HEEL-SHAFTED GOLF PUTTER AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING SAME

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/717,225, filed on Nov. 6, 2024, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure relates generally to golf equipment. More particularly, this disclosure relates to an apparatus and assembling method of a heel-shafted golf putter designed to enhance a golfer's performance through improved balance and alignment during the putting stroke.

Golfers often struggle with maintaining proper alignment and balance while executing a putt. Traditional putters can require significant effort to achieve a square clubface at impact, leading to inconsistent performance. It is desirable to manufacture and provide a heel shafted putter that simplifies the putting process while ensuring accurate alignment is evident.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, a heel-shafted golf putter is provided to enhance the golfer's experience by promoting a naturally square clubface position during the putting stroke. This is achieved through an innovative design of the club head (or putter head) and shaft assembly that ensures optimal weight distribution and alignment.

The club head has a defined body with a clubface, along with designated sides (front, rear, toe, heel, top, and sole). The center of mass is strategically located at the intersection of specific or predetermined axes, promoting balance. The putter comprises a lower shaft portion connected to the club head and an upper shaft portion connected via an angled coupler, which allows for adjustability in orientation through a defined bending angle. This configuration ensures that the upper shaft portion aligns with the club's balance point.

In some embodiments, the sole side of the club head has multiple weight slots with screw threads, allowing for insertion or removal of corresponding adjustable weight elements. This customization enables modifications of the putter's weight distribution and its center of mass. By adjusting the weight elements to adjust the weight distribution and using an angled coupler that causes a central axis of the shaft assembly to intersect the center of mass of the club head so that the putter's clubface can automatically align to a square position during the putting stroke, minimizing the need for additional torque from the player. Overall, this heel-shafted golf putter aims to provide improved stability and accuracy, enhancing the golfer's performance on the green.

In some embodiments, a golf putter is provided having a putter head with a front striking face, a rear flange portion extending rearwardly from the face, and a sole surface that includes multiple weight-receiving ports positioned adjacent heel and toe lobes formed by a central cavity. A angular coupler and lower shaft/riser are coupled to the heel portion of the putter head, and a shaft extends upwardly and rearwardly from the angular coupler and lower shaft/riser along an inclined axis. A plurality of removable weighting elements are received within the weight ports such that the mass distribution of the head defines a rearward and laterally balanced center of gravity. The arrangement of these components produces a corrective counter-torque that resists twisting of the putter head about the shaft axis when a ball is struck away from the geometric center of the face.

In some embodiments, the rear flange portion of the putter head may include two laterally spaced lobes joined by a central channel extending rearwardly from the striking face. This configuration increases the moment of inertia of the putter head about a vertical axis, providing greater forgiveness and improved energy transfer. Each weight-receiving port can be a cylindrical recess extending upwardly from the sole surface and configured to receive a stack of interchangeable disk-shaped weighting elements. The weights may be selectively arranged or substituted to alter the torque characteristics or overall balance of the putter.

In some alternative embodiments, the sole surface may include a stepped contour defining an elevated central region and lower heel and toe regions, reducing turf interaction during the putting stroke while maintaining low positioning of the center of gravity for enhanced roll stability. The angular coupler and lower shaft/riser interface region can be integrally formed with the heel portion of the putter head, and the shaft axis defined by the angular coupler and lower shaft/riser may intersect the face plane at a point rearward of the geometric center of the striking face. This arrangement positions the shaft behind the face centerline, contributing to improved torque balance and a square-face orientation through impact.

The putter head may further include, in some alternative embodiments, a planar top line and a rear flange width greater than one-half the height of the striking face. These proportions shift the center of gravity rearward of the face plane, increase resistance to twisting, and enhance visual alignment. The rear flange portion can define a generally U-shaped perimeter when viewed from above, with the open region of the U corresponding to the central cavity extending from the rear of the face. This U-shaped geometry forms heel and toe lobes of substantial mass, increasing perimeter weighting and inertia while creating a distinctive alignment channel that aids player setup.

In some embodiments, the angular coupler and lower shaft/riser preferably includes a tapered transition section blending smoothly into the upper surface of the putter head to distribute stress uniformly along the joint between the angular coupler and lower shaft/riser and the head and to present a streamlined appearance. The weighting elements disposed in the heel and toe regions may be heavier than those located near the geometric centerline, thereby increasing heel-to-toe inertia and enhancing the putter's resistance to face rotation. In some embodiments, the putter head is formed as a monolithic metallic body having the striking face, rear flange portion, and sole surface integrally constructed as a single piece. This unitary construction enhances durability, eliminates interface variation among components, and provides consistent acoustic and tactile feedback during impact. In other embodiments, the putter head may be multi-material, with the striking face formed of a denser insert material to provide tactile feedback while the rear flange is milled or cast from a lighter alloy to lower the center of gravity.

