Technology Flashcards
Definition of limb kinematics
It is the science of motion. In humans it is the study of the positions, angles, velocities and accelerations of body segments and joints during motion
Negatives of limb kinematics
Equipment is expensive
Laboratory conditions make some techniques difficult to perform due to lack of space
Can lack similarity to real life.
Results do not take account of individual differences
Positives of limb kinematics
Data immediately available and accurate
Coaches can use the analysis to make changes to technique
Examine the causes of common injury, which can be prevented as poor technique is identified
Investigates the impact of equipment on technique so helps with selection of appropriate equipment
How is limb kinematics done?
Reflective markers are placed on the performers bony landmarks and they are
filmed using multiple video cameras. The data is transferred into digital format for
analysis
Definition of force plates
A platform that measures all of the forces applied when a performer stands, steps
across or jumps on it
How do force plates work?
The platform measures the ground reaction forces that the performers generates.
This can be either vertical or both planes of horizontal (shear) forces. Data is
generated including a force time graph, power and acceleration information
Positives of force plates
Fast and accurate results generated
Analysis of take off and /or landing technique, which can be used to identify technique and efficiency improvements for sports performers
Results useful (with limb kinematics) to plan
conditioning or development programmes
Negatives of force plates
Equipment is expensive
Laboratory conditions make some techniques difficult to perform eg: a high jumper may struggle to replicate their run up technique when asked to take off from the platform
Definition of wind tunnels
A chamber through which air is forced
How do wind tunnels work?
The object or performer to be tested is placed in the tunnel. A controlled flow of air is forced through, and the airflow around the object is studied to measure resistance around it
Positives of wind tunnels
Equipment and technique can be adapted to increase/decrease aerodynamic properties for sports that want low/high air resistance
Wind speed/direction can be changed to mimic competitive conditions
Negatives of wind tunnels
Expensive equipment
Normally located in engineering facilities/ research labs
Real life conditions may change so may be unable to mimic competitive conditions and therefore results may not be realistic
