Biomechanics Facilities

The state of the art biomechanics Laboratory serves a number of functions, which includes supporting the teaching modules at various levels (UG and PG), student project/internship, dissertations and finally postgraduate and staff research.

Kinematics (Analysis of movement)

The laboratory is equipped with a selection of kinematic analysis systems to analyse movement pattern in clinical and sport situations.  This lab houses a three dimensional VICON MX Motion Analysis System which can automatically track several hundred images per second.  This system can provide accurate kinematic data for application in a variety of environments in clinical, sports and animation industry. This lab is also capable of less complicated kinematic analysis based on digital video using software such as APAS, Quintic and Dartfish. These are particularly useful in sporting and coaching situations.

Kinetics (Analysis of factors causing the movement – forces)

Kinetic analysis at this laboratory is carried out by the use of two AMTI force platforms fitted in the floor, two RSScan pressure platform(1m and 0.5m) and a Tekscan in-shoe pressure analysis system.

Other analysis

An eight channel Noraxon telemetry electromyography system and a Microstrain telemetry accelerometer system is also available for adding value to the biomechanical data.

We have recently acquired a thermal imaging camera, Real-time Ultrasound with Colour Doppler and a virtual environment simulation system

Undergraduate students are exposed to this state of the art facility as a part of their curriculum. They use it to collect and analyse simple movement data like walking, football kick, basketball throw etc., Students work on various lab exercises based on kinetic analysis in sport and exercise using force platforms. While all students in Sports and Exercise Science are exposed to the basics of biomechanics and the associated lab facilities, other students can access the laboratory if biomechanics is chosen as an elective subject. Apart from movement analysis, students at level 3 would also be exposed to material science (for example measuring the stress/strain on sports equipment) as well as examining the kinematic applications of posture and sports related injury.  

Clinical Biomechanics Students will use Kinematic and Kinetic analysis  for assessing clinical conditions and to develop treatment protocols. Typically they will assess the gait pattern and the pressure distribution under the feet to prescribe foot orthotics.