42 / 404
42
2017 Yearbook
2) Smart materials
Smart materials are materials with one or more properties
(e.g. mechanical, thermal, optical, or electromagnetic
properties) that can be varied in a predictable or
controllable way in response to external stimuli, such as,
for example, stress, temperature, moisture, pH and electric
or magnetic fields. Over the past decade sporting goods
and equipments have incorporated multiple examples
of use of these materials to achieve certain functional
properties. More and more these materials are also used
as lower cost sensors and actuators, providing new
opportunities in functional products for sports (apparel,
equipment,..). The classification of smart materials
includes:
• Piezoelectric materials
• Electrostrictive materials
• Magnetostrictive materials
• Rheological materials
• Thermoresponsive materials
• Electrochromic materials
• Fullerences
• Biomimetric materials
• Smart gels
Comfort
The need for comfort in sports practice can be seen to a
large extent in all categories and disciplines. This need is
directly related to the characteristics of the given sport
and the degree to which it is practiced. Sport demanding
intense and extended efforts, sports demanding
protection against the weather. The search for
comfort and wellness is not exclusive to athletes;
they are important factors for every consumer of
sports goods. The growing demand for improved
quality of life and enhanced performance suggest
that future consumers will expect even higher levels
of product comfort. Comfort is a very important
concept in sport, due to the great influence it has
on users during sports practice and in the buying
decision. Comfort has been identified as one of the
most important attributes in the purchasing decision
(Blackwell et al., 2006; Kaplan and Okur, 2008), as well
as their satisfaction before and after purchasing (Chae
et al., 2006). Even if a product has positive functional
aspects and increases the performance of the athlete,
it will not be bought unless it is comfortable.
Customization
Customization involves using technology to
accommodate the differences between individuals.
Customization allows individuals to benefit from a
product that specifically fits their needs in term of
sizing, modeling, etc as well as preferences, such as
color, design etc.
3D Printing
Over the last years 3D Printing has developed into a
common technology in
the design process and rapid
prototyping and for aerodynamic optimization
in
sports products. Companies have adapted 3D printing