JP6243976B2 - Releasable and interchangeable connection for golf club head and shaft - Google Patents

Description

Related Application This application claims priority to US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 665,493, filed Oct. 31, 2012.

The present invention relates generally to golf clubs and golf club heads. More specifically, aspects of the present invention provide for a golf club head and shaft to allow easy exchange of the shaft and head and / or to allow easy change of head / shaft placement. A golf club having a releasable connection between and / or a head / shaft alignment feature.

Background Golf is enjoyed by a wide variety of players: players of different genders and dramatically different ages and / or skill levels. Golf plays together with such a diverse set of players competing directly at each other in a golf event (eg, handicapped scores, using different tee boxes, in team format, etc.) and still playing golf It is somewhat unique in the sports world in that you can enjoy matches or competitions. These factors, combined with the increase in golf programs on television (eg, golf tournaments, golf news, golf history and / or other golf programs) and the emergence of prominent golf superstars, at least in part, in recent years, the United States and the world Increased the popularity of golf inside.

  Golfers try to improve performance, improve golf scores, and reach the next performance “level” at all skill levels. Manufacturers of all types of golf equipment responded to these demands, and in recent years the industry has undergone dramatic changes and improvements in golf equipment. For example, a wide range of different golf ball models are now available, and the balls are designed to compensate for specific swing speeds and / or other player characteristics or preferences. For example, some balls are designed to fly farther and / or more straight, some balls are designed to provide a higher or flatter trajectory, some Balls are designed to provide more spin, control and / or feel (especially around the green), some balls are designed for faster or slower swing speeds, etc. It is. There are also many commercially available swing aids and / or assistive tools that promise to help improve golf scores.

  Golf clubs have also been the subject of significant technical research and progress in recent years, as they are the only tool for moving a golf ball during play. For example, the market has seen dramatic changes and improvements in putter designs, golf club head designs, shafts and grips in recent years. In addition, other technical advances have been achieved (eg, club fitting techniques) in an attempt to better match the various elements and / or characteristics of the golf club and the characteristics of the golf ball to the swing characteristics or characteristics of a particular user. Ball launch angle measurement technology, ball spin speed characteristics, etc.).

  Thanks to recent advances, there are a myriad of golf club components available to golfers. For example, club heads are manufactured as a variety of different models by a wide variety of manufacturers. In addition, each club head model can have multiple deformations, such as loft angle, lie angle, face angle, offset characteristics, weighting characteristics, etc. (eg, draw bias club head, fade bias club head, neutral weighted club head, etc. Variation). In addition, the club head can be combined with a variety of different shafts, such as having different stiffness, flex points, kick points, or other flex characteristics from different manufacturers, and made of different materials. Also, many different grip deformations and models are now commercially available. There are literally hundreds of different club head / shaft combinations available to golfers between the available deformations of the grip, shaft and club head.

  Club fitters and golf professionals can assist in fitting a golfer with a golf club head / shaft combination that meets the golfer's swing characteristics and needs. Conventionally, however, golf club heads are permanently attached to the shaft using cement or adhesive. Thus, in order to allow golfers to experiment with a variety of head / shaft combinations, a club fitter or professional must possess a wide assortment of permanently mounted golf club head / shaft combinations ( Requires a significant amount of storage space and inventory management costs), or a new club must be built for the customer as the fitting process continues (requiring a substantial amount of time and inventory management costs). The drawbacks associated with these conventional options serve to limit the choices available to golfers during a fitting session and / or significantly increase the cost and length of such sessions. The present invention seeks to overcome some of the limitations of the prior art and other shortcomings of the prior art and to provide new features not previously available.

Overview The following presents an overview of aspects of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention and its various features. This summary is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but only provides an overview and background for the following more detailed description.

  Aspects of the invention relate to a golf club head / shaft connection assembly that includes a shaft adapter, a hosel adapter, a hosel ring, and a locking system. The shaft adapter may be generally cylindrical with a first end and an opposite second end. The first end may include a first opening that provides access to a cylindrical inner chamber for receiving a golf club shaft. The outer surface of the cylindrical structure may include a first rotation blocking structure. The second end can include a securing structure. The hosel adapter may be generally cylindrical and includes a first end of the hosel adapter that includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure and a first opening for receiving the securing member. An internal bore is provided at the second end of the hosel adapter. The outer surface of the hosel adapter may include a third rotation blocking structure. The hosel ring can be generally cylindrical. The internal bore of the hosel ring may include a fourth rotation blocking structure that engages the third rotation blocking structure. The securing system may releasably engage the securing structure. In addition, the engagement of the first rotation blocking structure and the second rotation blocking structure may limit adjustment of one of the club head face angle or loft angle. Engagement of the third rotation blocking structure and the fourth rotation blocking structure may limit adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle of the club head.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club that includes a golf club head, a shaft adapter, a hosel adapter, a hosel ring, a shaft, and a fixation system. The golf club head may have a hosel area that provides access to a club head chamber defined in the club head. The club head chamber can extend completely through the club head and includes a first opening for receiving a securing member. The shaft adapter may be generally cylindrical with a first end and an opposite second end. The first end may include a second opening that provides access to the cylindrical inner chamber. The outer surface of the cylindrical structure may include a first rotation blocking structure and the second end includes a fixed structure. The hosel adapter may be generally cylindrical and includes a first end of the hosel adapter that includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure and a first opening for receiving the securing member. An internal bore is provided at the second end of the hosel adapter. The outer surface of the hosel adapter may include a third rotation blocking structure. The hosel ring may be generally cylindrical and may be located within the club head chamber. The internal bore of the hosel ring may include a fourth rotation blocking structure that engages the third rotation blocking structure. The shaft may engage in a cylindrical inner chamber of the shaft adapter. The securing system may releasably engage the securing structure. Engagement of the first rotation blocking structure and the second rotation blocking structure may limit adjustment of one of the club head face angle or loft angle. Engagement of the third rotation blocking structure and the fourth rotation blocking structure may limit adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle of the club head.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club head / shaft connection assembly that includes a shaft adapter, a hosel adapter, a hosel ring, and a securing system. The shaft adapter may be generally cylindrical with a first end and an opposite second end. The first end may include a first opening that provides access to a cylindrical inner chamber for receiving a golf club shaft. The outer surface of the cylindrical structure may include a first rotation blocking structure. The second end may include a securing structure and a stop ring that extends outward from the second end of the shaft adapter. The hosel adapter may be generally cylindrical and includes a first end of the hosel adapter that includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure and a first opening for receiving the securing member. An internal bore is provided at the second end of the hosel adapter. The outer surface of the hosel adapter may include a third rotation blocking structure. The stop ring may maintain continuous engagement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter. The hosel ring can be generally cylindrical. The internal bore of the hosel ring may include a fourth rotation blocking structure that engages the third rotation blocking structure. The securing system may releasably engage the securing structure. Engagement of the first rotation blocking structure and the second rotation blocking structure may limit adjustment of one of the club head face angle or loft angle. The engagement between the third rotation prevention structure and the fourth rotation prevention structure may limit adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle of the club head.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club that includes a golf club head, a shaft adapter, a hosel adapter, a hosel ring, a shaft, and a fixation system. The golf club head may have a hosel area that provides access to a club head chamber defined in the club head. The club head chamber can extend completely through the club head and can include a first opening for receiving a securing member. The shaft adapter may be generally cylindrical with a first end and an opposite second end. The first end may include a first opening that provides access to a cylindrical interior chamber for receiving a golf club shaft. The outer surface of the cylindrical structure may include a first rotation blocking structure. The second end may include a securing structure and a stop ring that extends outward from the second end of the shaft adapter. The hosel adapter may be generally cylindrical and includes a first end of the hosel adapter that includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure and a first opening for receiving the securing member. An internal bore is provided at the second end of the hosel adapter. The outer surface of the hosel adapter may include a third rotation blocking structure. The stop ring may maintain continuous engagement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter. The hosel ring may be generally cylindrical and may be located within the club head chamber. The internal bore of the hosel ring may include a fourth rotation blocking structure that engages the third rotation blocking structure. The shaft may engage in a cylindrical inner chamber of the shaft adapter. The securing system may releasably engage the securing structure. Engagement of the first rotation blocking structure and the second rotation blocking structure may limit adjustment of one of the club head face angle or loft angle. The engagement between the third rotation prevention structure and the fourth rotation prevention structure may limit adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle of the club head.

  Another aspect of the present invention may include a golf club having a coupled head and shaft, including a connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft. The connection mechanism may include a hosel adapter having an outer wall that is insertable into the hosel of the head and pivotable between a first plurality of pivot positions within the hosel. The hosel adapter may have a first inclined inner bore. A shaft adapter may be coupled to the shaft at the distal end and may have an outer wall configured to fit within the first angled inner bore. The shaft adapter may be pivotable between a second plurality of pivot positions within the first inclined inner bore. The shaft adapter may have a second inclined internal bore that receives the distal end of the shaft. The first plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a first spline arrangement between the head hosel adapter and the hosel. The second plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a second spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club having a coupled head and shaft, including a connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft. The connection mechanism may include a pair of members whose outer periphery is nested and can be rotated independently of each other. One of the members may have an outer wall configured to fit inside the club head, and the other of the members may have a bore for receiving the shaft. Both members can have inclined bores, whereby two angular relationship parameters between the head and the shaft can be adjusted independently of each other. The rotation of the first member and the head can be limited by the first spline arrangement form between the first member and the head. The rotation of the second member and the first member can be limited by the second spline arrangement between the first member and the second member.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club having a releasably coupled head that includes a connection mechanism for coupling the head to a shaft. The connection mechanism may include a hosel adapter having an outer wall that is insertable into the hosel of the head and pivotable between a first plurality of pivot positions within the hosel. The hosel adapter may have a first internal bore that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hosel adapter bore. A shaft adapter may be coupled to the shaft at the distal end and may have an outer wall configured to fit within the first inner bore inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft adapter bore. The shaft adapter may be pivotable between a second plurality of pivot positions within the first inclined inner bore. The shaft adapter may have a second inclined internal bore that receives the distal end of the shaft. At least one of the hosel adapter or the shaft adapter may be releasably connected to either the shaft or the head. The first plurality of pivot positions can change the first angular relationship between the head and the shaft, and the second plurality of pivot positions can be a second angular relationship between the head and the shaft. Can be changed. The second angular relationship is independent of the first angular relationship. The first plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a first spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the head hosel. The second plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a second spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club having a coupled head and shaft, including a connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft. The connection mechanism may include a hosel adapter that is insertable into the hosel of the head and pivotable within the hosel between a first plurality of pivot positions corresponding to the loft angle of the head. The first part may have a first internal bore that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hosel adapter bore. A shaft adapter may be coupled to the shaft at the distal end, insertable into the hosel adapter, and pivotable within the hosel adapter between a second plurality of pivot positions corresponding to the face angle of the head. The shaft adapter may have a second inclined internal bore that receives the distal end of the shaft. At least one of the hosel adapter or the shaft adapter may be releasably connected to either the shaft or the head. The first plurality of pivot positions can change the loft angle of the head, the second plurality of pivot positions can change the face angle of the head and shaft, and the change in face angle is independent of the change in loft angle. ing. The first plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a first spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the head hosel. The second plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a second spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter.