In alternative constructions, the riser may be integrally formed with the putter head or produced as a separate component secured by welding, brazing, or adhesive bonding. The geometric relationships described—such as the rearward inclination of the shaft axis and the relative positions of the heel and toe weights—may be varied while maintaining the corrective-torque functionality described herein. In some embodiments, the putter head may be formed as a monolithic metallic body, such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy, titanium or other suitable material or combination of materials. The weighting elements may comprise tungsten, brass, stainless steel or other suitable material or combination of materials, depending on desired density.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate but not to limit the invention. In the drawings, reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary golf putter with a portion of the upper shaft portion shown in dashed line.

FIG. 2 illustrates another perspective view of the golf putter of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3-8 illustrate the front, rear, toe, heel, top, sole views, respectively, of the golf putter of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of the golf putter of FIG. 1 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 10 illustrates another exploded view of the golf putter of FIG. 1 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf putter of FIG. 1 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary golf putter with a portion of the upper shaft portion shown in dashed line.

FIG. 13 illustrates another perspective view of the golf putter of FIG. 12.

FIGS. 14-19 illustrate the front, rear, toe, heel, top, sole views, respectively, of the golf putter of FIG. 12.

FIG. 20 illustrates an exploded view of the golf putter of FIG. 12 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 21 illustrates another exploded view of the golf putter of FIG. 12 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 22 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf putter of FIG. 12 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary golf putter with a portion of the upper shaft portion shown in dashed line.

FIG. 24 illustrates another perspective view of the golf putter of FIG. 23.

FIGS. 25-30 illustrate the front, rear, toe, heel, top, sole views, respectively, of the golf putter of FIG. 23.

FIG. 31 illustrates an exploded view of the golf putter of FIG. 23 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 32 illustrates another exploded view of the golf putter of FIG. 23 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 33 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the golf putter of FIG. 23 with the upper shaft portion removed.

FIG. 34 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary assembling process for a golf putter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the design of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the invention be regarded as including equivalent constructions to those described herein insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

For example, the specific sequence of the described process may be altered so that certain processes are conducted in parallel or independent, with other processes, to the extent that the processes are not dependent upon each other. Thus, the specific order of steps described herein is not to be considered implying a specific sequence of steps to perform the process. In alternative embodiments, one or more process steps may be implemented by a user assisted process and/or manually. Other alterations or modifications of the above processes are also contemplated. For example, further insubstantial approximations of the process and/or algorithms are also considered within the scope of the processes described herein.

In addition, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used on other embodiments to yield a still further embodiment. Additionally, certain features may be interchanged with similar devices or features not mentioned yet which perform the same or similar functions. It is therefore intended that such modifications and variations are included within the totality of the present invention.

FIGS. 1-11 illustrate a variety of views of an exemplary golf putter 100 according to the present disclosure. FIGS. 12-22 illustrate a variety of views of another exemplary golf putter 1100 according to the present disclosure. FIGS. 23-33 illustrate a variety of views of another exemplary golf putter 2100 according to the present disclosure. A putter is a specialized golf club for making short, low-speed strokes aimed at rolling the ball into the hole. A putter is typically used at close range on the putting green, though it can also be effective on fringes and roughs near the green. While the focus here is on the putter, the principles described can apply, in some embodiments, to other golf clubs, e.g., irons or woods.

Each of the golf putters 100, 1100, 2100 as shown and described herein is a heel-hafted golf putter. In particular, each of the putters 100, 1100, 2100 includes a cantilever installation system, which facilitates precise assembly and improved balance.

Each of the golf putters 100, 1100, 2100 includes a putter head 102, 1102, 2101 formed mainly by a body 104, 1104, 2104 which may have a front side 110, 1110, 2110, a rear side 120, 1120, 2120 opposite to the front side, a toe side (or right side) 130, 1130, 2130, a heel side (or left side) 140, 1140, 2140 opposite to the toe side, a top side 150, 1150, 2150, and a sole side (or bottom side) 160, 1160, 2160 opposite to the top side.

Referring to FIGS. 1-11, a clubface element (or insert) 170 can be provided configured to make contact with a golf ball allowing for precise strikes is provided as a component of the putter head 102. In some embodiments, the clubface element 170 is removably attached to the body 104 by means of, for example, screws.

Referring to FIGS. 12-33, a clubface element is not used and the front side 1110, 2110 of the golf putters 1100, 2100 can be used to make contact with a golf ball directly.

