Kinemetry

In physics, movements are understood as changes in the position of bodies in space and time. This presupposes that the movement (partial movement) is described and observed in relation to a reference system. In a simple categorization, a distinction is made between progressive movements (translatory) and rotary movements (rotatory). In many sports, mixed forms of translations and rotations can also be found. Furthermore, movements are divided into uniform and non-uniform movements according to their temporal progression. Uniform movement occurs at a constant speed, while non-uniform movement has a variable speed progression. The simplest movement characteristics that are determined by kinemetry are distance (length) and time. This can be used to calculate further descriptive variables, such as average speed (distance traveled divided by time) or average acceleration (change in speed divided by the time required).

In addition to special measuring methods that allow direct distance or time measurement, kinemetry is usually carried out using (digital) video analysis. Here, a movement can be recorded over a sequence of any length using video images, which are then digitized on a PC and converted into 2D or 3D coordinates (see photo examples from swimming and the overhead perspective in tennis). At the same time, the measurement data can also be combined with other examination methods (e.g. electromyography) and exported in various data formats.

Qualisys Motion Capture works with high-resolution infrared cameras that register the incident light on reflective markers attached to the body and calculate precise 3D movement data from this. This marker-based method, which is based on infrared technology, can be used to create an extremely accurate model of movement sequences. In sports, for example, this method enables the precise analysis of running, jumping or throwing movements by providing detailed information about joint positions, speeds and accelerations. Thanks to its high accuracy and reliability, this method is considered the gold standard in biomechanical research and analysis, as it enables researchers and trainers to better identify injury risks and optimize athletic performance in a targeted manner.

The analysis software we use comes from the company"SIMI Motion". The SIMI Motion software is designed for recording and analyzing a wide range of movements in the fields of sport, human and veterinary medicine, rehabilitation, robotics, 3D computer animation (CG), etc. Moving objects are recorded with digital video or high-speed cameras and converted into 2D or 3D data. In addition, SIMI Motion enables the synchronized recording of image sequences from professional high-speed cameras or from up to six standard DV cameras connected to a single PC via a FireWire interface.

In addition to SIMI Motion, we also use freeware programs, particularly for teaching teacher trainees.