http://www.teachengineering.org/view_activity.php?url=collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker/engineer_a_sneaker.xmlactivitytext/xmlMaking the Connection, engineering designfootwearmaterials sciencemodelprototypeshoe designsneakerprototypestiffnesscushioningtraction

The goal is for students to understand the basics of engineering that go into the design of a sneaker. The bottom or sole of a sneaker provides support, cushioning, and traction. In addition the sole is flexible and can have some fashion based functions such as cool colors and added height. The sneaker is a well-engineered product, utilizing a variety of materials to create a highly functional, useful shoe. In this activity, students select specific design requirements, such as good traction or deep cushioning, and then select from a variety of materials to build prototype shoes that meet the design criteria.

Biomedical engineers aid in the design of sneakers. It is not only important for sneakers to look stylish to appeal to the consumer, but to function properly. Different factors must be taken into consideration when designing sneakers, such as who will wear them (male, female, child) and for what type of activity. The user and activity indicates what shoe characteristics are most important for the design, such as traction, height, cushioning, and/or height. Analyze a product’s components and function.Recognize a design need or engineering challenge.Develop, sketch and discuss possible solutions and select one.Select appropriate materials for the solution.Construct a working model using a variety of materials.Use, evaluate and suggest ways to improve the product.5385TeachEngineering.orgM. Cyrproject funded by Lucent Technologies Foundationhttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker_worksheet_a.pdfhttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker_worksheet_b.pdfhttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker_worksheet_c.pdfhttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker/wpi_engineer_a_sneaker_worksheet_d.pdf“Sneakers: From Start to Finish (Made in the USA)” Samuel G. Woods, Gale Zucker (photographer)S101D432MassachusettsScience1.1 Given a design task, identify appropriate materials (e.g., wood, paper, plastic, aggregates, ceramics, metals, solvents, adhesives) based on specific properties and characteristics (e.g., weight, strength, hardness, and flexibility).68United StatesCopyright 2012 - Making the Connection, Women in Engineering Programs and Advocates Network (WEPAN)http://www.teachengineering.org/policy_ipp.phphttp://www.teachengineering.org/2012-03-185Teacher