Designing a Multiaxial Extensometric Force Platform: A Manufacturing Experience

Abstract

Studies that lead to the development of more accessible and low-cost electronic technologies and devices for biomechanical and biomedical analysis applications are becoming increasingly needed. In this work, the development of a multiaxial extensometric force platform will be addressed, aiming to improve the sensitivity and reduce the costs of existing platforms. Additionally, this platform can be used for analysis and characterization of flight time and postural characterization of volleyball athletes. As a result, a functional and easily produced prototype was created, due to the processes used (final cost of the developed platform—USD$100). The interfaces of visualization and analysis of the device functions were designed in LabView. The purpose of the experiments is to perform flight analysis of athletes, and all functions designed for the platform strength and endurance are focused on that same purpose. The prototype’s functions were evaluated by applying loads from 700 to 1000 N (Newtons) and its future integration with other instruments such as the surface electromyography (EMG) and an electrocardiogram (ECG) is expected to form an instrument kit that improves the characterization of studies of balance, strength and muscular endurance.

Novel 3D Force Sensors for a Cost-Effective 3D Force Plate for Biomechanical Analysis

“…Indeed, many smaller research and sports programs are inhibited from purchasing a single 3D force plate and may opt for a cheaper unidimensional or two-dimensional force plate, which lacks critical information needed for many biomechanical analyses. As Sensors 2023, 23, 4437 2 of 9 a response to this lack of affordability for high-quality force plates, several researchers have set out to design, construct, and test force plate systems that can be replicated at much lower costs [8][9][10][11][12]. However, of these recent attempts, only two experimental force plates measured forces in three dimensions, and both were limited to low force capacities, inhibiting use for sports performance [8,9].…”