sole adjacent to the face, the heel portion and the toe portion being located on either side of the peninsula.
[Item 10]
Item 10. The golf club head of item 9, wherein the lip extends around the entire peninsula.
[Item 11]
2. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising at least one wall extending from the top of the body to the sole and from the heel to the toe of the body, wherein a completely enclosed interior cavity is defined between the at least one wall and the face, and the at least one wall separates the void from the interior cavity.
[Item 12]
Item 1. A golf club comprising the golf club head according to item 1 and a shaft connected to the golf club head.
[Item 13]
a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, and a toe, the body further defining a cover having a void defined by a periphery on the sole and extending over the void to form at least a portion of the crown; a weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having an opening in the sole, the weight receiving portion configured to receive an insertion of a weight through the opening, the weight receiving portion further having a receiving tube connected to an underside of the crown and an upper side of the sole and extending from the crown to the sole, at least a portion of an outer surface of the receiving tube being exposed to the void;
A golf club head comprising:
[Item 14]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, further comprising a weight received within the receiving tube, the weight having a heavy portion and a light portion, the weight being removable and insertable into a plurality of positions within the receiving tube to adjust the weight characteristics of the head.
[Item 15]
Item 15. The golf club head of item 14, wherein the receiving tube includes a threaded portion proximate the opening, and the head further comprises a threaded fastener that retains the weight within the receiving tube by removably engaging the threaded portion within the receiving tube.
[Item 16]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, wherein the sole has a recessed area recessed inwardly relative to an adjacent area within the sole, the recessed area surrounding the opening.
[Item 17]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, further comprising: a first wall extending from a top to the sole and from the receiving tube to the toe of the body; and a second wall extending from the top to the sole and from the receiving tube to the heel of the body, wherein the first wall and the second wall define a completely enclosed inner cavity between the first wall and the second wall and the face, and the first wall and the second wall separate the void from the inner cavity.
[Item 18]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, further comprising a lip extending inwardly from the periphery into the gap around the entire periphery.
[Item 19]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, wherein the periphery defines the gap in a U-shape, the U-shape having a heel portion and a toe portion extending from near the rear surface of the body toward the face, and a connecting portion connecting the heel portion and the toe portion near the rear surface of the body, the gap defining a peninsula extending rearward from a point on the sole adjacent to the face, the heel portion and the toe portion being located on either side of the peninsula.
[Item 20]
Item 14. The golf club head according to item 13, wherein the receiving tube is disposed along a vertical axis of the golf club head.
[Item 21]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, wherein the receiving tube is angled relative to a vertical axis of the golf club head.
[Item 22]
Item 14. The golf club head of item 13, further comprising: a second weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a second opening therein, the second weight receiving portion configured to receive insertion of a second weight through the second opening; and a second receiving tube connected to an underside of the crown and an upper side of the sole and extending from the crown to the sole, the first weight receiving portion and the second weight receiving portion being oriented at an oblique angle to each other.
[Item 23]
23. The golf club head of claim 22, further comprising a weight received in the receiving tube and a second weight received in the second receiving tube, each of the weight and the second weight having a heavy portion and a light portion, the weight and the second weight being removable and insertable to a plurality of positions within the receiving tube and the second receiving tube, respectively, to adjust the weight characteristics of the head.
[Item 24]
Item 14. A golf club comprising the golf club head according to item 13 and a shaft connected to the golf club head.
[Item 25]
a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, a toe, and an interface area adjacent a central region of the body, the body further having a first leg extending away from the interface area toward the back surface and the heel, and a second leg extending away from the interface area toward the back surface and the toe, a gap being defined between the first leg and the second leg;
a first weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a first opening therein adjacent the interface area, the first weight receiving portion configured to receive a first weight insert through the first opening and extending from the first opening along the first leg toward the back side and the heel;
a second weight receiving portion connected to the sole and having a second opening therein adjacent the interface area, the second weight receiving portion configured to receive a second weight insert through the second opening and extending from the second opening along the second leg toward the back and the heel;
A golf club head comprising:
[Item 26]
Item 26. The golf club head of item 25, wherein the first weight-receiving portion comprises a first cylindrical receiving tube and the second weight-receiving portion comprises a second cylindrical receiving tube.
