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WO1999020357A1 - Articles de sport beneficiant d'un meilleur transfert de l'energie, d'un meilleur controle de la flexion et d'un amortissement des vibrations ameliore - Google Patents

Articles de sport beneficiant d'un meilleur transfert de l'energie, d'un meilleur controle de la flexion et d'un amortissement des vibrations ameliore Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1999020357A1
WO1999020357A1 PCT/US1998/022303 US9822303W WO9920357A1 WO 1999020357 A1 WO1999020357 A1 WO 1999020357A1 US 9822303 W US9822303 W US 9822303W WO 9920357 A1 WO9920357 A1 WO 9920357A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
shape memory
memory alloy
shaft
insert
sports implement
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US1998/022303
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English (en)
Inventor
Terry L. Schneider
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Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to AU12728/99A priority Critical patent/AU1272899A/en
Publication of WO1999020357A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999020357A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • 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
    • A63B60/54—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like with means for damping vibrations
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B49/00—Stringed rackets, e.g. for tennis
    • A63B49/02—Frames
    • 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
    • A63B53/00—Golf clubs
    • A63B53/12—Metallic shafts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
    • A63B59/70—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00 with bent or angled lower parts for hitting a ball on the ground, on an ice-covered surface, or in the air, e.g. for hockey or hurling
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
    • A63B2102/18—Baseball, rounders or similar games
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
    • A63B2102/24—Ice hockey
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
    • A63B2102/34—Polo
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
    • A63B2102/36—Croquet
    • 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
    • A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
    • A63B2209/14—Characteristics of used materials with form or shape memory materials
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
    • A63B59/60—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00 of mallet type, e.g. for croquet or polo
    • 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
    • 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
    • A63B60/12—Handles contoured according to the anatomy of the user's hand
    • 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
    • A63B60/14—Coverings specially adapted for handles, e.g. sleeves or ribbons

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the use of shape memory alloy reinforcement in load or impact-bearing elements of a shaft (and head, in some cases) of a sports implement, such as a golf club, hockey stick, polo club, baseball bat, tennis racquet and the like, to improve energy transfer and control of flexion, and to dampen impact-induced vibrations to impart a desired "feel" to the user.
  • a sports implement such as a golf club, hockey stick, polo club, baseball bat, tennis racquet and the like
  • the technology should be such that the implement, whether a golf club, hockey stick, tennis racquet, and the like, should be lightweight and retain its utility while at the same time having enhanced strength for longevity, energy transfer, user control, and reduced transmission of impact forces to the user.
  • the invention provides sports implements that improve impact resistance, improve energy transfer, enhance control of flexion, and improve vibration dampening by utilizing a strategically placed reinforcing insert or segment of shape memory alloy.
  • a projectile such as a ball or hockey puck
  • impact energy is at least partially absorbed by the (austenitic) shape memory alloy undergoing martensitic transformation.
  • the shape memory alloy absorbs impact energy, sufficient energy is yet transmitted to impart a desired "feel" to the user, resulting in potentially better control and enhancing the pleasure of playing the game.
  • the sports implements of the invention generally include a shaft with one end adapted for being grasped by the user, and a second end having a head with a striking surface for striking a projectile.
  • the head may be an integral part of the lower end of the shaft.
  • the frame of the heads of racquets such as tennis, racquetball, badminton, and squash racquets, may be integrally formed with the shaft.
  • the shaft includes at least one composite layer surrounding and forming a surface of the shaft in an area subject to impact energy forces when the sports implement strikes a projectile.
  • a shape memory alloy insert having a shape substantially conforming to that of the composite ply, extends adjacent and between the composite layers of the shaft.
  • the shape memory alloy insert may comprise filaments or strips, a wire mesh screen, a thin sheet, or a perforated sheet, or an integral ring or band of the alloy.
  • the shape memory alloy may replace a portion of the shaft subject to flexion from impact forces, or the entire shaft (and head) may be of shape memory alloy.