An imaginary Cartesian coordinate system includes an origin (x=0, y=0, z=0) at the center of gravity 106 of the putter head 102, 1102, 2102 and an x-axis 12 defined as a horizontal line through the origin between the toe 130, 1130, 2130 of the putter head 102, 1102, 2102 and the heel 140, 1140, 2140 of the club head. A front-facing region 172 of the clubface element 170 has a negative x location as shown in FIGS. 1-11. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 12-33, the front side 1110, 2110 has a negative x location. The imaginary Cartesian coordinate system also includes a y-axis 14 defined as a horizontal line through the original parallel to the front-facing region 172 or front side 1110, 2110, where the heel 140, 1140, 2140 of the putter head 102, 1102, 2102 has a negative y location for a right-handed player. The imaginary Cartesian coordinate system further includes a z-axis 16 defined as a vertical line through the origin, where the top of the shaft has a positive z location.

In some embodiments, the top side 150, 1150, 5150 may be constructed as a non-flat structure that the top side may be seen as having a ridge 152, 1152, 2152 forming the highest region of the top side, a hill or hills 154, 1154, 2154 lower than the ridge, and a valley 156, 1156, 2156 forming the lowest part of the top side.

In some embodiments, each of the toe side 130, 1130, 2130 and the heel side 140, 1140, 2140 is adjacent to the ridge and the hill of the top side and forming a substantially L-shaped facing if viewing from the sides.

In some embodiments, the rear side 120, 1120, 2120 is adjacent to the hill and the valley of the top side. As shown in the figures, the rear side is not adjacent to the ridge of the top side.

In some embodiments, the rear side 120, 1120, 2120 can have indent areas or pockets 122, 1122, 2122 configured to be added to help distribute stress and to prevent bending or breaking. In some embodiments, the indent areas or bumpers are functioning as a buffer. In alternative embodiments, those indent areas also provide an esthetic or a visual appearance that is pleasing to individual's viewing the overall putter or putter head.

In some embodiments, the front side includes a recessed region 112, 1112, 2112 that the top end of the recessed region is flashed with the ridge of the top side and the bottom end of the recessed region is adjacent to a recessed region 162, 1162, 2162 on the sole side. The width of the recessed region is wider than the width of the valley. Alternatively, the width of the recessed region is narrower than the width of the valley. In some embodiments, recessed region 112 has window 114 opens through the front side 110. In some embodiments, a prong or tab 116 is provided at the window's top end.

In some embodiments, the sole side 160, 1160, 2160 of the body is shaped that the sole side away from the recessed region (i.e., the regions closer to the toe side or the heel side) is tilted up to form tilted regions 164, 1164, 2164. In some embodiments, each of the tilted regions is provided with weight slots or holes 168a-168h, 1168a-1168h, 2168a-2168h. In some embodiments, each of the weight slots has a circular recess with threads or grooves configured to accommodate weight elements 198A-198H, 1198A-1198H, 2198A-2198H, respectively. It is understandable that the weight slots can take another shape or shapes.

In some embodiments, the weight slots are arranged such that weight slots 168a-168d, 1168a-1168d, 2168a-2168d are located near the toe side, while weight slots 168e-168h, 1168e-1168h, 2168e-2168h are located near the heel side. In addition, weight slots 168a, 168b, 168e, 168f, 1168a, 1168b, 1168e, 1168f, 2168a, 2168b, 2168e, 2168f are located near the front side, while weight slots 168c, 168d, 168g, 168h, 1168c, 1168d, 1168g, 1168h, 2168c, 2168d, 2168g, 2168 h are located near the rear side.

In some embodiments, each of the weight elements 198A-198H, 1198A-1198H, 2198A-2198H can be individually screwed into or out of the weight slots 168a-168h, 1168a-1168h, 2168a-2168h, respectively, to provide balance to the putter. Due to the tilted structure of the sole side, even if any of the weight elements is extended away from the weight slots, the weight element is still not extended to be flashed with the center region of the sole side so that it would not affect the performance of the player when used.

The body 104, 1104, 2104 of the putter head can be made of one, or a combination, of the following: titanium, aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, milled metals, or composite materials.

As shown in FIGS. 1-11, the clubface element 170 is configured to generally correspond in shape with the front side 110 and the sole side 160 of the body 104 and in the particular embodiment has a generally flat or planar front region 172 and a generally flat or planar sole-facing region 182 that the front-facing region 172 and the sole-facing region 182 are perpendicular to each other. In the embodiments as shown in FIGS. 1-11, the front-facing region 172 is sized to fit with the recessed region 112 of the front side 110 and the sole-facing region 182 is sized to fit with the recessed region 162 of the sole side 160.