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club having a coupled head and shaft, including a connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft. The connection mechanism may include a hosel adapter having an outer wall that is insertable into the hosel of the head and pivotable between a first plurality of pivot positions within the hosel. The hosel adapter may have a first inclined inner bore. A shaft adapter may be coupled to the shaft at the distal end and may have an outer wall configured to fit within the first slanted inner bore. The shaft adapter may be pivotable between a second plurality of pivot positions within the first inclined inner bore. The shaft adapter may have a second inclined internal bore that receives the distal end of the shaft. The shaft adapter may include a stop ring that extends from the second end of the shaft adapter to the outer periphery so that the stop ring maintains continuous engagement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a golf club having a coupled head and shaft, including a connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft. The connection mechanism may include a hosel adapter having an outer wall that is insertable into the hosel of the head and pivotable between a first plurality of pivot positions within the hosel. The hosel adapter may have a first inclined inner bore. A shaft adapter may be coupled to the shaft at the distal end and may have an outer wall configured to fit within the first angled inner bore. The shaft adapter may be pivotable between a second plurality of pivot positions within the first inclined inner bore. The shaft adapter may have a second inclined internal bore that receives the distal end of the shaft. The first plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a first spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the head hosel. The second plurality of pivot positions may be limited by a second spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter. The first spline configuration engagement between the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter can limit the adjustability of the loft angle to five different loft angles, which are 8.5 °, 9.5 ° , 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °. The second spline arrangement configuration engagement between the hosel adapter and the head hosel can limit the adjustability of the face angle to three different face angle arrangements, the three face angle arrangements being open, Neutral and closed.
[Invention 1001]
A shaft adapter that is generally cylindrical with a first end and an opposing second end, the first end providing access to a cylindrical inner chamber for receiving a golf club shaft A shaft adapter, wherein the outer surface of the cylindrical structure includes a first rotation blocking structure and the second end includes a securing structure;
A hosel adapter that is generally cylindrical in shape, wherein an internal bore at a first end of the hosel adapter includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure; A hosel adapter, wherein the two ends include a first opening for receiving a securing member, and the outer surface of the hosel adapter includes a third anti-rotation structure;
A hosel ring that is generally cylindrical, wherein the hosel ring includes an inner bore that includes a fourth anti-rotation structure that engages the third anti-rotation structure; and the locking structure and release Including a fastening system for possible engagement;
Adjustment of one of the face angle or loft angle of the club head is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter, and adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle controls the second indicator on the shaft adapter. A golf club head / shaft connection assembly set by aligning to an indicator.
[Invention 1002]
The first rotation prevention structure includes a first spline arrangement form, the second rotation prevention structure includes a second spline arrangement form, and the third rotation prevention structure includes a third spline arrangement form. The golf club head / shaft connection assembly of the present invention 1001, wherein the fourth rotation blocking structure comprises a fourth spline arrangement.
[Invention 1003]
The golf club head / shaft connection assembly of the present invention 1002, wherein the engagement of the first spline arrangement and the second spline arrangement restricts loft angle adjustability to five different loft angles.
[Invention 1004]
The golf club head / shaft connection assembly of the present invention 1003 wherein the five loft angles are 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °.
[Invention 1005]
The golf club head / shaft connection assembly of the present invention 1002, wherein engagement of the third spline arrangement and the fourth spline arrangement restricts the adjustability of the face angle to three different face angle arrangements.
[Invention 1006]
The golf club head / shaft connection assembly of the present invention 1005 wherein the three face angle arrangements are open, neutral and closed.
[Invention 1007]
A golf club head having a hosel area that provides access to a club head chamber defined in the club head, the club head chamber extending completely through the club head and receiving a securing member A golf club head comprising:
A shaft adapter that is generally cylindrical in shape having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end including a second opening that provides access to the cylindrical inner chamber, A shaft adapter, wherein the outer surface includes a first rotation blocking structure and the second end includes a locking structure;
A hosel adapter that is generally cylindrical in shape, wherein an internal bore at a first end of the hosel adapter includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure; A hosel adapter, wherein the two ends include a first opening for receiving the securing member, and the outer surface of the hosel adapter includes a third anti-rotation structure;
A hosel ring that is generally cylindrical and located within the club head chamber, the inner bore of the hosel ring including a fourth anti-rotation structure that engages the third anti-rotation structure Hosel ring;
A shaft that engages in the cylindrical inner chamber of the shaft adapter; and a locking system for releasably engaging the locking structure;
Adjustment of one of the face angle or loft angle of the club head is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter, and adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle controls the second indicator on the shaft adapter. A golf club, set by aligning to an indicator.
[Invention 1008]
The first rotation prevention structure includes a first spline arrangement form, the second rotation prevention structure includes a second spline arrangement form, and the third rotation prevention structure includes a third spline arrangement form. The golf club of the present invention 1007, wherein the fourth rotation blocking structure includes a fourth spline arrangement.
[Invention 1009]
The golf club of the present invention 1008, wherein engagement of the first spline configuration and the second spline configuration limits loft angle adjustability to five different loft angles.
[Invention 1010]
The golf club of the present invention 1009, wherein the five types of loft angles are 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °.
[Invention 1011]
The golf club of the present invention 1008, wherein engagement of the third spline arrangement and the fourth spline arrangement restricts the adjustability of the face angle to three different face angle arrangements.
[Invention 1012]
The golf club of the present invention 1011 wherein the three types of face angle arrangement are open, neutral, and closed.
[Invention 1013]
A golf club head having a hosel area that provides access to a club head chamber defined in the club head, the club head chamber extending completely through the club head and receiving a securing member A golf club head comprising:
A shaft adapter that is generally cylindrical in shape having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end including a second opening that provides access to the cylindrical inner chamber, A shaft adapter, wherein the outer surface includes a first rotation blocking structure and the second end includes a securing structure and a stop ring extending outward from the second end of the shaft adapter;
A hosel adapter that is generally cylindrical in shape, wherein an internal bore at a first end of the hosel adapter includes a second anti-rotation structure that engages the first anti-rotation structure; Two ends include a first opening for receiving the securing member, and further, an outer surface of the hosel adapter includes a third anti-rotation structure, and the stop ring is a continuation of the hosel adapter and the shaft adapter. Hosel adapter that maintains a positive engagement;
A hosel ring that is generally cylindrical and located within the club head chamber, the inner bore of the hosel ring including a fourth anti-rotation structure that engages the third anti-rotation structure Hosel ring;
A shaft that engages in the cylindrical inner chamber of the shaft adapter; and a locking system for releasably engaging the locking structure;
Adjustment of one of the face angle or loft angle of the club head is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter, and adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle controls the second indicator on the shaft adapter. A golf club, set by aligning to an indicator.
[Invention 1014]
The golf club of the present invention 1013, wherein the stop ring is integrated with the shaft adapter.
[Invention 1015]
The golf club of the present invention 1013, wherein the stop ring is a compression O-ring located in a channel extending circumferentially around the second end of the shaft adapter.
[Invention 1016]
A golf club having a combined head and shaft,
A connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft;
The connection mechanism is
A hosel adapter having an outer wall insertable into the hosel of the head and rotatable within a first plurality of pivot positions within the hosel, the hosel adapter having a first inclined inner bore;
A shaft adapter having an outer wall coupled to the shaft at a distal end and configured to fit within the first slanted internal bore, wherein the second plurality of shaft adapters within the first slanted internal bore A shaft adapter having a second inclined internal bore that is pivotable between the pivot positions of the shaft and receiving the distal end of the shaft;
Further, the first plurality of pivot positions are limited by a first spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the hosel of the head, and the second plurality of pivot positions is the hosel adapter. And a second spline arrangement between the shaft adapter and the shaft adapter, and the adjustment of one of the club head face angle or loft angle is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter and the face angle or A golf club, wherein the adjustment of the other of the loft angles is set by aligning a second indicator on the shaft adapter with the first indicator.
[Invention 1017]
The golf club of the present invention 1016, wherein the first and second inclined bores are inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the bore of the part.
[Invention 1018]
The golf club of the present invention 1016, wherein at least one of the shaft adapter or hosel adapter is releasably connected to either the shaft or the head.
[Invention 1019]
The golf club of the present invention 1016, wherein the first plurality of pivot positions change a first angular relationship between the head and the shaft.
[Invention 1020]
The golf club of the present invention 1019, wherein the second plurality of rotational positions changes the second angular relationship between the head and the shaft, and the second angular relationship is independent of the first angular relationship.
[Invention 1021]
The golf club of the present invention 1020 wherein the first and second angular relationships are a face angle of the head and a loft angle of the head.

  A more complete understanding of the present invention and certain advantages thereof may be obtained by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

In general, a perspective view of an exemplary golf club of the present invention is shown. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a golf club utilizing an exemplary golf club head / shaft connection system of an example of the present invention. FIG. 3A and 3B show various views of an exemplary shaft adapter that can be used in accordance with examples of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary hosel adapter that may be used in accordance with examples of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an exemplary hosel ring that may be used in accordance with examples of the present invention. FIG. 6A illustrates an exemplary assembled golf club head / shaft connection system of an example of the present invention. FIG. 6B shows a cut-away view of an exemplary assembled golf club head / shaft connection system of an example of the present invention. 7A and 7B show various views of another exemplary shaft adapter that can be used in accordance with examples of the present invention. 8A and 8B show various views of another exemplary hosel adapter that can be used in accordance with examples of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of another exemplary hosel ring that may be used in accordance with examples of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary assembled golf club head / shaft connection system of an example of the present invention. FIG. 11A shows another exemplary assembled golf club head / shaft connection system of an example of the present invention. FIG. 11B shows a cutaway view of another exemplary assembled golf club head / shaft connection system of an example of the present invention. 1 shows a perspective view of an example golf club head of the present invention. FIG. 13A and 13B show perspective and enlarged views of another position indicator on an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. 14A and 14B show perspective and enlarged views of another position indicator on an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows an enlarged view of another position indicator on an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view and an enlarged view of another position indicator on an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary hosel adapter of an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary shaft adapter of an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example shaft adapter of FIG. 17B engaged with the example hosel adapter of FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example shaft adapter of FIG. 17B engaged with the example hosel adapter of FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example shaft adapter of FIG. 17B engaged with the example hosel adapter of FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example shaft adapter of FIG. 17B engaged with the example hosel adapter of FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example shaft adapter of FIG. 17B engaged with the example hosel adapter of FIG. 17A in accordance with an example of the present invention. 18 shows various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 18A-18E in accordance with examples of the present invention. 18 shows various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 18A-18E in accordance with examples of the present invention. 18 shows various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 18A-18E in accordance with examples of the present invention. 18 shows various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 18A-18E in accordance with examples of the present invention. 18 shows various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 18A-18E in accordance with examples of the present invention. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary hosel adapter of an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary hosel ring of an example golf club head / shaft connection system of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 20B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example hosel adapter of FIG. 20A engaged with the example hosel ring of FIG. 20B in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 20B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example hosel adapter of FIG. 20A engaged with the example hosel ring of FIG. 20B in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 20B illustrates a cross-sectional view of various rotational arrangements of the example hosel adapter of FIG. 20A engaged with the example hosel ring of FIG. 20B in accordance with an example of the present invention. FIG. 22 illustrates various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 21A-21C according to examples of the present invention. FIG. 22 illustrates various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 21A-21C according to examples of the present invention. FIG. 22 illustrates various golf club head arrangements corresponding to the various rotational arrangements of FIGS. 21A-21C in accordance with examples of the present invention. FIG. 5 shows a comprehensive schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection and pivoting configuration for each of various club head configurations according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 24A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 24B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 24C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 25A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 25B shows an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 25C illustrates an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 26A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 26B illustrates an exemplary face angle of a club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 26C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 27A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 27B illustrates an exemplary face angle of a club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 27C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 28A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 28B shows an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 28C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 29A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 29B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 29C illustrates an exemplary loft angle of a club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 30A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 30B illustrates an exemplary face angle of a club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 30C illustrates an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary rotational arrangement according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 31A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 31B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 31C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 32A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 32B shows an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 32C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary rotational arrangement according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 33A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 33B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 33C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 34A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 34B shows an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 34C illustrates an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary rotational arrangement according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 35A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 35B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 35C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 36A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 36B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 36C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 37A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 37B illustrates an exemplary face angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 37C shows an exemplary loft angle of a club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 38A shows a cross-sectional view of a releasable connection for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 38B illustrates an exemplary face angle of a club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. FIG. 38C shows an exemplary loft angle of the club head for an exemplary pivoting configuration according to an example of the present invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a further aspect of a releasable connection according to an example of the invention. 1 shows a partial perspective view of an example golf club shaft and grip of the present invention. FIG.

  The reader is noted that the attached drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following description of various exemplary structures of the present invention, various exemplary connection assemblies, golf club heads and golf club structures of the present invention are illustrated by way of example and form part of this specification. Reference is made to the accompanying drawings. In addition, it will be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized and structural and functional changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Also, herein, "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "back", "side", "bottom" are used to describe various exemplary features and elements of the present invention. ”,“ Overhead ”and the like may be used, but these terms are used herein for convenience based on, for example, the exemplary orientation shown in the figures and / or orientation in normal use. . Any description herein should not be construed as requiring a particular three-dimensional or spatial orientation of the structure to fall within the scope of the invention.

A. Overview of Example Golf Club Head / Shaft Connection Assemblies of the Invention and Golf Clubs Comprising Such Assemblies Generally, as noted above, aspects of the invention include easy replacement of club heads and shafts, and It relates to a system and method for releasably connecting golf club heads to a shaft so that they can be repositioned relative to each other. Hereinafter, a more detailed description of aspects of the present invention will be continued.