[Item 27]
27. The golf club head of claim 26, further comprising a first cylindrical weight received in the first receiving tube and a second cylindrical weight received in the second receiving tube, each of the first weight and the second weight having a heavy portion and a light portion, the first weight and the second weight being removable and insertable to a plurality of positions within the first receiving tube and the second receiving tube, respectively, to adjust the weight characteristics of the head.
[Item 28]
28. The golf club head of claim 27, wherein the first receiving tube includes a threaded portion proximate the first opening, the second receiving tube includes a threaded portion proximate the second opening, and the head further comprises a first threaded fastener that releasably engages with the threaded portion in the first receiving tube to hold the first weight in the first receiving tube, and a second threaded fastener that releasably engages with the threaded portion in the second receiving tube to hold the second weight in the second receiving tube.
[Item 29]
26. The golf club head of claim 25, wherein the body further comprises a first recessed area on the first leg recessed inwardly relative to an adjacent area of the sole, the first recessed area surrounding the first opening, and the body further comprises a second recessed area on the second leg recessed inwardly relative to an adjacent area of the sole, the second recessed area surrounding the second opening.
[Item 30]
30. The golf club head of claim 29, wherein the body further includes a keel flattened on the sole to the interface area, the interface area being disposed between the two legs and including an inclined, planar central plane extending from the sole to an underside of the crown, and two inclined, planar side planes disposed on either side of the central plane and oriented at an obtuse angle relative to the central plane, the side planes extending inward from the keel to the first recessed area and the second recessed area.
[Item 31]
26. A golf club comprising the golf club head according to item 25 and a shaft connected to the golf club head.
[Item 32]
a body having a ball-striking face, a back surface opposite the ball-striking face, a crown, a sole, a heel, and a toe;
a first weight receiving portion connected to the sole, the first weight receiving portion having a first opening in the sole proximate a central region of the body such that the first weight receiving portion is configured to receive insertion of a first weight through the first opening, the first weight receiving portion including a first receiving tube connected to the sole and extending inwardly from the sole toward the crown;
a second weight receiving portion connected to the sole, the second weight receiving portion having the second opening adjacent the rear surface of the body such that the second weight receiving portion is configured to receive insertion of a second weight through the second opening, and the second weight receiving portion comprising a second receiving tube connected to the sole and extending forward from the rear surface of the body toward the face.
[Item 33]
Item 33. The golf club head of item 32, wherein the body further includes an interface area adjacent the central region of the body, the first receiving tube is disposed in the interface area, the body further includes a first leg extending away from the interface area toward the back surface and the heel, and a second leg extending away from the interface area toward the back surface and the toe, a gap being defined between the first leg and the second leg.
[Item 34]
Item 34. The golf club head of item 33, wherein the second receiving tube extends rearward from the interface area between the first leg and the second leg.
[Item 35]
Item 35. The golf club head of item 34, wherein the body further comprises a rear rim extending around a portion of the rear of the body between the legs, the rear rim joining the legs and the interface area to define the void, the rear rim supporting and suspending an open end of the second receiving tube, the interface area supporting and suspending a closed end of the second receiving tube, and the second receiving tube suspended within the void.
[Item 36]
Item 33. The golf club head of item 32, further comprising a first cylindrical weight received in the first receiving tube and a second cylindrical weight received in the second receiving tube, each of the first weight and the second weight having a heavy portion and a light portion, the first weight and the second weight being removable and insertable into the first receiving tube and the second receiving tube, respectively, to a plurality of positions to adjust the weight characteristics of the head.
[Item 37]
Item 37. The golf club head of item 36, wherein the first weight is configured to adjust the weight characteristics of the club head in a crown-sole direction, and the second weight is configured to adjust the weight characteristics of the club head in a front-to-back direction.