The front-facing region 172 has an exterior side 174 for making contact with a golf ball. The exterior side 174 has grooves or projections 175 in particular patterns to create a better friction between the golf ball and the front-facing region 172, to assist in controlling the ball's speed and direction. As shown in the figures, exterior side 174 has multiple grooves or projections formed in parallel to each other.

The front-facing region 172 has an interior side 176 facing the recessed region 112 of the body 104. In some embodiments, the interior side 176 can have an extension 178 sized to fit into the window 114 of the body 104.

The sole-facing region 182 has an exterior side 184 substantially flashed with the toe side 130 of the body 104. One or more screw holes 188 can be provided to the sole-facing region 182. These screw holes 188 can be aligned with screw holes 166 provided on the sole side of the body. The sole-facing region 182 has an interior side 186 sized to fit with the recessed region 162 of the sole side 160 of the body 104.

In some embodiments, the clubface element 170 covers only a portion of the front side 110 of the body 104 and not extends to the sole side 160 of the body 104. In some embodiments, the clubface element 170 covers the entire front side 110 of the body 104.

The clubface element 170 of the putter head 102 can be made of one, or a combination, of the following: aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, composite materials, urethane, or rubber.

The putter head 102, 1102, 2102 is structured such that its center of mass 106, 1106, 2106 (i.e., the point that represents the average position of all the mass in the club head) is defined as at the origin (x=0, y=0, z=0) of an imaginary Cartesian coordinate system around the putter head. Accordingly, the center of mass is located at the intersection of the x-axis 12 and the y-axis 14 in an x-y plane. Here, the y-axis 14 runs parallel to the front-facing region 172 of the clubface element 170 (or the front side 1110, 2110), contributing to the overall balance and stability of the putter during use. Assuming that the golf putter 100, 1100, 2100 is used in a uniform gravitational field, the center of mass of the putter head coincides with the center of gravity of the putter head. Accordingly, these two terms are used interchangeable.

In some embodiments, the clubface element 170 and the body 104 are attached by screws 192 as shown in FIGS. 8-11. In addition, an interlocking mechanism can be provided that a recess or slot 179 of the clubface element 170 is used to accept and/or engage a prong or tab 116 on the body 104 to create an interlocking mechanism to secure connection between the clubface element 170 and the body 104.

The top side 150, 1150, 2150 has a connecting point 158, 1158, 2158 configured to be a pre-identified location for attaching the lower shaft portion 210, 1210, 2210 to the body of the head. A hosel can be used for attaching the lower shaft portion to the body of the head. In some embodiments, the hosel can be a separate piece attached to the putter head and can connect to the shaft internally or externally.

Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, one of the screws 192 attaching the clubface element 170 and the body 104 can also be used to attach the lower shaft portion 210 with the body 104 to provide a solid putter structure. Thus, the lower shaft portion 210, the body 104, and the clubface element 170 are all secured by one of the screws 192.

Referring to FIGS. 12-33, the front side 1110, 2110 has grooves or projections 1175, 2175 in particular patterns to create a better friction between the golf ball and the front side 1110, 2110, to assist in controlling the ball's speed and direction. As shown in the figures, the front side 1110, 2110 has multiple grooves or projections formed in parallel to each other.

Referring to FIGS. 12-33, a screw hole 1166, 2166 can be provided to the sole side 1160, 2160 for securing the lower shaft portion 1210, 2210 to the body 1104, 2104 of the head. As shown in FIGS. 9, 11, 20, 22, 31 and 33, each club head may have a shaft mounting hole 194, 1194, 2194 (a shaft mounting area) into which the shaft assembly (including the lower shaft portion and the angled coupler) is connected to the club head.

In some embodiments, an insert member including a first connection area configured to connect to a first area of the body and a second connection area to connect to a second area of the body. In some embodiments, the hosel and the insert member are treated with anodizing in different colors, offering both aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance. The hosel and insert member can also be constructed from different metal materials, allowing for tailored weight distribution and durability. To ensure secure attachment, one or more connection mechanisms, such as a screw, pass through the insert member and the hosel, further reinforcing the putter's structural integrity. In some embodiments, the insert member is designed with a lip that engages a recessed portion on the body of the putter, providing additional stability and alignment during use. In some embodiments, a hosel bending angle is in a range of approximately 67° to approximately 71°, and a hosel length is in a range of approximately 3.5 inches to approximately 4.5 inches.

In some embodiments, the total weight of the putter head 102, 1102, 2102 is in the range of approximately 350 g to approximately 380 g. In other embodiments, other weights can be used.