1. Exemplary Golf Club Head / Shaft Connection Assembly and Golf Club Structure of the Present Invention One aspect of the present invention is a golf club head / shaft connection assembly for securely and releasably connecting a golf club head and a shaft. About. Such an assembly includes, for example, (a) a generally cylindrical shaft adapter having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end having a cylindrical inner chamber for receiving a golf club shaft. A first opening that provides access to the cylindrical structure, an outer surface of the cylindrical structure (eg, in some cases closer to the first end than the second end) includes a first anti-rotation structure, and a second A shaft adapter including an anchor structure at the end; (b) a hosel adapter that is generally cylindrical in shape, wherein the inner bore of the first end of the hosel adapter engages the first anti-rotation structure; A hosel adapter including a motion blocking structure and wherein the second end of the hosel adapter includes a first opening for receiving a securing member, and the outer surface of the hosel adapter includes a third rotation blocking structure; )generally A hosel ring that is pillar-shaped, wherein the hosel ring has an inner bore that includes a fourth anti-rotation structure that engages the third anti-rotation structure; and (d) a releasable structure with the fixed structure. May include a locking system for engaging. While a variety of different securing structures and systems may be used without departing from the invention, in some exemplary structures of the invention, the securing structure includes a threaded hole defined at the second end of the shaft adapter. The securing system includes a threaded bolt element that engages the threaded hole.

  A variety of anti-rotation structures and systems can be used without departing from the invention. In some exemplary structures of the present invention, the anti-rotation structure may include splines and / or teeth.

  The outer surface of the shaft adapter and its cylindrical inner chamber can be coaxial. On the other hand, these cylindrical structures need not be coaxial (eg, they may extend in different directions, may extend in parallel but not coaxial directions, etc.). By providing non-coaxial cylindrical inner and outer surfaces (or by other features such as club head, shaft, etc.), as described in more detail below, the various properties, position, The angle etc. can be changed. If desired, the outer surface of the shaft adapter (eg, its first end) may include a pivot position indicator that allows the user to easily see the position of the shaft / club head connection member relative to the club head in use. .

  In addition, the outer surface of the hosel adapter and its inner bore can be coaxial. On the other hand, these cylindrical structures need not be coaxial (eg, they may extend in different directions, may extend in parallel but not coaxial directions, etc.). By providing a non-coaxial inner bore and outer surface (or by other features such as club head, shaft, etc.), various properties, position, and angle of the shaft relative to the club head striking surface, as described in more detail below. , Parameters etc. can be changed. If desired, the outer surface of the hosel adapter (eg, its first end) may include a pivot position indicator that allows the user to easily see the position of the shaft / club head connection member relative to the club head in use. .

  Aspects of the invention further relate to a golf club in which the shaft engages the golf club head using a shaft / club head connection assembly of the type described above. Such a golf club includes: (a) a golf club head having a club head chamber including a first opening for receiving a securing member; (b) a generally cylindrical hosel ring secured within the club head chamber. A hosel ring, wherein the inner bore of the hosel ring includes a fourth anti-rotation structure; (c) a generally cylindrical shaft adapter having a first end and an opposite second end, the shaft A first end of the adapter includes a second opening defining a cylindrical inner chamber for receiving a golf club shaft, an outer surface of the shaft adapter includes a first rotation blocking structure, and a second end includes a fixed structure. A shaft adapter; (d) a generally cylindrical hosel adapter extending into a club head chamber of a golf club head, the hosel adapter The second end of the hosel adapter includes a first opening for receiving the securing member; and A hosel adapter wherein the outer surface of the hosel adapter includes a third anti-rotation structure that engages a fourth anti-rotation structure of the hosel ring; (e) the shaft engaged in the cylindrical inner chamber of the shaft adapter (F) a securing member that extends into the end of the club head chamber of the golf club head and releasably engages with the securing structure of the shaft adapter, thereby releasably engaging the shaft connecting member with the golf club head; And / or (g) may include a gripping member engaged with the free end of the shaft. The securing member may be inserted into the club head chamber of the club head through an opening provided in the club head sole.

2. Exemplary Golf Club Head / Shaft Connection Assemblies and Exemplary Methods of Making and Using Golf Clubs Containing Such Assemblies Another aspect of the present invention is an example club head / shaft connection assembly of the present invention. It relates to a method of manufacturing (for example of the above type). Such methods include, for example, (a) manufacturing a cylindrical shaft adapter having a first end and an opposing second end (eg, by extrusion, by a casting or molding process); ) Manufacturing an open cylindrical inner chamber for receiving the golf club shaft at the first end of the shaft adapter (eg, by drilling or machining, casting or molding, etc.); (c) the outer surface of the shaft adapter Forming a rotation prevention structure, for example, closer to the first end than the second end (e.g., by grinding, machining, molding, casting, etc.); Forming at two ends (eg, by casting, molding, drilling, tapping or machining, etc.); (e) first end and opposite second end Manufacturing a cylindrical hosel adapter (e.g., by casting or molding, extrusion, etc.); (f) engaging with the first anti-rotation structure as part of the first end of the hosel adapter; Forming a second anti-rotation structure (eg, by grinding, machining, casting, molding, etc.); (g) manufacturing a hosel ring that is generally cylindrical and secured within the club head chamber. (H) forming a third anti-rotation structure as part of the outer surface of the hosel adapter that engages a fourth anti-rotation structure as part of the internal bore of the hosel ring (eg, grinding); (I) by machining, casting, molding, etc.); and (i) providing a securing member for engaging the securing structure (eg, manufacturing it, obtaining it from a third party supplier) It may include etc. by). If desired, the fixation structure may be formed as a screw hole defined in the second end of the shaft adapter, and the fixation member may be provided as a screw bolt element that is engageable with the screw hole. . The assembly may be formed to include any of the various structures and / or configurations described above (described in further detail below).

  Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for assembling a golf club using the example club head / shaft connection assembly of the invention. Such a method includes the steps of (a) providing a golf club head having a club head chamber (eg, by manufacturing it, obtaining it from a third party supplier, etc.) comprising: Including a first opening for receiving a securing member; (b) manufacturing a hosel ring that is generally cylindrical and secured within the club head chamber; (c) an inner bore of the hosel ring Forming a third anti-rotation structure as part of the outer surface of the hosel adapter (eg, by grinding, machining, casting, molding, etc.) that engages a fourth anti-rotation structure as part of ); (D) engaging the shaft with a shaft adapter, wherein the shaft adapter is cylindrical with a first end and an opposite second end (e.g., (E) Place the hosel adapter in the club head chamber of the golf club head and make a fourth pivot on the hosel ring, with cement or adhesive, with other fusion techniques, in a releasable manner, etc. Engaging the blocking structure in a non-rotating manner (e.g., using a rotation blocking structure with cement, adhesives, fusing techniques, mechanical connectors, etc.), wherein the hosel adapter is Having a first end including a second rotation blocking structure and a second end including a first opening; (f) a second rotation in which a first rotation blocking structure is provided with a hosel adapter. At least a portion of the shaft adapter is disposed within the hosel adapter to engage the blocking structure and thereby prevent rotation of the shaft adapter relative to the hosel adapter and golf club head. (G) placing the securing member within the second end of the club head chamber; and (h) releasably engaging the securing member with a securing structure provided with the shaft adapter, thereby providing a shaft. Releasably engaging the adapter with the golf club head.

  If necessary, for example, change the position of the shaft relative to the club head (e.g., when the cylindrical inner shaft receiving chamber of the shaft adapter is non-coaxial to its cylindrical outer surface, the shaft and its shaft adapter relative to the club head Thereby changing various characteristics or parameters of the club head by changing the loft angle, lie angle, face angle, offset, inset or other parameters of the club head. . Such methods include: (a) releasing or disengaging the shaft adapter relative to the golf club head; (b) changing the position of the shaft adapter relative to the golf club head (eg, rotating them relative to each other). Thereby changing the position of the free end of the shaft relative to the ball striking face of the club head; and (c) releasably engaging the fixing member with the fixing structure of the shaft adapter, thereby changing Releasably engaging the shaft adapter with the golf club head in position.

  The position of the hosel adapter can be changed relative to the club head, for example, by rotating the hosel adapter relative to the club head. Such a method includes: (a) releasing or disengaging the shaft adapter relative to the hosel adapter and the golf club head; (b) at least partially releasing or disengaging the hosel adapter relative to the golf club head. (C) changing the rotational position or other orientation of the hosel adapter relative to the golf club head; (d) the rotation preventing structure of the hosel adapter is associated with the rotation preventing structure provided on the shaft adapter. Positioning at least a portion of the shaft adapter within the hosel adapter so as to prevent rotation of the shaft adapter relative to the hosel adapter and golf club head; (e) a securing member at the second end of the club head chamber; And (f) fixing member with shaft adapter It was releasably engaged with the provided fixed structure, thereby may include the step of engaging releasably the shaft adapter and hosel adapter and golf club head.

  Specific examples of the present invention will be described in more detail below. The reader should understand that these examples are set forth only to illustrate examples of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

C. Embodiments of the Invention FIG. 1 generally illustrates an exemplary golf club 100 of at least some examples of the present invention. The club 100 includes a club head 102, a releasable club head / shaft connection region 104 that connects the club head to a shaft 106 (described in further detail below) and a grip member 108 engaged with the shaft 106. Although a driver / wood type golf club head 102 is shown in these figures, aspects of the present invention may include, for example, a fairway wood club head (eg, a 3 wood with a loft angle in the range of 13-17 °, 15 # 5 wood with loft angle in the range of -19 [deg.], Iron type golf club head (those with any desired loft, eg 0 iron or 1 iron or wedge), wood or iron type hybrid golf club head It can be applied to any type of club head, including any desired loft (eg, having a loft angle of generally 15-25 °), a putter head, and the like. The club head may be of any desired material, in any desired configuration, and / or conventional materials as known and used in the art, conventional configurations, conventional practices, and / or It can be made in any desired manner, and in some cases may be modified to accept a releasable club head / shaft connection part as described in more detail below (for example, size, In terms of shape, structure, etc.).

  The shaft member 106 may also be any desired material including conventional materials known and used in the art, such as steel, graphite-based materials, polymers, composite materials, combinations of these materials, and the like. Can be used. In some cases, if necessary or necessary, shaft 106 may be modified (eg, in size, shape, etc.) to accept a releasable club head / shaft connection part. The grip member 108 can be engaged with the shaft 106 in any desired manner (eg, by cement or adhesive, mechanical connection, etc.), including conventional ways known and used in the art. . Grip member 108 is embedded with any desired material, including conventional materials known and used in the art, such as rubber, polymeric materials, cork, cords or other fabric elements. Rubber or polymer materials, cloth or cloth, tapes and the like may be used. In some cases, if desired, the grip member 108 may be releasably connected to the shaft 106 using a releasable connection, such as the releasable connection 104 (eg, more details below). To explain).

  The releasable connection 104 between the golf club head and the shaft of the example of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the releasable connection 104. As shown in FIG. 2, this releasable connection 104 between the golf club head 102 and the shaft 106 includes a shaft adapter 200, a hosel adapter 300, and a hosel ring 500. In general, the hosel ring 500 is configured to engage a club head chamber 404 in the golf club head 102, and the hosel adapter 300 is configured to engage the hosel ring 500 and the golf club head 102, and a shaft adapter. 200 is configured to engage in hosel adapter 300 and shaft 106 is configured to engage with shaft adapter 200. Details of the engagement of these exemplary components / parts are described in further detail below.

  As described above, in accordance with the present invention, releasable connection 104 may include an exemplary shaft adapter 200. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the exemplary shaft adapter 200 includes a generally cylindrical body 202 having a first end 204 and an opposite second end 206. The first end 204 defines an opening into the cylindrical inner chamber 208 for receiving the end of the golf club shaft 106. The second end 206 has a securing structure (eg, threaded hole 210 in this exemplary structure) that assists in securely engaging the shaft adapter 200 with the club head body 102, as will be described in further detail below. Including. In this exemplary structure, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the internal chamber 208 does not lead to the threaded hole 210 (ie, is a blind hole), but may be optionally in some structures of the present invention. The screw hole 210 may extend to and communicate with the internal chamber 208.

  As shown, at least a portion of the first end 204 of the shaft adapter 200 includes a first rotation blocking structure 212. In this exemplary structure, the rotation blocking structure 212 comprises a spline 212a that extends along the longitudinal axis 226 of the outer surface of the shaft adapter 200, although various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the invention. To do. The spline 212a of the shaft adapter 200 may prevent rotation of the shaft adapter 200 relative to a member (eg, a hosel adapter as will be described in further detail below) into which the shaft adapter is fitted.

