US20040142760A1 - Low torque composite golf shaft - Google Patents
Low torque composite golf shaft Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040142760A1 US20040142760A1 US10/349,161 US34916103A US2004142760A1 US 20040142760 A1 US20040142760 A1 US 20040142760A1 US 34916103 A US34916103 A US 34916103A US 2004142760 A1 US2004142760 A1 US 2004142760A1
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- Prior art keywords
- shaft
- mandrel
- longitudinal axis
- fibers
- layer
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/10—Non-metallic shafts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/0081—Substantially flexible shafts; Hinged shafts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/02—Characteristics of used materials with reinforcing fibres, e.g. carbon, polyamide fibres
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/08—Handles characterised by the material
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/10—Handles with means for indicating correct holding positions
Definitions
- the present invention relates to golf shafts and more particularly, to a golf shaft having a low torque performance profile.
- a modern trend within the golf industry is to employ larger and larger driver heads.
- the theory behind this trend is that a large driver head provides a bigger sweet spot on the face within which good momentum transfer will take place between the head and a golf ball. This should translate into greater distance.
- Club head misalignment can be influenced by controlling the torsional stiffness of the shaft.
- the torsional stiffness of the shaft resists the twisting of the club head during the swing and particularly when there is less than centered contact between the ball and head.
- Shafts having high torsional stiffness are available in the marketplace and are generally know as low torque shafts.
- One disadvantage of conventional low torque shafts is that a sacrifice in bending stiffness and weight is made in order to enhance torsional stiffness. That is, torsional resistance and bending stiffness are both increased in conventional low torque shafts. Bending stiffness provides the trajectory of the ball, the feel of the club, and contributes to the distance resulting from each hit. In general, shafts with a low bending stiffness are desirable for most golf shots.
- a golf shaft having a tip portion and a butt portion.
- a first torsionally resistant flag extends along the entire length of the shaft.
- a second torsionally resistant flag only extends over the tip portion of the shaft.
- the tip portion includes two torsionally resistant flags for providing enhanced torsion resistance without negatively impacting the binding stiffness or weight of the overall shaft.
- a plurality of bend stiffening flags are provided along the length of the shaft. These flags include a plurality of parallel fibers aligned axially relative to a longitudinal axis of the shaft. A plurality of crush resistant flags are also provided along the length of the shaft. These flags include a plurality of parallel fibers aligned perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. A first torsion resistant flag is provided along the length of the shaft and a second torsion resistant flag is provided along the tip portion of the shaft. The torsion resistant flags include a plurality of fibers arranged in a matrix extending at ⁇ 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
- FIG. 1 is a side view showing a golf club shaft with a grip and head shown in phantom;
- FIG. 2 is a view of a first flag of composite material having a first plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending angularly from one side of the flag to another side and woven with a second plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers which also extend from the one side to the other side of the flag all carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 3 is a view of a second flag of composite material having a first plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending angularly from one side of the flag to an opposite side and woven with a second plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers which also extend from the one side to the other side of the flag all carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 4 is a view of a third flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 5 is a view of a fourth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 6 is a view of a fifth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 7 is a view of a sixth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 8 is a view of a seventh flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one side to an opposite side of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 9 is a view of a eighth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one side to an opposite side of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 10 is a view of a ninth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one side to an opposite side of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 11 is a side view of a steel mandrel
- FIG. 12 is a graph showing the various diameters provided along the length of the mandrel shown in FIG. 11;
- FIG. 13 is a partial sectional view showing the flags of FIGS. 2 - 10 wrapped on the mandrel of FIG. 11;
- FIG. 14 is a partial sectional view showing the assembly of FIG. 13 after heat processing
- FIG. 15 is a graph showing the various wall thicknesses provided along the length of the shaft of FIG. 14;
- FIG. 16 is a graph showing the various outside diameters provided along the length of the shaft of FIG. 14;
- FIG. 17 is a graph showing the torsional resistance of the shaft of the present invention as compared to a conventional low torque shaft and a low modulus shaft of the prior art.
- FIG. 18 is a graph showing the bending stiffness of the shaft of the present invention as compared to a conventional low torque shaft and a low modulus shaft of the prior art.
- a golf club 10 including a shaft 12 , a club head 14 shown in phantom, and a grip 16 , also shown in phantom.
- the shaft 12 which is generally tubular with an central axial opening, includes a butt end 18 to which the grip 16 is attached and a tip end 20 to which the head 14 is secured.
- An intermediate section 22 of the shaft 12 extends between the butt end 18 and the tip end 20 thereof and tapers therebetween.
- the shaft 12 is preferably formed by a plurality of flags or sheets including a first flag 24 , a second flag 26 , a third flag 28 , a fourth flag 30 , a fifth flag 32 , a sixth flag 34 , a seventh flag 36 , an eighth flag 38 , and a ninth flag 40 , each of which is composed of a composite material including graphite fibers and an epoxy resin matrix which carries the fibers therein.
- the flags are typically cut to the desired dimensions from a larger rolls of materials.
- the first flag 24 includes a wide first end 42 and a narrow second end 44 axially spaced apart from the wide end 42 along an axis 46 .
- Side 48 extends parallel to the axis 46 from the wide end 42 to the narrow end 44 .
- Side 50 angles relative to the axis 46 from the wide end 42 to the narrow end 44 .
- the flag 24 includes a first set of parallel graphite fibers 52 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 54 which extend at an angle with respect to the axis 46 from the side 48 to the side 50 .
- a second set of parallel graphite fibers 56 carried by the epoxy matrix 54 extend at an angle relative to the axis 46 in a direction opposite the angular extension of the first set of fibers 52 such that the fibers 52 and 56 cross each other to form a biased ply.
- the off axis fibers 52 and 56 are also known in the art as cross plies and radials. Such off axis fibers provide a combination of torsional resistance and bending stiffness.
- the flag 24 is formed from two overlapping pieces of material 24 a and 24 b that are adhered to one-another to form the unitary flag 24 .