In some embodiments, the golf putter 100, 1100, 2100 includes a shaft assembly 200, 1200, 2200, respectively, which can have a lower shaft portion 210, 1210, 2210, an upper shaft portion 220, 1220, 2220, and an angled coupler 230, 1230, 2230 configured to join the lower shaft portion and the upper shaft portion.

The lower shaft portion 210, 1210, 2210 can be a straight structure having a low end 212, 1212, 2212 and a high end 214, 1214, 2214. As shown in the figures, the lower shaft portion can be substantially tubular with a flat portion on one or both of the front-facing side and the rear-facing side. The low end of the lower shaft portion is in connection with the putter head at the connecting point 158, 1158, 2158 on the top side to ensure a solid connection that contributes to the putter's stability. The high end is in turn in connection with a low end 232, 1232, 2232 of the angled coupler. In some embodiments, the connecting point is a hosel.

The lower shaft portion can be made of one, or a combination, of the following: aluminum, titanium, or others.

The angled coupler 230, 1230, 2230 can be an angled tubular body having a low end 232, 1232, 2232 and a high end 234, 1234, 2234. The body of the angled coupler has a bending point 236, 1236, 2236 configured to form an adjustable angle between the upper shaft portion and the lower shaft portion. As shown in the figures, the bending point 236, 1236, 2236 is located at the intersection of an axis 16a coinciding with the axis of the lower part of the angled coupler and an axis H coinciding with the axis of the higher part of the angled coupler. The angled coupler is pivotal in adjusting the orientation of the upper shaft portion relative to the lower shaft portion, allowing for an ergonomic grip and stroke and allowing customization to accommodate individual golfer preferences and diverse putting styles.

In some embodiments, the bending point 236, 1236, 2236 is positioned approximately 3 inches above the connecting point 158, 1158, 2258 of the putter head. As used in the specification and claims, the term approximately shall mean that the value is within 10% of the stated value, unless otherwise specified. In some embodiments, the bending point is positioned in a range of approximately 2 inches to approximately 4 inches above the connecting point of the putter head in the z-axis 16. In some further embodiments, the bending point is positioned in a range of approximately 2.5 inches to approximately 3.2 inches above the connecting point of the putter head in the z-axis 16.

Referring to the figures, in some embodiments, the angled coupler 230, 1230, 2230 has a bending angle B of approximately 70° between the H-axis (which coincides with the axis of the higher part of the angled coupler) and an axis 14a parallel to the y-axis 14. In some embodiments, the bending angle B of the angled coupler is in a range of approximately 65° to 75° between the H-axis and an axis 14a parallel to the y-axis 14. In some further embodiments, the bending angle B of the angled coupler is in a range of approximately 67° to 71° between the H-axis and an axis 14a parallel to the y-axis 14.

In some embodiments, the distance from the connecting point 158, 1158, 2158 to the high end 234, 1234, 2234 of the angled coupler is no more than 5 inches in the z-axis 16 direction.

The angled coupler can be made of one, or a combination, of the following: aluminum, titanium, or other materials, that provides structural integrity and precise angular adjustment capabilities.

In some embodiments, the angled coupler and the lower shaft portion are made as an integral component. In this embodiment, the angled coupler and the lower shaft portion can be made of aluminum, titanium, or other materials. In other embodiments, the angled coupler and the lower shaft portion are separately made and joined together by a bonding mechanism.

Referring to the figures, the distance between the connecting point 158, 1158, 2158 and the center of mass 106, 1106, 2106 in the y-axis 14 direction can be configured based on the degree of the bending angle B and the distance between the bending point 236, 1236, 2236 and the connecting point 158, 1158, 2158 (in z-axis direction). In some embodiments, the distance between the connecting point and the center of mass in the y-axis 14 direction is approximately 1.2 inches. In some embodiments, the distance between the connecting point and the center of mass in the y-axis 14 direction is in the range of 0.9 to 1.5 inches. Table 1 below shows some exemplary combinations of the degree of the bending angle B and the distance between the bending point and the connecting point when the distance between the connecting point and the center of mass in the y-axis 14 direction is approximately 1.2 inches. In the embodiments, the lie angle of the putter is equivalent to the bending angle B of the angled coupler.

As shown in Table 1, the larger the degree of the bending angle B (i.e., the angled coupler is straighter), the larger the distance between the bending point and the connecting point (in the z-axis direction). In other words, the degree of the bending angle B is proportional to the distance between the bending point and the connecting point. The variety of bending angles B for the angled coupler provided herein can be beneficial to golf players of different heights, different preferences of lie angles, or habits of swing.

