In this paper the mechanical system examined was a golf club, more specifically a one-wood or a driver. While golf clubs differ with manufacturer and purpose, the basic concept remains the same. In this case, and in all cases the golf club is comprised of the shaft, the grip, and the head.
The most important part of the golf club is the grip, as it is the only point of contact with the golfer. Grips are typically "made of rubber or leather with an assortment of small holes, grooves or ridges. All of these qualities are designed to make it easier for the golfer to hold onto the club without making the grip so large that it will run afoul of the rules" (Franklin, 1998). The grip of the club examined in this instance was made of a hard rubber. While it is difficult to ascertain the rubber type used it most closely resembles a "special" rubber, Koroseal. Koroseal is type of synthetic rubber which "when not subjected to high temperatures, it is more resistant to abrasion than natural rubber or leather" (Lewin, 1997). Rubber's lower cost than leather and strength advantage are its most likely the reason for its use in this application.
The shaft's main purpose is to convey the energy of the golfer's swing to the club head in the most efficient way possible. While this can be affected by shaft length, its composition is most important. The first club shafts were made of hickory. Club makers" first attempt to move from hickory to steel all but failed as "the solid (steel) shafts could never be made light enough, and manufacturing hollow tube was extremely difficult because of the low-carbon containing steel which more than likely broke during the manufacturing process itself". In time materials such as aluminum and titanium were also tried, but as "advances made in the steel material and new manufacturing processes enabling a stepped-down shaft" allowing club makers to "produce an incredibly consistent shaft" (Arthur).