- the overlap of the material pieces 24 a and 24 b is preferably offset by an amount approximately equal to a quarter wrap of the circumference of the mandrel (described below) corresponding to that portion of the flag 24 . This promotes adhesion of the flag 24 to the mandrel.
- the material piece 24 a carries the first set of parallel fibers 52 while the second material piece 24 b carries the second set of parallel fibers 56 .
- the off-axis fibers 52 cross the axis 46 at an angle between thirty and sixty degrees and most preferably at an angle of forty-five degrees.
- the off-axis fibers 56 preferably cross the axis 46 at an angle between minus thirty and sixty degrees and most preferably at an angle of minus forty-five degrees.
- the fibers 52 cross the fibers 56 at an angle of ninety degrees. While other crossing angles could theoretically be used, a ⁇ 45 degree orientation provides maximum torsional resistance and medium bending stiffness.
- torsional stiffness increases along a bell curve from a minimum at a fiber alignment of 0 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft to a maximum at a fiber alignment of 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.
- the torsional stiffness decreases along the bell curve from the maximum at a fiber alignment of 45 degrees to a minimum at a fiber alignment of 90 degrees (relative to the longitudinal axis).
- bending stiffness linearly decreases from a maximum at a fiber alignment relative to the longitudinal axis of 0 degrees to a minimum at a fiber alignment relative to the longitudinal axis of 90 degrees.
- a fiber alignment of 45 degrees provides half the bending stiffness of fibers aligned at 0 degrees and twice the bending stiffness of fibers aligned at 90 degrees.
- flags including off-axis fibers are referred to as torsion resistant flags
- flags including fibers aligned at 0 degrees are referred to as bend stiffening flags
- flags including fibers aligned at 90 degrees are referred to as crush resistant flags.
- the fibers 52 are preferably overlapped with the fibers 56 .
- the fibers 52 and 56 could be woven in an interleaved fashion rather than being overlapped without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
- the torsion resistant flag 24 when it is desirable to provide a shaft 12 (FIG. 1) having an overall length of 46 inches, the torsion resistant flag 24 includes a 15 inch long side 48 , a 2.5 inch long first end 42 , and a 0.35 inch long second end 44 .
- the second flag 26 includes a first end 58 and a parallel second end 60 axially spaced apart from the first end 58 along an axis 62 . Sides 64 and 66 extend parallel to one another and the axis 62 between the first end 58 and the second end 60 . As with the first flag 24 , the second flag 26 includes a first set of graphite fibers 67 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 68 which extend at an angle with respect to the axis 62 from the side 64 to the side 66 .
- a second set of graphite fibers 70 carried by the epoxy matrix 68 extend at an angle relative to the axis 62 in a direction opposite the angular extension of the first set of fibers 67 such that the fibers 67 and 70 cross each other to form a biased ply.
- the second flag 26 is formed from two overlapping pieces of material 26 a and 26 b that are adhered to one-another to form the unitary flag 26 .
- the overlap of the material pieces 26 a and 26 b is preferably offset by an amount approximately equal to a quarter wrap of the circumference of the mandrel (described below) corresponding to that portion of the flag 26 .
- the material piece 26 a carries the first set of fibers 67 while the second material piece 26 b carries the second set of fibers 70 .
- the off-axis fibers 67 cross the axis 62 at an angle of forty-five degrees while the off-axis fibers 70 cross the axis 62 at an angle of minus forty-five degrees such that the fibers 67 cross the fibers 70 at an angle of ninety degrees.
- Other angles such as described with reference to the first flag 24 may also be used.
- an overlapping construction of the fibers 67 and 70 is preferred although a woven construction could also be used.
- the torsion resistant flag 26 includes 47 inch long sides 64 and 66 and 2.7 inch long ends 58 and 60 .
- the third flag 28 includes a wide first end 72 and a tip or vertex 74 axially spaced apart from the wide end 72 along an axis 76 .
- Side 78 extends parallel to the axis 76 from the wide end 72 to the vertex 74 .
- Side 80 angles relative to the axis 76 from the wide end 72 to the vertex 74 .
- the flag 28 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 82 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 84 which extend parallel with respect to the axis 76 from the wide end 72 to the vertex 74 . Fibers formed in this 0 degree direction provide maximum bending stiffness for the shaft 12 (FIG. 1).
- the bend stiffening flag 28 includes a 15 inch long side 78 and a 2 inch long end 72 .
- the fourth flag 30 includes a narrow first end 86 and a wide second end 88 axially spaced apart from the narrow end 86 along an axis 90 .
- Side 92 extends parallel to the axis 90 from the narrow end 86 to the wide end 88 .
- Side 94 angles relative to the axis 90 from the narrow end 86 to the wide end 88 .
- the direction of the angle of the side 94 is opposite to that of the first and third flags 24 and 28 .
- the flag 30 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 96 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 98 which extend parallel with respect to the axis 90 from the narrow end 86 to the wide end 88 .
- the bend stiffening flag 30 includes a 47 inch long side 92 , a 2.3 inch long narrow end 86 , and a 4.4 inch long wide end 88 .
- the flag 30 is then trimmed along the dot and dash line 99 shown in FIG. 5 from the wide end 88 such that the wide end 88 is 3.7 inches long and the side 94 includes a first portion 100 parallel to the axis 90 and a second portion 102 angled relative to the axis 90 . This ensures rotational consistency and ply-balancing when the flag is ultimately wrapped around a mandrel (described below).
- the fifth flag 32 includes a narrow first end 104 and a wide second end 106 axially spaced apart from the narrow end 104 along an axis 108 .
- Side 110 extends parallel to the axis 108 from the narrow end 104 to the wide end 106 .
- Side 112 angles relative to the axis 108 from the narrow end 104 to the wide end 106 .
- the side 112 angles in the same direction as the side 94 of the fourth flag 30 (FIG. 5.)
- the flag 32 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 114 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 116 which extend parallel with respect to the axis 108 from the narrow end 104 to the wide end 106 .
- the bend stiffening flag 32 includes a 47 inch long side 110 , a 1.2 inch long narrow end 104 , and a 2.3 inch long wide end 106 .
