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We
chose elastomeric springs because of their imbedded dampening properties.
The ability to mold in different colors was also viewed as a beneficial
quality for its marketing potential. Different colors could denote different
densities, which in turn could communicate different riding styles, terrain,
or body weights to buyers. During the design of the components, we produced
CAD data to illustrate range-of-motion studies. Our design minimized the
space between the wheels and the bottom of the boot so that the system would
not have added height when compared to non-shock skates. Building several
prototypes allowed our client to test the strength of the components. The
measurable wear that was experienced with the early prototypes was "by
design." By designing close to the theoretical limit of the mechanical
system, our testing provided a better understanding of the subtle forces
at play. Minor modifications were made knowing that our design was not over
structured and unnecessarily heavy. |
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