Kerry Gannon, Philip Schierer, and Lisa DiMatteo

The problem they worked on:

Determine the shape of a snowboard course (currently known as a "half-pipe") to maximize the production of "vertical air" by a skilled snowboarder.
"Vertical air" is the maximum vertical distance above the edge of the half-pipe.

Tailor the shape to optimize other possible requirements, such as maximum twist in the air.

What tradeoffs may be required to develop a "practical" course?