PALMS

Protect

to

Prolong

The glove cover designed to enhance

grip, add comfort, and protect the

most vital part of a wheelchair user’s

glove — the palm.

Final Boards

Project
EPOD 2100

Date
5/1/2024

Presentation Video

PALMS is a glove cover constructed from hypalon intended to protect the most vulnerable part of a wheelchair user's glove, the palm. Two product variations are offered for different applications: PALMS Peel N Stick permanently adheres to the glove via fabric fusion adhesive and is intended to be disposed of with the glove. PALMS OG can be easily installed and uninstalled using an adjustable velcro strap. Give your gloves the life they deserve and add some grip to your push with PALMS!

Process Work

Problem Statement:

Wheelchair users continuously replace their gloves after strenuous activities and need an alternative solution that reduces environmental, physical, and economic impacts.

Concept Sketches

Car Transfer Board Sketches

  • Prototype 1

    Identified palm wear on a wheelchair user’s glove and began developing a protective cover for high-impact areas.

  • Prototype 2

    Added a zip-on palm insert to enable easy replacement of worn areas, minimizing waste and extending glove longevity.

  • Prototype 3

    Refined zipper placement for better integration, but user discomfort prompted a shift toward entirely new attachment solutions.

  • Wear Study

    Used medical gloves to identify wear zones, informing a redesigned pattern with targeted reinforcement.

  • Prototype 4

    Tested two patterns and found Hypalon ideal for its durability, grip, and palm conformity.

  • Prototype 5

    Leather lacked grip, Velcro was weak. The thumb hole worked, but a second attachment was still needed.

  • Prototype 5

    The prototype fit well but slipped, revealing the need for a palm-mounted attachment point.

  • Patterns

    Explored multiple patterns with varied attachments and coverage to optimize protection, comfort, and usability.

  • Prototype 6

    Created a working Hypalon prototype with a thumb hole, Velcro strap, and adhesive for three-point attachment and reduced slippage.

  • Prototype 6

    Confirmed protection and fit, but Velcro was incompatible with the glove, requiring a new attachment method.

  • Prototype 7

    Replaced the Velcro with an elastic strap and buckle system, allowing for a more secure and adjustable attachment to the glove.

  • Prototype 7

    Featured a larger thumb hole for broader compatibility and a redesigned Hypalon shape to extend protection across the lower palm area.

  • Pattern Testing

    Developed and tested multiple pattern variations to achieve optimal fit and targeted palm protection.

  • Final Pattern

    Finalized a pattern that ensured effective palm protection and incorporated a universally sized thumb hole for broader usability.

  • Final Prototype

    Integrated a dual sided Velcro hook-and-loop back strap for secure, adjustable fastening. A custom 3D-printed buckle was sewn onto the Hypalon for added durability and fit precision.

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