Gloves with detectable marks

Abstract

To provide gloves including one or more marks for improving the detection and tracking of the mark by radar systems and / or infrared cameras, the gloves being particularly useful in providing golf swing analysis and golf club fitting data.SOLUTION: The invention provides gloves including one or more layers having at least one radar-detectable mark formed of radar-detectable material and / or at least one infrared-detectable mark formed of infrared-absorbing ink disposed on a surface thereof.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a glove that includes one or more marks for improving detection and tracking of the marks by radar systems and / or infrared cameras. Such a glove is particularly useful for providing golf swing analysis and golf club fitting data. [Background technology]

[0002] There is an ever-increasing interest in the golf experience that requires a system for detecting the movement of a golf glove during a golf swing. Radar tracking and infrared camera systems currently used to detect golf balls are particularly well suited to provide useful data if they could detect the movement of a golf glove during a golf swing.

[0003] Currently, radar reflective stickers are commonly used on golf balls to determine launch conditions, i.e. spin, speed, and launch angle, using a radar tracking system. The radar reflective stickers are typically placed on the outer surface of the golf ball for the radar tracking system to obtain launch condition data. The radar device also attempts to obtain data of the golf club during impact with the golf ball. However, this does not allow the radar tracking device to capture swing data.

[0004] For example, as disclosed in US Pat. No. 8,636,605, an infrared camera may be used in combination with an infrared illuminator to capture swing data.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a glove that provides one or more of the following benefits: improved quality of golf swing data collected by radar tracking systems and infrared cameras, particularly in travel-limited environments, and an improved experience for end users of these radar tracking systems. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,636,605 DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION

[0007] The present invention is directed to a glove having at least one layer with one or more marks positioned on a surface thereof.

[0008] In a specific embodiment, the marking comprises a continuous shape and is formed from a radar detectable material or an infrared camera detectable ink. In a specific aspect of this embodiment, the golf glove has one or more of the following characteristics: a) The mark is non-circular. b) the radar detectable material is a conductive ink having a base resin and a conductive material, the base resin optionally being selected from the group consisting of vinyl polymers, urethane polymers, acrylic polymers, epoxy polymers, silicone polymers, and combinations thereof, and the conductive material optionally being selected from the group consisting of silver, conductive carbon, aluminum, graphene, nanotubes, nanometals, and combinations of two or more thereof. b) The resistivity of the mark is from 0.1 ohms to 2,500 ohms. c) The mark shall be sized such that every 0.025 inch wide path along the length of the glove on the back of the golfer's hand intersects the mark. d) The mark shall be dimensioned such that a 0.025 inch wide circular path around the glove of the golfer's hand between the wrist and the knuckles shall intersect said mark in all directions. e) The golf glove includes a layer, and the marking is positioned on an inner surface of the layer or an outer surface of the layer. f) Golf positioning.

[0009] In another specific embodiment, the mark is formed from a radar detectable material and / or an infrared detectable ink mark and comprises a first portion on the palm side of the glove and a second portion on the rear side of the glove. In yet another specific embodiment, the mark is formed from a radar detectable material and / or an infrared detectable ink and comprises a continuous shape having three or more intersecting or spaced apart stripes that may be partially positioned on the palm side of the glove and / or the rear side of the glove.

[0010] In yet another specific embodiment, at least one layer of the glove comprises a plurality of radar-detectable and / or infrared-detectable ink marks disposed on a surface thereof. In a specific aspect of this embodiment, the radar-detectable marks comprise a resistivity between 0.1 ohms and 25 ohms. In a specific aspect of this embodiment, all of the radar-detectable marks are covered by an outer layer such that the marks are not visible to a user. In another specific aspect of this embodiment, all of the infrared-detectable ink marks are disposed on the outer layer and are detectable by an infrared camera.

[0011] In another specific aspect of this embodiment, the plurality of radar detectable marks and / or infrared detectable ink marks includes a first mark on a palm side of the glove and a second mark on a dorsal side of the glove. In a preferred embodiment, the first mark comprises a continuous shape and the second mark comprises a primitive shape selected from a basic non-polygon, a regular polygon, and an irregular polygon. In a preferred embodiment, the second mark comprises a continuous shape and the first mark comprises a primitive shape selected from a basic non-polygon, a regular polygon, and an irregular polygon. Non-limiting examples of suitable continuous shapes include lines, line segments, and arcs. Non-limiting examples of suitable basic non-polygons include circles, rings, and crescents. Non-limiting examples of suitable regular polygons include squares and equilateral triangles. Non-limiting examples of suitable irregular polygons include rectangles, non-equilibrium triangles, and chevrons.

[0012] In another specific embodiment, the plurality of radar-detectable marks and / or infrared-detectable ink marks includes a first mark and a second mark, where the first mark comprises a continuous irregular shape including a plurality of intersecting stripes, and the second mark comprises a different irregular shape than the first mark. In another specific aspect of this embodiment, the plurality of radar-detectable marks includes a third mark, where the third mark comprises either an irregular shape or a regular shape.

[0013] In another specific embodiment, the plurality of radar-detectable and / or infrared-detectable ink marks includes a first mark and a second mark, where the first mark comprises a continuous irregular shape including a plurality of intersecting stripes, and the second mark comprises a regular shape different from the first mark. In another specific aspect of this embodiment, the plurality of radar-detectable and / or infrared-detectable ink marks includes a third mark, where the third mark comprises an irregular shape or a regular shape.

[0014] In another specific aspect of the invention, all of the radar detectable marks and / or infrared detectable ink marks have a total surface coverage of from 1% to 20% of the outer surface of the glove.