[Item 38]
37. The golf club head of claim 36, wherein the first receiving tube includes a threaded portion proximate the first opening, the second receiving tube includes a threaded portion proximate the second opening, and the head further includes a first threaded fastener that removably engages with the threaded portion in the first receiving tube to hold the first weight in the first receiving tube, and a second threaded fastener that removably engages with the threaded portion in the second receiving tube to hold the second weight in the second receiving tube.
[Item 39]
Item 33. The golf club head of item 32, wherein the first receiving tube has a first axis and the second receiving tube has a second axis, the first axis and the second axis being perpendicular.
[Item 40]
33. A golf club comprising the golf club head according to item 32 and a shaft connected to the golf club head.

Claims (19)

A golf club head,
Equipped with a golf club head body,
the golf club head body comprising a crown, a sole, a toe, a heel, a rear surface, a front surface having a ball-striking face, and an interface area adjacent a central region of the golf club head body;
the golf club head body further includes a first leg located on the toe side and extending toward the rear surface away from the interface area, and a second leg located on the heel side and extending toward the rear surface away from the interface area,
a V-shaped gap is defined between the first leg and the second leg;
the golf club head body further defines a cover extending over the void and forming at least a portion of the crown;
the gap has a first width on the interface area side and a second width on the back surface side that is larger than the first width;
the golf club head body defines a width dimension measured from the front surface to the rear surface;
The golf club head body further comprises two weight receivers;
a first weight receiver positioned closer to the toe and a second weight receiver positioned closer to the heel;
The golf club head body
windows located in the first leg and the second leg for visualizing the interior of the first weight receiver and the second weight receiver;
a first wall extending from an underside of the crown to the sole and further extending from the first weight receiver to the toe;
a second wall extending from the underside of the crown to the sole and further extending from the first weight receiver to the heel;
the first wall and the second wall define a completely enclosed interior cavity between the first wall, the second wall and the ball-striking face;
the first wall and the second wall separate the gap from the inner cavity;
the golf club head defines a center of gravity of the golf club head located within the interior cavity of the golf club head;
Golf club head. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the interface area is located within a range of 30% to 60% of the width dimension, measured from the ball-striking face. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the first weight receiver and the second weight receiver are configured to receive a first weight and a second weight. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the first weight receiver and the second weight receiver include a first weight receiving tube and a second weight receiving tube. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein the first weight receiving tube extends along the first leg toward the back and the toe, and the second weight receiving tube extends along the second leg toward the back and the heel. each of the first weight and the second weight has a heavy end and a light end;
4. The golf club head of claim 3, wherein the first weight and the second weight are received in the first weight receiver and the second weight receiver, respectively, such that one of the heavy end and the light end is adjacent to the interface area. the first leg defining a first side and the second leg defining a second side;
The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the first side and the second side face each other. The golf club head of claim 7, wherein the first side surface and the second side surface are planar and have flat surfaces. The golf club head of claim 7, wherein the first side surface and the second side surface are non-planar and have non-flat surfaces. The golf club head of claim 7, wherein the first side and the second side both depend from the underside of the crown. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the cover is constructed from a single member together with the remainder of the golf club head body. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the cover is constructed as a separate member from the remainder of the golf club head body and is connected to the golf club head body. The golf club head of claim 7, wherein the first leg, the second leg, the first side, and the second side converge toward the interface area toward the ball-striking face. the first side, the second side, and the interface area have an inner surface and an outer surface;
The golf club head of claim 7 , wherein the inner surface has a strength-enhancing structure. The golf club head of claim 14, wherein the strength-reinforcing structure is a gusset or a support member. The golf club head of claim 1, further comprising a channel extending across the sole from the heel to the toe and adjacent the ball-striking face. The golf club head of claim 16, further comprising a flattened keel on the sole extending rearward from the channel toward the interface area. each of the first leg and the second leg having a recessed area located adjacent the interface area;
The golf club head of claim 3 , wherein openings in the first weight receiver and the second weight receiver are located in the recessed area of the first leg and the recessed area of the second leg, respectively. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the interface area further includes an inclined, planar central surface located between the first leg and the second leg, and two inclined, planar side surfaces located on either side of the central surface and at an obtuse angle relative to the central surface.