Concave Segmented Shape Retainer for Baseball Glove Interior

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shape retainers for baseball or softball gloves either collapse the interior space or fail to retain the shape precisely, leading to deterioration of hand fitting and inconsistent glove shape.

Innovation Solution

A shape retainer with a main body having a concave main surface, divided into separable portions that can be inserted into specific spaces within the glove, featuring coupling portions and grooves for secure integration, and optionally including hollows for reduced weight.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a plate-like shape retainer is inserted in the inner part of a glove, then the shape can be retained, but the interior space is difficult to retain precisely

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshape retentionVSAvoidinterior space precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The shape retainer is divided into a first portion and a second portion that can be separately inserted into the interior space of the glove. This segmentation allows each portion to precisely fit and support specific regions of the glove's interior, thereby achieving precise shape retention without collapsing the interior space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If a belt is wrapped around the outer periphery of a glove, then the glove structure is supported, but the interior space collapses and shape cannot be retained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural supportVSAvoidinterior space

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of applying support from the outside with a belt, the shape retainer is extracted and placed inside the glove's interior space. This internal placement provides structural support while preserving the interior volume, as the retainer portions fit within the existing space rather than compressing it from the exterior.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Duration of action of stationary object

If frequent use and long-term deterioration occur, then hand fitting deteriorates, but the glove needs to maintain its shape

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveglove lifespanVSAvoidhand fitting

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shape retainer is inserted into the glove in advance to prevent deformation before it occurs during frequent use. By maintaining the interior space and shape proactively, the glove's hand fitting properties are preserved throughout its service life, extending the period during which the glove remains comfortable and functional.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12285672B2Shape retainer for baseball or softball glove and shape retention method for baseball or softball glove

Publication Date: 2025.04.29 MIZUNO CORPORATION

AI summary

A shape retainer and a shape retention method are provided, by which the shape of an interior space of an inner part of a baseball or softball glove can be retained precisely. A shape retainer includes a main body having a main surface depressed in a concave shape, so that the shape of the interior space of the inner part of the baseball or softball glove can be retained precisely.