[0015] In another specific embodiment, a golf glove has at least one portion comprising two or more layers, with one or more radar-detectable marks disposed between an outer layer and an inner layer.

[0016] It should also be noted that embodiments of the present invention may include a plurality of dots and / or line segments positioned on the rear of the finger portion. The dots are preferably between about 0.05 inches and 0.5 inches and may be of the same or different dimensions. The line segments preferably have a width between about 0.05 inches and 0.5 inches, more preferably between 0.1 inches and 0.2 inches. The line segments preferably have a length between about 0.25 inches and 1.0 inches and may be of the same or different dimensions between the line segments.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the glove includes a radar detectable mark for a radar detector and / or an infrared detectable ink mark for an infrared camera positioned such that they face the user. In another preferred embodiment, the glove includes a radar detectable mark for a radar detector and / or an infrared detectable ink mark for an infrared camera positioned above the head. In yet another preferred embodiment, the glove includes a radar detectable mark for a radar detector and / or an infrared detectable ink mark for an infrared camera positioned behind the user. In yet another preferred embodiment, the glove includes one radar detectable mark for multiple radar detectors. In yet another preferred embodiment, the glove includes one infrared detectable ink mark for multiple infrared cameras.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the glove has a layer with a plurality of marks disposed on a surface thereof, including a first mark formed from a radar detectable material and a second mark formed from an infrared detectable ink. Preferably, the first mark comprises a plurality of intersecting stripes, including a first stripe and a second stripe that intersects with the first stripe at a first angle between 30° and 120°, and the second mark comprises a third stripe that does not intersect with the first and second stripes. In one embodiment, the first and third stripes are substantially parallel. Also, each stripe may have a width of less than 0.2 inches. Additionally, the second marking may include a fourth stripe, the first stripe having a first length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, the second stripe having a second length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, the third stripe having a third length of 0.5 inches to 1.0 inches, and the fourth stripe having a fourth length of 0.5 inches to 1.0 inches. The first stripe and the second stripe may be positioned on a rear portion of the glove, and the third stripe and the fourth stripe may be positioned on one or more fingers of the glove. In an alternative embodiment, the first stripe has a first length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, the second stripe has a second length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, and the third stripe has a third length of at least 2.0 inches. The first stripe, the second stripe, and the third stripe may be positioned on a rear portion of the glove. Additionally, the second mark may further include a fifth stripe and a sixth stripe, the fifth stripe and the sixth stripe being positioned on one or more fingers of the glove.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, a glove of the present invention has a first mark formed from a radar detectable material and a second mark formed from an infrared detectable ink, the first mark being formed from a radar detectable material and the second mark being formed from an infrared detectable ink. Preferably, the glove has a layer, and the first mark is disposed on an inner surface of the layer and the second mark is disposed on an outer surface of the layer. Alternatively, the glove has an inner layer and an outer layer, and the first mark is disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer and the second mark is disposed on an outer surface of the outer layer. For example, the outer layer may form the back of the glove, part of a closure mechanism, or a logo attached to the glove.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the glove of the present invention has a layer having a first infrared detectable mark and a second infrared detectable mark formed from an infrared absorbing ink disposed on an outer surface of the glove. Preferably, the first mark and the second mark have a basic shape selected from the group consisting of stripes, circles, rings, crescents, squares, triangles, rectangles, chevrons, regular polygons, irregular polygons, and basic non-polygonal shapes. In one embodiment, the first infrared detectable mark has a first stripe formed on the back of the glove and the second infrared detectable mark has a second stripe and a third stripe positioned at one or more fingers of the glove. Alternatively, the first infrared detectable mark may be a plurality of intersecting stripes and the second infrared detectable mark may have a second stripe and a third stripe positioned at one or more fingers of the glove. The glove may include a cuff having a radar detectable mark formed from a radar detectable material. The glove may also have a closure mechanism having a radar detectable mark formed from a radar detectable material.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the glove includes a radar detectable mark and may be used in conjunction with a golf ball having a radar detectable mark such as that disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 515,971, and / or U.S. Patent No. 8,636,605, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] In the accompanying drawings, which form a part of and should be read in conjunction with the specification, like reference numerals are used to refer to like parts in the various views. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a rear perspective view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear perspective view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates a rear perspective view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a rear perspective view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a rear view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a back view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a front view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates a rear view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a rear view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0023] The golf glove of the present invention includes one or more layers having at least one radar detectable mark disposed on a surface thereof. Particularly suitable radar detectable materials for forming the mark include, but are not limited to, conductive inks that include a base resin and a conductive material. The ink may be water-based or solvent-based. The ink may be a one-component ink or a two-component ink. The ink may be cured with an isocyanate-based hardener, UV curing, and / or thermal curing. The ink and the mark formed therefrom may be transparent or opaque. In a specific embodiment, the base resin of the ink is selected from the group consisting of vinyl polymers, urethane polymers, acrylic polymers, epoxy polymers, silicone polymers, and combinations of two or more thereof. In another specific embodiment, the conductive material of the ink is selected from the group consisting of silver, conductive carbon, aluminum, graphene, nanotubes, nanometals, and combinations of two or more thereof. Particularly suitable inks are those capable of producing marks having a resistivity of about 0.1 ohms to 2,500 ohms, preferably 0.5 ohms to 25 ohms, and most preferably about 5 ohms to 20 ohms. Non-limiting examples of suitable commercially available inks are InkLab 303 silver conductive ink available from ITW Trans Tech, silver ink available from Creative Materials Inc., conductive carbon ink, aluminum ink, silver / carbon blend ink, and aluminum / carbon blend ink. In embodiments of the present invention in which the golf glove includes more than one radar detectable mark on a layer, the radar detectable material used to form one mark may be the same or different from the radar detectable material used to form another mark. In embodiments of the present invention in which the golf glove includes at least two layers having one or more radar detectable marks disposed therebetween, the radar detectable material used to form a mark on one layer may be the same or different from the radar detectable material used to form a mark on the other layer.