- the flag 32 is then trimmed along the dot and dash line 117 shown in FIG. 6 from the wide end 106 such that the wide end 106 is 1.9 inches long and the side 112 includes a first portion 118 parallel to the axis 108 and a second portion 120 angled relative to the axis 108 .
- the sixth flag 34 includes a wide first end 122 and a tip or vertex 124 axially spaced apart from the wide end 122 along an axis 126 .
- Side 128 extends parallel to the axis 126 from the wide end 122 to the vertex 124 .
- Side 130 angles relative to the axis 126 from the wide end 122 to the vertex 124 .
- the flag 34 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 132 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 134 which extend parallel with respect to the axis 126 from the wide end 122 to the vertex 124 .
- the bend stiffening flag 34 includes an 8 inch long side 128 and a 2 inch long end 122 .
- the seventh flag 36 includes a narrow first end 136 and a wide second end 138 axially spaced apart from the narrow end 136 along an axis 140 .
- Side 142 extends parallel to the axis 140 from the narrow end 136 to the wide end 138 .
- Side 144 angles relative to the axis 140 from the narrow end 136 to the wide end 138 .
- the side 144 angles in the same direction as the sides 94 and 112 of the fourth and fifth flags 30 and 32 (FIGS. 5 and 6.)
- the flag 36 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 146 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 148 which extend perpendicular with respect to the axis 140 from the side 142 to the side 144 .
- the crush resistant flag 36 includes a 47 inch long side 142 , a 2.3 inch long narrow end 136 , and a 4.4 inch long wide end 138 .
- the eighth flag 38 includes first and second ends 150 and 152 axially spaced apart along an axis 154 . Unlike the second end 152 which is perpendicular to the axis 154 , the first end 150 angles relative to the axis 154 to provide a more abrupt taper in the form of a step in the final sidewall of the shaft 12 (FIG. 12). Sides 156 and 158 are spaced apart from one another and extend parallel to the axis 154 from the first end 150 to the second end 152 .
- the flag 38 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 160 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 162 which extend perpendicular with respect to the axis 154 from the side 156 to the side 158 .
- the crush resistant flag 38 includes a 24 inch long side 156 , a 23 inch long side 158 , and a 3.8 inch long second end 150 .
- the ninth flag 40 includes a first end 164 and a parallel second end 166 axially spaced apart from the first end 164 along an axis 168 . Sides 170 and 172 are spaced apart from one another and extend parallel to the axis 168 between the first end 164 and the second end 166 .
- the flag 40 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 174 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 176 which extend perpendicular with respect to the axis 168 from the side 170 to the side 172 .
- the crush resistant flag 40 includes 0.25 inch long sides 170 and 172 and 3 inch long ends 164 and 166 .
- the ninth flag 40 forms what is known in the art as a dog-knot which is used for pulling the shaft during the manufacturing process. This dog-knot is usually cut off to form the final shaft.
- the composite material of the first—ninth flags include graphite fibers and an epoxy resin matrix.
- the fibers could be formed from fiberglass, aramid, boron or other suitable fiber materials
- the epoxy resin matrix could be polyester, vinylester, nylon, or any other suitable thermoset or thermoplastic matrix, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
- FIGS. 2 - 10 the number of fibers shown in FIGS. 2 - 10 is limited for illustration purposes only to show the alignment and orientation of the much larger number of fibers actually contained in each flag.
- the orientation of the fibers controls the functional or style of the flag. That is, the biased or off-axis fibers (cross-plies) in FIGS. 2 and 3 provide torsion resistant flags 24 and 26 .
- the parallel fibers aligned axially relative to the longitudinal axes in FIGS. 4 - 7 provide bend stiffening flags 28 , 30 , 32 and 34 .
- the parallel fibers aligned perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axes in FIGS. 8 - 10 provide the crush resistant flags 36 , 38 and 40 .
- a rigid mandrel 178 having a rod-like shape and is formed from any suitable material such as, for example, steel.
- the mandrel 178 is formed with a small end section 180 and a large end section 182 opposite the small end section 180 along an axis 184 .
- the mandrel 178 also includes first divergent section 186 extending from the small end 180 to a second divergent section 188 .
- the second divergent section 188 extends to a third divergent section 190 which extends to a fourth divergent section 192 .
- the fourth divergent section 192 extends to a fifth divergent section 194 which terminates at the large end 182 .
- the mandrel illustrated in FIG. 11 includes exaggerated divergences for ease of viewing.
- the first divergent section 186 preferably has a length of 10 inches with a diameter at the small end 180 of 0.135 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.217 inch.
- the second divergent section 188 preferably has a length of 8.7 inches, a diameter at the end of the first divergent section 186 of 0.217 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.41 inch.
- the third divergent section 190 preferably has a length of 14.5 inches, a diameter at the end of the second divergent section 188 of 0.41 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.531 inch.
- the fourth divergent section 192 preferably has a length of 8.8 inches, a diameter at the end of the third divergent section 190 of 0.531 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.537 inch.
- the fifth divergent section 194 preferably has a length of 14 inches, a diameter at the end of the fourth divergent section 192 of 0.537 inch and a diameter at the large end 182 of 0.54 inch.
- the first—ninth flags are consecutively wrapped over the mandrel 178 .
- the diameter to length ratio of the mandrel 178 is grossly exaggerated to enable the various flags wrapped thereabout to be more easily recognized.
- the first flag 24 is initially wrapped over a first axial end of the mandrel 178 known as the tip section.
- the angled side 50 shown in FIG. 2 causes to flag 24 to taper along the length of the mandrel 178 .
- the angled sides or ends of other flags provide the same result.
- the second flag 26 is wrapped over the first flag 24 and the remainder of the mandrel 178 .
- the third flag 28 is wrapped over the second flag 26 adjacent the tip end of the mandrel 178 .
- the fourth flag 30 is wrapped over the third flag 28 and second flag 26 along the length of the mandrel 178 .
- the fifth flag 32 is wrapped over the fourth flag 30 ;
- the sixth flag 34 is wrapped over the fifth flag 32 adjacent the tip end of the mandrel 178 ;
- the seventh flag 36 is wrapped over the sixth flag 34 and the fifth flag 32 along the length of the mandrel 178 ;
- the eighth flag 38 is wrapped over the seventh flag 36 proximate the butt end of the mandrel 178 .