  • the invention utilizes the unique property of shape memory alloys in that they undergo martensitic phase transformation, to absorb impact energy generated when the sports implement strikes a projectile.
  • the invention is applicable to both composite and metallic sports instruments.
  • the hybrid composite formed when at least one layer of shape memory alloy is utilized in conjunction with composite plies, generally made of fiber reinforcement within a resin matrix provides unique benefits due to the unique properties added by the shape memory alloy.
  • the shape memory alloy replaces or reinforces the flex point area(s) of the implement to absorb impact-induced forces.
  • the shape memory alloy includes alloys with elements selected from the group comprising: Ni, Ag, Au, Cd, In, Ga, Mn, Cr, Co, C, N, Si, Ge, Sn, Sb, Zn, Nb, Cu, Fe, Pt, Al, and Ti.
  • the shape memory alloy would preferably have superelastic (reversible strain) properties and preferably be able to exhibit stress- induced martensitic phase transformations. It is believed that the ability to transform from an austenitic to a martensitic phase will maximize the damping properties of the alloy.
  • the shape memory alloy may be selected and subjected to a heat processing treatment such that it is in the martensitic phase at a desired range of temperatures, in which it is believed the shape memory alloy will be used.
  • a device made of shape memory alloy exhibits superelastic properties when used in the selected range of temperatures, omitting the need to pre-stress the shape memory alloy elements.
  • FIGURE 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating filaments or strips of shape memory alloy, that can be wound around or extend along a portion of a shaft (and head) of a sports implement in accordance with the invention
  • FIGURE IB is a schematic diagram illustrating filaments, of rectangular cross-section, of shape memory alloy useful in sports implements of the invention
  • FIGURE 1C is a cross-section taken at 1C-1C of FIGURE 1A showing a hollow shape memory alloy filament
  • FIGURE 2 is an illustrative representation of a wire mesh screen fabricated from filaments of shape memory alloy, that may be used in certain embodiments of the invention as shape memory alloy inserts or layers;
  • FIGURE 3 is an illustrative representation of thin perforated sheet of shape memory alloy, that may be utilized in certain embodiments of the invention as a shape memory alloy insert or layer;
  • FIGURE 4A is a schematic side view in partial cross-section of a golf club, in accordance with the invention, using a shape memory alloy insert;
  • FIGURE 4B is another embodiment of a golf club in accordance with the invention, utilizing a shape memory alloy insert
  • FIGURE 4C is another embodiment of a metal golf club in accordance with the invention, utilizing a shape memory alloy applied to the exterior and interior surfaces of the golf club's hollow shaft;
  • FIGURE 4D is a cross-section taken at 4D-4D of FIGURE 4C, showing a shape memory alloy applied to the outer surface of the hollow shaft
  • FIGURE 4E is a cross-section taken at 4E-4E of FIGURE 4C, showing a shape memory alloy applied to the inner surface of the hollow shaft;
  • FIGURE 5 A is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a shaft of a sports implement in accordance with the invention illustrating layers of composite plies with an intervening shape memory alloy insert of longitudinally extending filaments or strips;
  • FIGURE 5B is a variant of the embodiment of FIGURE 5A, but with two shape memory alloy inserts;
  • FIGURE 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating layers of composite plies and a layer of shape memory alloy insert comprised of shape memory alloy wire mesh screen, in accordance with the invention
  • FIGURE 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating another embodiment of a shaft of a sports implement in accordance with the invention, having composite plies and a shape memory alloy insert in the form of a perforated sheet;
  • FIGURE 8 is a side view, in partial cross-section, of a hockey stick showing the location of a shape memory alloy insert in accordance with the invention
  • FIGURE 9 is a schematic illustration of a tennis racquet, including a shape memory alloy insert in accordance with the invention with location of the insert shown in broken lines.