  In the illustrated example, a portion of the first end 204 of the cylindrical body 202 has a set of splines 212a, although various rotation blocking structures may be used without departing from the invention. In the example as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the rotation blocking structure 212 on the shaft adapter 200 includes a set of two splines 212a1 located on the cylindrical body 202 (as described below, two A set of splines 212a1 may be located below or alongside the rotation indicator 220), and a set of three splines 212a2 is located on the opposite side of the cylindrical body 202. The interaction between these splines and the cylindrical interior of the hosel adapter will be further described below. Other spline arrangements may be utilized without departing from the present invention.

  The first rotation blocking structure 212 can extend along any desired portion of the overall length of the shaft adapter 200. For example, the length of the first anti-rotation structure 212 can be less than 65% of the total length of the shaft adapter 200, and in some examples, less than 50%, less than 35%, or even less than 25% of the total axial length. It can be. On the other hand, the first rotation blocking structure 212 may extend along any desired portion of the longitudinal length of the shaft adapter 200. For example, the rotation blocking structure 212 should be long enough to allow strong and positive engagement with the hosel adapter 300 and club head 102 in a non-rotating manner. As some more specific examples, the length may be at least 2% of the total length of the shaft adapter 200, and in some examples, at least 5%, at least 10%, or even at least 20% of the total axial length. possible. If necessary, the rotation prevention structure 212 may extend 2 to 65% of the axial length of the shaft adapter 200, or 5 to 50% or 10 to 35% of the total length. If necessary, the rotation preventing structure 212 may extend all or substantially the entire longitudinal length L.

  Furthermore, the shaft adapter 200 may have a shaft adapter having a longer length over the entire length L in the vertical direction. The longitudinal total length L may be longer in order to provide stability to the connection mechanism between the club head body 102, the shaft adapter 200, and the hosel adapter 300.

  FIGS. 3A and 3B further show that the first end 204 of the shaft adapter 200 includes an enlarged portion 214. As is more apparent from FIGS. 4A and 4B, this enlarged portion 214 provides a stop that prevents the shaft adapter 200 from extending into the hosel adapter 300 and the club head body 102, and the shaft adapter 200 is a hosel adapter. Provides a solid base for fixing to the 300 and club head body 102. Also, the outer shape of the first end 204 can be tapered to provide a smooth transition between the shaft 106, the hosel adapter 300 and the club head 102 and a conventional aesthetic appearance.

  Other features of this exemplary shaft adapter 200 may include an “off-axis” or slanted borehole or interior chamber 208 that receives the shaft 106 therein, for example, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 11B. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the cylindrical outer surface of the shaft adapter 200 extends in a first axial direction, and the cylindrical inner surface of the bore hole 208 has a second axial direction that is different from the first axial direction. To form a shaft adapter offset angle. In this way, the interior of the shaft adapter 200 maintains a constant axial direction that corresponds to the interior of the hosel adapter 300 and the axial direction of the opening, but the shaft 106 is separated from the club head 102 and hosel adapter 300 by the club head 102. The hosel adapter 300 and the club head striking face extend away at different and adjustable angles. In this given example, the shaft position and / or angle corresponds to a given face angle of the golf club head 102. One pivot position can be a neutral face, one pivot position can be an open face, and one pivot position can be a closed face. Other rotational positions may be utilized without departing from the present invention. The shaft position and / or face angle may be adjusted, for example, by rotating the shaft adapter 200 relative to the hosel adapter 300 and club head hosel.

  According to some examples of the present invention, any desired shaft adapter offset angle may be maintained between the first axial direction and the second axial direction, but this shaft adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be , Between 0.25 ° and 10 °, in some examples between 0.5 ° and 8 °, between 0.75 ° and 6 °, or even between 1 ° and 4 °. In a more specific example of the present invention, the shaft adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be offset by about 1.5 ° or 2.0 °.

  In addition, the outer surface of the shaft adapter may include a pivot position indicator 220 to allow the golfer to easily see the position of the shaft / club head connection member relative to the club head 102 in use. This pivot position indicator 220 may be located at its first end 204. The pivot position indicator 220 may include a setting adjustment for the face angle. The rotational position indicator 220 may include “O” representing an open face angle, “N” representing a neutral face angle, and “C” representing a closed face angle, as shown in FIGS. 13A-15. In other arrangements as shown in FIG. 16, the pivot position indicator may include “L” for left face angle, “N” for neutral face angle, and “R” for right face angle. Any number of different marking and adjustment arrangements may be utilized for the pivot position indicator 220 without departing from the invention. Other annotations or indicators for the pivot position indicator 220 may be utilized without departing from the present invention. For example, instead of using “ONC” or “LNR” conventional face annotation, the face angle may be visually indicated using arrows or lines (straight, curved or diagonal). Other visual indicators may be utilized without departing from the present invention.

  Without departing from the present invention, the shaft adapter 200 may be made from any desired material and any desired number of independent parts. In the illustrated example, the entire shaft adapter 200 is made from a conventional material such as a metal or metal alloy, plastic, etc., as an integral one-piece structure. In at least some exemplary structures of the present invention, shaft adapter 200 is made from titanium, aluminum, magnesium, steel or other metal or metal alloy material. In addition, the shaft adapter 200 may be made from self-reinforced polypropylene (SRP), such as PrimoSpire® SRP. Various holes (eg, chamber 208 and screw opening 210) and / or surface structures (eg, spline 212a, enlarged portion) are generally known and used in the art without departing from the invention. It can be manufactured into the material in any desired manner, including methods such as drilling, tapping, machining, turning, extrusion, grinding, casting, extrusion, molding, and the like.

  The exemplary releasable connection 104 may further include a hosel adapter 300. FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary hosel adapter 300 of the present invention. As shown, the hosel adapter 300 is generally cylindrical. The hosel adapter 300 has a first end 304 and an opposite second end 306. The first end 304 defines an opening to the bore hole 308 for receiving the shaft adapter 200. Within the first end 304 and along the inner surface of the borehole 308, the first end 304 engages a first rotation blocking structure 212 on the shaft adapter 200 (eg, in a manner that is coupled to rotation). A second rotation prevention structure 312 configured as described above. The internal portion of the bore hole 308 as shown in FIG. 4 includes a second rotation blocking structure 312 as shown in FIG. 8A.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (and FIG. 8A), at least a portion of the interior of the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 includes a second rotation blocking structure 312. While various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the present invention, in this exemplary structure, the second rotation blocking structure 312 constitutes a spline 312a that extends along the internal longitudinal axis. The spline 312a of the hosel adapter 300 may prevent rotation of the shaft adapter 200 relative to the hosel adapter 300 into which the shaft adapter is fitted (and ultimately relative to the golf club head). The spline 312a of the hosel adapter 300 and the spline 212a of the shaft adapter 200 can be configured to interact with each other, thereby limiting the number of pivoting steps of the shaft adapter 200 within the hosel adapter 300.

  Other features of this exemplary hosel adapter 300 may include an “off-axis” or slanted borehole or interior chamber 308 that receives the shaft adapter 200 therein, for example, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 11B. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the cylindrical outer surface of the hosel adapter 300 extends in the first axial direction, and the cylindrical inner surface of the bore hole 308 has a second axial direction that is different from the first axial direction. To form a hosel adapter offset angle. In this way, the exterior of the hosel adapter 300 maintains a constant axial orientation corresponding to the interior of the club head chamber 404 and hosel ring 500 and the axial orientation of the opening, while the shaft adapter 200 (and thus the shaft 106) is maintained. , Extending away from the club head 102 at different and adjustable angles with respect to the club head 102, hosel adapter 300 and club head striking face. In this given example, the shaft position and / or angle corresponds to a given loft angle. The rotational position of the loft angle may be defined by a loft angle starting from about 7.5 ° to 12.5 °. Similar arrangements of loft angles that start lower and start higher may be utilized without departing from the invention. The club head position and / or loft angle may be adjusted, for example, by rotating the hosel adapter 300 relative to the hosel ring 500 and the club head 102.

  According to some examples of the present invention, any desired hosel adapter offset angle may be maintained between the first and second axial directions, but this hosel adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be , Between 0.25 ° and 10 °, in some examples between 0.5 ° and 8 °, between 0.75 ° and 6 °, or even between 1 ° and 4 °. In a more specific example of the present invention, the hosel adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be offset by about 1 ° or 0.5 °.

  The second end 306 of the hosel adapter 300 defines a second opening 310 for receiving the securing member 408. In general, the second opening 310 is sized so that the securing member 408 can freely pass through the second opening 310 and engage the threaded hole 210 in the shaft adapter 200. Or, if desired, the securing member 408 may also engage the hosel adapter 300 at the second opening 310 (eg, the second opening 310 engages a screw provided on the securing member 408). Screw may be included).

  As shown in FIG. 4, the second end 306 of the hosel adapter 300 may define one or more notches or grooves 314. The groove 314 may allow the second end 306 of the hosel adapter 300 to flare outward from the center of the bore 308. For example, when the hosel adapter 300 is inserted into the club head 102 and the club head chamber 404, the groove 314 is formed in the hosel adapter bore 308 when the second end 306 of the hosel adapter 300 contacts the bottom portion of the club head chamber 404. Helps absorb any tolerances. The groove 314 may cooperate with the club head 102 (eg, flared in the bore 308 to absorb tolerances in the club head chamber 404) to stabilize the hosel adapter 300 within the club head 102. . The notch or groove 314 may extend axially along the exterior of the hosel adapter 300, along any desired portion of the longitudinal overall length L2 of the hosel adapter 300. In general, the groove 314 is sized for optimal fit and stability of the hosel adapter 300 in the club head 102.

  The hosel adapter 300 may also be non-rotatable with respect to the golf club head 102. As shown in FIG. 4, the exterior of the first end 304 along the outer surface 302 of the hosel adapter 300 engages a fourth rotation blocking structure 512 on the hosel ring 500 (eg, connected to rotation). A third anti-rotation structure 322 configured in such a manner. As shown, at least a portion of the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 includes a third anti-rotation structure 322 on the outer surface 302 of the hosel adapter. In this exemplary structure, the rotation blocking structure 322 defines a spline 322a that extends along the longitudinal axis of the outer surface of the hosel adapter 300, although various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the invention. . The splines 322a on the outer surface of the hosel adapter 300 may prevent rotation of the hosel adapter 300 relative to a member (eg, a club head or hosel ring 500, as will be described in further detail below) into which the hosel adapter is fitted.

  In the example shown in FIG. 4, the rotation prevention structure 322 on the outer surface of the hosel adapter 300 is composed of a set of three splines 322a1 located on the outer surface 302 (as will be described below, a set of three splines). 322a1 may be located below or alongside the rotation indicator 320), a set of two splines 322a2 that are located around the quarter of the outer surface 302, and another quarter of the outer surface 302 or three A pair of splines 322a3 (not visible in FIG. 4) located on the opposite side of the pair of splines 322a1 and a further quarter turn of the outer surface 302 or the opposite side of the pair of splines 322a2 Including the last set of two splines 322a4 located at. The interaction between these splines and the hosel ring 500 is further described below. Other spline arrangements may be utilized without departing from the present invention.

  The third anti-rotation structure 322 can extend along any desired portion of the longitudinal length of the hosel adapter 300. For example, the length of the third anti-rotation structure 322 can be less than 65% of the overall length of the hosel adapter 300, and in some examples, less than 50%, less than 35%, or even less than 25% of the total axial length. It can be. On the other hand, the third anti-rotation structure 322 may extend along any desired portion of the longitudinal overall length of the hosel adapter 300. For example, pivot prevention structure 322 should be long enough to allow strong and positive engagement with hosel ring 500 and club head 102 in a non-rotating manner. As some more specific examples, the length may be at least 2% of the total length of the hosel adapter 300, and in some examples, at least 5%, at least 10%, or at least 20% of the total axial length. possible. If necessary, the rotation prevention structure 322 may extend 2 to 65% of the total axial length of the hosel adapter 300, or further 5 to 50% or 10 to 35% of the total length. If necessary, the rotation preventing structure 322 may extend all or substantially the entire length in the vertical direction.

  FIG. 4 further illustrates that the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 includes an enlarged portion 318. As is more apparent from FIGS. 2 and 6A, the enlarged portion 318 provides a stop that prevents the hosel adapter 300 from extending into the club head body and secures the hosel adapter 300 to the club head body 102. To provide a solid base for. Also, the outer shape of the first end 304 can be tapered to provide a smooth transition between the shaft 106 and the club head 102 and a conventional aesthetic appearance.

