Motion Capture Applications for Movement and Life Sciences

Innovation in Animal Science Applications

Vicon’s motion capture systems are renowned for their versatility, making them critical tools in the field of animal science. These systems are designed to accommodate a wide range of skeletal structures, enabling researchers to analyze the movement of various species—from large animals like horses to smaller creatures like birds or insects. This flexibility is crucial for studying animal locomotion, behavior, and health, providing insights that are essential for veterinary medicine, conservation efforts, and agricultural practices.

For instance, Vicon’s mocap technology was instrumental in a study focusing on sheep, where researchers used motion capture to evaluate the impact of different surfaces on sheep locomotion. This research has significant implications for understanding animal welfare and optimizing living conditions in agricultural settings. By capturing detailed data on how animals move in different environments, scientists can develop strategies to reduce injury and improve overall well-being, which is vital for both domestic and wild species. Vicon’s motion capture systems are at the forefront of such advancements, offering unparalleled accuracy and adaptability that drive progress in animal science.

Detailed Clinical Gait Analysis Through Mocap Systems 

In the realm of medical research, Vicon’s motion capture systems have become invaluable for clinical gait analysis. Gait analysis involves studying the way people walk, which is essential  to  diagnosing and treating various movement disorders. By providing detailed data on joint angles, stride length, and other parameters, motion capture enables clinicians to develop personalized rehabilitation programs and track the progress of their patients over time.

For example, Vicon’s mocap technology was utilized in a study conducted by the Southwest Pediatric Orthopedic Department (SWPOD) to assess and treat children with cerebral palsy. The precise data collected through motion capture allowed doctors to evaluate the effectiveness of surgical interventions and tailor rehabilitation programs to the individual needs of each patient. This level of customization is crucial for improving outcomes in pediatric orthopedics, where early intervention can significantly enhance a child’s mobility and quality of life.

The impact of Vicon’s mocap systems on clinical gait analysis is profound, providing clinicians with the tools they need to make informed decisions and improve patient outcomes.

Advancing Biomechanics Research with Mocap 

Biomechanics, or movement analysis,, is another critical area where Vicon’s motion capture systems have made a significant impact. By capturing movement patterns, biomechanics researchers can gain insights into how the body responds to different physical activities, the effects of aging on movement, and the impact of various medical conditions.

Vicon’s optical motion capture solutions have been used in a wide range of studies, from assessing the gait of amputees to analyzing the movement of individuals with cerebral palsy. These systems provide the high level of precision needed to study subtle changes in movement, which is essential for developing effective interventions. For example, a collaboration between game designers and biomechanical researchers in Zurich used Vicon’s systems to scientifically validate safe recovery training movements for virtual rehabilitation games.  

This project demonstrated how the combination of validated biomechanical movements with virtual gaming can create a new era of rehabilitation moving forward, merging different industries that motion capture makes possible. 

Mocap Applications in Sports Science 

Sports science is another area where motion capture technology has become a game-changer. By tracking and analyzing athletes’ movements with precision, Vicon’s systems help coaches, sports scientists, and athletes themselves optimize performance, prevent injuries, and develop personalized training programs.

Vicon’s expertise in both optical and inertial motion capture empowers users to capture every detail of an athlete’s performance, from the biomechanics of a sprint to the intricate movements involved in complex team sports. This data is invaluable for identifying areas of improvement, whether it’s refining a golfer’s swing or enhancing a soccer player’s agility. The ability to track these movements in real-time allows for immediate feedback, enabling athletes to adjust their techniques on the spot and achieve better results.

One notable example of Vicon’s impact in sports science is its collaboration with Saucony, a leading athletic footwear brand. By utilizing Vicon’s motion capture technology, Saucony was able to analyze the biomechanics of elite level runners and use that data to design shoes that enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury. These shoes are then able to be used for not only the high level athletes that need a high performing shoe, but the everyday wearer who may need it for work or outdoor walks. This partnership highlights the critical role that mocap plays in the intersection of research  and taking that into product development and innovation.