  • FIGURE 10 is a baseball bat embodiment, not to scale, of the invention
  • FIGURE 10A is a cross-section taken at 10A-10A of FIGURE 10 showing a hollow portion of the baseball bat formed from a shape memory alloy;
  • FIGURE 1 OB is a cross-section taken at 10B-10B of FIGURE 10 showing a hollow portion of the baseball bat with a shape memory alloy applied to the outer surface of the baseball bat;
  • FIGURE 11 is a metallic sectional shaft embodiment of the invention.
  • FIGURE 11 A is a schematic cross-section taken at 11 A-l 1A of FIGURE 11 A showing an embodiment of a shape memory alloy insert in accordance with the invention.
  • frusto-conical means a shape in the form of a portion of a cone, having a tip removed. While a cone is circular in cross- section, transverse to its vertical axis, it is recognized that some of the sports implement shafts to which the invention pertains are not of precisely circular cross- section. Accordingly, in the specification and claims, the term “frusto-conical” should be more broadly interpreted to include all those shafts that taper, and that have a cross-sectional area that approximates a circular shape, such as elliptical shapes, and the like.
  • SMAs Shape memory alloys
  • Other shafts such as the shaft of an ice hockey stick, may not taper, and may have a cross-sectional area that more closely resembles a rectangle, with rounded ends.
  • Shape memory alloys are a family of alloys having qualities of memory and trainability.
  • a particularly useful attribute of an SMA is that when it is plastically deformed at a particular temperature, it can completely recover its original shape on being raised to a higher predefined temperature. In recovering its original shape, the SMA produces a powerful displacement force that can be 200 times greater than a force produced by the expansion and contraction of a bimetallic element of the same weight.
  • a particular SMA can be selected so that the return to the memory shape occurs at a predetermined desired temperature.
  • the SMA is formed into the desired shape and heated to a temperature so that the crystalline temperature of the SMA is entirely in a beta or austenite phase.
  • the SMA element is then cooled below a defined and characteristic temperature M t at which the austenite crystal structure of the alloy changes to a martensite crystal structure.
  • M t a defined and characteristic temperature
  • the SMA element can then be plastically deformed into a different shape. If the SMA element is then heated above another defined temperature A t (where A t > M j ) at which the martensite crystalline structure of the alloy is again converted to the austenite crystalline structure, the SMA moves and exerts force as it reverts back into its memory shape. This process can be repeated indefinitely.
  • Nitinol alloy is an SMA that can retain memory shapes for two different physical configurations of the alloy, at two different temperatures through a process of trainability. Trainability of the Nitinol alloy is based upon the fact that the alloy exhibits superelasticity, i.e., the growth and compensating contraction of adjacent plates of the martensite crystalline structure as stress is applied. The training of a Nitinol alloy (and other SMAs) for two different shape memory configurations is generally accomplished by limiting the number of variants of martensite formed when an alloy is repeatedly heated and cooled below the critical temperature M t .
  • Shape memory and super elastic alloys undergo microstructural processes when subjected to mechanical forces that convert these forces into thermal energy in the material. These processes do not damage or work harden the alloy so that the alloys can be used as highly fatigue-resistant damping components in structures. It is useful to recall that there are both processed martensitic shape memory alloys, and stress-induced martensite alloys. The person of skill in the art will select between these shape memory alloys, as appropriate for the particular purpose. For example, shape memory alloy that transforms to stress-induced martensite could be used for the surface of a baseball bat that strikes the projectile, since a permanent deformation would not likely occur. In this instance, a shape memory alloy, originally in austenitic phase, should be selected that transforms to a processed martensitic phase, before reverting back to austenitic after impact force absorption.
  • the shape memory alloy includes alloys with elements selected from the group comprising: Ni, Ag, Au, Cd, In, Ga, Mn, Cr, Co, C, N, Si, Ge, Sn, Sb, Zn, Nb, Cu, Fe, Pt, Al, and Ti.
