Heat-Shrinkable Grip Sleeve for Easy Sports Equipment Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports equipment grips wear out, accumulate dirt and oils, reducing friction and performance, and are difficult and costly to replace or install.
Innovation Solution
A shrinkable grip sleeve made of flexible, heat-shrinkable material with ridges and grooves, which can be easily installed over an existing grip using a heat source, enhancing grip and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional grips are used, then initial grip performance is good, but they wear and tear over time and accumulate oils and dirt reducing friction and performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using heat to transform the grip material from a rigid state during installation to a flexible, conforming state during use. The heat-activated adhesive changes its bonding parameters when heated, allowing the grip to initially adhere strongly and then become flexible enough to conform to the shaft and provide consistent grip performance over time.
2Reliability
If traditional grips are replaced, then performance can be restored, but replacement is laborious and expensive requiring professional installation over several days
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable grip wrap that is inexpensive and designed for easy replacement by the user. Rather than installing permanent traditional grips that require professional removal and reinstallation, users can simply wrap and heat the new grip material themselves in minutes, making grip replacement as easy as changing a bandage.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip wrap system enables self-service installation through its simple wrap-and-heat application method. Users can independently install or replace grips without needing professional equipment or skills, eliminating the time loss and expense associated with professional installation services.
3Quantity of substance
If grip wrap tape is used, then cost is reduced, but installation is difficult and results in uncomfortable uneven surface that decays quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible thin film grip wrap that conforms smoothly to the shaft surface. This flexible membrane structure eliminates the uneven, uncomfortable surface problems of rigid grip tape while maintaining low material costs. The thin film nature allows it to wrap easily around the shaft and provide a uniform, comfortable grip surface.
4Ease of operation
If heat-shrinkable material is used, then easy self-installation is achieved, but the material must be flexible enough to conform yet provide durable grip
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using material that changes its physical properties during installation. The grip wrap is flexible and conformable during the wrapping process, then undergoes a thermal transition when heated that causes it to shrink and tighten, transforming from a loose flexible state to a tight, durable, rigid-like state that provides long-lasting grip performance.
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
Provides a cost-effective, durable, and user-friendly grip solution that improves grip performance, reduces material waste, and allows self-installation, while maintaining friction and ease of cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
A shrinkable grip sleeve for sports equipment is formed from a flexible and heat-shrinkable material... using a heat source to shrink the grip sleeve around and tightly upon the existing grip
Implementation Method 2
heat-shrinkable material... using a heat source to shrink the grip sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A shrinkable grip sleeve for sports equipment formed from a flexible and heat-shrinkable material having a tubular shape that is adapted to be placed over an existing grip. In use, the grip sleeve is placed over the existing grip, and then a heat source is used to shrink the grip sleeve around and tightly upon the existing grip forming a new and improved grip. A series of raised bump members can be included and attached to the existing grip before placing the grip sleeve over the existing grip. The position of the series of raised bump members are determined by the proper placement of a person's hands upon the existing grip and used to aid in the position and alignment of the person's hands after the grip sleeve is installed upon the existing grip. A series of ridges and grooves can also be incorporated for improved performance and durability.