[0024] The radar detectable material is applied to the surface of the layer using any suitable technique. In a specific embodiment, the mark is formed by applying the radar detectable material to the surface of the golf glove layer by pad printing. In a specific aspect of this embodiment, the pad printed mark has a film thickness of at least 0.5 μm and no more than 5 μm. Preferably, the mark has a film thickness in the range of 0.5 μm to 5 μm.

[0025] The surface on which the radar detectable mark or marks are located may be any surface of any part of the golf glove. Although the invention is not meant to be limited to the placement of the mark or marks, the golf glove of the invention is designed to allow the radar detectable mark or marks to be placed on any surface other than the outer surface of the glove. This is because it is beneficial for some golfers to be able to obtain reliable data using a golf glove that has the same appearance as a conventional golf glove. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the radar detectable mark or marks are placed on any surface other than the outermost surface. For example, the radar detectable mark or marks may be applied to the outer surface of the leather or synthetic leather forming the glove such that the radar detectable mark or marks do not contact the skin of the user. Furthermore, the radar detectable mark or marks are preferably placed in an area where a second layer can be placed over the mark or marks. In a preferred embodiment, the glove has a hook and loop closure mechanism. A hook or loop layer may be placed as the outer layer of the closure away from the surface of the hand, and the radar detectable mark or marks may be placed on the outer surface of the outer closure layer. The radar detectable markings may then be covered by a logo surface or the like to make the radar detectable markings invisible to the user.

[0026] In yet another embodiment, radar detectable marks are placed on the outer surface of the glove leather in a location that is covered by a decorative member made of natural or synthetic material.

[0027] For purposes of this disclosure, a mark is considered to be disposed on a surface of a layer regardless of whether a coating has previously been applied to the surface. In other words, if an adhesive coating is applied to a surface of a layer and then a mark is applied over the adhesive coating, the mark is considered to be disposed on a surface of the layer even though the adhesive coating is disposed in between. Similarly, if there is a coating between two layers of a glove, the layers are considered to be adjacent to each other even though there may be a coating between them.

[0028] In a specific embodiment, the golf glove of the present invention includes an adhesive coating applied to the layer in which the at least one radar-detectable mark is disposed, either before and / or after application of the mark. In a specific aspect of this embodiment, the at least one mark is disposed on a surface of the golf glove closure layer, and an adhesive coating is applied over the layer and the mark.

[0029] Each radar detectable mark has a shape selected from a variety of suitable shapes, including regular and irregular shapes. Suitable examples of regular shapes include, but are not limited to, circles, rings, crescents, squares, triangles, rectangles, chevrons, and other regular polygons, irregular polygons, and basic non-polygonal shapes. Suitable examples of irregular shapes include, but are not limited to, intersecting shapes, including, but are not limited to, a series of intersecting stripes, each stripe having a different or substantially identical length and width. For purposes of this disclosure, stripes are considered to have substantially the same length and / or width if their respective lengths and / or widths differ by no more than 10%.

[0030] In a specific embodiment, the golf glove includes at least one radar-detectable mark having an irregular shape formed by a series of intersecting rectangular stripes. In specific aspects of this embodiment, the mark having an irregular shape further comprises one or more of the following characteristics: (a) The series of intersecting stripes consists of two rectangular stripes, or the series of intersecting stripes consists of three rectangular stripes, or the series of intersecting stripes consists of at least four rectangular stripes. b) the series of intersecting stripes includes a first stripe and a second stripe, the first and second stripes having substantially equal lengths; (i) the plane bisecting the first stripe and the plane bisecting the second stripe are separated by an angle between about 60° and 150°, more preferably between about 75° and 1105°. (ii) the first and second stripes are substantially equal in width; and (iii) the first and second stripes have a length of between about 0.5 inches and 5 inches, more preferably between about 1.0 and 2.5 inches; and (iv) the series of intersecting stripes further includes a third stripe and a fourth stripe, wherein a plane bisecting the third stripe and a plane bisecting the fourth stripe are separated by an angle between about 30° and 150°, more preferably between about 60° and 120°. c) each stripe in the series of intersecting stripes has a width of less than 0.2 inches and greater than 0.03 inches. Preferably, the intersecting stripes have a width of between 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches. d) the series of stripes includes a first stripe, a second stripe, and a third stripe, each of the first and second stripes having a length of about 1.5 inches to 3.0 inches, and the third stripe having a length of 0.1 inches to 0.5 inches. e) the series of stripes includes a first stripe, a second stripe, a third stripe, and a fourth stripe, the fourth stripe having a length shorter than the first and second stripes and longer than the third stripe.

[0031] 1, glove 100 preferably has a back portion 102 that covers the back portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 104 that covers the palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 106 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 108 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 110 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 112. Closure mechanism 112 extends across a slit 114 that extends from cuff portion 110 toward finger portion 106.

