The Science Museum in London presents Summer of Sport inspired by the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games exhibits dedicated to looking at the science and technology behind the Games.
Four exhibits include:-
Is simple design a fast track to a sustainable future?
The London Velodrome is one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings of its kind. The internal temperature is tightly regulated without any active heating or cooling and the roof collects rainwater to be used in the toilets and gardens. Plus, to reduce the need for electric lights – the roof has a series of long windows to allow natural light in. Supported by SITA Trust.
Will wearable sensors advance sports training?
How do scientists monitor athletes at breakneck speed? Scientists at Imperial College created small, smart sensors that give the low-down on health and performance without big bulky kit. Supported by the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Will phones replace cash and cards?
Turn your phone in to a ‘mobile wallet’. Find out more about the technology that will let you ditch cash and cards and just carry your phone. As well as buying things, you can use your phone to send money to people and transfer funds between your accounts. You can track your payments, and see where your money is going. The technology will be used in the Olympic Village. Supported by VISA.
How can new technology improve mobility?
Whether it’s for a casual stroll or a super-fast sprint, the design of a prosthetic leg will need to match its function. Two prosthetic legs, the Genium Bionic Prosthetic System and the running blade, improve mobility for different uses and are both on show. The Genium uses innovative technology to create more natural movement. Controlled by sensors and computer processors, it closely mimics the human leg when standing and walking. The running blade has a single use: athletics. You run on the balls of your feet, so the blade has no heel. It’s curved shape stores and releases the athlete’s energy. Both are made from carbon fibre that can withstand the pressure of everyday use and the intense demands of sport. Supported by Ottobock.
www.sciencemuseum.org.uk