Referring to the figures, when an upper shaft portion 220, 1220, 2220 is attached to the angled coupler 230, 1230, 2230 at an intersection point 222, 1222, 2222, a center axis of the upper shaft portion coincides with the axis H (which coincides with the axis of the higher part of the angled coupler). The upper shaft portion extends from the angled coupler to a grip located at the top end of the upper shaft portion. The center axis of the upper shaft portion converges with a balance point 30 located near the center of gravity 106, 1106, 2106 of the putter head. In some embodiments, the distance between the balance point 30 and the center of gravity 106, 1106, 2106 of the putter head is in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the balance point 30 and the center of gravity 106, 1106, 2106 of the putter head is approximately 2 mm.

A lie angle of the golf putter 100, 1100, 2100 can be defined as an angle between an axis of the upper shaft portion and the ground when the putter is in its proper playing position. A correct lie angle helps ensure that the head is flat on the ground during the swing for optimizing performance. In the embodiment as shown in FIGS. 3, 14, 25, the value of the lie angle of the golf putter can be equivalent to the bending angle B of the angled coupler.

Referring also to the figures, in some embodiments, the balance point 30 can be defined by the intersection of a lie angle radian 26 and a lie angle axis 22 within a lie angle plane 24. The balance point 30 can be described as at a position (x=±x1, y=+y1, z=z1) in the imaginary Cartesian coordinate system defined around the putter head.

The lie angle plane 24 can be defined by the center axis H of the upper shaft portion and a line parallel to the x-axis 12, wherein the line parallel to the x-axis 12 is offset from the x-axis 12 a distance z2 along the z-axis 16.

The radian plane 28 in the imaginary Cartesian coordinate system can be a plane parallel to the x-y plane and offset a distance z1 from the x-y plane, where the lie angle axis 22 includes the intersection of the lie angle plane 24 and a radian plane 28.

The lie angle radian 26 origin can be the z-axis 16 (x=0, y=0) on the radian plane 28. The angle relative to the x-axis 12 of the lie angle radian 26 is always approximately equal to the lie angle. The lie angle radian 26 terminates at the lie angle axis 22. That is, the lie angle radian 26 is similar to the x-axis 12, offset along the z-axis 16 by the same distance (z2) as the radian plane 28 and rotated by the lie angle (or the y-axis 14 rotated by 90° minus the lie angle) in a direction from the positive x-axis 12 to the positive y-axis 14 (or the negative y-axis 14 for a left-handed player). The lie angle radian 26 always terminates at the lie angle axis 22 at a position (x=±x1, y=±y1). The lie angle axis 22 includes the intersection of the lie angle plane 24 and the radian plane 28.

In some embodiments, the lie angle plane 24 and the radian plane 28 intersect at the balance point, and the angled coupler maintains the upper shaft portion's center axis within this geometric configuration to ensure natural swinging along the intended stroke path.

By aligning the center axis of the upper shaft portion with the balance point, the putter achieves characteristics that facilitate a more natural stroke. In addition, by maintaining the alignment of the center axis of the upper shaft portion with the balance point near the center of gravity of the putter head, the angled coupler preserves the effect even when the orientation is altered. This ensures that the putter remains stable during the putting stroke.

Furthermore, the configuration of the putter allows the upper shaft portion to extend downward through the angled coupler, ensuring that the center axis of the upper shaft portion converges at the balance point defined by the center of mass of the head. This geometric arrangement allows the angled coupler to maintain the center axis of the upper shaft portion within this configuration, facilitating a natural swing along the intended stroke path.

In some embodiments, the weight of the upper shaft portion is in the range of approximately 300 g to approximately 130 g.

In some embodiments, the upper shaft further includes a grip that includes a hollow channel accommodating the upper shaft portion. The grip may, for example, be circular, square, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or any number of other shapes. The shape may have one or more flat sides or be a shape that is generally stretched. An elongated shape provides a cross section of the grip with a first dimension along a first axis being relatively longer than a second dimension along a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the first axis. In an embodiment of the invention with an elongated grip, a center axis is positioned through the length.

In an elongated embodiment, a hollow channel in the grip within which the upper shaft fits has a center axis that is parallel to the center axis of the grip when viewed from a point on the x-axis 12. In other embodiments, the grip's center axis may be configured to be non-parallel to the center axis of the upper shaft portion when viewed from a point on the y-axis 14. This configuration further enhances ergonomic alignment, allowing golfers to maintain a comfortable grip while ensuring optimal stroke mechanics.

The innovative putter 100, 1100, 2100 allows the clubface 172 or front side 1110, 2110 to seek a square position automatically during the putting stroke. This feature minimizes the requirement for additional torque or adjustments from the golfer, resulting in a smoother, more consistent motion. As the golfer prepares to putt, the unique configuration helps maintain the proper alignment of the clubface with minimal effort, thereby enhancing overall performance.

