30612 - Laboratory of Biomechanics

Learning outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to design and perform experiments in the field of biomechanics as well as to interpret the results through the use of statistical and mathematical models. In particular he is able to: - use biomechanical equipments in the laboratory of Biomedical Engineering - design experiments based on gained knowledge - perform experiments with the assistance of the teacher - prepare data for the identification and validation of mathematical models of physical systems - to characterize the biomechanical behavior of biological tissues - study kinematics of the human body using stereo-photogrammetry - study the dynamics of the human body through the use of force platforms - use inertial devices with low invasiveness for the study of movement kinematics and dynamics.

Course contents

Part 1 - Measurement of kinematics
Reference Frame. Motion of a material point. Kinematic quantities: position, velocity, acceleration. The stereophotogrammetry: basic principles, errors, calibration, spot-checks. Experimental determination of: a) distance between two points; b) gravitational acceleration. Motion of a rigid body: rotation matrix and translation vector. Estimation of position and orientation of a rigid body in 3D space.

Part 2 - Measurement of dynamical variables
Dynamic models. Methods and tools for the measurement of external forces: the force platform. Experimental determination of center of pressure and ground reaction forces. Methods and tools for the determination of anthropometric parameters: a) center of mass; b) moment of inertia; c) body segments length. The inverted pendulum. Experimental determination of the center of mass and moment of inertia of a body. Methods of measurement of muscle activity: the electromyogram (EMG).

Part 3 - Inertial Measurement Systems
The accelerometer. The gyroscope. The magnetometer. Multi-sensor unit (IMU) and sensor fusion. Experimental determination of kinematics and validation with measurements from stereophotogrammetry.

Part 4 - Applications
Kinematic and dynamic analysis of motor tasks: sit-to-stand, reaching, squatting. Gait analysis. Applications in orthopedics, rehabilitation and sports.

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes provided by the teacher.

Teaching methods

Theoretical concepts are illustrated in the classroom. The exercises are carried out individually in the computer lab. Practicals are held in groups at the Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering (LIB).

Assessment methods

Final verification is done through oral examination and project.

Teaching tools

Stereophotogrammetric system
Inertial sensors
Force platforms
Multi-channel electromyograph

Office hours

See the website of Silvia Fantozzi