3D motion analysis with an instrumented treadmill

• Subject Area: Medicine
• Term: Funded in 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 574003449

The application includes a force-instrumented treadmill with configuration for 3D motion analysis. The device enables a systematic analysis of continuous and discrete kinetic and kinematic parameters during running and walking. Natural running movements can be simulated and recorded quasi-stationarily without spatial changes or interruptions. This allows the analysis of multiple running and gait cycles and thus the reliable determination of individual gait patterns. Relevant parameters include (1) the 3D joint kinematics (e.g., ankle, knee, hip), (2) temporo-spatial parameters such as stride width, stride length, and foot strike patterns of each gait cycle, and (3) ground reaction forces and moments acting on the body in vertical and horizontal directions, including during the foot strike phase. Movements are captured by multiple infrared cameras and markers attached to the body (active or passive single or cluster markers) in order to allow the analysis of single joint segments using a body model. Kinetic parameters (forces and moments in three seplanes) are measured using force platforms embedded in the treadmill. The device is designed to enable the analysis of the maximum and average forces exerted by each foot strike. All relevant kinematic and kinetic parameters of the measurement system are evaluated in relation to one another, allowing a holistic view of bipedal gait or running. In addition to diagnostics, the device is also designed to be used for the conscious manipulation of non-habitual running patterns in order to draw conclusions about the learning and adaptation behavior of motor actions and to assess the relevance of individual feedback mechanisms (kinesthetic feedback, tactile feedback). A key requirement for this is the use of dual treadmills, so that, for example, different speeds for each leg, opposing movements, or abrupt stopping can be simulated.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: 3D Bewegungsanalyse mit kraftinstrumentiertem Laufband
• Instrumentation Group: 3490 Sonstige medizinische Registriergeräte und Zubehör
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Leader: Professorin Astrid Zech, Ph.D.