  In addition, the outer surface of the hosel adapter 300 may include a pivot position indicator 320 to allow a user to easily view the position of the hosel adapter 300 relative to the club head 102 when in use. This pivot position indicator 320 may be located at its first end 304. The pivot position indicator 320 may include a setting adjustment for the loft angle. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, there can be three different loft angle adjustments. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13A-14B, there can be five different loft angle adjustments (ie, 8 °, 9 °, 10 °, 11 °, and 12 °). In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 16, there can be five different loft angle adjustments (ie, 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °). In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 15, there can be seven different loft angle adjustments (ie, 8 °, 9 °, 9.5 °, 10 °, 10.5 °, 11 °, and 12 °). Any number of different marking and adjustment arrangements may be utilized for the pivot position indicator 320 without departing from the invention. Other annotations or indicators for the pivot position indicator 320 may be utilized without departing from the present invention. For example, instead of using a conventional loft angle, such as 8.5 °, 9.5 °, etc., the loft angle may be visually indicated by a small up arrow, a large up arrow, a small down arrow, and a large down arrow. In another exemplary aspect, the loft angle may be visually indicated by a diagonal arrow. Other visual indicators may be utilized without departing from the present invention.

  Without departing from the present invention, the hosel adapter 300 may be made from any desired material and any desired number of independent parts. In this illustrated example, the entire hosel adapter 300 is made from a conventional material such as a metal or metal alloy, plastic, etc., as an integral one-piece structure. In at least some exemplary structures of the present invention, hosel adapter 300 is made from titanium, aluminum, magnesium, steel or other metal or metal alloy material. In addition, the hosel adapter 300 may be made from self-reinforced polypropylene (SRP), such as PrimoSpire® SRP. Without departing from the present invention, bores and / or surface structures (eg, spline 312a, spline 322a and enlarged portion 318) are generally known and used in the art, such as drilling, tapping, and the like. Can be manufactured into the material in any desired manner, including machining, lathe processing, extrusion, grinding, casting, molding, and the like. The shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 and any other parts can be metal or plastic or any combination of other suitable materials. For example, the hosel adapter 300 may be a high strength plastic, and the shaft adapter 200 is made of metal. Other combinations may be utilized without departing from the invention.

  The exemplary releasable connection 104 may further include a hosel ring 500. FIG. 5 shows an exemplary hosel ring 500 of the present invention. As shown, the hosel ring 500 is generally cylindrical. The hosel ring 500 defines an opening into the borehole 508 for receiving the hosel adapter 300. Along the inside of the borehole 508, the hosel ring 500 is configured to engage with a third anti-rotation structure 322 on the hosel adapter 300 (eg, in a connected manner with respect to rotation). Four rotation prevention structures 512 are included.

  The hosel ring 500 may have other shapes without departing from the invention. For example, hosel ring 500 may be oval. Another embodiment may include an elliptical hosel ring 500 that is shaped by cutting a circle in half and connecting two semicircles by sections having two straight sides. In the case of an elliptical hosel ring 500, the hosel ring 500 may be pivotable between a first position and a second position, and the hosel ring 500 may further be adjusted to the club head parameters when it is turned. May include off-axis bores such that The elliptical hosel ring 500 can independently change the lie angle of the club head from an upright lie angle to a downward lie angle. Without departing from the invention, the elliptical hosel ring 500 can independently change other club head parameters.

  As shown in FIG. 5, at least a portion of the interior of the hosel ring 500 includes a fourth rotation blocking structure 512. In this exemplary structure, the fourth rotation blocking structure 512 constitutes a spline 512a that extends along the internal longitudinal axis, although various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the invention. The spline 512a of the hosel ring 500 can prevent the hosel adapter 300 from rotating relative to the club head 102 into which the hosel adapter is fitted. The spline 512a of the hosel ring 500 and the external spline 322a of the hosel adapter 300 can be configured to interact with each other, thereby limiting the number of pivoting steps of the hosel adapter 300 within the hosel ring 500. This interaction is further described below.

  The hosel ring 500 may also be non-rotatable with respect to the golf club head 102. In an exemplary embodiment, hosel ring 500 may be any means known and used in the art, such as adhesive, glue, epoxy resin, cement, welding, brazing, soldering or other It may be fixed to the club head chamber 404 by a fusion technique or the like. FIG. 12 shows the hosel ring 500 secured to the club head 102 in the club head chamber 404. In addition, hosel ring 500 may be an integral part of club head 102, in which case hosel ring 500 may be molded into club head chamber 404.

  The hosel ring 500 is pivotable with respect to the golf club head 102 to further change the configuration of the club head and / or to change the parameters of the club head without departing from the invention, or Locations that can be indicated may also be included. In an exemplary embodiment, the exterior of the hosel ring 500 may include a tab or a separate spline for directing and rotating the hosel ring 500 within the club head 102, so that the tab that is outside the hosel ring 500. Or, the splines cooperate to engage a matching tab or spline inside the club head 102 or club head chamber 404. With the directable hosel ring 500, external structures, such as tabs and splines, only allow the hosel ring 500 to rotate within the club head chamber 404 only a certain number of times. For example, within the club head chamber 404, the hosel ring 500 can have two rotatable or directable positions. In another example, the hosel ring 500 may have three or four rotatable or directable positions within the club head chamber 404. In another example without departing from the present invention, the hosel ring 500 may have five or more rotatable or directable positions within the club head chamber 404.

  As described above, hosel ring 500 may further include an off-axis bore that changes the club head parameters when rotated. The indicating hosel ring 500 can independently change the lie angle of the club head from an upright lie angle to a downward lie angle. Directable hosel ring 500 can independently change other club head parameters without departing from the invention.

  Without departing from the invention, the hosel ring 500 may be made from any desired material and any desired number of independent parts. In this illustrated example, the entire hosel ring 500 is made from a conventional material such as a metal or metal alloy, plastic, etc., as an integral one-piece structure. In at least some exemplary structures of the present invention, hosel ring 500 is made from titanium, aluminum, magnesium, steel, or other metal or metal alloy material. Without departing from the invention, bores and / or surface structures (eg, spline 512a) are generally known in the art and used manufacturing methods such as drilling, tapping, machining, turning, It can be made into the material in any desired manner, including extrusion, grinding, casting, molding, and the like.

  7A-11B illustrate another exemplary embodiment similar to a releasable connection as described above. For the sake of brevity and understanding, the same reference numerals used in the previous figures are used in these figures. In this embodiment, shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 are shown having off-axis bores.

  Hereinafter, the adjustment of the rotational positions of the shaft adapter 200 (and its attached shaft 106) and the hosel adapter 300 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. Changing the rotational position of the shaft adapter 200 relative to the hosel adapter 300 may adjust one or more of various parameters throughout the golf club, such as loft angle, face angle, or lie angle. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIGS. 2-12, changing the rotational position of the shaft adapter 200 relative to the hosel adapter 300 may adjust the face angle. Other club head parameters such as inset distance, offset distance, fade bias, draw bias, etc. may be designed to be adjustable. In addition, changing the rotational position of the hosel adapter 300 relative to the hosel ring 500 and club head 102 may adjust one or more of various parameters throughout the golf club. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIGS. 2-12, changing the rotational position of the hosel adapter 300 relative to the hosel ring 500 and club head 102 may adjust the loft angle. In these particular embodiments, shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 have independent off-axis bores that allow them to independently adjust the face angle (shaft adapter 200) and loft angle (hosel adapter 300). Have.

  To allow a user to easily identify a club head “setting” (eg, position and / or orientation of club head body 102 relative to shaft 106), shaft 106, shaft adapter 200, hosel adapter 300 and / or Or any or all of the club heads 102 may include markings or indicators. 3A and 3B show an indicator 220 on the shaft adapter 200 (eg, on the enlarged portion 214). FIG. 4 shows an indicator 320 on the hosel adapter 300 (eg, on the enlarged portion 318). By looking at the relative positions of the various indicators, a club fitter or other user can easily determine and know the position of the shaft 106 relative to the club head body 102 and its ball striking face. If desired, the indicator (eg, indicator 220 or 320) may correspond to and / or include specific quantitative information, such as specifically specified loft and face angles.

  In another example without departing from the invention, the first parameter, eg, the loft angle, may be set based on the indicator 320 on the hosel or hosel adapter 300. Further, a second parameter, eg, face angle, may be set by aligning the indicator 220 of the shaft adapter 200 and the indicator 320 on the hosel or hosel adapter 200 and based on the first setting. Thereby, the second parameter is considered to be set based on the indicator 220 on the shaft adapter 200, so that the first setting and the first parameter are the basis of the second setting and the second parameter. Configure. Other parameters besides the face angle and loft angle may be utilized without departing from the present invention. Furthermore, other forms of parameters and indicators may be utilized, as described below, without departing from the present invention.

  In another example without departing from the invention, the first parameter, eg, the face angle, may be set based on the indicator 320 on the hosel or hosel adapter 300. In addition, a second parameter, eg, a loft angle, may be set by aligning the indicator 220 of the shaft adapter 200 with the indicator 320 on the hosel or hosel adapter 200 and based on the first setting.

  In another example without departing from the present invention, a first parameter, such as a loft angle, may be set based on the indicator 220 of the shaft adapter 200. Further, the second parameter, eg, the face angle, may be set by aligning the indicator 320 on the hosel or hosel adapter 300 and the indicator 220 on the hosel or hosel adapter 300 and based on the first setting.

  In another example without departing from the present invention, a first parameter, such as a face angle, may be set based on the indicator 220 of the shaft adapter 200. Further, a second parameter, eg, a loft angle, may be set by aligning the indicator 320 on the hosel or hosel adapter 300 and the indicator 220 on the hosel or hosel adapter 300 and based on the first setting.

  Golf club adjustable designs generally included mating parts and cooperating engagement surfaces that account for specific adjustability of the golf club head 102. However, these current designs provide many possible adjustable combinations with respect to loft angle, face angle and lie angle. While this adjustability provides some benefits to the golfer, many options for the golfer can be confusing and cumbersome for the golfer. In certain exemplary aspects, the present design, particularly the spline arrangement of the various anti-rotation structures, provides a limited set of adjustable options that are easier to use for golfers. For example, the adjustability may be limited to only three different adjustable loft angles and three different adjustable face angles. Loft angles can vary from 7.5 ° to 12.5 °. Face angles can generally be referred to as neutral, open, and close. Therefore, each club head has a limited number of pivotable positions, for example, a total of nine different face angle and loft angle arrangements. The rotation blocking arrangement provides a simpler and more efficient adjustment feature for the golfer by limiting the pivot position of the shaft adapter and hosel adapter. Thus, from the drawings and descriptions herein, various spline arrangements with engaging surfaces are structured so that a particular position can provide the desired adjustment while the adjustability is possible. In order to limit the options to certain ones, taking further positions is prevented (eg, each spline cannot fit together).

  Another exemplary option set uses four different adjustable loft angles and three different adjustable face angles, thereby having a total of 12 different face angle and loft angle arrangements It is to create a head. Another exemplary option set uses five different adjustable loft angles and three different adjustable face angles, thereby having a total of 15 different face angle and loft angle arrangements It is to create a head. Another exemplary option set uses seven different adjustable loft angles and three different adjustable face angles, thereby having a total of 21 different face angle and loft angle arrangements It is to create a head. Other arrangements of adjustable face and loft angles may be utilized without departing from the invention.

  The exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 13A and 13B shows a spline arrangement that allows adjustment of five different loft angles and three different face angles. Adjustable loft angles can include 8 °, 9 °, 10 °, 11 °, and 12 °. Adjustable face angles may include open (“O”), neutral (“N”), and closed (“C”). The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 16 shows a spline arrangement that allows adjustment of five different loft angles and three different face angles. This spline configuration allows for adjustable loft angles that may include 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °. Adjustable face angles may include open or left (“L”), neutral (“N”), and closed or right (“R”). The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 15 shows a spline arrangement with seven different loft angles and three face angle adjustability. This spline configuration includes adjustable loft angles that may include 8 °, 9 °, 9.5 °, 10 °, 10.5 °, 11 °, and 12 ° (not shown). Adjustable face angles may include open (“O”), neutral (“N”), and closed (“C”).

  It will be appreciated that the “neutral” face angle is the reference point / reference face angle and may not be the actual “neutral” face angle of the face or club head. For example, “neutral” may represent a face angle of 1 ° close. If 2 ° face angle adjustment is used, “closed” will have a 3 ° closed face and “open” will have a 1 ° open face. In another example, “neutral” may represent a 3 ° open face angle. When using a 2 ° face angle adjustment, “closed” will have a 1 ° open face and “open” will have a 5 ° open face.