  • the shape memory alloy would preferably have superelastic (reversible strain) properties and preferably be able to exhibit stress- induced martensitic phase transformations. It is believed that the ability to transform from an austenitic to a martensitic phase will maximize the damping properties of the alloy.
  • the shape memory alloy may be selected and subjected to a heat processing treatment such that it is in the martensitic phase at a desired range of temperatures, in which it is believed the shape memory alloy will be used.
  • a device made of shape memory alloy exhibits superelastic properties when used in the selected range of temperatures, omitting the need to pre-stress the shape memory alloy elements.
  • the composite layers utilized in certain embodiments of the invention in conjunction with shape memory alloy reinforcing insert(s), may include any of the composites known in the art that are used for various purposes, including the fabrication of sports implement shafts.
  • Such composites include a reinforcement embedded within or coated with an organic polymeric matrix.
  • the reinforcement may include any one of several kinds of long strands of fiber, woven fiber, braided fiber, or other structure, made from a variety of known fibers, such as, for example, glass fiber, carbon fiber, ceramic fiber, metal fiber, organic polymeric (“plastic”) fibers and the like.
  • the matrix material acts as a binder and, while preferably a thermosetting resin, may also be a thermoplastic polymer, or a combination of the two.
  • the shape memory alloy may be embedded in a metal matrix, such as for example, SMA filaments in a steel tubing material.
  • Shape memory alloys include commercially available NITINOLTM, and it is known that they can be made from alloys that include a wide range of elements, for example, elements selected from the group consisting of: nickel, silver, gold, cadmium, indium, gallium, silicon, germanium, tin, zinc, niobium, copper, iron, platinum, aluminum, manganese, chrome, cesium, antimony, carbon (as carbide), nitrogen (as nitride), and titanium.
  • NITINOLTM NiTi
  • the alloy thickness will vary depending upon the type of sports implement to which it is applied and the particular alloy used, but typical thickness of the alloy insert or reinforcement is in the range from about 5 microns to about 1.25 cm.
  • sports implements are improved by the addition of a layer of shape memory alloy in a strategic region of the shaft, either in the form of solid and hollow filaments or strips, or woven and braided wire mesh, or thin perforated and non-perforated sheets, or a combination of these.
  • the shape memory alloy inserts are preferably located at those regions of the sports implement shaft that are determined to be subject to the highest impact forces and/or flexion, to allow the shape memory alloy to "absorb" some of that energy through martensitic transformation, while at the same time transmitting sufficient force to allow the user feedback, a pleasant "feel” of striking the ball, and to permit the user to maintain control of the implement.
  • a composite-type sports implement may include a single shape memory alloy reinforcing insert, or several of these arranged in a concentric manner along the length of the shaft of the implement, either between layers of composite plies or at the outer surface of the implement.
  • the insert may have an "L-shape" to conform with the angle of the shaft to the head.
  • a "Y"-shaped insert may be used.
  • several inserts may be used, and these are preferably concentrically arranged with intervening composite ply(s).
  • a sports implement may include at least one shape memory alloy insert arranged along the length of the shaft of the implement. The shape memory alloy inserts may be applied to the exterior surface of a sports implement shaft and/or an inner surface of a hollow shaft.
  • the orientation of plies of composite material may already be well-established. Further advances in the arrangement and orientation of these plies may be expected, as technology advances. Modern computer modeling allows the prediction of performance of selected combinations of composite ply orientations. Accordingly, while the description herein illustrates certain particular orientations of the plies of composite fayers of the sports implement shaft, these are for exemplary purposes only, and do not limit the scope of the invention which more broadly relates to the inclusion of at least one layer (or insert) of a shape memory alloy adjacent to or between layers of composite plies, regardless of ply orientation or type.
  • FIGURES 1A and IB are schematic illustrations of filaments 2, 4 of shape memory alloy. These filaments may extend along a length of a shaft in the required high impact force region or may be wound around that region of the shaft, in accordance with the invention. The filaments may be wound over a prior layer of composite, and covered by a subsequent layer of composite.
