Thesis

In track and field, pure speed and technique is all that is needed. To create optimal track spikes, we used inspiration from cheetahs. We used the design of their paws, with digging claws in the front, soft pads in the front/back, and empty space in the middle.

Precedents

Daniel's Sketches

Ethan's Sketches

Prototype #1

Iteration

To replicate the soft, gel-like pads of a cheetah, we decided to 3d print molds, to allow a substance to dry over time, instead of 3d printing the gel. For the sole itself, we want to use silicone, utilizing its ability for shock absorption and resistance.

Iteration

For the spikes themselves, we had to do our own research to find the best fit for our track spikes. In our findings, we deduced that 9mm pyramid shaped spikes would work best for sprinting on a track and/or natural grass. Again, we designed these on tinkercad.

Mid-Review



-Quick assembly

-Heavy testing

-Be open to changes

-Real life applications

Iteration



-Round gels instead of rectangular to stay on balls of feet

-Foam soles

-Velcro

Roadblock-assembly

One thing that took surprisingly long was the assembly of the sole. The gel was very hard to cut and thus it took almost an entire class just to get the shape. When we glued it on, it kept falling off too. Our last roadblock during assembly were the spikes. We continually lost them and it was difficult to put them on. Eventually, we were able to finish assembling the sole.

Roadblock- testing

We encountered a second roadblock when we were testing. The sole fit well and we could put it on, but the spikes would break every time I tried to walk. To fix this, we tried to dig holes into the gel and stick the spikes in for a stronger support. Also, weather proved to be a problem when it was always raining or snowing.

Video of Putting on Sole

Video of Walking

Results

Q&A