Pneumatic Glove Press Assembly for Consistent Break-In Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for breaking in baseball and softball gloves are time-consuming, labor-intensive, inconsistent, and can potentially damage the gloves, while existing devices are bulky and difficult to transport.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic glove break-in apparatus with a tubular metal chassis, adjustable round base, and interchangeable press head, powered by compressed air, which applies consistent pressure for efficient glove shaping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual bending and shaping methods are used to break in gloves, then the glove can be shaped, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical bending with an automated mechanical press system that applies controlled pressure to the glove. The press mechanism, driven by a motor and transmission system, automatically positions and applies force to break in the glove without manual intervention, dramatically increasing productivity while reducing time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus performs preliminary breaking-in actions before the glove is needed for play. The mechanical press pre-shapes and softens the glove material through controlled pressure application, so that when the glove is received, it is already partially broken in and requires minimal additional conditioning.
2Reliability
If manual breaking-in methods are used, then the glove can be softened, but the results are inconsistent and may damage the glove
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates feedback mechanisms including pressure sensors and control systems that monitor the breaking-in process in real-time. The system adjusts pressure and duration based on feedback from the glove's response, ensuring consistent results while preventing excessive force that could damage the glove. This closed-loop control eliminates the inconsistency of manual methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs controlled parameter changes in the breaking-in process, systematically varying pressure, duration, and positioning according to predetermined schedules. This methodical approach ensures that the glove is broken in uniformly without applying excessive force at any stage, preventing damage while achieving consistent results across multiple gloves.
3Ease of operation
If existing glove break-in devices are used, then breaking-in can be automated, but the devices are large and heavy making them difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into modular segments that can be assembled and disassembled easily. The frame, press mechanism, and control systems are separated into manageable components that can be transported individually and reassembled at the destination. This segmentation maintains full automation capabilities while significantly reducing the practical burden of transport compared to monolithic designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates dynamic elements including movable press components, adjustable positioning systems, and collapsible frame sections. These dynamic features allow the device to be compacted for transport and then expanded for operation, providing full automation functionality in a lightweight, portable package that adapts between transport and working states.
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 apparatus achieves a high-quality break-in in a fraction of the time required by manual methods, providing consistent results and protecting the gloves, with the ability to break in multiple gloves quickly and easily.
Implementation Method 1
The pneumatic press includes an upper platen that converges vertically toward the adjustable round base to apply pressure to the glove when actuated
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for breaking in baseball and softball gloves comprises a chassis, a glove forming assembly, a pneumatic reciprocating platen press, and a pneumatic foot pedal valve. The glove forming assembly includes an adjustable round base for positioning the glove. The pneumatic press, installed on the chassis above the glove forming assembly, features an upper platen with an interchangeable press head for imparting a desired shape to the glove. The pneumatic foot pedal valve, operably connected to the press, actuates the upper platen to converge and apply pressure when depressed, and retract when released. The apparatus provides an efficient, consistent, and hands-free solution for breaking in gloves, accommodating various glove sizes and shapes. The interchangeable, lightweight design of the apparatus, press heads, adjustable base, and compatibility with standard air compressors make the apparatus versatile and suitable for use by players, teams, and manufacturers.