  • FIGURE 1C shows a cross-section of a hollow shape memory alloy circular filament 2'. Solid and hollow filaments may be circular 2 or square 4 or any other geometric shape in cross-section.
  • FIGURE 2 is a schematic illustration of a wire mesh screen construct 6, wherein the filaments 2 of the screen comprise a shape memory alloy. The screens may be used in place of the filaments, as discussed above, to produce a shape memory alloy insert at a strategic location of the sports implement where impact forces are highest, when the implement strikes a projectile.
  • FIGURE 3 is a schematic illustration of a thin perforated sheet 8 of shape memory alloy, the perforations serving to reduce the overall mass of the insert prepared from the sheet.
  • the sheet may substitute for the filaments or mesh to form a shape memory alloy insert.
  • the filaments, wire mesh screen, and thin perforated sheet may also be the outermost ply in a composite shaft.
  • FIGURE 4A shows a golf club 20 having a shaft 22 with a proximal end 24 for grasping by the user, and a distal end 26 to which a club head 30 is mounted.
  • the hosel 26 of the club is a flex point area of high-impact forces 32, and is located at the point of insertion of the shaft 22 into a bore in the club head 30.
  • the shape memory alloy insert 35 extends along the shaft 22 both above and below the hosel 32, thereby reinforcing and covering the strategic flex point and area of greatest impact force of the golf club 20.
  • the shaft 22 may also include a second insert 55 at a flexion point, and a third insert 65 to absorb vibration at the proximal end 24 of the shaft 22 adapted for grasping.
  • the shape of the golf club head is different than that of FIGURE 4A, and includes a hosel 26 that extends upward in a substantially semi-cylindrical form from the club head 30.
  • the tip end 28 of the shaft 22 is mounted in a bore in the hosel 26, which does not extend to the base of the club head 30 as in FIGURE 4 A.
  • the shape memory alloy insert 35 extends both above and below the hosel 26, covering the area of maximum impact forces 32 on the shaft 22.
  • the golf club has a hollow steel shaft and includes a hosel 26' that extends upward in a substantially semi-cylindrical form from a club head 30'.
  • a tip end 28' of a shaft 22' is mounted in a bore in the hosel, which does extend to the base of club head 30'.
  • a shape memory insert 65' extends both above and below the hosel 26', covering the area of maximum impact forces 32' on the shaft 22.
  • FIGURE 4D is a cross-section taken at a proximal end 24' of shaft 22' showing the shape memory alloy insert 65' applied to an outer surface 62 of the shaft. Although not shown, it is envisioned that the proximal end 24' of the shaft 22' may be solid.
  • FIGURE 4E is a cross-section taken at the middle portion of shaft 22' showing a shape memory alloy insert 64 applied to the inner surface of the shaft.
  • FIGURE 5 A is an embodiment of the flex point region of high flexural stress of the shafts of FIGURES 4A and 4B, showing the structural composite plies and the shape memory alloy insert.
  • the shaft 22 is of substantially frusto-conical shape, tapering from a largest cross-sectional area in the vicinity of the proximal end 24 to a smallest cross-sectional area nearest the distal end 28.
  • the first layer 40 of the composite shaft illustrated is a composite ply with fibers at an angle of about 45° to the axis of the shaft.
  • the second ply 42 is wound with fibers at an angle of -45° to the shaft.
  • the third ply 44 is wound at an angle of about 60° to the shaft, and the fourth ply 46 at angle of -60° to the shaft.
  • a shape memory alloy insert 35 illustrated as filaments 2 of shape memory alloy aligned along the axis of the shaft.
  • the filaments may be wound around the shaft, at angles of 45°, 60°, or any other selected angle.
  • the shape memory alloy insert 35 is covered with a pair of outer structural composite plies 48, 50 each also having fibers aligned along the central axis of the shaft.