[0032] The wearer places one hand into the glove 100 and grasps the flap 116 with the other hand and pulls it over the slit 114. The flap 116 is then fastened to the opposing section of the back portion 102 of the glove to fasten and secure the glove 100 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook-and-loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock the flap 116 in place. More specifically, the flap 116 has an outer surface 118 and an inner surface (not shown). A small hook-and-loop fastener is disposed on the inner surface of the flap 116 and a complementary hook-and-loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of the back portion 102 of the glove 100. As the flap 116 is pulled over the slit 114, the flap 116 is removably attached to the opposing section of the back portion 102 of the glove 100 by mating complementary hook-and-loop fasteners. The glove wearer can release the flap 116 by simply pulling it upwards, after which the wearer's hand can be easily removed. It should be noted that other closure systems (e.g., snap buttons, ties, buttons / button holes, buckles, elastics, etc.) can be used in addition to or in place of the hook-and-loop fastening system.

[0033] In this embodiment, the detectable mark 120 comprises one or more stripes located on the cuff portion 110. Preferably, the detectable mark 120 extends from at least the closure mechanism 112 to at least the edge portion 126 (thumb side) and edge portion 128 (pinky side) on either side of the slit 114 such that every 0.025 inch wide path along the length of the glove on the back of the golfer's hand intersects the mark. In this configuration, the detectable mark 120 is applied to the material forming the cuff portion 110 before the cuff portion 110 is folded and sewn to the remainder of the glove 100, such that the detectable mark 120 is located on the inside surface of the cuff portion 110 and is not visible to a user wearing the glove 100.

[0034] 2, glove 200 preferably has a rear portion 202 that covers the rear portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 204 that covers the palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 206 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 208 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 210 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 212. Closure mechanism 212 extends across a slit 214 that extends from cuff portion 210 toward finger portion 206.

[0035] In this embodiment, the detectable marks 220(a) and 220(b) have two or more stripes disposed on the cuff portion 210 and along the edge portion 216 (as shown) or 228. Preferably, the detectable mark 220(a) extends from at least the closure mechanism 212 to at least the edge portions 226 and 228 on either side of the slit 214, such that a 0.025 inch wide path intersects the mark 220(a) along the length of the glove on the back of the golfer's hand. A second portion of the detectable mark 220(b) is preferably located on the edge portion 226 or 228 and intersects the detectable mark 220(a) at an angle α between 30° and 120°, more preferably about 90°. Thus, the second portion of the detectable mark 220(b) can assist the radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during the swing. Preferably, the second portion of detectable mark 220(b) has a length of at least 0.5 inches, and more preferably between about 0.5 inches and 3 inches. In this configuration, detectable mark 220(a) is preferably applied to the material forming cuff portion 210 before the cuff portion is folded over and sewn to the remainder of glove 200, such that detectable mark 220 is located on the inner surface of cuff portion 210 and is not visible to a user wearing glove 200. Similarly, the second portion of detectable mark 220(b) is preferably applied to the inner surface of glove 200 such that it is not visible to a user, and more preferably, a portion of the palm material or other material covers detectable mark 220(b) on the interior of glove 200, such that detectable mark 220(b) does not touch the user's hand when glove 200 is worn.

[0036] 3, glove 300 preferably has a rear portion 302 that covers a rear portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 304 that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 306 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 308 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 310 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 312. Closure mechanism 312 includes a flap 316 that extends across and closes a slit 314 that extends from cuff portion 310 toward finger portion 306. When closed, flap 316 is secured to an opposing section of glove rear portion 302 to tighten and secure glove 300 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook and loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock flap 316 in place. More specifically, flap 316 has an exterior surface 318 and an interior surface (not shown). A small hook and loop fastener is disposed on the inside surface of flap 316 and a complementary hook and loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of rear portion 302 of glove 300 .

[0037] In this embodiment, the detectable mark 320 comprises a plurality of stripes 320(a), 320(b), and 320(c) disposed on the closure mechanism 312. Preferably, the detectable mark 320 is applied between the hook / fastener layer of the flap 316 and the outer surface 318 of the flap 316 such that the detectable mark 320 is not visible to the wearer. The stripes 320(a) extend along the trailing edge portion of the flap 316, and the stripes 320(b) and 320(c) extend along the top and bottom of the flap 316, respectively. Preferably, the stripes 320(b) and 320(c) intersect with the stripe 320(a) at an angle α between 30° and 120°, more preferably between 75° and 105°. Each of the stripes 320(a), 320(b), and 320(c) is preferably between about 0.5 inches and 2.5 inches, and more preferably between about 1 inch and 2 inches. In a preferred embodiment, each of the stripes 320(a), 320(b), and 320(c) has a different length to assist the radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during the swing.

[0038] 4, glove 400 preferably has a back portion 402 that covers a back portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 404 that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 406 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 408 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 410 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 412. Closure mechanism 412 includes a flap 416 that extends across and closes a slit 414 that extends from cuff portion 410 toward finger portion 406. When closed, flap 416 is secured to an opposing section of glove back portion 402 to tighten and secure glove 400 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook and loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock flap 416 in place. More specifically, flap 416 has an exterior surface 418 and an interior surface (not shown). A small hook and loop fastener is disposed on the inside surface of flap 416 and a complementary hook and loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of rear portion 402 of glove 400 .