- the ninth flag 40 is wrapped over the eighth flag 38 adjacent the butt end of the shaft.
- the torsional characteristics of the shaft 12 are not only dictated by the torsion resistant second flag 26 , but also by the torsion resistant first flag 24 .
- the first flag 24 since the first flag 24 is only wrapped around the mandrel 178 in a location that will eventually form the tip section of the shaft, the first flag 24 only effects the torsional characteristics of the tip end of the shaft.
- the torsional resistance of the shaft 12 is specifically tailored within the tip section, where it is needed the most, to provide the desired effect during the down-swing and at club head/ball impact.
- the first flag 24 does not negatively impact the bending stiffness of the shaft but rather improves the bending stiffness of the shaft, particularly in the tip section.
- a heat shrinkable film (not shown) is wrapped around the sub-assembly 196 so that all portions of the flags are confined between the mandrel 178 and the heat-shrinkable film.
- the film-wrapped sub-assembly 196 is then processed through a heated environment where the epoxy resin matrices of the flags liquefy and generally blend together as a homogeneous mass. During this process, the film shrinks to generally define the exterior shape of the shaft.
- the film-wrapped sub-assembly 196 is then removed from the heated environment and is cooled to cure the homogenized epoxy resin.
- the result is the cured mass of plastic material 198 shown in FIG. 14 defined by the mandrel 178 and film.
- the film and mandrel are then removed to reveal the shaft 12 (FIG. 1) generally in the configuration shown in FIG. 14.
- a size-grinding process and a surface finishing process may then be performed to provide the shaft with the desired shape, parameters, and surface finish.
- the preferred wall thicknesses of the shaft are shown in FIG. 15 and the preferred outside diameters of the shaft are shown in FIG. 16.
- the shaft of the present invention provides enhanced torsional resistance at the tip.
- the shaft of the present invention does this without degrading the bending stiffness of the shaft.
- FIG. 17 shows a torsional resistance comparison of the shaft of the present invention (line 200 ) with a conventional low torque shaft (line 202 ) and a standard modulus shaft (line 204 ).
- the new shaft provides about a 40% increase in torsional resistance at the tip end of the shaft as compared with prior art low torque shafts.
- FIG. 17 shows a torsional resistance comparison of the shaft of the present invention (line 200 ) with a conventional low torque shaft (line 202 ) and a standard modulus shaft (line 204 ).
- the new shaft provides about a 40% increase in torsional resistance at the tip end of the shaft as compared with prior art low torque shafts.
- FIG. 17 shows a torsional resistance comparison of the shaft of the present invention (line 200 ) with a conventional low torque shaft (line 202 ) and a standard modulus shaft
- the new shaft increases torsional resistance in the tip without sacrificing bending stiffness.
- the new shaft provides a 20% improvement in bending stiffness at the tip end of the shaft as compared to prior art low torque shafts.
- the shaft of the present invention has characteristics which make it very suitable for today's new generation of oversized driver heads.
- the high torsional stiffness of the tip promotes correct alignment of the head through impact to maximize shot accuracy. Maintaining a low bending stiffness in the tip provides a smooth, solid feel and a desirable ball trajectory.
- these characteristics are achieved at an ultralight weight which helps the golfer swing the club faster to achieve more distance.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to golf shafts and more particularly, to a golf shaft having a low torque performance profile.
- A modern trend within the golf industry is to employ larger and larger driver heads. The theory behind this trend is that a large driver head provides a bigger sweet spot on the face within which good momentum transfer will take place between the head and a golf ball. This should translate into greater distance.
- One drawback of large driver heads is that they are more difficult to control than conventional sized driver heads. As such, the user may gain greater distance but will sacrifice shot accuracy. Much of the loss in shot accuracy is attributable to the misalignment of the driver head with the ball at impact. The center of gravity of a large driver head is offset from the longitudinal axis of the shaft by a great distance. The inertia forces set up during a down swing induce twisting in the shaft which affects the alignment of the head relative to the ball at impact. This problem is exacerbated if the ball makes contact towards the toe of the head.
- Club head misalignment can be influenced by controlling the torsional stiffness of the shaft. The torsional stiffness of the shaft resists the twisting of the club head during the swing and particularly when there is less than centered contact between the ball and head. Shafts having high torsional stiffness are available in the marketplace and are generally know as low torque shafts.
- One disadvantage of conventional low torque shafts is that a sacrifice in bending stiffness and weight is made in order to enhance torsional stiffness. That is, torsional resistance and bending stiffness are both increased in conventional low torque shafts. Bending stiffness provides the trajectory of the ball, the feel of the club, and contributes to the distance resulting from each hit. In general, shafts with a low bending stiffness are desirable for most golf shots.
- Recent studies have shown that only the tip section of the shaft provides the torsional resistance necessary to prevent club head twisting at impact. This is because contact between the club head and ball is a very brief dynamic event and only the tip section of the shaft gets loaded during this time period. The event is effectively over before the full length of the shaft is loaded.
- In view of the foregoing, it would be desirable to provide a composite shaft that incorporates the benefits of a torsionally stiff tip section without increasing the bending stiffness in the tip area as usually associated with low torque graphite shafts. By not increasing the bending stiffness of the tip, a lower bend point is provided for the shaft which maintains good overall feel. The lower bend point will also promote a desirable high ball trajectory.
- A golf shaft is provided having a tip portion and a butt portion. A first torsionally resistant flag extends along the entire length of the shaft. A second torsionally resistant flag only extends over the tip portion of the shaft. In this way, the tip portion includes two torsionally resistant flags for providing enhanced torsion resistance without negatively impacting the binding stiffness or weight of the overall shaft.