  • FIGURE 5B shows a second embodiment of a flex point region of a shaft that includes a second shape memory alloy insert 55, concentric with the first insert 35.
  • the second insert 55 is spaced from the first one by at least one intervening layer of composite plys 48, and is covered by at least one protective composite ply layer 50.
  • the alloy layer 55 may be the outermost layer.
  • FIGURE 6 this illustrates yet a further embodiment of the flex point region of a shaft of a sports implement of the invention wherein the shape memory alloy insert 35 is a wire mesh screen, rather than filaments or strips of shape memory alloy.
  • FIGURE 7 yet another embodiment, shows a shape memory alloy insert 35 of a perforated sheet of shape memory alloy.
  • more than one mesh screen or a perforated sheet may be used to form concentric shape memory alloy inserts.
  • mixtures of inserts may be used: for example, a first insert of shape memory alloy filament coupled with a second insert of either shape memory alloy perforated sheet or shape memory alloy mesh screen. Other permutations are clearly also possible.
  • FIGURE 8 is an illustration of a hockey stick 60, showing the location of a shape memory alloy insert 35 in dotted lines.
  • the shape memory alloy is also sandwiched between composite plies, as discussed above, but the insert is "L"-shaped, to cover the area of the stick that is subject to greatest impact forces.
  • the shape memory alloy inserts may be applied to the outer surface of the hockey stick in substantially the same locations as indicated by the dotted lines.
  • FIGURE 9 shows a shape memory alloy insert 35, in dotted lines, in a tennis racquet 70.
  • the shape memory alloy is substantially "Y"-shaped, with the lower leg 33 of the Y extending along the shaft, and each branch 37 of the Y extending into the frame of the racquet that surrounds the head 72. Similar construction may clearly be used for racquetball racquets, badminton racquets, and squash racquets.
  • the "string" 38 of the racquet may also be fabricated of shape memory alloy filaments or composite filaments reinforced with such alloys, or filaments that have sections made of such alloys. It is also envisioned that the shape memory alloy insert may be applied to the outer surface of the tennis racquet in substantially the same location as indicated by the dotted lines.
  • FIGURES 10 and 10A show a baseball bat 80 having a series of shape memory alloy sections.
  • the shape memory alloy 84 is located at the hand grip, to reduce vibration imparted to the user.
  • Another shape memory alloy insert 82 is located at a point of flexion, to absorb forces.
  • a striking face 88 of the bat 80 is also fabricated of shape memory alloy.
  • the baseball bat 80 may be formed, as conventionally, of a hollow, substantially tubular material, but with shape memory alloy substituting for the standard aluminum metal in the regions shown.
  • the entire baseball bat 80 may be fabricated of a shape memory alloy.
  • FIGURE 10B is a cross-section of the baseball bat 80 showing a hollow portion of the distal end with a shape memory alloy insert 88' applied to an outer surface 81. It is also envisioned that the baseball bat 80 may be formed from a solid non-metallic material including wood and a composite material, and the shape memory alloy insert 88' could be applied to the outer surface of the non-metallic material.
  • the shaft is fabricated from a series of cylindrical sections 22a, and has a shape a shape memory alloy portion 35 at its distal end 26, and a second shape memory alloy portion 55 at its proximal end 24.
  • shape memory alloy portions substitute for the standard steel sections 22a that would be used in the prior art.
  • the shape memory alloy 35 (and 55) may be made up of a cylindrical ring of metal 56 that includes a series of longitudinal circumferentially spaced shape memory alloy filaments 2.
