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Custom heated gloves are being developed for the US military as part of the Atomic Spark grassroots innovation program at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.
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The development of a custom heated glove was identified as a potential solution by the 54th Helicopter Squadron during a recent IGNITOR outreach project.
The new invention would provide dexterity, comfort, and insulation superior to current standard-issue, commercially-available gloves when Airmen working outdoors are exposed to extreme weather such as winter temperatures that can reach 50 below zero.
Members of the 5th Contracting Squadron met with other squadron leaders on 17 July to discuss new heated glove prototypes for base personnel at Minot Air Force Base.
Staff Sergeant Mathew Brown, 54th HS flight engineer, said the solution was brought to the IGNITOR group which identifies feasible, contractual facilities or process improvement solutions to tactical problems.
“You can’t effectively employ your weapon system or the hoist if you can’t feel your fingers in the winter,” he said.
“The previously issued version had some limitations, so it was determined that an improved glove was needed.
“It can be difficult to get good training in ambient temperatures of 20 below zero or lower if you’re only thinking about how cold you are, so anything that can help you focus on the task you’re accomplishing in the aircraft only makes you and your squadron better.”
Minot AFB’s custom glove proposal was selected by Air Force Chief of Staff General CQ Brown Jr as the recipient of a portion of the Momentum Innovation Fund.
“Innovation can start with any Airman; they are the subject matter experts and know how to solve the problems,” said 91st Missile Wing Atomic Spark director Captain Matthew Matuszak.
“Atomic Spark helps refine and elevate the Airman’s idea so that it can be seen by a decisionmaker.”