[0039] In this embodiment, the detectable mark 420 is positioned within the closure mechanism 412 and includes a plurality of stripes 420(a) and 420(b) disposed along at least one of edge portions 426 (thumb side) and 428 (pinky side), respectively. Preferably, the detectable mark 320(a) is applied between the hook and fastener layer on the flap 416 and the outer surface 418 of the flap 416 such that the detectable mark 420(a) is not visible to the wearer. Preferably, the stripes 320(a) extend along a trailing edge portion of the flap 416 or along the top or bottom (as shown) of the flap 416. Preferably, stripe 420(b) of detectable mark 420 is applied to the inside surface of glove 400 so that it is not visible to the user, and more preferably, a portion of palm material or other material covers stripe 420(b) on the inside of glove 400 so that detectable arc 420 does not touch the user's hand when the glove is worn. In this embodiment, stripe 420(a) does not intersect with stripe 420(b). However, the extensions of stripes 420(a) and 420(b) intersect at an angle α between 30° and 120°, more preferably between 75° and 105°. Each of stripes 420(a) and 420(b) is preferably between about 0.5 inches and 2.5 inches, more preferably between about 1 inch and 2 inches. In a preferred embodiment, each of stripes 420(a) and 420(b) has a different length to assist the radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during the swing.

[0040] 5, glove 500 preferably has a rear portion 502 that covers a rear portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 504 that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 506 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 508 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 510 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 512. Closure mechanism 512 includes a flap 516 that extends across and closes a slit 514 that extends from cuff portion 510 toward finger portion 506. When closed, flap 516 is secured to an opposing section of glove rear portion 502 to tighten and secure glove 500 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook and loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock flap 516 in place. A small hook and loop fastener is disposed on the inside surface of flap 516 and a complementary hook and loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of rear portion 502 of glove 500 .

[0041] In this embodiment, the detectable mark 520 comprises a plurality of stripes 520(a) and 520(b) positioned across the rear portion 502 of the glove 500. Preferably, the detectable mark 520 is applied such that a 0.025 inch wide path is crossed by the marks 520 along the length of the glove on the back of the golfer's hand. More preferably, the detectable mark 520 comprises two or more stripes 520(a) and 520(b) of similar length but spaced at least 0.1 inches apart from each other to assist a radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during a swing. Additionally, the detectable mark 520 is preferably applied to the inner surface of the glove 500 so as to be invisible to the user. In a preferred embodiment, the glove 500 may include an elastic strip 530 extending from a thumb edge portion 526 to a pinky edge portion 528. The detectable mark 520 may be applied to the inner surface of the glove back portion 502 adjacent to the elastic strip 530 such that the elastic strip 530 may cover the inner surface of the detectable mark 520 and prevent it from touching the user's hand. As shown, the stripes 520(a) and 520(b) extend along the top and bottom edges of the elastic strip, respectively. The stripes 520(a) and 520(b) each have a length of approximately 1 inch and 6 inches. The stripes 520(a) and 520(b) may be continuous or may be divided into multiple smaller stripes, interleaved with one another to assist a radar detector in determining the orientation of the glove.

[0042] 6, glove 600 preferably has a rear portion 602 that covers a rear portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 604 that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 606 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 608 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 610 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 612. Closure mechanism 612 includes a flap 616 that extends across and closes a slit 614 that extends from cuff portion 610 toward finger portion 606. When closed, flap 616 is secured to an opposing section of glove rear portion 602 to tighten and secure glove 600 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook and loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock flap 616 in place. More specifically, flap 616 has an exterior surface 618 and an interior surface (not shown). A small hook and loop fastener is disposed on the inside surface of flap 616 and a complementary hook and loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of rear portion 602 of glove 600 .

[0043] In this embodiment, the detectable mark 620 has a plurality of stripes 620(a) and 620(b) positioned on the closure mechanism 612. Preferably, the detectable mark 620 is applied between the hook and fastener layer on the flap 616 and the outer surface 618 of the flap 616 such that the detectable mark 620 is not visible to the wearer. The stripes 620(a) preferably extend in a circular shape around the logo on the flap 616, and the stripes 620(b) are arcuate extending around the perimeter of the flap 616. In this embodiment, the stripes 620(a) and 620(b) do not intersect. Each of the stripes 620(a) and 620(b) is preferably between about 1 inch and 5 inches, more preferably between about 1 inch and 4 inches.

[0044] 7, glove 700 preferably has a back portion 702 that covers a back portion of a user's hand, a palm portion 704 that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 706 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 708 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 710 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 712. The closure mechanism 712 includes a flap 716 that extends across and closes a slit 714 that extends from the cuff portion 710 toward the finger portion 706. When closed, the flap 716 is secured to an opposing section of the glove back portion 702 to tighten and secure the glove 700 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook and loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock the flap 716 in place. More specifically, the flap 716 has an exterior surface 718 and an interior surface (not shown). A small hook and loop fastener is disposed on the inside surface of flap 716 and a complementary hook and loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of rear portion 702 of glove 700 .

