STABIL - a System to advance Technology and Assessment of Balance, Impact, and Loading

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The current proposal is a request for a robust mechanical perturbation system to provide precisely controlled dynamic stimuli to support a group of researchers with a shared focus on fundamental research linked to human stability, musculoskeletal loading, and mobility. The infrastructure, referred to as STABIL (System to advance Technology and Assessment of Balance, Impact and Loading), comprises three general elements including a dynamic perturbation platform driven by linear motors, a system of force plates mounted to the platform, and appropriate safety equipment. STABIL will afford unique and essential methods to advance the research programs of 13 NSERC-funded scientists in three complementary research themes. Under the theme of 'Balance and Mobility', STABIL will be critical for advancing fundamental understanding of neuromechanical control of whole body balance and mobility including a focus on robotics and modeling of bipedal movement. Regarding the theme of 'Impact and Loading Biomechanics', STABIL will support novel research that enhances our basic understanding of impact biomechanics and control of segment and joint stability in response to mechanical disturbances. Finally, STABIL will be an integral element of the 'Sensor and Assistive Technologies' theme which will develop and evaluate new sensors (wearable and fixed) and assistive technologies to assess/influence kinetics and kinematics of whole body movement. In addition to supporting world-class research, STABIL would afford novel training opportunities by supporting a research environment where HQP with engineering backgrounds work in concert with life sciences trainees within discipline-integrated teams. Collectively, the availability of this dynamic perturbation system, along with our currently available measurement technologies (EEG, EMG, eye-tracker, motion analysis), will support state-of-the-science research programs and provide unique training opportunities for all levels of HQP from different disciplines.