  To illustrate how the present invention provides and limits the pivoting and adjustable face and loft angle positions of the shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 as described above, FIG. The spline arrangement form of the aspect shown in 6B will be described. The embodiment of FIGS. 2A-6B shows a spline arrangement that can adjust three types of loft angles and three types of face angles. The internal spline 312a of the hosel adapter 300 and the spline 212a of the shaft adapter 200 can be configured to engage each other, thereby limiting the number of pivoting steps of the shaft adapter 200 within the hosel adapter 300. In addition, the spline of the hosel ring 500 and the external spline 322 of the hosel adapter 300 can also be configured to engage each other thereby limiting the number of pivoting steps of the hosel adapter 300 within the hosel ring 500. For example, the spline arrangement of the hosel ring 500 and the external spline 322 of the hosel adapter 300 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is restricted to pivot to three different pivot positions (eg, three different loft angles). Has been. Similarly, the spline arrangement form of the shaft adapter 200 and the hosel adapter 300 shown in FIGS. 3A to 4 is in nine different rotation positions (for example, three different face angles at three different loft angles). It is restricted to rotate. 17A-18E and 20A-21C show cross-sectional views of exemplary spline configurations, spline engagement and spline interaction for the shaft adapter 200, hosel adapter 300 and hosel ring 500 described above.

  FIG. 17A shows a cross-sectional view of the first end 304 of an exemplary hosel adapter 300. The first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 includes an enlarged portion 318. In addition, the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 (and the hosel adapter 300 through it) includes a bore 308. The first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 includes an internal rotation blocking structure 312 located within the bore 308. The internal rotation blocking structure 312 includes an internal spline 312a located in the bore 308 of the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300. The internal spline 312a arrangement includes two sets of one end of the bore 304 and five sets of splines and a set of fifteen splines at the opposite end of the bore 304. Without departing from the invention, the internal spline 312a arrangement may include different arrangements.

  FIG. 17B shows a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical body 202 of the exemplary shaft adapter 200. The cylindrical body 202 of the shaft adapter 200 includes an external rotation prevention structure 212. The external rotation prevention structure 212 includes an internal spline 212 a located along the outside of the cylindrical body 202 of the shaft adapter 200. The inner spline 212a includes a set of two splines 212a1 located on the cylindrical body 202 and a set of three splines 212a2 located on the opposite side of the cylindrical body 202. The interaction between these splines and the bore 308 at the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 will be further described below. Other spline arrangements may be utilized without departing from the present invention.

  FIGS. 18A-18E illustrate a possible rotational arrangement and interaction between the external rotation blocking structure 212 on the shaft adapter 200 and the internal rotation blocking structure 312 on the hosel adapter 300. FIG. 19A-19E show the corresponding club head configuration and loft angle as the shaft adapter 200 rotates within the hosel adapter 300. FIG. As described above and below, the shaft adapter 200 rotates and engages the hosel adapter 300 by sliding the shaft adapter 200 into the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. When the shaft adapter 200 engages the hosel adapter 300, in this exemplary embodiment, the different rotational arrangements that the shaft adapter 200 can engage with and fit into the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300 are There are only 5 types. 18A-18E show these five different rotational arrangements, while FIGS. 19A-19E show the five corresponding club head arrangements and loft angles.

  Specifically, FIG. 18A shows that the pair of splines 212a1 on the shaft adapter 200 engages the two central splines 312a on the first side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300, and the shaft adapter 200 The upper set of three splines 212a2 is shown engaged with the central three splines of the fifteen splines 312a on the second side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. FIG. In this arrangement, the shaft adapter 200 is in a central pivot arrangement and position within the hosel adapter 300. In addition, in this arrangement, as shown in FIG. 19A, the club head 102 may be in a “neutral”, “reference” or middle loft angle. In this illustration, the club head 102 may have a 10 ° loft angle.

  FIG. 18B shows that the pair of splines 212a1 on the shaft adapter 200 engages with two splines 312a counterclockwise from the center spline on the first side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. A set of three splines 212a2 on 200 is engaged with three splines counterclockwise from the center spline among the 15 splines 312a on the second side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300 Indicates. In this arrangement, the shaft adapter 200 is rotated and positioned in the hosel adapter 300 by a one-stage rotation arrangement and position counterclockwise from the center. In addition, in this arrangement, the club head 102 can be at a lower loft angle, as shown in FIG. 19B. In this illustration, the club head 102 may have a 9 ° loft angle.

  FIG. 18C shows that a pair of splines 212a1 on the shaft adapter 200 is engaged with two splines 312a that are in a counterclockwise turn position from the center of the first side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. The three sets of splines 212a2 on the shaft adapter 200 are in the rotational position by two counterclockwise from the center among the 15 splines 312a on the second side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. A state of being engaged with the spline is shown. In this arrangement, the shaft adapter 200 is rotated and positioned in the hosel adapter 300 by two rotation arrangement forms and positions counterclockwise from the center. In addition, in this arrangement, the club head 102 may be at a second lower loft angle, as shown in FIG. 19C. In this illustration, the club head 102 may have a loft angle of 8 °. It will be appreciated that any additional pivoting of the splines 212a1 and / or 212as will abut the surface of the hosel adapter 300 and prevent further options around the hosel.

  18D shows a pair of splines 212a1 on the shaft adapter 200 engaged with two splines 312a clockwise from the center spline on the first side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. A set of three splines 212a2 on 200 is engaged with three splines clockwise from the center spline among the 15 splines 312a on the second side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300 Indicates. In this arrangement, the shaft adapter 200 is rotated and positioned in the hosel adapter 300 by one rotation arrangement form and position clockwise from the center. In addition, in this arrangement, the club head 102 can be at a higher loft angle, as shown in FIG. 19D. In this illustration, the club head 102 may have a loft angle of 11 °.

  FIG. 18E shows that a set of two splines 212a1 on the shaft adapter 200 is engaged with two splines 312a that are pivoted in two clockwise directions from the center of the first side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300. The three sets of splines 212a2 on the shaft adapter 200 are three of the fifteen splines 312a on the second side of the bore 308 of the hosel adapter 300 and are in a rotational position by two clockwise from the center. A state of being engaged with the spline is shown. In this arrangement, the shaft adapter 200 is rotated and positioned in the hosel adapter 300 by a two-stage rotation arrangement and position clockwise from the center. In addition, in this arrangement, the club head 102 may be at a second higher loft angle, as shown in FIG. 19E. In this illustration, the club head 102 may have a loft angle of 12 °.

  Without departing from the present invention, the rotational arrangement of the shaft adapter 200 in the hosel adapter 300 may include more or fewer than five different arrangements. For example, there may be three types of rotational arrangements of the shaft adapter 200 in the hosel adapter 300. Further, there may be four types of rotational arrangement forms of the shaft adapter 200 in the hosel adapter 300. Further, there may be more than five types, for example, six types, seven types, or eight types of rotational arrangement forms of the shaft adapter 200 in the hosel adapter 300. In addition, rotation of the shaft adapter 200 within the hosel adapter 300 may independently affect different characteristics of the club head, such as the face angle or lie angle, instead of the loft angle, without departing from the invention. .

  FIG. 20A shows a cross-sectional view of the exterior of the first end 304 along the outer surface 302 of the hosel adapter 300. The exterior of the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300 includes an external rotation blocking structure 322 located along the outer surface 302 of the hosel adapter 300. The external rotation prevention structure 322 includes an external spline 322 a located along the outer surface 302 of the hosel adapter 300. The arrangement form of the external spline 312a is a set of three splines 322a1 located on the outer surface 302, a set of two splines 322a2 located one quarter of the outer surface 302, and a quarter of the outer surface 302. However, the last two of the two sets of splines 322a3 and the outer surface 302 that are located on the opposite side of the set of three splines 322a1 are made a quarter turn or on the other side of the set of two sets of splines 322a2. A set of splines 322a4 is included. Without departing from the present invention, the configuration of the external spline 322a may include a variety of configurations.

  FIG. 20B shows a cross-sectional view of the hosel ring 500. The hosel ring 500 includes an internal rotation blocking structure 512. The internal rotation blocking structure 512 includes an internal spline 512a located in the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500. The inner spline 512a is configured to engage the outer spline 322a of the hosel adapter. The interaction between these splines and the outer surface 302 of the hosel adapter 300 will be further described below. Other spline arrangements may be utilized without departing from the present invention.

  FIGS. 21A-21C illustrate a possible rotational arrangement and interaction between the external rotation blocking structure 322 on the hosel adapter 300 and the internal rotation blocking structure 512 on the hosel ring 500. FIG. 22A-22C show the corresponding club head configuration and face angles when rotating the hosel adapter 300 within the hosel ring 500. FIG. As described above and described below, the hosel adapter 300 rotates and engages the hosel ring 500 by sliding the hosel adapter 300 into the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500. When the hosel adapter 300 engages the hosel ring 500, in this exemplary embodiment, the different rotational arrangements that the hosel adapter 300 can engage with and fit into the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500 are There are only three types. 21A-21C show these three different rotational arrangements, while FIGS. 22A-22C show these three types of corresponding club head arrangements and face angles.

  Specifically, FIG. 21A shows a pair of splines 322a2, 322a3, 322a4 on the hosel adapter 300 engaged with a pair of splines 512a in the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500, A set of three splines 322a1 is engaged with three central splines among the 13 splines 512a in the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500. In this arrangement, the hosel adapter 300 is in a central rotational arrangement and position within the hosel ring 500. In addition, in this arrangement, the club head 102 may be at a “neutral” face angle, as shown in FIG. 22A.

  FIG.21B shows a set of two splines 512a in a configuration in which a pair of splines 322a2, 322a3, 322a4 on the hosel adapter 300 are rotated counterclockwise by one from the neutral configuration of the hosel ring 500. Three in a configuration where three sets of splines 212a2 on the shaft adapter 200 are rotated counterclockwise by one from the central spline of the 13 splines 512a in the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500. A state of being engaged with the spline is shown. In this arrangement, the hosel adapter 300 is rotated and positioned in the hosel ring 500 by one rotation arrangement form and position counterclockwise from the center. In addition, in this arrangement, the club head 102 can be at a closed face angle or a negative face angle, as shown in FIG. 22B.

  FIG. 21C shows a set of two splines 512a in a configuration in which a pair of splines 322a2, 322a3, 322a4 on the hosel adapter 300 are rotated clockwise by one from the neutral configuration of the hosel ring 500. 3 pieces of a configuration in which three sets of splines 312a1 on the hosel adapter 300 are rotated by one clockwise from the central spline of the 13 splines 512a in the bore 508 of the hosel ring 500. A state of being engaged with the spline is shown. In this arrangement, the hosel adapter 300 is rotated and positioned in the hosel ring 500 by one rotation arrangement form and position clockwise from the center. In addition, in this arrangement, as shown in FIG. 22C, the club head 102 can be at an open face angle or a positive face angle.

  Without departing from the present invention, the rotational arrangement of the hosel adapter 300 in the hosel ring 500 may include more or less than three different arrangements. For example, there may be two, four, five, six, eight, or more types of rotational arrangement of the hosel adapter 300 in the hosel ring 500. In addition, rotation of the hosel adapter 300 in the hosel ring 500 may independently affect different characteristics of the club head, such as loft angle or lie angle, instead of face angle, without departing from the invention. .

  2-6B, an example of the engagement of the golf club shaft 106 and club head 102 using the shaft adapter 200, hosel adapter 300, and hosel ring 500 will be described in further detail. At some point during the head / shaft connection process, the shaft 106 is engaged within the cylindrical inner chamber 208 of the shaft adapter 200. In the illustrated exemplary structure, the shaft 106 is permanently engaged into the chamber 208 by, for example, adhesive or cement bonding. Shaft 106 to shaft adapter, including, for example, mechanical connections (including releasable mechanical connections, including threaded structures, etc.), welding, brazing, soldering or other fusion techniques, etc., without departing from the invention Other ways of engaging the 200 are possible. Once connected to the shaft adapter 200, the shaft 106 engages the hosel adapter 300 and is ready to be attached to the golf club head 102. Alternatively, if necessary, the shaft 106 may be connected to the shaft adapter 200 later in the process, and later in the final step of the connection process.

  The exemplary club head structure 102 will now be described in further detail in connection with FIG. 2, which provides an exploded cross-sectional view of the releasable connection. In this exemplary structure, the club head 102 includes a hosel area 402 that provides access to a club head chamber 404 defined in the club head 102. The club head chamber 404 in this exemplary structure extends completely through the club head body 102 and forms an opening 406 in the sole or bottom of the club head 102. This opening 406 allows access for insertion of a fastening system 408 (eg, screw bolt member) that serves to secure the shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 to the club head body 102, as will be described in further detail below. To do. The securing system 408 may also include a spherical washer 408A and a screw retainer 408B. Details of the spherical washer 408A will be described below with respect to the explanation of the spherical washer 1408A in FIG. 42B.

