University of Auckland

From Biomch-W

Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Sport and Exercise Science, The University of Auckland, New Zealand

The Biomechanics Laboratory is dedicated to the scientific study of biomechanics of human movement. We aim at integrating physics, biological and engineering principles for the better treatment and care of patients as well as the benefit of athletes on all levels.

The Biomechanics Laboratory, in the Department of Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Auckland was established in 1997 and is located in building 750A on Tamaki Campus. The building also hosts Unisports Centre for Sport Performance, the Adidas Sport Medicine Centre and the Academy of Sport NZ, northern region headquarters. This environment enables us to maintain contact to both recreational and professional athletes. Further, it offers the opportunity to access injured populations and rehabilitation groups.

We also have collaborations with the motion picture industry and computer games creators who utilise our motion capture (MOCAP) capabilities.

The Biomechanics Group includes three experienced scientists originating from different backgrounds. These lecturers/senior lecturers seek to advance knowledge in the field of biomechanics by integrating students into their ongoing and planned projects as much as possible.

This collaboration provides input from surgeons, radiologists, biologists and other bioengineers, and provides our students with first-hand experience in various clinical aspects of biomechanics. Goals:

• To apply the principles of mechanics to understand biological processes and mechanisms related to the performance and failure of the human locomotor system
• To educate students in performing independent, high-quality research in clinical and/or sport biomechanics;
• To apply biomechanical principles to the design, analysis, and development of sports or movement related equipment as braces, casts and footwear.

Staff Members

Dr Drew Smith

Dr Sharon Walt

Dr Uwe Kersting

The Laboratory

The physical space of the lab measures almost 100 m2 with a 10 m walkway which runs through the lab to the outside running track. At present, we have three different 3-dimensional motion capture systems: The newest is our VICON 8-camera MX system. We also have a Motion Analysis Corporation 8-Falcon camera system and a SimiMotion 4 Basler camera system. Three Bertec forceplates are imbedded in the walkway – the positions of two can be adjusted to accommodate various movements of interest. There are two EMG systems – a 10 channel MotionLab system and a telemetered Biovision system. Other equipment includes a Biodex machine, treadmill, and Novel pressure measurement systems (in-shoe and platform).

Opportunities for Postgraduate Study

Persons interested in pursuing a postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) in biomechanics at the University of Auckland should contact members of the Biomechanics Group for further information.

General Topic Areas

• Clinical Gait Analysis (Dr Walt & Dr Smith)

The role of joint stiffness in maintaining dynamic balance in gait (Dr Smith)

Validation of methods of dynamic stability measurement in children with cerebral palsy (Drs Walt & Smith)

• Load Carriage and Backpacks (Dr Walt)

• Balance and Posture (Dr Smith)

Changes in dynamic balance control with ageing

The effect of fear of falling on dynamic stability performance in older adults

Biofeedback training in dynamic balance control in persons at risk for falling

Balance control characteristics in children with cerebral palsy

• Adaptation of Biological Tissues (Dr Kersting)

• Sport-related Injuries (Dr Kersting)

Biomechanics Group staff members are happy to discuss potential research projects outside of the above areas with interested persons.