http://www.teachengineering.org/view_activity.php?url=collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_sneakers/sneakers.xmlactivitytext/xmlMaking the Connection, athletic shoebioengineeringbiomechanicssneakersportstractionflexibilityfrictionsupportcushioning

Students explore why different types of sneakers are used in a variety of common sports, and how engineers analyze design needs in sneakers and many other everyday items. The goal is for students to understand the basics of engineering associated with the design of athletic shoes. The design of footware based on how it will be used involves bioengineering. Students analyze the foot movements in a variety of sports and make recommendations for requirements for the sneakers used in that sport.

Bioengineers are involved in the design of sneakers. They combine their knowledge of the human body with mechanical engineering and materials science to design sneakers that aid athletic performance. The shoes must provide the right type of support and traction needed for the intended sport while also taking into consideration their appearance. Analyze a product’s components and functions.Recognize a design need or engineering challenge.Communicate a design solution through drawing or speaking.1255TeachEngineering.orgM. Cyr, Worcester Polytechnic Instituteproject funded by Lucent Technologies Foundationhttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_sneakers/what_makes_up_your_shoe.dochttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_sneakers/what_makes_up_your_shoe.pdfS10047AAMassachusettsScience2.1 Identify a problem that reflects the need for shelter, storage, or convenience.35S100EBE2MassachusettsScience2.3 Identify relevant design features (e.g., size, shape, weight) for building a prototype of a solution to a given problem.35United StatesCopyright 2012 - Making the Connection, Women in Engineering Programs and Advocates Network (WEPAN)http://www.teachengineering.org/policy_ipp.phphttp://www.teachengineering.org/2011-10-303Teacher