- In one embodiment, a plurality of bend stiffening flags are provided along the length of the shaft. These flags include a plurality of parallel fibers aligned axially relative to a longitudinal axis of the shaft. A plurality of crush resistant flags are also provided along the length of the shaft. These flags include a plurality of parallel fibers aligned perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. A first torsion resistant flag is provided along the length of the shaft and a second torsion resistant flag is provided along the tip portion of the shaft. The torsion resistant flags include a plurality of fibers arranged in a matrix extending at ±45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
- Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
- The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a side view showing a golf club shaft with a grip and head shown in phantom;
- FIG. 2 is a view of a first flag of composite material having a first plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending angularly from one side of the flag to another side and woven with a second plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers which also extend from the one side to the other side of the flag all carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 3 is a view of a second flag of composite material having a first plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending angularly from one side of the flag to an opposite side and woven with a second plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers which also extend from the one side to the other side of the flag all carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 4 is a view of a third flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 5 is a view of a fourth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 6 is a view of a fifth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 7 is a view of a sixth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one end to an opposite end of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 8 is a view of a seventh flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one side to an opposite side of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 9 is a view of a eighth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one side to an opposite side of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 10 is a view of a ninth flag of composite material having a plurality of parallel non-metallic fibers extending from one side to an opposite side of the flag carried in an uncured plastic material;
- FIG. 11 is a side view of a steel mandrel;
- FIG. 12 is a graph showing the various diameters provided along the length of the mandrel shown in FIG. 11;
- FIG. 13 is a partial sectional view showing the flags of FIGS.2-10 wrapped on the mandrel of FIG. 11;
- FIG. 14 is a partial sectional view showing the assembly of FIG. 13 after heat processing;
- FIG. 15 is a graph showing the various wall thicknesses provided along the length of the shaft of FIG. 14;
- FIG. 16 is a graph showing the various outside diameters provided along the length of the shaft of FIG. 14;
- FIG. 17 is a graph showing the torsional resistance of the shaft of the present invention as compared to a conventional low torque shaft and a low modulus shaft of the prior art; and
- FIG. 18 is a graph showing the bending stiffness of the shaft of the present invention as compared to a conventional low torque shaft and a low modulus shaft of the prior art.
- The following description of the preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
- Referring to FIG. 1, a
golf club 10 is illustrated including ashaft 12, aclub head 14 shown in phantom, and agrip 16, also shown in phantom. Theshaft 12, which is generally tubular with an central axial opening, includes abutt end 18 to which thegrip 16 is attached and atip end 20 to which thehead 14 is secured. Anintermediate section 22 of theshaft 12 extends between thebutt end 18 and thetip end 20 thereof and tapers therebetween. - As shown in FIGS.2-10, the
shaft 12 is preferably formed by a plurality of flags or sheets including afirst flag 24, asecond flag 26, athird flag 28, afourth flag 30, afifth flag 32, asixth flag 34, aseventh flag 36, aneighth flag 38, and aninth flag 40, each of which is composed of a composite material including graphite fibers and an epoxy resin matrix which carries the fibers therein. The flags are typically cut to the desired dimensions from a larger rolls of materials. - As shown in FIG. 2, the
first flag 24 includes a widefirst end 42 and a narrowsecond end 44 axially spaced apart from thewide end 42 along anaxis 46. Side 48 extends parallel to theaxis 46 from thewide end 42 to thenarrow end 44.Side 50 angles relative to theaxis 46 from thewide end 42 to thenarrow end 44. Theflag 24 includes a first set ofparallel graphite fibers 52 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 54 which extend at an angle with respect to theaxis 46 from the side 48 to theside 50. A second set ofparallel graphite fibers 56 carried by theepoxy matrix 54 extend at an angle relative to theaxis 46 in a direction opposite the angular extension of the first set offibers 52 such that thefibers axis fibers - In one embodiment, the
flag 24 is formed from two overlapping pieces of material 24 a and 24 b that are adhered to one-another to form theunitary flag 24. The overlap of the material pieces 24 a and 24 b is preferably offset by an amount approximately equal to a quarter wrap of the circumference of the mandrel (described below) corresponding to that portion of theflag 24. This promotes adhesion of theflag 24 to the mandrel. It should also be appreciated that the material piece 24 a carries the first set ofparallel fibers 52 while the second material piece 24 b carries the second set ofparallel fibers 56. When the two pieces of material 24 a and 24 b are adhered to one another to form theunitary flag 24, thefibers longitudinal axis 46 at opposite angles so as to cross one another and form the biased ply. - Preferably, the off-
axis fibers 52 cross theaxis 46 at an angle between thirty and sixty degrees and most preferably at an angle of forty-five degrees. The off-axis fibers 56 preferably cross theaxis 46 at an angle between minus thirty and sixty degrees and most preferably at an angle of minus forty-five degrees. At ±45 degrees, thefibers 52 cross thefibers 56 at an angle of ninety degrees. While other crossing angles could theoretically be used, a ±45 degree orientation provides maximum torsional resistance and medium bending stiffness. That is, torsional stiffness increases along a bell curve from a minimum at a fiber alignment of 0 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft to a maximum at a fiber alignment of 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. The torsional stiffness decreases along the bell curve from the maximum at a fiber alignment of 45 degrees to a minimum at a fiber alignment of 90 degrees (relative to the longitudinal axis). - In contrast, bending stiffness linearly decreases from a maximum at a fiber alignment relative to the longitudinal axis of 0 degrees to a minimum at a fiber alignment relative to the longitudinal axis of 90 degrees. A fiber alignment of 45 degrees provides half the bending stiffness of fibers aligned at 0 degrees and twice the bending stiffness of fibers aligned at 90 degrees. For the purpose of this disclosure, flags including off-axis fibers are referred to as torsion resistant flags, flags including fibers aligned at 0 degrees are referred to as bend stiffening flags, and flags including fibers aligned at 90 degrees are referred to as crush resistant flags.
