STEAM Connections

science-technology-engineering-arts-math

SCIENCE: This project applies to the scientific aspect because of the connections regarding anatomy.  The brace is designed specifically to cater to the anatomy of the hip in order to comfort it in high intensity and impact moments. The hip joint is very mobile and is the victim of a lot of impacts. The compression aspect of the short allows for there to be aid on the joint in addition to the stability that the plastic pieces allow. The pieces are shaped to allow the shape of the hip to function without being irritated.

TECHNOLOGY: The design process of the brace and website is the technological aspect. In order for the brace to actually be successful, it was necessary for the brace to be technologically accurate. The design of the website makes the information clear and easily accessible. Without the information being easily accessed it is not possible for consumers to understand the pros of this brace compared to others.  

ENGINEERING: The plates placed in the brace are what fit into the engineering component. The plates have been designed in order to properly comply with the anatomy of the hip while still allowing for maximum movement and performance. If they were not engineered to do so the brace would only cause further damage. The angle and shape of the pieces comply with the angle that the hip moves when bent or running. No matter what sport is being played the hip is ultimately going to be used. The middle pieces allow for the outer pieces to line up no matter the angle the hip is bent to. 

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ART: Having to design this website allowed me to complete the art aspect. Applying the information in an accessible and pleasing way is an important part of getting to know the project.  I also had to take the idea of art into the design of the brace because if it were an actual product there could be an option of different designed fabrics and colors.  The brace is a pair of shorts with the plates sewn in between layers of fabric, so it is still very possible for it to be an attractive piece. The shorts could have designs or just different colors on the fabric so that it better matches the player's uniforms.

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MATH: In order to design a comfortable brace it was important that I lined up the right measurements of the pieces. If the plates were not even in placement or were different sizes then they would be ineffective.  The plastic pieces meant to stabilize the hip have to be the same size so that the hip can glide easily without irritation. The piece in the front was measured to be slightly shorter than the back so that the leg has maximum movement when raised. 

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