Biodegradable Handgrip Composite for Sports Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current synthetic handgrips, used in various sports equipment and tools, are non-biodegradable and generate significant plastic waste, as they have long degradation lifetimes and frequently need replacement, leading to material shedding and loss of tackiness over time.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a biodegradable additive into petroleum-based materials used for handgrips, such as nylon, polyester, or polyurethane, to create a blend that reduces degradation time to approximately 3 to 5 years and enhances durability, while maintaining manufacturing ease and grip performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synthetic materials (nylon, polyester, polyurethane) are used for handgrips, then durability and grip performance are improved, but environmental harm increases due to non-biodegradability and long degradation lifetimes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by blending petroleum-based polymer materials with biodegradable additives to create a handgrip material that combines the durability of synthetic materials with the biodegradability of natural materials. This composite approach allows the handgrip to maintain structural integrity and performance characteristics while enabling environmental breakdown after use, thus resolving the contradiction between durability and environmental harm.
2Reliability
If handgrips are frequently replaced due to loss of tackiness and durability, then grip performance is maintained, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
By incorporating biodegradable additives into the petroleum-based polymer matrix, the composite material extends the functional lifespan of the handgrip while maintaining grip performance. The biodegradable components do not compromise the structural properties during the service life, allowing the handgrip to retain tackiness and durability for a longer period before replacement is necessary.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If biodegradable additives are added to petroleum-based materials, then biodegradability is improved, but material strength may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by carefully controlling the concentration of biodegradable additives within the optimal range of 0.2% to 4% by weight. This parameter optimization ensures that the biodegradability function is activated while the structural strength and mechanical properties of the petroleum-based polymer matrix are preserved. The specific concentration range represents a balance point where sufficient biodegradable components are present for environmental breakdown, but not enough to compromise the material's structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Biodegradable handgrips, for example, for use in racquet sports, baseball bats, golf clubs, fishing poles, bicycle handlebars, and hand tools, are described. The biodegradable handgrips includes a petroleum based material and a biodegradable additive blended with the petroleum based material. The petroleum based material may be nylon, polyester, or polyurethane, and the biodegradable additive may be less than 5% of the handgrip by weight. The biodegradable handgrip may be shaped as a tape that is wrapped around a handle or a sheath that slides over a handle.