- Further, as described above, the
fibers 52 are preferably overlapped with thefibers 56. Alternatively, thefibers resistant flag 24 includes a 15 inch long side 48, a 2.5 inch longfirst end 42, and a 0.35 inch longsecond end 44. - Referring to FIG. 3, the
second flag 26 includes afirst end 58 and a parallelsecond end 60 axially spaced apart from thefirst end 58 along anaxis 62.Sides axis 62 between thefirst end 58 and thesecond end 60. As with thefirst flag 24, thesecond flag 26 includes a first set ofgraphite fibers 67 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 68 which extend at an angle with respect to theaxis 62 from theside 64 to theside 66. A second set ofgraphite fibers 70 carried by theepoxy matrix 68 extend at an angle relative to theaxis 62 in a direction opposite the angular extension of the first set offibers 67 such that thefibers - Also as with the
first flag 24, thesecond flag 26 is formed from two overlapping pieces of material 26 a and 26 b that are adhered to one-another to form theunitary flag 26. The overlap of the material pieces 26 a and 26 b is preferably offset by an amount approximately equal to a quarter wrap of the circumference of the mandrel (described below) corresponding to that portion of theflag 26. The material piece 26 a carries the first set offibers 67 while the second material piece 26 b carries the second set offibers 70. When the two pieces of material 26 a and 26 b are adhered to one another to form theunitary flag 26, thefibers longitudinal axis 62 at opposite angles so as to cross one another and form the biased ply. - In one embodiment, the off-
axis fibers 67 cross theaxis 62 at an angle of forty-five degrees while the off-axis fibers 70 cross theaxis 62 at an angle of minus forty-five degrees such that thefibers 67 cross thefibers 70 at an angle of ninety degrees. Other angles such as described with reference to thefirst flag 24 may also be used. Also, an overlapping construction of thefibers resistant flag 26 includes 47 inch long sides 64 and 66 and 2.7 inch long ends 58 and 60. - Referring to FIG. 4, the
third flag 28 includes a widefirst end 72 and a tip orvertex 74 axially spaced apart from thewide end 72 along anaxis 76. Side 78 extends parallel to theaxis 76 from thewide end 72 to thevertex 74.Side 80 angles relative to theaxis 76 from thewide end 72 to thevertex 74. Theflag 28 includes a plurality of spacedparallel graphite fibers 82 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 84 which extend parallel with respect to theaxis 76 from thewide end 72 to thevertex 74. Fibers formed in this 0 degree direction provide maximum bending stiffness for the shaft 12 (FIG. 1). For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), thebend stiffening flag 28 includes a 15 inch long side 78 and a 2 inchlong end 72. - Referring to FIG. 5, the
fourth flag 30 includes a narrowfirst end 86 and a widesecond end 88 axially spaced apart from thenarrow end 86 along anaxis 90.Side 92 extends parallel to theaxis 90 from thenarrow end 86 to thewide end 88.Side 94 angles relative to theaxis 90 from thenarrow end 86 to thewide end 88. The direction of the angle of theside 94 is opposite to that of the first andthird flags flag 30 includes a plurality of spacedparallel graphite fibers 96 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 98 which extend parallel with respect to theaxis 90 from thenarrow end 86 to thewide end 88. For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), thebend stiffening flag 30 includes a 47 inchlong side 92, a 2.3 inch longnarrow end 86, and a 4.4 inch longwide end 88. Theflag 30 is then trimmed along the dot and dashline 99 shown in FIG. 5 from thewide end 88 such that thewide end 88 is 3.7 inches long and theside 94 includes afirst portion 100 parallel to theaxis 90 and asecond portion 102 angled relative to theaxis 90. This ensures rotational consistency and ply-balancing when the flag is ultimately wrapped around a mandrel (described below). - Referring to FIG. 6, the
fifth flag 32 includes a narrowfirst end 104 and a widesecond end 106 axially spaced apart from thenarrow end 104 along anaxis 108.Side 110 extends parallel to theaxis 108 from thenarrow end 104 to thewide end 106. Side 112 angles relative to theaxis 108 from thenarrow end 104 to thewide end 106. The side 112 angles in the same direction as theside 94 of the fourth flag 30 (FIG. 5.) Theflag 32 includes a plurality of spaced parallel graphite fibers 114 carried by an epoxy resin matrix 116 which extend parallel with respect to theaxis 108 from thenarrow end 104 to thewide end 106. For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), thebend stiffening flag 32 includes a 47 inchlong side 110, a 1.2 inch longnarrow end 104, and a 2.3 inch longwide end 106. Theflag 32 is then trimmed along the dot and dashline 117 shown in FIG. 6 from thewide end 106 such that thewide end 106 is 1.9 inches long and the side 112 includes afirst portion 118 parallel to theaxis 108 and asecond portion 120 angled relative to theaxis 108. - Referring to FIG. 7, the
sixth flag 34 includes a widefirst end 122 and a tip orvertex 124 axially spaced apart from thewide end 122 along an axis 126. Side 128 extends parallel to the axis 126 from thewide end 122 to thevertex 124. Side 130 angles relative to the axis 126 from thewide end 122 to thevertex 124. Theflag 34 includes a plurality of spacedparallel graphite fibers 132 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 134 which extend parallel with respect to the axis 126 from thewide end 122 to thevertex 124. For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), thebend stiffening flag 34 includes an 8 inch long side 128 and a 2 inchlong end 122. - Referring to FIG. 8, the
seventh flag 36 includes a narrowfirst end 136 and a widesecond end 138 axially spaced apart from thenarrow end 136 along anaxis 140. Side 142 extends parallel to theaxis 140 from thenarrow end 136 to thewide end 138. Side 144 angles relative to theaxis 140 from thenarrow end 136 to thewide end 138. The side 144 angles in the same direction as thesides 94 and 112 of the fourth andfifth flags 30 and 32 (FIGS. 5 and 6.) Theflag 36 includes a plurality of spacedparallel graphite fibers 146 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 148 which extend perpendicular with respect to theaxis 140 from the side 142 to the side 144. Fibers oriented in this 90 degree direction provide maximum hoop strength or crushing resistance in the resulting shaft. For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), the crushresistant flag 36 includes a 47 inch long side 142, a 2.3 inch longnarrow end 136, and a 4.4 inch longwide end 138. - Referring to FIG. 9, the
eighth flag 38 includes first and second ends 150 and 152 axially spaced apart along anaxis 154. Unlike thesecond end 152 which is perpendicular to theaxis 154, thefirst end 150 angles relative to theaxis 154 to provide a more abrupt taper in the form of a step in the final sidewall of the shaft 12 (FIG. 12). Sides 156 and 158 are spaced apart from one another and extend parallel to theaxis 154 from thefirst end 150 to thesecond end 152. Theflag 38 includes a plurality of spacedparallel graphite fibers 160 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 162 which extend perpendicular with respect to theaxis 154 from the side 156 to the side 158. For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), the crushresistant flag 38 includes a 24 inch long side 156, a 23 inch long side 158, and a 3.8 inch longsecond end 150. - Referring to FIG. 10, the