In golf putting, the terms open, closed, and square can be referred to the alignment of the putter face relative to the target line at address and impact. When the putter face is perfectly aligned with the target line (square), this is the ideal position for accurate putting, as it ensures that the ball will start on the intended line. However, if the putter face is angled away from the target line (open) or angled toward the target line (closed), the ball could be sent to the start right (open) or the start left (closed) of the target line for a right-handed golfer.

By adjusting the weight of one or more of the weight elements, a toe hang can be created to aid alignment of a swing path. As a general rule, the total weight of weight elements near the toe side is substantially the same as the total weight of weight elements near the heel side. For example, if the weight of any of the weight elements near the toe side is increased, the weight in one or more of the rests of the same group should be decreased. In some embodiments, the weight of each of the weight elements is in the range of approximately 2.5 g to approximately 18 g. In some embodiments, the weight elements are made of one, or a combination, of the following: steel, cast iron, lead, or other materials.

In some embodiments, increasing weight to weight elements 198A-198B, 1198A-1198B, 2198A-2198B (and decreasing weight to weight elements 198C-198D, 1198C-1198D, 2198C-2198D) will close the putter head. In some embodiments, increasing weight to weight elements 198C-198D, 1198C-1198D, 2198C-2198D (and decreasing weight to weight elements 198A-198B, 1198A-1198B, 2198A-2198B) will open the putter head. In some embodiments, increasing weight to weight elements 198E-198F, 1198E-1198F, 2198E-2198F (and decreasing weight to weight elements 198G-198H, 1198G-1198H, 2198G-2198H) will close the putter head. In some embodiments, increasing weight to weight elements 198G-198H, 1198G-1198H, 2198G-2198H (and decreasing weight to weight elements 198E-198F, 1198E-1198F, 2198E-2198F) will open the putter head.

As the weight of each of the weight elements is adjustable, the center of mass of the putter head is accordingly not always located at a fixed location but rather a floating location depending on how the weight elements are adjusted. It is therefore understandable that the center of mass shown in the drawings and described herein is shiftable based on the weight distribution of the weight elements.

The putter 100, 1100, 2100 provided herein is able to perform an anti-twist action by means of a corrective force generated in response to off-center impacts. This anti-twist functionality enhances the directional stability and accuracy of the putter head during the stroke and particularly at the moment of ball contact. For example, the anti-twist action can be achieved by engineering the putter head such that it possesses a combination of moment-of-inertia (MOI) optimization, mass distribution, and/or dynamic response geometry that collectively generate a restoring or compensating torque when the putter is subjected to an asymmetric force. This corrective force counters the rotational moment that would otherwise cause the putter face to open or close relative to the intended target line due to an off-center strike. This corrective action not only reduces dispersion and directional error but also provides consistent roll and energy transfer, contributing to improved putting performance across a wider area of the putter face.

The putter 100, 1100, 2100 provided herein is configured to have various weights threaded into machined ports on the bottom of the club head itself. In some embodiments, putter 1100 has weights at approximately 282 grams. In some embodiments, putter 2100 has weights at approximately 293 grams. In some embodiments, the weight of riser (or angled coupler 230, 1230, 2230) ranges (depending on the lie angle) from 16 grams to 24 grams. Each head receives approximately 40 grams to 60 grams of additional balancing mass, strategically positioned to achieve a face orientation perpendicular to the ground. Final adjustments are made to optimize angular acceleration and static torque equilibrium consistent with proper lie angle balance. Following balancing, total head mass typically ranges approximately between 340 and 380 grams. In the balanced configuration, mass distribution is approximately 55% to 60% toward the heel and 40% to 45% toward the toe, with the center of gravity located slightly forward of the geometric center to maintain low rotational inertia about the shaft axis while preserving face stability through impact.

The shaft of each putter 100, 1100, 2100 can have a shaft center axis. A grip can be provided at one end of the shaft. The grip can have a grip center axis and a channel configured to receive the shaft therein and have a channel center axis. In some embodiments, the grip center axis and the channel center axis are not parallel to one another that the channel is angled within the grip so as to provide a lean of the shaft, and the shaft center axis is approximately perpendicular to the clubface. Such off-axis grip configuration can be found in the Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 12,011,640, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The shaft of each putter 100, 1100, 2100 in this disclosure can be tilted from a position toward the face of the putter under current golf rules. This tilt is called forward lean and typically is moved forward so the top center line end point of the shaft is approximately 0.75 inches behind the face of the putter 100, 1100, 2100 (about 1.7 degrees) but is not limited to that.

