Customization of Grips for Equipment of Different Basque Rural Sport Modalities Using Reverse Engineering, Computer-Aided Design and Additive Manufacturing Tools

Abstract

AbstractThe aim of this project was to establish a workflow to develop customized grips for equipment of three different Basque rural sport modalities named “aizkora” (chooping wood), “txinga” and “ingude” (anvil) using reverse engineering (RE), computer-aided design (CAD) and additive manufacturing (AM) tools. In these rural sport modalities activities of great weight and long-term effort are carried out. This can cause abrasions, blisters, wounds and chafing on the athlete's hands, which is very painful and unpleasant. Therefore, it could be interesting to adapt the grips both from the point of view of grip efficiency and force transmission, as well as comfort and ergonomics. This is why in this project a process was established to develop customized grips for the axe, the “txinga” and the anvil. These customized grips ensure better contact between the athlete and the device, avoiding painful problems. The established process for the development of customized grips consists of the following: first, digitize the device and the athlete's grip using RE tools; then design the grip using CAD tools; finally, manufacture the handle using AM tools.KeywordsReverse engineeringComputer aided designAdditive manufacturingBasque rural sportsCustomizationGraphic engineering