ninth flag 40 includes afirst end 164 and a parallelsecond end 166 axially spaced apart from thefirst end 164 along anaxis 168.Sides axis 168 between thefirst end 164 and thesecond end 166. Theflag 40 includes a plurality of spacedparallel graphite fibers 174 carried by anepoxy resin matrix 176 which extend perpendicular with respect to theaxis 168 from theside 170 to theside 172. For a 46 inch shaft 12 (FIG. 1), the crushresistant flag 40 includes 0.25 inchlong sides ninth flag 40 forms what is known in the art as a dog-knot which is used for pulling the shaft during the manufacturing process. This dog-knot is usually cut off to form the final shaft. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the composite material of the first—ninth flags include graphite fibers and an epoxy resin matrix. However, the fibers could be formed from fiberglass, aramid, boron or other suitable fiber materials, and the epoxy resin matrix could be polyester, vinylester, nylon, or any other suitable thermoset or thermoplastic matrix, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
- It is noted that the number of fibers shown in FIGS.2-10 is limited for illustration purposes only to show the alignment and orientation of the much larger number of fibers actually contained in each flag. As noted above, the orientation of the fibers controls the functional or style of the flag. That is, the biased or off-axis fibers (cross-plies) in FIGS. 2 and 3 provide torsion
resistant flags bend stiffening flags resistant flags - Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a
rigid mandrel 178 having a rod-like shape and is formed from any suitable material such as, for example, steel. Themandrel 178 is formed with asmall end section 180 and alarge end section 182 opposite thesmall end section 180 along anaxis 184. Themandrel 178 also includes firstdivergent section 186 extending from thesmall end 180 to a second divergent section 188. The second divergent section 188 extends to a third divergent section 190 which extends to a fourth divergent section 192. The fourth divergent section 192 extends to a fifthdivergent section 194 which terminates at thelarge end 182. The mandrel illustrated in FIG. 11 includes exaggerated divergences for ease of viewing. - For a 46 inch shaft12 (FIG. 1), the first
divergent section 186 preferably has a length of 10 inches with a diameter at thesmall end 180 of 0.135 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.217 inch. The second divergent section 188 preferably has a length of 8.7 inches, a diameter at the end of the firstdivergent section 186 of 0.217 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.41 inch. The third divergent section 190 preferably has a length of 14.5 inches, a diameter at the end of the second divergent section 188 of 0.41 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.531 inch. The fourth divergent section 192 preferably has a length of 8.8 inches, a diameter at the end of the third divergent section 190 of 0.531 inch and a diameter at an opposite end of 0.537 inch. The fifthdivergent section 194 preferably has a length of 14 inches, a diameter at the end of the fourth divergent section 192 of 0.537 inch and a diameter at thelarge end 182 of 0.54 inch. - Referring to FIG. 13, in the manufacture of the shaft12 (FIG. 1), the first—ninth flags are consecutively wrapped over the
mandrel 178. In this illustration, the diameter to length ratio of themandrel 178 is grossly exaggerated to enable the various flags wrapped thereabout to be more easily recognized. During manufacture, thefirst flag 24 is initially wrapped over a first axial end of themandrel 178 known as the tip section. Theangled side 50 shown in FIG. 2 causes toflag 24 to taper along the length of themandrel 178. The angled sides or ends of other flags provide the same result. - Next, the
second flag 26 is wrapped over thefirst flag 24 and the remainder of themandrel 178. Thereafter, thethird flag 28 is wrapped over thesecond flag 26 adjacent the tip end of themandrel 178. Next, thefourth flag 30 is wrapped over thethird flag 28 andsecond flag 26 along the length of themandrel 178. Thereafter and in consecutive steps: thefifth flag 32 is wrapped over thefourth flag 30; thesixth flag 34 is wrapped over thefifth flag 32 adjacent the tip end of themandrel 178; theseventh flag 36 is wrapped over thesixth flag 34 and thefifth flag 32 along the length of themandrel 178; and theeighth flag 38 is wrapped over theseventh flag 36 proximate the butt end of themandrel 178. Finally, theninth flag 40 is wrapped over theeighth flag 38 adjacent the butt end of the shaft. - Advantageously, the torsional characteristics of the
shaft 12 are not only dictated by the torsion resistantsecond flag 26, but also by the torsion resistantfirst flag 24. In this regard, since thefirst flag 24 is only wrapped around themandrel 178 in a location that will eventually form the tip section of the shaft, thefirst flag 24 only effects the torsional characteristics of the tip end of the shaft. As such, the torsional resistance of theshaft 12 is specifically tailored within the tip section, where it is needed the most, to provide the desired effect during the down-swing and at club head/ball impact. Moreover, thefirst flag 24 does not negatively impact the bending stiffness of the shaft but rather improves the bending stiffness of the shaft, particularly in the tip section. - Upon the completion of the assembly of the flags on the
mandrel 178 as described above, a heat shrinkable film (not shown) is wrapped around the sub-assembly 196 so that all portions of the flags are confined between themandrel 178 and the heat-shrinkable film. The film-wrappedsub-assembly 196 is then processed through a heated environment where the epoxy resin matrices of the flags liquefy and generally blend together as a homogeneous mass. During this process, the film shrinks to generally define the exterior shape of the shaft. The film-wrappedsub-assembly 196 is then removed from the heated environment and is cooled to cure the homogenized epoxy resin. The result is the cured mass ofplastic material 198 shown in FIG. 14 defined by themandrel 178 and film. The film and mandrel are then removed to reveal the shaft 12 (FIG. 1) generally in the configuration shown in FIG. 14. A size-grinding process and a surface finishing process may then be performed to provide the shaft with the desired shape, parameters, and surface finish. The preferred wall thicknesses of the shaft are shown in FIG. 15 and the preferred outside diameters of the shaft are shown in FIG. 16. - As compared to shafts of the prior art, the shaft of the present invention provides enhanced torsional resistance at the tip. Advantageously, the shaft of the present invention does this without degrading the bending stiffness of the shaft. For example, FIG. 17 shows a torsional resistance comparison of the shaft of the present invention (line200) with a conventional low torque shaft (line 202) and a standard modulus shaft (line 204). As can be seen, the new shaft provides about a 40% increase in torsional resistance at the tip end of the shaft as compared with prior art low torque shafts. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 18 where the bending stiffness of the new shaft (line 206) is compared with a conventional low torque shaft (line 208) and a standard modulus shaft (line 210), the new shaft increases torsional resistance in the tip without sacrificing bending stiffness. In fact, the new shaft provides a 20% improvement in bending stiffness at the tip end of the shaft as compared to prior art low torque shafts.