  • the entire cylindrical ring 35 may be fabricated of the shape memory alloy. It is also envisioned that any of the standard metallic sections may be replaced with a shape memory alloy section.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Golf Clubs (AREA)

Abstract

Cette invention concerne un article de sport (20) comprenant un élément rapporté (35) en alliage à mémoire de forme (AMF) situé dans une région de l'article ayant une plus grande flexibilité, une meilleure déformation de flexion ou une force d'impact accrue. Dans l'état austénitique, l'alliage à mémoire de forme subit une transformation de phase induite par les contraintes, ce qui le fait passer de l'état austénitique à l'état martensitique lors de l'impact de la force (contrainte). Lorsque la contrainte disparaît, l'état martensitique fait place à l'état austénitique, ce qui a pour effet d'absorber l'énergie des vibrations (en raison de sa capacité d'amortissement spécifique élevée) et de libérer une quantité significative de l'énergie stockée en raison de ses propriétés superélastique. Ces deux effets permettent de produire un article de sport (20) présentant un meilleur transfert de l'énergie et une capacité accrue d'amortissement des vibrations. Le fait de placer l'alliage à mémoire de forme au niveau du point de flexion sur l'article (20) permet de stabiliser ce dernier (20) pour réduire au minimum les modes de flexion en torsion non désirés. Des éléments rapportés (35) en alliage à mémoire de forme qui se trouvent au départ à l'état martensitique peuvent également être utilisés pour amortir les vibrations de l'article de sport (20).
PCT/US1998/022303 1997-10-20 1998-10-20 Articles de sport beneficiant d'un meilleur transfert de l'energie, d'un meilleur controle de la flexion et d'un amortissement des vibrations ameliore Ceased WO1999020357A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU12728/99A AU1272899A (en) 1997-10-20 1998-10-20 Sports implement with enhanced energy transfer, control of flexion and vibrationdampening

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US6258497P 1997-10-20 1997-10-20
US60/062,584 1997-10-20
US9354598P 1998-07-21 1998-07-21
US60/093,545 1998-07-21

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Cited By (10)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7285063B2 (en) 2004-03-26 2007-10-23 2946-6380 Quebec Inc. A/S Production P.H. Enr. Irregular hockey stick shaft and a method of fabrication thereof
US7393595B2 (en) * 2001-12-07 2008-07-01 Qinetiq Limited Composite comprising a metal or alloy and a shape memory alloy
EP2028309A1 (fr) * 2007-08-23 2009-02-25 Ettore Rossini Etoffe ou bande d' entoilage en matériau pseudo-élastique pour amortir les vibrations
US7614969B2 (en) 2005-08-23 2009-11-10 Hammer Sports Inc. Sticks for athletic equipment
US7824283B2 (en) 2005-05-25 2010-11-02 2946-6380 Quebec Inc. Pre-stressed hockey shaft
US20110124446A1 (en) * 2009-11-23 2011-05-26 Entrotech Composites, Llc Reinforced Objects
DE102014016105A1 (de) * 2014-10-30 2016-05-04 Head Technology Gmbh Superelastische Schlägersaite
DE102017007596A1 (de) 2017-08-13 2019-02-14 Solvo GmbH Formgedächtnisaktuatoranordnung und Verfahren für deren Herstellung
US20210331048A1 (en) * 2020-04-28 2021-10-28 Philip Andrew Scott Smart Golf Club Shaft
CN115855326A (zh) * 2022-11-16 2023-03-28 吉林大学 一种超弹记忆合金丝撞击力大小及位置和丝网变形量自感知球拍

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US3646610A (en) * 1969-03-10 1972-02-29 True Temper Corp Fiber glass reinforced golf shaft
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US5614305A (en) * 1995-02-08 1997-03-25 Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc. Impact and perforation resistant composite structures