[0045] In this embodiment, the detectable mark 720 is comprised of a plurality of stripes 720(a), 720(b), and 720(c) positioned on the closure mechanism 712. Preferably, the detectable mark 720 is concealed by the flap 716 such that the detectable mark 720 is not visible to the wearer. aboveand an outer surface 718 of flap 716. Stripe 720(a) extends from the thumb side of flap 716 toward the pinky side of flap 716. Stripes 720(b) and 720(c) intersect ends of stripe 720(a) and extend toward the bottom and top of flap 716, respectively. Preferably, stripes 720(b) and 720(c) intersect with stripe 720(a) forming an angle α1 between 30° and 90°. Each of stripes 720(b) and 720(c) also forms angles α2 and α3 between about 90° and 150°, respectively, with stripe 720(a). In a preferred embodiment, α1, α2, and α3 are different to assist the radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during the swing. Additionally, stripes 720(a), 720(b), and 720(c) preferably have a length between about 0.5 inches and 2.5 inches, and more preferably between about 1 inch and 2 inches. In a preferred embodiment, each of stripes 720(a), 720(b), and 720(c) have a different length to assist the radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hands during a swing.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 8, the glove 800 preferably has a back portion (not shown) that covers the back portion of the user's hand, a palm portion 804 that covers the palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 806 that covers one or more of the user's fingers, a thumb portion 808 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, and a cuff portion 810 that surrounds most of the user's wrist. The glove further includes a radar-detectable mark 820 positioned adjacent to the cuff portion 810 on the palm portion 804 of the glove. In this embodiment, the detectable mark 820 can have a plurality of stripes 820(a), 820(b), and 820(c) that surround a logo 832 positioned on the palm portion 804 adjacent to the cuff portion 810. Preferably, the detectable mark 820 is applied between the logo 832 and the outer surface 834 of the palm portion 804 such that the detectable mark 820 is not visible to the wearer. Preferably, the detectable mark 820 is applied to the inner surface of the logo 832 or the outer surface 834 of the palm portion 804. Strip 820(a) extends along the upper edge portion of the logo 832, and stripes 820(b) and 820(c) extend from the cuff portion 810 along the side portions and intersect stripe 820(a). Preferably, stripes 820(b) and 820(c) intersect stripe 820(a) at an angle α between 30° and 120°, more preferably between 75° and 105°. Each of stripes 820(a), 820(b), and 820(c) is preferably from about 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, more preferably from about 0.5 inches to 2.5 inches. In a preferred embodiment, each of stripes 820(a), 820(b), and 820(c) can have the same length or different lengths to assist a radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during a swing. Further, the embodiment discussed with respect to FIG. 8, or other radar-detectable marks, can be used on the palm portion 804 in combination with a radar-detectable mark (not shown) positioned on the back portion of the glove, such as those described above with reference to FIGS. 1-7. Specifically, a radar-detectable mark positioned on the cuff portion 810 of the palm portion 804 or the back portion (not shown) can be used together with the radar-detectable mark 820 below the logo 832 of the palm portion 804 and is particularly useful.

[0047] In other specific aspects of this embodiment, the golf glove includes at least one additional radar-detectable mark, and each of the additional radar-detectable marks has a shape selected independently from irregular shapes and basic regular shapes. Suitable examples of basic regular shapes include, but are not limited to, circles, rings, crescents, squares, triangles, rectangles, chevrons, and other regular polygons, irregular polygons, and basic non-polygons. It should also be noted that any of the above-described embodiments can be used in combination with radar-detectable marks such as a plurality of dots positioned on the back of the finger portion. For example, the dots preferably have a diameter between about 0.05 inches and 0.5 inches, and the diameters can be the same or different. In a specific embodiment, it is contemplated that each of the finger portions has one or more dots between about 0.05 inches and 0.5 inches. In yet other embodiments, the little finger and the ring finger each include one or more radar-detectable marks such as one or more points.

[0048] In a specific embodiment, the radar-detectable mark has a total surface coverage that exceeds about 0.5% and is less than 20% of the total surface coverage of the back of the glove.

[0049] The golf glove of the present invention includes at least one infrared detectable mark formed from an infrared absorbing ink disposed on a surface thereof. IR detectable materials particularly suitable for forming the mark include, but are not limited to, infrared light absorbing curable printing inks that include a base resin and a light absorbing inorganic compound. Additionally, the infrared absorbing ink may have a transparent infrared fluorescent pigment / dye / resin that allows the infrared detectable mark to appear only when struck by infrared light. The ink may be water-based or solvent-based. The ink may be a one-component ink or a two-component ink. The ink may be cured with an isocyanate-based hardener, UV curing, and / or thermal curing. The ink and the mark formed therefrom may be transparent or opaque. In a specific embodiment, the base resin of the ink is selected from the group consisting of vinyl polymers, urethane polymers, acrylic polymers, epoxy polymers, silicone polymers, and combinations of two or more thereof. Suitable inks are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 10,731,045, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and which are available from Creative Materials.

[0050] Each infrared detectable mark has a shape selected from a variety of suitable shapes, including regular and irregular shapes. Suitable examples of regular shapes include, but are not limited to, stripes, circles, rings, crescents, squares, triangles, rectangles, chevrons, and other regular polygons, irregular polygons, and basic non-polygonal shapes. Suitable examples of irregular shapes include, but are not limited to, intersecting shapes, including, but are not limited to, a series of intersecting stripes, where the length and width of each stripe in the series of intersecting stripes may be different or substantially the same as other stripes in the series. In the present disclosure, stripes have substantially the same length and / or width if the respective lengths and / or widths differ by no more than 10%.

[0051] In a specific embodiment, the golf glove is defined by a series of intersecting rectangular stripes. formation The at least one IR detectable mark having an irregular shape is detected.

[0052] In specific aspects of this embodiment, the IR detectable mark has one or more of the following characteristics: a) Multiple rectangular stripes spaced apart. b) A series of intersecting stripes. c) Stripes less than 0.2 inches wide and more than 0.25 inches long. d) the series of stripes includes a first stripe, a second stripe, and a third stripe, each stripe having a length of between about 0.5 inch and 1.0 inch; e) the series of stripes includes a first stripe having a length greater than 2.0 inches;

[0053] 9, a glove 900 is shown exhibiting infrared detectable markings and may be used alone or in combination with any of the radar detectable gloves described above. Glove 900 preferably has a back portion 902 that covers a back portion of a user's hand, a palm portion (not shown) that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, finger portions 906 that cover one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 908 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 910 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 912. Closure mechanism 912 extends across a slit 914 that extends from cuff portion 910 toward finger portion 906.

