z+archived+Engineering+Challenges

Running Shoe Project Links

[|Anatomy of a Running Shoe] [|History of the Running Shoe Chart]

[|Running Shoes Reading Activity]

Discovery Ed Videos [|Some Assembly Required]


 * Engineering a Sneaker**

Worksheet A: Materials and Properties This table lists the properties of a variety of everyday items that are appropriate for this activity. All or some can be used. Other items can be added. Note: the stiffness/flexibility depends upon which materials have been chosen for the other properties.
 * Property || Material || Recommended Size ||
 * Height || *Sponges, 1/4 to 1 inch thick || 2” x 3” sections ||
 * ^  || Styrofoam, blocks || Any size easily available ||
 * ^  || Styrofoam, packing pellets || As individual pellets ||
 * ^  || Bubble packing, small or large bubble || 2” x 3” sections ||
 * Cushioning/Flexibility || *Sponges, 1/4 to 1 inch thick || 2” x 3” sections ||
 * ^  || *Rubber tubing (like used for fish tanks) || 6” lengths ||
 * ^  || Cotton balls, triple size || As individual balls ||
 * ^  || Bubble packing, small or large bubble || 2” x 3” sections ||
 * || Straws || cut into 3" sections, set of 6 ||
 * Traction || *SOS / Brillo pads || As individual pads ||
 * ^  || Rubber baseboard || 6” – 8” lengths ||
 * ^  || *Sandpaper, 100 grit || 3” x 8” ||
 * ^  || *Rubber gloves or rubber tire tube || 2” x 3” sections ||
 * ^  || *Rubber gloves or rubber tire tube || 2” x 3” sections ||

*The items that are optional (you may bring from home are: rubber tubing, sandpaper, sponges, brillo/scrubbers, rubber gloves or pieces of a rubber tire tube)