FyraMorph is a stylish cycling glove featuring 4d printed cushion zones that add comfort and some degree of protection to your hands.
The gloves not only provide protection during falls but also serve a crucial ergonomic function by supporting the nerves in the hand region.
When analyzing existing cyclist gloves, we realized that it is stitched together from quite a large number of separate parts. So we saw the opportunity to reduce that complexity and simplify the manufacturing process by utilizing 4d printing.
4D printing is a process that combines 3D printing with an additional force or energy input. In the case of self-shaping textiles, the fabric is placed onto the printing bed in a controlled, pre-stretched condition and then printed on with a pattern. After releasing the part from the bed, the dynamic play between the two elements creates a three dimensional surface or form.
In order to gain practical experience of the process, we conducted numerous tests by varying factors such as stretch coefficient of fabric, number of print layers, type of filament, etc.
Parallel to exploring the best material variables, we continued our research into common cycling positions and the palm areas most affected by these, in order to reference the protective areas of our gloves.
A lot of prototypes were created to fine-tune the gloves sewing-pattern, 3D printing texture and the cushioning zones. This also involved traditional techniques like sewing the two glove sides together.
Berrak Özbas
This project was developed together with Berrak Özbas as an Applied Research Project during her internship.
