Applied Biomechanics

In the motion lab, which comprises a surface area of 90 m², we conduct extensive analyses to assess gait and movement in order to functionally evaluate prostheses/orthoses, work ergonomics and sport biomechanics. Human motion combined with forces and muscle signals are detected, analyzed (e.g. joint movement) and prepared for further analysis (e.g. forward dynamic simulation). The lab has a modular floor system for varying the position of force plates as well as integrating additional structures including sensors (e.g. stairs, ramps, workplaces).

In construction and design, we investigate the motion analysis results and combine them with the latest manufacturing technologies to swiftly develop preliminary functional samples. The individual stresses determined in the motion analysis are then used to test these functional samples and prototypes. This is followed by simulations to evaluate and optimize them.

In the test lab, we conduct simplified stress analyses with tensile / compression / 3-point / 4-point bending test machines. We have a prosthetic endurance test machine based on ISO 22675 available for evaluating prostheses, orthoses and shoes. We also simulate complex three-dimensional stress scenarios and dynamic motion sequences with the aid of a robot. The various human motions and kinetics are transferred 1:1 to the robot, therefore enabling loads to be realistically depicted.