I'm having flash backs. This is the type of problem my mechanics teacher (Dr. W.K. Stare) would give us on a pop quiz. He loved to pull these things out of someone's hat and see our faces when we would silently begin to scream. He was an absolute tyrant when you did not state your assumptions FIRST. Then DISPLAY your work in a complete and readable fashion. I can hear him now. My first pop quiz was returned with so much red ink I thought he bled on it. Actually, I learned a great deal from Dr. Stare and there came a time when the class was eager to see what torture awaited with the next one. Very interesting post.
I had a similar reaction, perhaps helped by the fact that I grew up with Cinderella clear plastic "slippers" for little girls, which were actually pumps with sort-of-high heels on them, as shown in the illustration to this article. That also makes me wonder about the assumption that these shoes have high heels on them. Perhaps the word "slipper" in the fairy tale means flat shoes, as it does today? They'd be a lot easier to dance in, especially if made of glass. Perhaps the enigineer should recalculate based on that assumption.
I agree that it might foster interest in STEM. However, it might also foster a conversation about translation as the Fur/Glass slipper dichotomy has been known for years (French/English).
There is one Fairy-Tale that I have referenced in the engineering work-place quite often, being "The Emperor's New Clothes". Remember the story of a unbelievable fabrication of events that only the most royal and eloquent could possibly understand? How many times have I challenged the Program Manager's Schedule, using the line of the little boy in the fairy tale: "I Can't See 'em-!!"
Funny that I never questioned the Glass Slipper actually "holding up". However, I wrestled with the fact that only one girl's foot in the entire Kingdom would fit.
My concern about glass slippers (since I knew I would never wear them) was that they would be uncomfortable because they are not flexible. Obviously Cindarella had to be careful how she walked. I'd like to see the analysis of Cindarella turning into a pumpkin!
The most puzzling part of the story for me is the "lived happily ever after" part. Will there be a sequel?
Your point about the King Kong example got me thinking that using these well indoctrinated, childhood stories as a basis to explore engineering concepts and mathematical theories could actually be a solid way to introduce kids, boys and girls, to what's possible in an engineering career. I'm not sure they'd hold ground for those who've moved beyond the introductory stage, but by exposure, they could definitely spark initial interest in the field, especially for kids who might be bored or not fully become engaged with traditional examples.
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Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
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A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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