Analysis of movement using technology

give the types of technology used to analyse movement

limb kinematics

force plates

wind tunnels

define limb kinematics

study of movement in relation to time + space

define force plates

ground reaction forces measured in lab conditions using force plates

define wind tunnels

steel frame building containing wide fans where artificial wind is produced

describe limb kinematics procedure

apply reflective markers to joints to be analysed

3D cameras enclose performer + record action being completed

3D output image of action on computer

uses of limb kinematics (3)

correct errors in technique

calculate speed of action/motion

assess/correct form/posture

advantages of limb kinematics (5)

correct performer’s technique

help prevent injury due to incorrect technique

highly accurate

instant

objective

disadvantages of limb kinematics (3)

expensive

lab-based so doesn’t replicate match environment

markers might be placed incorrectly/fall off

describe procedure for using force plates

athlete pushes into force plate (balance/run/jump)

force plate has built-in transducer

force plate converts contact into signal proportional to weight applied

signal sent to computer to interpret/analyse

uses of force plates (6)

measure size of reaction forces

calculate force output for jumping

develop posture + alignment

develop balance

rehabilitation (see if getting stronger)

gait analysis

advantages of force plates (3)

accurate

reliable

immediate data

disadvantages of force plates (4)

expensive

lab-based so not match realistic

inaccuracy of data of incorrect technique

requires specialist equipment

describe procedure of using wind tunnels

4m wide rotating fan

rotating minimum 600rpm

place object in wind tunnel

engineers use coloured dye to show air flow

uses of wind tunnels (2)

testing/developing aerodynamics

develops drag reduction

advantages of wind tunnels (4)

immediate data

reliable

accurate

can control variables

disadvantages of wind tunnels (3)

expensive

requires professional analysis

lab-based so isn’t match realistic