- It can be appreciated from the forgoing that the shaft of the present invention has characteristics which make it very suitable for today's new generation of oversized driver heads. The high torsional stiffness of the tip promotes correct alignment of the head through impact to maximize shot accuracy. Maintaining a low bending stiffness in the tip provides a smooth, solid feel and a desirable ball trajectory. Advantageously, these characteristics are achieved at an ultralight weight which helps the golfer swing the club faster to achieve more distance.
- The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (24)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/349,161 US20040142760A1 (en) | 2003-01-22 | 2003-01-22 | Low torque composite golf shaft |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/349,161 US20040142760A1 (en) | 2003-01-22 | 2003-01-22 | Low torque composite golf shaft |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20040142760A1 true US20040142760A1 (en) | 2004-07-22 |
Family
ID=32712678
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/349,161 Abandoned US20040142760A1 (en) | 2003-01-22 | 2003-01-22 | Low torque composite golf shaft |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20040142760A1 (en) |
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US20090305809A1 (en) * | 2008-06-05 | 2009-12-10 | Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd. | Golf club shaft and golf club therewith |
US20090305810A1 (en) * | 2006-09-01 | 2009-12-10 | Yong Kim | Shaft for golf club with overlapped joint |
JP2013103009A (en) * | 2011-11-15 | 2013-05-30 | Bridgestone Sports Co Ltd | Golf club |
JP2014061277A (en) * | 2012-08-29 | 2014-04-10 | Mitsubishi Rayon Co Ltd | Shaft for golf club |
JP2015070888A (en) * | 2013-10-02 | 2015-04-16 | ダンロップスポーツ株式会社 | Shaft for golf club |
JP2015231426A (en) * | 2014-06-09 | 2015-12-24 | ブリヂストンスポーツ株式会社 | Golf club and shaft |
JP2017164008A (en) * | 2016-03-14 | 2017-09-21 | ダンロップスポーツ株式会社 | Golf club shaft |
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US20180015339A1 (en) * | 2012-08-31 | 2018-01-18 | Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation | Golf club shaft |
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US20180071598A1 (en) * | 2016-09-09 | 2018-03-15 | Dunlop Sports Co. Ltd. | Golf club shaft |
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JP2018121828A (en) * | 2017-01-31 | 2018-08-09 | グローブライド株式会社 | Golf club |
US20190209903A1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2019-07-11 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
US20190232130A1 (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2019-08-01 | Breakthrough Golf Technology, Llc | Golf Shaft |
JP2019136281A (en) * | 2018-02-09 | 2019-08-22 | グローブライド株式会社 | Golf club |
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US20090305810A1 (en) * | 2006-09-01 | 2009-12-10 | Yong Kim | Shaft for golf club with overlapped joint |
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JP2017164008A (en) * | 2016-03-14 | 2017-09-21 | ダンロップスポーツ株式会社 | Golf club shaft |
JP2018000397A (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2018-01-11 | ダンロップスポーツ株式会社 | Golf club |
JP2018019995A (en) * | 2016-08-05 | 2018-02-08 | ダンロップスポーツ株式会社 | Golf club shaft |
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US20180071598A1 (en) * | 2016-09-09 | 2018-03-15 | Dunlop Sports Co. Ltd. | Golf club shaft |
US11235214B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2022-02-01 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
US20190209903A1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2019-07-11 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
US11918873B2 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2024-03-05 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
JP7277633B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2023-05-19 | カーステン マニュファクチュアリング コーポレーション | Diameter profile golf club shaft for reduced drag |
US10758796B2 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2020-09-01 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
JP2022078195A (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2022-05-24 | カーステン マニュファクチュアリング コーポレーション | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
US20220143479A1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2022-05-12 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Diameter profiled golf club shaft to reduce drag |
JP2018089204A (en) * | 2016-12-06 | 2018-06-14 | キャスコ株式会社 | Shaft for golf club |
JP2018121828A (en) * | 2017-01-31 | 2018-08-09 | グローブライド株式会社 | Golf club |
US20190232130A1 (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2019-08-01 | Breakthrough Golf Technology, Llc | Golf Shaft |
US11045700B2 (en) | 2018-01-31 | 2021-06-29 | Breakthrough Golf Technology, Llc | Golf shaft |
US10857433B2 (en) | 2018-01-31 | 2020-12-08 | Breakthrough Golf Technology, Llc | Golf shaft system and golf shaft |
US11358041B2 (en) | 2018-01-31 | 2022-06-14 | Breakthrough Golf Technology Llc | Golf shaft system and golf shaft |
US10729952B2 (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2020-08-04 | Breakthrough Golf Technology, Llc | Golf shaft |
US11752407B2 (en) | 2018-01-31 | 2023-09-12 | Breakthrough Golf Technology Llc | Golf shaft system and golf shaft |
JP2019136281A (en) * | 2018-02-09 | 2019-08-22 | グローブライド株式会社 | Golf club |
JP2020178780A (en) * | 2019-04-23 | 2020-11-05 | 住友ゴム工業株式会社 | Golf club shaft |
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