  In this exemplary construction, the club head chamber 404 includes a mounting plate 410 having a hole 410a defined therein, which mounts the shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 as described in further detail below. A support surface for securing within the club head body 102 is provided. If desired, the mounting plate 410 may be integrally formed as part of the club head structure and placed at any desired location along the club head chamber 404, including the location of the aperture 406 or near it. May be. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, a plug member (optionally removable plug member) may be provided near the opening 406, or the sole member may be connected to the club head sole with the bolt member 408. A countersink region may be included to allow it to be flush or substantially flush.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the fixation system may also include a screw retention device 408B. A screw retention device may be located in the club head chamber 404. In addition, the screw retention device 408B is sized so that the screw retention device is larger than the mounting plate 410. The screw retaining device 408B retains the screw bolt member 408 and does not allow the screw bolt member 408 to fall out of the club head 102.

  2-6B, the connection of the shaft adapter 200 (possibly with the shaft 106 already engaged) to the club head 102 will be described in more detail. As shown, the third anti-rotation structure 322 of the hosel adapter 300 is suitable for alignment and engagement with the fourth anti-rotation structure 522 of the hosel ring 500 located in the club head chamber 404. In a manner, the hosel adapter 300 can be inserted into the club head chamber 404 of the club head body 102. In addition, the cylindrical body 202 of the shaft adapter 200 is connected to the hosel adapter in a suitable manner such that the first rotation blocking structure 212 of the shaft adapter 200 engages the second rotation blocking structure 312 of the hosel adapter 300. 300 may be inserted into the first end 304 and the borehole 308. When the hosel adapter 300 is inserted into the hosel ring 500 and the club head chamber 404 of the club head body 102, the second end 306 of the hosel adapter 300 hits the side surface of the club head chamber 404 and becomes flared. Absorb any tolerances to and from the club head chamber 404. In this position and in this arrangement, the second end 206 of the shaft adapter 200 and the second end 306 of the hosel adapter 300 are seated against the mounting plate 410. In addition, the enlarged portion 318 of the hosel adapter 300 is located adjacent to and / or seated against the upper surface of the hosel 402. Further, the enlarged portion 214 of the first end 204 of the shaft adapter 200 is seated on the upper surface of the first end 304 of the hosel adapter 300.

  Once inserted, the securing member or bolt member 408 is inserted into the opening 406 in the sole of the club head 102 and the opening 310 of the hosel adapter 300, and the securing member 408 is engaged with the securing structure 210 provided with the shaft adapter 200. By combining, the shaft adapter 200 and the hosel adapter 300 can be engaged with and fixed to the club head body 102. The position where hosel adapter 300 abuts club head 102 (for example, mounting plate 410 and / or hosel opening) and / or the position where fixing member 408 abuts club head 102 (for example, mounting plate 410) is optional as required. May include flexible materials (eg, washers, gaskets, O-rings, elastomer washers or coatings, etc.) that absorb excess space and provide noise and / or vibration damping. The illustrated connection system is easily releasable, for example, by twisting out bolt member 408, allowing a user to replace various shafts 106 on a given golf club head 102, and / or It allows various golf club heads 102 to be exchanged on a given shaft / connecting member assembly. In addition, the releasable connection system allows the user to replace various shaft adapters 200 and / or various hosel adapters 300 for a given golf club head 102 and / or shaft adapter 200 to the golf club head 102. And / or allowing the relative arrangement of the hosel adapter 300 to be changed.

  If desired, the bolt 408 and mounting plate 410a may be structured to prevent the bolt 408 from completely falling out of the opening 406 when the bolt 408 is released from the shaft adapter 200 and hosel adapter 300 (e.g. , By providing an enlarged ring at the free end of the bolt 408). Bolt 408 may include a head having a structure for engaging a screwdriver, hex wrench, or another tool.

  In another aspect, without departing from the present disclosure, FIGS. 23-38C illustrate another releasable connection assembly having a corresponding variety of club head arrangements having different loft and face angle arrangements. The drawing includes a cross-sectional view of an exemplary shaft adapter 200, hosel adapter 300, and hosel ring 500 spline interaction. FIG. 23 shows a comprehensive schematic of a cross-sectional view of the releasable connection and pivoting configuration for each of the various club head configurations. At the top of the schematic is the club head face angle, eg open, neutral and closed. On the left side of the schematic, the club head loft angles, eg, 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 ° are marked. The releasable connection assembly uses any of a variety of rotating spline configurations to achieve any of the 15 different club head configurations listed to create a variety of face and loft angle combinations. Can do.

  FIGS. 24A-38C show detailed views of each individual connection assembly and pivot spline configuration, along with applicable club head configurations. The various figures show possible pivotal arrangements and interaction of the shaft adapter, the hosel adapter and the pivot blocking structure on the hosel ring. “A” view shows a cross-sectional view of the releasable connection 104 including the shaft 106 inserted into the hosel portion 402 of the club head 102, the hosel adapter 300, and the exemplary shaft adapter 200 engaged on the hosel ring 500. Show. The “B” view shows an exemplary face angle 160 of the club head 102. The “C” view shows an exemplary loft angle 170 of the club head 102.

  39A-44 illustrate another exemplary embodiment similar to a releasable connection as described above. For the sake of brevity and understanding, reference numerals similar to those used in the previous figures are used in these figures. A spline arrangement as described and illustrated with respect to FIGS. 23-38C may be utilized with this exemplary embodiment. Other spline arrangements may be utilized without departing from the present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, neither shaft adapter 1200 nor hosel adapter 1300 need to be removed from club head 1102 in order to rotate shaft adapter 1200 and / or hosel adapter 1300 to various configurations. Shaft adapter 1200 and hosel adapter 1300 remain confined within releasable connection 1104. In one exemplary embodiment for achieving this confinement feature, the shaft adapter 1300 can include a stop ring 1205. Stop ring 1205 may be in the form of a compressed O-ring. Without departing from the invention, the stop ring 1205 may also be other mechanical features such as a C-clip. This stop ring 1205 allows the hosel adapter 1300 to be disengaged from the shaft adapter 1200 without removing it from the club head 1102, thereby rotating the hosel adapter 1300 and / or shaft adapter 1200 without removing it from the club head 1102. It can be moved.

  39A and 39B show exploded views of the releasable connection 1104. FIG. As shown in FIG. 39A, this releasable connection 1104 between the golf club head 1102 and the shaft 1106 includes a shaft adapter 1200, a hosel adapter 1300, and a hosel ring 500. In general, hosel ring 500 is configured to engage with club head chamber 1404 in golf club head 1102, and hosel adapter 1300 is configured to engage in hosel ring 500 and golf club head 1102 and shaft. Adapter 1200 is configured to engage in hosel adapter 1300 and shaft 1106 is configured to engage with shaft adapter 1200. Details of the engagement of these exemplary components / parts are described in further detail below.

  As described above, in accordance with the present invention, the releasable connection 1104 may include an exemplary shaft adapter 1200. As shown in FIGS. 40A-40D, this exemplary shaft adapter 1200 includes a generally cylindrical body 1202 having a first end 1204 and an opposite second end 1206. First end 1204 defines an opening into cylindrical interior chamber 1208 for receiving the end of golf club shaft 1106. The second end 1206 has a securing structure (eg, screw hole 1210 in this exemplary structure) that assists in securely engaging the shaft adapter 1200 with the club head body 1102, as described in more detail below. Including. In addition, the second end 1206 includes a stop ring 1205. The stop ring 1205 can extend from the second end 1206 of the shaft adapter 1200 to the outer periphery. The stop ring 1205 can stop and hold the hosel adapter 1300 engaged with the shaft adapter 1200, thereby adjusting and rotating them without removing the hosel adapter 1300 and / or shaft adapter 1200 from the club head 1102. I can forgive you. The stop ring 1205 may be integrated with the shaft adapter 1200, that is, may be formed as a part of the shaft adapter 1200 so as to extend from the second end 1206 of the shaft adapter 1200 to the outer periphery. In addition, the stop ring 1205 may be a separate compression O-ring that fits into a channel 1207 that extends around the second end 1206 of the shaft adapter 1200. The separate stop ring 1205 (compressed O-ring) can be rubber or metal material.

  As shown, at least a portion of the first end 1204 of the shaft adapter 1200 includes a first rotation blocking structure 1212. A variety of anti-rotation structures may be provided without departing from the present invention, but in this exemplary structure, anti-rotation structure 1212 is a spline 1212a that extends along a portion of longitudinal axis 1226 of the outer surface of shaft adapter 1200. Configure. Spline 1212a of shaft adapter 1200 may prevent rotation of shaft adapter 1200 relative to a member (eg, a hosel adapter, as will be described in further detail below) into which the shaft adapter is fitted. Various rotation blocking structures may be used without departing from the present invention. The interaction between these splines and the cylindrical interior of the hosel adapter will be further described below. Other spline arrangements may be used without departing from the invention.

  The first rotation blocking structure 1212 disengages the hosel adapter 1300 from the first rotation blocking structure 1212 and allows the shaft adapter 1200 to rotate even when it is captured on the shaft adapter 1200. Can extend along the length of

  40A and 40B further illustrate that the first end 1204 of the shaft adapter 1200 includes an enlarged portion 1214. FIG. The enlarged portion 1214 provides a stop that prevents the shaft adapter 1200 from extending into the hosel adapter 1300 and the club head body 1102, and is a strong anchor for securing the shaft adapter 1200 to the hosel adapter 1300 and the club head body 1102. Provide a base. Also, the outer shape of the first end 1204 can be tapered to provide a smooth transition between the shaft 1106, the hosel adapter 1300, and the club head 1102, as well as a conventional aesthetic appearance.

  Other features of this exemplary shaft adapter 1200 may include an “off-axis” or slanted borehole or internal chamber 1208 that receives the shaft 1106 therein, for example, as shown in FIG. 40C. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the cylindrical outer surface of shaft adapter 1200 extends in a first axial direction, and the cylindrical inner surface of borehole 1208 has a second axial direction that is different from the first axial direction. To form a shaft adapter offset angle. In this way, the exterior of the shaft adapter 1200 maintains a constant axial orientation that corresponds to the interior of the hosel adapter 1300 and the axial orientation of the opening, while the shaft 1106 is coupled to the club head 1102 from the club head 1102 and hosel adapter 1300. The hosel adapter 1300 and the club head striking face extend away at different and adjustable angles. In this given example, the shaft position and / or angle corresponds to a given face angle of golf club head 1102. One pivot position can be a neutral face, one pivot position can be an open face, and one pivot position can be a closed face. Other rotational positions may be utilized without departing from the present invention. The shaft position and / or face angle may be adjusted, for example, by rotating shaft adapter 1200 relative to hosel adapter 1300 and club head hosel.

  According to some examples of the present invention, any desired shaft adapter offset angle may be maintained between the first and second axial directions, but this shaft adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be , Between 0.25 ° and 10 °, in some examples between 0.5 ° and 8 °, between 0.75 ° and 6 °, or even between 1 ° and 4 °. In a more specific example of the present invention, the shaft adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be offset by about 1.5 ° or 2.0 °.

  The exemplary releasable connection 1104 can further include a hosel adapter 1300. 41A-41E show an exemplary hosel adapter 1300 of the present invention. As shown, the hosel adapter 1300 is generally cylindrical. The hosel adapter 1300 has a first end 1304 and an opposite second end 1306. First end 1304 defines an opening to bore hole 1308 for receiving shaft adapter 1200. Within the first end 1304 and along the inner surface of the borehole 1308, the first end 1304 engages a first rotation blocking structure 1212 on the shaft adapter 1200 (eg, in a manner that is coupled to rotation). A second rotation prevention structure 1312 configured as described above.

  As shown in FIG. 41C, at least a portion of the interior of the first end 1304 of the hosel adapter 1300 includes a second rotation blocking structure 1312. While various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the invention, in this exemplary structure, the second rotation blocking structure 1312 constitutes a spline 1312a that extends along the internal longitudinal axis. The spline 1312a of the hosel adapter 1300 may prevent rotation of the shaft adapter 1200 relative to the hosel adapter 1300 (and ultimately with respect to the golf club head) into which the shaft adapter is fitted. The spline 1312a of the hosel adapter 1300 and the spline 1212a of the shaft adapter 1200 may be configured to interact with each other, thereby limiting the number of pivoting steps of the shaft adapter 1200 within the hosel adapter 1300. This is further explained below.

