Stretchable Golf Glove Panels for Universal Hand Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional golf gloves do not accommodate varying hand sizes effectively, leading to fit issues and the need for multiple sizes, which results in surplus inventory and limited retail shelf space due to changing demand.
Innovation Solution
A stretchable athletic glove with integrated panels and elastic materials, such as nylon and spandex, allowing the glove to conform to different hand sizes while maintaining grip and breathability through mesh construction and strategic stitching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional non-stretchable leather or synthetic material is used for golf gloves, then the glove maintains structural integrity and grip, but the glove cannot accommodate varying hand sizes effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The glove combines stretchable materials (elastane, spandex) with non-stretchable materials (leather, synthetic leather) to create a composite structure. The stretchable panels are strategically positioned in areas requiring flexibility (fingers, palm, back of hand) while maintaining grip areas with traditional materials, thus accommodating various hand sizes while preserving structural integrity and grip capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the glove are made from materials with different properties. The palm and finger areas use stretchable materials to conform to hand contours, while specific grip zones maintain traditional leather or synthetic leather for friction and control. This localized material differentiation allows the glove to adapt to hand size variations without compromising grip.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes of gloves are manufactured to fit different hand sizes, then better fit is achieved, but retail shelf space and inventory management become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The glove is designed as a universal fit product that can accommodate multiple hand sizes within a single size category. By incorporating stretchable panels throughout the glove construction, one glove size can effectively serve the function of multiple traditional sizes, simplifying retail inventory while maintaining adaptability to various hand sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The glove transitions from a static, fixed-size design to a dynamic, adaptive structure. The stretchable materials allow the glove to dynamically adjust to different hand dimensions, enabling a single glove to perform the function of multiple fixed sizes, thereby reducing inventory complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If stretchable materials are used to accommodate various hand sizes, then better fit is achieved, but the glove may lose firm grip and allow movement during swing
Solution Approach 1:
The combination of stretchable and non-stretchable materials creates a balanced structure where stretchable panels provide conformability and comfort, while integrated panels of leather or synthetic leather in strategic locations maintain friction and grip stability. This composite approach ensures the glove moves with the hand without compromising grip reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Stretchable materials are applied locally in areas needing flexibility (fingers, palm contours) while grip-critical areas maintain traditional materials with higher friction properties. This localized differentiation ensures the glove conforms to hand shape for comfort while maintaining firm grip and preventing movement during the golf swing.
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 stretchable glove provides a snug, adjustable fit for various hand sizes, enhancing grip and comfort, reducing the need for multiple sizes and improving retail inventory management by accommodating changing hand sizes and preferences.
Implementation Method 1
The back side is constructed from a stretch material... A stretch material is attached to an interior of the integrated panel... stretch materials attaches the thumb panel to the integrated panel
Implementation Method 2
Leather and/or synthetic material create friction between the glove and the golf club during the swing of the golfer. The friction reduces slipping of the golf club which in turn provides the golfer with a firmer grip
Data Source
AI summary
A glove has a palm side and a back side joined at a side edge and a number of sections including a palm part, a finger part and a thumb part. The component parts connect and stretch material is used in certain areas of the glove to make the glove adjust to varying hand sizes.