[0054] The wearer places one hand into the glove 900 and grasps the flap 916 with the other hand and pulls it over the slit 914. The flap 916 is then fastened to an opposing section of the back portion 902 of the glove to fasten and secure the glove 900 to the wearer's hand. Preferably, a hook-and-loop fastener, such as a Velcro® fastener, is used to lock the flap 916 in place. More specifically, the flap 916 has an outer surface 918 and an inner surface (not shown). A small hook-and-loop fastener is disposed on the inner surface of the flap 916 and a complementary hook-and-loop fastener is disposed on the opposing section of the back portion 902 of the glove 900. As the flap 916 is pulled over the slit 914, the flap 916 is removably attached to the opposing section of the back portion 902 of the glove 900 by mating complementary hook-and-loop fasteners.

[0055] In this embodiment, the infrared detectable mark 920 formed from an infrared absorbing ink has one or more stripes positioned on the outer surface of the rear portion 902. Preferably, the detectable mark 920 extends laterally across the rear portion 902. The infrared detectable mark 920 extends from an edge portion 926 of the adjacent thumb toward an edge portion 928 of the second pinky finger. Preferably, the infrared detectable mark 920 includes stripes that do not intersect with any of the previously disclosed radar detectable marks. As shown, the infrared detectable mark 920 may be substantially parallel to the cuff portion 910, which may include a radar detectable mark. The infrared detectable mark 920 is preferably no more than 0.2 inches in width and at least 2.0 inches in length.

[0056] The glove 900 may have a plurality of infrared detectable marks 922 formed of infrared absorbing ink positioned on one or more of the finger portions 906. Preferably, the infrared detectable marks 922 include at least two, and preferably at least three, infrared detectable marks 922 on the finger portions 906. Additionally, it is preferred that at least two of the finger portions 906 include a plurality of infrared detectable marks 922. The infrared detectable marks 922 may have a width of 0.2 inches or less and a length of 0.25 inches to 1.0 inches. The widths and lengths of the infrared detectable marks 922 may be the same or different from one another.

[0057] Most preferably, the infrared detectable marks 920 and 922 comprise a transparent infrared fluorescent pigment / dye / resin that is invisible to the eye but detectable by an infrared camera system.

[0058] The glove 900 may have an infrared-detectable mark 924 formed with infrared-absorbing ink positioned over one or more logos. Preferably, the infrared-detectable mark 924 is formed on an outer surface of the closure mechanism 912. The infrared-detectable mark 924 may be a regular or irregular shape.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the infrared detectable marks 920, 922 and / or 924 have a total surface coverage of less than 20% and greater than about 0.5% of the total surface coverage of the back portion 902 and finger portions 906 of the glove 900.

[0060] 10, a glove 1000 is shown to exhibit an infrared detectable mark, which may be used alone or in combination with any of the radar detectable gloves described above, including, for example, radar detectable mark 320. Glove 1000 preferably has a back portion 1002 that covers a back portion of a user's hand, a palm portion (not shown) that covers a palm portion of the user's hand, a finger portion 1006 that covers one or more fingers of the user's hand, a thumb portion 1008 that covers the thumb of the user's hand, a cuff portion 1010 that encircles a majority of the user's wrist, and a closure mechanism 1012. Closure mechanism 1012 extends across a slit 1014 that extends from cuff portion 1010 toward finger portion 1006. As described above, radar detectable mark 320 has a plurality of stripes 320(a), 320(b), and 320(c) positioned on closure mechanism 1012. Preferably, the detectable mark 320 is applied between the hook fastener of the flap 1016 and the outer surface 1018 of the flap 1016 such that the detectable mark 320 is not visible to the wearer. Stripe 320(a) extends along a trailing edge portion of the flap 1016, and stripes 320(b) and 320(c) extend along the top and bottom of the flap 1016, respectively. Preferably, stripes 320(b) and 320(c) intersect with stripe 320(a) at an angle α between 30° and 120°, more preferably between 75° and 105°. Each of stripes 320(a), 320(b), and 320(c) is preferably about 0.5 inches to 2.5 inches, more preferably about 1 inch to 2 inches. In a preferred embodiment, each of the stripes 320(a), 320(b), and 320(c) have a different length to assist the radar detector in determining the orientation of the user's hand during a swing.

[0061] In this embodiment, the infrared-detectable mark 1020 formed of infrared-absorbing ink has one or more stripes 1020(a) and 1020(b) positioned on the outer surface of the rear portion 1002. Preferably, the detectable mark 1020 comprises a first stripe 1020(a) extending laterally across the rear portion 1002. More preferably, the first stripe 1020(a) extends from an adjacent thumb edge portion 1026 toward a second pinky finger edge portion 1028. Preferably, the infrared-detectable mark 1020 has a second stripe 1020(b) that intersects with the first stripe 1020(a) at an angle β between 30° and 120°, more preferably between 75° and 105°. Preferably, the infrared detectable mark 1020 comprises a first stripe 1020(a) that is 0.2 inches or less in width and at least 2.0 inches in length, and a second stripe 1020(b) that is 0.2 inches or less in width and 0.5 inches to 1.5 inches in length. vinegar do.

[0062] As mentioned above, the glove 1000 may also include a plurality of infrared detectable marks 1022 formed of infrared absorbing ink positioned on one or more of the finger portions 1006. As mentioned above, the infrared detectable marks 1022 have at least two, and preferably at least three, infrared detectable marks 1022 on the finger portions 1006. Additionally, it is preferred that at least two of the finger portions 1006 include a plurality of infrared detectable marks 1022. The infrared detectable marks 1022 may have a width of 0.2 inches or less and a length of 0.25 inches to 1.0 inches. The widths and lengths of the infrared detectable marks 1022 may be the same or different from one another.