The shaft of each putter 100, 1100, 2100 in this disclosure can be tilted from a position away from the face of the putter under current golf rules. This tilt is called rearward lean and is angled in a rearward direction so the top center line end point of the connection point of the shaft is closer to the putter face than a similarly shaped forward leaning shaft with the same center of gravity. The actual measured distance between the connection point and the face varies depending on the shape of the putter. The shaft is in the range of approximately 38-45 inches long. This results in the rearward shaft angle lean being in the range of approximately ½ to 10 degrees which are the limits prescribed by the USGA. It should be understood that even for golf club shafts with measurements outside these ranges, the invention would still function.

In some embodiments, the shaft of each putter 100, 1100, 2100 in this disclosure does not tilt away from or toward the face of the putter to form a zero-lean putter.

Referring also to FIG. 34, in some embodiments, a method 900 for assembling a heel shafted golf putter comprising: providing a putter head having a body and a clubface element abutted with the body, the body has a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, a toe side, a heel side opposite to the toe side, a top side, and a sole side opposite to the top side, the body having a center of mass defined at the intersection of an x-axis and a y-axis in an x-y plane, where the y-axis is parallel to the clubface (step 910); connecting a lower shaft portion to a connecting point on the top side of the putter head (step 920); attaching an angled coupler to the lower shaft portion (step 930), the an angled coupler is bended in a predefined bending angle and having a low end connected to the lower shaft portion, a high end, and a bending point in between, the bending point is located at a predefined distance above the connecting point of the putter head in an z-axis direction; extending an upper shaft portion from the high end of the angled coupler (step 940), the orientation of the upper shaft portion relative to the lower shaft portion is adjusted by an bending angle of the angled coupler; ensuring a center axis of the upper shaft portion converges with a balance point near the center of mass of the putter head (step 950); installing a plurality of weight elements to a plurality of weight slots located on the sole side of the body (step 960), a weight of each of the plurality of weight elements is adjustable; and adjusting the weight of at least one of the plurality of weight elements (step 970), a front-facing region of the clubface element of the heel shafted golf putter is able to seek square during a putting stroke without requiring additional torque from a golf player (step 980).

Golfers using the heel shafted putter 100, 1100, 2100 described herein will benefit from increased confidence and reduced mental load during their putting stroke. The ergonomic design promotes a natural hand position and stroke mechanics, allowing for better focus on the target and improved accuracy. The mechanism allows for improved stability during the putting stroke, reducing the likelihood of misalignment. The configurations of the putter 100, 1100, 2100 minimizes variability in performance, promoting a more consistent outcome with each stroke. The natural alignment of the clubface 172 or front side 1110, 2110 reduces the need for conscious adjustments, allowing golfers to focus on their technique and the target.

The heel shafted golf putter 100, 1100, 2100 represents a significant advancement in golf equipment configurations, addressing common challenges faced by golfers during putting. With its innovative features and ergonomic configurations, this putter 100, 1100, 2100 not only enhances performance but also improves the overall enjoyment of the game. Through the integration of a thoughtfully engineered putter head and shaft assembly, the invention provides golfers with a reliable tool that promotes accuracy and consistency on the green.

As used in the specification and the claims, the phrase “configured to” denotes an actual state of configuration that fundamentally ties recited elements to the physical characteristics of the recited structure. As a result, the phrase “configured to” reaches well beyond merely describing functional language or intended use since the phrase actively recites an actual state of configuration.

Herein, “or” is inclusive and not exclusive, unless expressly indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context. Therefore, herein, “A or B” means “A, B, or both,” unless expressly indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context. Moreover, “and” is both joint and several, unless expressly indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context. Therefore, herein, “A and B” means “A and B, jointly or severally,” unless expressly indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context.

The many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention which fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. For example, further insubstantial approximations of the combinations of bending angle B and distance between bending point and connecting point shown in table are also considered within the scope of the processes described herein.

The specific sequence of the above-described process may be altered so that certain processes are conducted in parallel or independent, with other processes, to the extent that the processes are not dependent upon each other. Thus, the specific order of steps described herein are not to be considered implying a specific sequence of steps to perform the above-described process. Other alterations or modifications of the above processes are also contemplated.

This disclosure encompasses all changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications to the exemplary embodiments herein that a person having ordinary skill in the art would comprehend. Moreover, reference in the appended claims to an apparatus or system or a component of an apparatus or system being adapted to, arranged to, capable of, configured to, enabled to, operable to, or operative to perform a particular function encompasses that apparatus, system, component, whether or not it or that particular function is activated, turned on, or unlocked, as long as that apparatus, system, or component is so adapted, arranged, capable, configured, enabled, operable, or operative.