3D Printed Protective Glove Features on a Stretched Glove Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods of manufacturing protective gloves are labor-intensive due to manual stitching or gluing processes, and the protective features are limited in complexity and flexibility, leading to suboptimal impact protection and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A method involving 3D printing on a stretched glove body using a last to automate the attachment of protective features, allowing for more complex designs with enhanced flexibility and breathability, and using a reference plate for precise positioning in the printing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual stitching or gluing processes are used to attach protective features, then the protective features can be attached to the glove body, but the manufacturing process becomes labor-intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protective features and the glove body into a single integrated structure formed by 3D printing. The protective features are printed directly onto the glove body, eliminating the separate attachment process. This merging of components resolves the contradiction by maintaining the protective function while dramatically improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing labor intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical processes of stitching or gluing with automated 3D printing technology. The 3D printing process deposits material layer by layer to form protective features that are integral to the glove body, substituting the labor-intensive mechanical attachment processes with an automated additive manufacturing system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If injection moulding is used to create protective features, then the protective features can be manufactured, but the design complexity is limited and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing parameter from subtractive injection moulding to additive 3D printing. This parameter change enables the creation of complex geometries, lattice structures, and variable density patterns that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with injection moulding. The 3D printing process allows for continuous variation in material properties and design complexity while maintaining manufacturing flexibility.
3Strength
If protective features are made with robust structure for moulding, then the protective features can be attached to the glove body, but the glove flexibility and weight are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs porous and lattice structures in the 3D printed protective features. These porous materials provide the necessary structural integrity and impact protection while significantly reducing the weight compared to solid robust structures. The lattice geometry allows material to be distributed only where needed for protection, creating a lightweight yet strong protective system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies protective features with varying material properties and densities to different locations on the glove based on specific protection needs. The 3D printing process enables local variation in material composition, porosity, and structural complexity, providing enhanced protection in high-impact areas while maintaining flexibility and reducing weight in areas requiring dexterity.
4Reliability
If protective features cover wider area for improved impact protection, then the protection is enhanced, but the glove weight and rigidity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates protective features with dynamic characteristics through 3D printing, including flexible lattice structures and variable density patterns that adapt to movement. The protective features are designed to be flexible and conformable, allowing the glove to maintain dexterity and flexibility while providing comprehensive impact protection across wider areas of the hand.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method results in lighter, more flexible gloves with improved impact protection and ventilation, reducing manufacturing costs while providing better comfort and protection.
Implementation Method 1
A method involves stretching a rear layer of a glove body over a last and fixing the rear layer to the last. The stretched rear layer and the last are placed on a print bed of a 3D printer. The 3D printer is used to 3D print protective features which are formed onto the stretched rear layer of the glove body.
Implementation Method 2
The 3D printed protective features are bonded to the stretched rear layer of the glove body with an adhesive.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for making a protective glove. The method comprises forming a glove body (2) from flexible material, with a front layer and a rear layer with an opening between the layers to allow access for the hand into an internal space within the glove. A last (3) is inserted into the glove body (2) to stretch the glove body and to hold the rear layer in the stretched form without creases. The glove and last are placed on a 3D printer bed (21), and 3D protection features (1) are printed onto the rear layer.