[0063] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been specifically described, it is understood that various other modifications will be apparent to and can be readily made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the claims appended hereto be limited to the examples and descriptions set forth herein, but rather that the claims be construed to encompass all features present in the present invention, including all patentable and novel features that would be treated as equivalents by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, the above examples are described with respect to golf gloves. However, it is clear that the above techniques can be used with baseball gloves, football gloves, and the like. [Explanation of symbols] 100 Gloves 102 Posterior part 104 Palm part 106 Finger part 108 Thumb 110 Cuff part 112 Closure mechanism 114 Slit 116 Flap 118 Outer surface 120 Radar detectable mark 126 Edge part 128 Edge 200 Gloves 202 Posterior part 204 Palm part 206 Finger part 208 Thumb 210 Cuff part 212 Closure mechanism 214 Slit 216 Flap 220 Radar detectable mark 226 Edge 228 Edge 300 Gloves 302 Posterior part 304 Palm part 306 Finger part 308 Thumb 310 Cuff part 312 Closure mechanism 314 Slit 316 Flap 318 Outer surface 320 Radar detectable mark 400 Gloves 402 Posterior part 404 Palm part 406 Finger part 408 Thumb 410 Cuff part 412 Closure mechanism 414 Slit 416 Flap 418 Outer surface 420 Radar detectable mark 426 Edge 428 Edge 500 gloves 502 Posterior part 504 Palm part 506 Finger part 508 Thumb 510 Cuff part 512 Closure mechanism 514 Slit 516 Flap 520 Radar detectable mark 526 Edge 528 Edge 530 Elastic Strip 600 Gloves 602 Posterior part 604 Palm part 606 Finger part 608 Thumb 610 Cuff part 612 Closure mechanism 614 Slit 616 Flap 618 Outer surface 620 Radar detectable mark 700 Gloves 702 Posterior part 704 Palm part 706 Finger part 708 Thumb 710 Cuff part 712 Closure mechanism 714 Slit 716 Flap 718 Outer surface 720 Radar detectable mark 800 Gloves 804 Palm part 806 Finger part 808 Thumb 810 Cuff part 820 Radar detectable mark 832 Logo 834 Outer surface 900 Gloves 902 Posterior part 906 Finger part 908 Thumb part 910 Cuff part 912 Closure mechanism 914 Slit 916 Flap 918 Outer surface 920 Infrared detectable mark 922 Infrared detectable mark 924 Infrared detectable mark 926 Edge part 928 Edge 1000 gloves 1002 Back part 1006 Finger part 1008 Thumb part 1010 Cuff part 1012 Closure mechanism 1014 Slit 1016 Flap 1018 Outer surface 1020 Infrared detectable mark 1022 Infrared detectable mark 1026 Edge part 1028 Edge

Claims

1. A glove having a back portion and a palm portion, the glove having a plurality of markings positioned thereon, the plurality of marks includes radar detectable marks and infrared detectable marks; the radar-detectable mark is formed from a radar-detectable material; The glove, wherein the infrared detectable mark is formed from an infrared absorbing ink on an outer surface of the rear portion.

2. 2. The glove of claim 1, wherein the radar-detectable mark is formed from a plurality of intersecting stripes including a first stripe and a second stripe that intersects the first stripe at a first angle between 30° and 120°, and the infrared-detectable mark has a third stripe, the third stripe not intersecting the first stripe or the second stripe.

3. 3. The glove of claim 2, wherein said first stripes and said third stripes are substantially parallel.

4. 3. The glove of claim 2, wherein the first stripe, the second stripe, and the third stripe have a width of less than 0.2 inches.

5. 5. The glove of claim 4, wherein the infrared detectable mark further comprises a fourth stripe, the first stripe having a first length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, the second stripe having a second length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, the third stripe having a third length of 0.25 inches to 1.0 inches, and the fourth stripe having a fourth length of 0.25 inches to 1.0 inches.

6. 3. The glove of claim 2, wherein the first stripe has a first length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, the second stripe has a second length of 0.25 inches to 2.5 inches, and the third stripe has a third length of at least 2.0 inches.

7. 2. The glove of claim 1, wherein the rear portion of the glove has a layer, and the radar-detectable mark is positioned on an inner surface of the layer.

8. 2. The glove of claim 1, wherein the glove has an inner layer and an outer layer, the radar-detectable mark being disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer.

9. The glove of claim 8, wherein the outer layer forms a logo affixed to the glove.

10. A glove having a palm portion, a finger portion and a back portion, the glove having a first infrared-detectable mark and a second infrared-detectable mark formed from infrared-absorbing ink disposed on an outer surface of the glove, the first infrared-detectable mark having a first stripe formed on the back portion of the glove, and the second infrared-detectable mark having a plurality of stripes positioned on one or more of the finger portions of the glove.

11. 11. The glove of claim 10, wherein the first infrared detectable mark further comprises a second stripe intersecting the first stripe.

12. 11. The glove of claim 10, further comprising a cuff, the cuff having a radar detectable mark formed from a radar detectable material.

13. 11. The glove of claim 10, wherein the glove further comprises a closure mechanism, the closure mechanism comprising a radar detectable mark formed from a radar detectable material.

14. A glove having a palm portion for covering the palm of a hand, finger portions for covering the finger portions of said hand, and a rear portion for covering the rear portion of said hand, the rear portion of the glove including a radar detectable mark disposed on the rear portion; The finger portions of the glove are characterized in that they have a plurality of stripes formed of infrared absorbing ink on an outer surface of the finger portions.

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