Kinematic and Kinetic Modeling

BodyLanguage is a simple script language developed by Oxford Metrics' programmers working in conjunction with specialists in human movement science. It reduces the complex vector algebra required to describe and calculate 3D motion into a series of functions expressed in words. Now non-specialists can construct or modify models without recourse to a programmer. The program is supplied with a series of sample models ready to use and the manufacturer encourages the publication and distribution of models developed and tested by users as shareware.

Kinematic biomechanical modeling has wide applications in studying human or animal motion for sport, rehabilitation, ergonomics or biomechanics. It can be applied to a whole body, but if the user's interest is in just the shoulder and arm, BodyLanguage can be used to define a model specific to those needs. According to the manufacturer, there are no restrictions to its application, mechanical motion may be modeled equally well. Additional features include:

•Visualize the subject's motion
•Aplication of mass and inertia properties to segment definition
•Segment reactions
•Force plate data
•Intersegmental power flow
•Graphs, reports and templates
•Spine function
•Virtual markers
•Export ASCII
•Singularities, anti-flip and Gimbal lock

Vicon Motion Systems, 9 Spectrum Pointe Drive, Lake Forest, CA 92630. Tel: 949-472-9140; Fax: 949-472-9136.