Biomechanics technology

Question 1

What is limb kinematics and how is it used to improve performance?

Answer 1

• Study of movement in relation to time and space
• Use body markers and multiple cameras from different angles to map the body as it performs key sporting movement
• Specialist computer software creats 3D image of the performer executing the movement
• Allows for the analysis of the full movement of specific limbs
• The markers are placed on specific joints allowing for a lot of data to be captured

Question 2

Advantages of limb kinematics

Answer 2

• Assess technique and look for improvement
• Compare objective data to elite athletes
• Immediate data
• Objective, highly accurate

Question 3

Disadvantages of limb kinematics

Answer 3

• Expensive, only used in labs
• Require training to read data
• Accuracy and repeatability depends on correct placement of bady markers
• Mathematical principles do not cater for individual differences

Question 4

What is force plate and how is it used to improve performance?

Answer 4

• Rectangular metal plate with built in force tranducer
• When an object or limb contacts the plate an electrical output is generated abd converted into a graph on the computer showing the size of force, direction of force and time the force was applied in three direction

Question 5

Advantages of force plate

Answer 5

• Immediate, accurate and reliable results
• Assess balance, gait
• Assess technique of lower body

Question 6

Disadvantages of force plate

Answer 6

• Required training to interpret data
• Expensive
• Only used in labs

Question 7

What is wind tunnels and how is it used to improve performance?

Answer 7

• Object is placed inside a wind tunnel with instuments to measure forces produced by the air against its surface
• Identify where air resistance can be reduced

Question 8

Advantages of wind tunnels

Answer 8

• Tight control over environmental variables
• Can measure air resistance and flow with precision accuracy

Question 9

Disadvantages of wind tunnels

Answer 9

• Specialised facilities mainly held in engineering base
• Expensive
• Require results analysis by professionals