US5692971A (en) * 1996-03-06 1997-12-02 Williams; Danny R. Shock absorbing insert and other sporting goods improvements
US5807190A (en) * 1996-12-05 1998-09-15 The Beta Group Golf club head or face
US5807189A (en) * 1995-12-07 1998-09-15 Memry Corporation Golf club head

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US1435088A (en) * 1920-12-02 1922-11-07 George J Renner Handle grip
US1587082A (en) * 1921-02-21 1926-06-01 Crawford Mcgregor & Canby Co Handle grip for golf clubs
US3646610A (en) * 1969-03-10 1972-02-29 True Temper Corp Fiber glass reinforced golf shaft
US4757997A (en) * 1986-06-06 1988-07-19 Fiber-Speed International, Inc. Golf club shaft and method of manufacture
US4909510A (en) * 1989-02-03 1990-03-20 Sahatjian Ronald A Sports racquet netting
US5421574A (en) * 1989-08-28 1995-06-06 Toray Industries, Inc. Sports instrument and impact-absorbing element to be attached to sports instrument
US5297791A (en) * 1990-06-04 1994-03-29 Fujikura Rubber Ltd. Golf club shaft and method of producing the same
US5294119A (en) * 1991-09-27 1994-03-15 Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. Vibration-damping device for a golf club
US5614305A (en) * 1995-02-08 1997-03-25 Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc. Impact and perforation resistant composite structures
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US5807189A (en) * 1995-12-07 1998-09-15 Memry Corporation Golf club head
US5692971A (en) * 1996-03-06 1997-12-02 Williams; Danny R. Shock absorbing insert and other sporting goods improvements
US5807190A (en) * 1996-12-05 1998-09-15 The Beta Group Golf club head or face

Cited By (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7393595B2 (en) * 2001-12-07 2008-07-01 Qinetiq Limited Composite comprising a metal or alloy and a shape memory alloy
US7326135B2 (en) 2004-03-26 2008-02-05 2946-6380 Quebec Inc. A/S Production P.H. Enr. Rib-reinforced hockey stick shaft and method of fabrication
US7285063B2 (en) 2004-03-26 2007-10-23 2946-6380 Quebec Inc. A/S Production P.H. Enr. Irregular hockey stick shaft and a method of fabrication thereof
US7824283B2 (en) 2005-05-25 2010-11-02 2946-6380 Quebec Inc. Pre-stressed hockey shaft
US8323129B1 (en) 2005-08-23 2012-12-04 Meyer Rene P Process for making composite athletic shaft
US7614969B2 (en) 2005-08-23 2009-11-10 Hammer Sports Inc. Sticks for athletic equipment
EP2028309A1 (fr) * 2007-08-23 2009-02-25 Ettore Rossini Etoffe ou bande d' entoilage en matériau pseudo-élastique pour amortir les vibrations
US8747261B2 (en) * 2009-11-23 2014-06-10 Entrotech Composites, Llc Reinforced objects
US20110124446A1 (en) * 2009-11-23 2011-05-26 Entrotech Composites, Llc Reinforced Objects
EP2324891A3 (fr) * 2009-11-23 2017-10-25 Entrotech Composites, LLC. Objets renforcés
DE102014016105A1 (de) * 2014-10-30 2016-05-04 Head Technology Gmbh Superelastische Schlägersaite
WO2016066706A1 (fr) * 2014-10-30 2016-05-06 Head Technology Gmbh Corde superélastique pour raquette
US10195496B2 (en) 2014-10-30 2019-02-05 Head Technology Gmbh Superelastic racket string
DE102017007596A1 (de) 2017-08-13 2019-02-14 Solvo GmbH Formgedächtnisaktuatoranordnung und Verfahren für deren Herstellung
WO2019034205A1 (fr) 2017-08-13 2019-02-21 Solvo GmbH Ensemble d'actionnement a mémoire de forme et procédé de fabrication de celui-ci
DE102017007596B4 (de) 2017-08-13 2019-12-19 Chr. Mayr Gmbh + Co. Kg Formgedächtnisaktuatoranordnung und Verfahren für deren Herstellung
US20210331048A1 (en) * 2020-04-28 2021-10-28 Philip Andrew Scott Smart Golf Club Shaft
CN115855326A (zh) * 2022-11-16 2023-03-28 吉林大学 一种超弹记忆合金丝撞击力大小及位置和丝网变形量自感知球拍

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