  Other features of this exemplary hosel adapter 1300 may include an “off-axis” or slanted borehole or internal chamber 1308 that receives the shaft adapter 1200 therein, for example, as shown in FIG. 41C. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the cylindrical outer surface of the hosel adapter 1300 extends in the first axial direction, and the cylindrical inner surface of the borehole 1308 has a second axial direction that is different from the first axial direction. To form a hosel adapter offset angle. In this way, the exterior of the hosel adapter 1300 maintains a constant axial orientation that corresponds to the interior of the club head chamber 1404 and hosel ring 500 and the axial orientation of the opening, but the shaft adapter 1200 (and thus the shaft 1106) , Extending away from the club head 1102 at different and adjustable angles with respect to the club head 1102, hosel adapter 1300 and club head striking face. In this given example, the shaft position and / or angle corresponds to a given loft angle. The rotational position of the loft angle may be defined by a loft angle starting from about 7.5 ° to 12.5 °. Also, similar arrangements of loft angles that start lower and start higher may be utilized without departing from the invention. Club head position and / or loft angle may be adjusted, for example, by rotating hosel adapter 1300 relative to hosel ring 500 and club head 1102.

  According to some examples of the present invention, any desired hosel adapter offset angle may be maintained between the first and second axial directions, but this hosel adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be , Between 0.25 ° and 10 °, in some examples between 0.5 ° and 8 °, between 0.75 ° and 6 °, or between 1 ° and 4 °. In a more specific example of the present invention, the hosel adapter offset angle or face angle adjustment may be offset by about 1 ° or 0.5 °.

  The second end 1306 of the hosel adapter 1300 defines a second opening 1310 for receiving the securing member 1408. In general, the second opening 1310 is sized so that the securing member 1408 can freely pass through the second opening 1310 and engage the threaded hole 1210 in the shaft adapter 1200. Or, if desired, the securing member 1408 may also engage the hosel adapter 1300 at the second opening 1310 (eg, the second opening 1310 engages a screw provided on the securing member 1408). Screw may be included). Fixing member 1408 may also include a spherical washer 1408A and a screw retention device 1408B.

  As shown in FIG. 42B, the spherical washer 1408A may have a convex surface 1430 on the side of the screw bolt member 1408 that engages or engages with the head. In addition, the head of the screw bolt member 1408 can have a concave surface 1432 that mates with the convex surface 1430 of the spherical washer 1408A. This uneven 1430-1432 fit assists and allows for misalignment that the off-axis sleeve can cause with respect to the threaded bolt member 1408 and the rest of the releasable connection 1104.

  As shown in FIG. 39A, the fixation system may also include a screw retention device 1408B. A screw retention device may be located in the club head chamber 1404. In addition, the screw retention device 1408B can be sized such that the screw retention device is larger than the mounting plate 1410. The screw retaining device 1408B retains the screw bolt member 1408 and does not allow the screw bolt member 1408 to fall out of the club head 1102.

  The hosel adapter 1300 may also be non-rotatable with respect to the golf club head 1102. As shown in FIGS. 41A and 41B, the exterior of the first end 1304 along the outer surface 1302 of the hosel adapter 1300 engages a fourth rotation blocking structure 1512 on the hosel ring 500 (eg, with respect to rotation). A third anti-rotation structure 1322 configured in a connected manner). As shown, at least a portion of the first end 1304 of the hosel adapter 1300 includes a third rotation blocking structure 1322 on the outer surface 1302 of the hosel adapter. In this exemplary structure, the rotation blocking structure 1322 defines a spline 1322a that extends along the longitudinal axis of the outer surface of the hosel adapter 1300, although various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the invention. . Splines 1322a on the outer surface of the hosel adapter 1300 may prevent rotation of the hosel adapter 1300 relative to a member (eg, a club head or hosel ring 500, as will be described in further detail below) into which the hosel adapter is fitted. The third rotation preventing structure 1322 can extend along the entire longitudinal length of the hosel adapter 300.

  41A and 41B further illustrate that the first end 1304 of the hosel adapter 1300 includes an enlarged portion 1318. FIG. The enlarged portion 1318 provides a stop that prevents the hosel adapter 1300 from extending into the club head body and provides a solid base for securing the hosel adapter 1300 to the club head body 1102. Also, the outer shape of the first end 1304 can be tapered to provide a smooth transition between the shaft 1106 and the club head 1102 and a conventional aesthetic appearance.

  The exemplary releasable connection 1104 can further include a hosel ring 500. An exemplary hosel ring 500 is shown in FIGS. 5 and 9 and FIGS. 39A and 39B. As shown, the hosel ring 500 is generally cylindrical. Along the inside of the borehole 508, the hosel ring 500 is configured to engage (eg, in a manner that is coupled to rotation) with a third rotation blocking structure 1322 on the hosel adapter 1300. Four rotation prevention structures 512 are included. At least a portion of the interior of the hosel ring 500 includes a fourth rotation blocking structure 512. In this exemplary structure, the fourth rotation blocking structure 512 constitutes a spline 512a that extends along the internal longitudinal axis, although various rotation blocking structures may be provided without departing from the invention. The spline 512a of the hosel ring 500 can prevent the hosel adapter 1300 from rotating relative to the club head 1102 in which the hosel adapter is fitted. The spline 512a of the hosel ring 500 and the external spline 1322a of the hosel adapter 1300 can be configured to interact with each other, thereby limiting the number of pivoting steps of the hosel adapter 1300 within the hosel ring 500. This interaction is further described below.

  The hosel ring 500 may also be non-rotatable with respect to the golf club head 1102. In an exemplary embodiment, hosel ring 500 may be any means known and used in the art, such as adhesive, glue, epoxy resin, cement, welding, brazing, soldering or other fusion. It may be fixed to the club head chamber 1404 by a landing technique or the like.

  42A-44 show a releasable connection 1104 showing all components mated together. In addition, as shown in FIGS. 39A, 39B, 42A, 43 and 44, the releasable connection 1104 may also include a shaft ring 1107. Shaft ring 1107 may provide a further smooth transition from shaft 1106 to shaft adapter 1200.

  In addition, FIG. 45 shows another method of rotating position indicator. The pivot position indicator 120 may be located on the grip 108 of the shaft 106. As shown in FIG. 45, the grip rotation position indicator 120 indicates the face angle with “O” representing the open face angle, “N” representing the neutral face angle, and “C” representing the close face angle. Without departing from the invention, other increments of face angles greater than three and multiple lofts and / or a combination of both may be utilized.

  In addition, the releasable connection assembly can be used in any desired manner without departing from the invention. Clubs having such a connection assembly can be designed to be used by golfers during play (and, in some cases, the golfers can place their placement relative to the shaft, head and / or each other as needed. You can change it freely.) As another example, if desired, a club that includes the releasable connection of the present invention can be used as a club fitting tool, when the desired combination of head, shaft and arrangement for a particular golfer is determined, The club builder can use the determined information to produce the final desired golf club product using conventional (and permanent) attachment techniques (eg, cement or adhesive). Other variations in club / shaft connection assembly parts and processes are possible without departing from the invention.

CONCLUSION Although the present invention has been described in detail with respect to specific examples including preferred embodiments for carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and modifications of the systems and methods described above. Accordingly, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the claims.

Claims (16)

A golf club head having a hosel area that provides access to a club head chamber defined in the club head ;
First end and a generally shaft adapter is cylindrical with opposite second end, an outer surface of the shaft adapter comprises a first rotation preventing structure, said first rotation preventing structure is the shaft A shaft adapter that is not uniform on the surface surrounding the outer surface of the adapter and wherein the second end includes a securing structure;
Generally a hosel adapter is cylindrical, inner bore of the first end of the hosel adapter comprises a second rotation inhibiting structure for engagement with said first rotation preventing structure, said second round The movement preventing structure is not uniform on the surface surrounding the inner bore of the first end of the hosel adapter, and further, the outer surface of the hosel adapter includes a third rotation preventing structure, and the third rotation preventing structure is A hosel adapter that is not uniform in the surface surrounding the outer surface of the hosel adapter;
An internal bore which is located on the club head chamber, the internal bore comprises a fourth rotation preventing structure for engagement with rotation inhibiting structure of said third, rotation preventing structure of said fourth is not uniform in the surface surrounding the internal bore, the internal bore;
Shaft engages in a circular column shape the internal chamber of the shaft adapter; and
A securing system for releasably securing the shaft adapter and the hosel adapter ;
Adjustment of one of the face angle or loft angle of the club head is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter, and adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle controls the second indicator on the shaft adapter. The face angle adjustment is substantially independent of the loft angle adjustment, and the loft angle adjustment is substantially independent of the face angle adjustment. A golf club.   The first rotation prevention structure includes a first spline arrangement form, the second rotation prevention structure includes a second spline arrangement form, and the third rotation prevention structure includes a third spline arrangement form. 2. The golf club according to claim 1, wherein the fourth rotation blocking structure includes a fourth spline arrangement form.   3. The golf club according to claim 2, wherein the engagement between the first spline configuration and the second spline configuration limits the loft angle adjustability to five different loft angles.   4. The golf club according to claim 3, wherein the five types of loft angles are 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °.   3. The golf club according to claim 2, wherein the engagement between the third spline arrangement form and the fourth spline arrangement form limits the adjustability of the face angle to three different face angle arrangement forms.   6. The golf club according to claim 5, wherein the three types of face angle arrangement forms are open, neutral, and closed.   A golf club having a releasably coupled head and shaft,
  A connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft;
    The connection mechanism is
      A hosel adapter that is insertable into the hosel of the head and is pivotable between a plurality of first pivot positions within the hosel;
      A shaft adapter coupled to the shaft at a distal end and configured to fit within the hosel adapter, the shaft being rotatable between a plurality of second rotational positions within the hosel adapter With adapter
    Including
  At least one of the hosel adapter or the shaft adapter is releasably connected to either the shaft or the head, and the first plurality of pivot positions is a first position between the head and the shaft. A second angular relationship between the head and the shaft, wherein the first angular relationship and the second angular relationship are changed. Are adjusted substantially independently of each other, and the first and second angular relationships are the face angle of the head and the loft angle of the head;
  Further, the first plurality of pivot positions are limited by a first spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the hosel of the head, and the second plurality of pivot positions is the hosel adapter. Limited by the second spline configuration between the shaft adapter and the shaft adapter;
  Adjustment of one of the face angle or loft angle of the head is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter, and adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle causes a second indicator on the shaft adapter to A first spline arrangement is defined by a first pair of non-rotating anti-rotation structures between the hosel adapter and the hosel, the second spline arrangement A golf club, wherein the form is defined by a second pair of non-uniform rotation blocking structures between the shaft adapter and the hosel adapter.   8. A golf club according to claim 7, wherein the engagement of the first spline configuration limits loft angle adjustability to five different loft angles.   9. The golf club according to claim 8, wherein the five types of loft angles are 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °.   8. A golf club according to claim 7, wherein the engagement of the second spline configuration limits the adjustability of the face angle to three different face angle configurations.   11. The golf club according to claim 10, wherein the three types of face angle arrangement forms are open, neutral, and closed.   A golf club having a releasably coupled head and shaft,
  A connection mechanism for coupling the head to the shaft;
    The connection mechanism is
      A hosel adapter that is insertable into the hosel of the head and is rotatable within the hosel between a plurality of first rotational positions corresponding to the loft angle of the head;
      A shaft adapter coupled to the shaft at an end and insertable into the hosel adapter, wherein the shaft adapter is rotatable between a plurality of second rotational positions corresponding to the face angle of the head within the hosel adapter. With a shaft adapter
    Including
  At least one of the hosel adapter or the shaft adapter is releasably connected to either the shaft or the head, and the first plurality of pivot positions change a loft angle of the head, A second plurality of pivot positions changes the face angle of the head and the shaft, the change in the face angle is substantially independent of the change in the loft angle, and the change in the loft angle is Is substantially independent of changes in face angle,
  Further, the first plurality of pivot positions are limited by a first spline arrangement between the hosel adapter and the hosel of the head, and the second plurality of pivot positions is the hosel adapter. Limited by the second spline configuration between the shaft adapter and the shaft adapter;
  Adjustment of one of the face angle or loft angle of the head is based on a first indicator on the hosel adapter, and adjustment of the other of the face angle or loft angle causes a second indicator on the shaft adapter to A first spline arrangement is defined by a first pair of non-rotating anti-rotation structures between the hosel adapter and the hosel, the second spline arrangement A golf club, wherein the form is defined by a second pair of non-uniform rotation blocking structures between the shaft adapter and the hosel adapter.   13. A golf club according to claim 12, wherein the engagement of the first spline configuration limits loft angle adjustability to five different loft angles.   14. The golf club according to claim 13, wherein the five types of loft angles are 8.5 °, 9.5 °, 10.5 °, 11.5 °, and 12.5 °.   13. A golf club according to claim 12, wherein engagement of the second spline configuration limits face angle adjustability to three different face angle configurations.   16. The golf club according to claim 15, wherein the three types of face angle arrangement are open, neutral, and closed.

Images