Equipment for the tracking of complex human motor control strategies

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Multitasking has become commonplace in the course of our busy lives. At one time, stance and gait were thought of as ‘automatic' tasks requiring little cognitive input, but we now know that to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, our central nervous system (CNS) must integrate ongoing motor actions with cognitive thought processes; as we do not have a finite amount of cognitive resources we also know that when we engage in concurrent cognitive and locomotor tasks (“dual-tasking”) there is a decline in the performance of one or both activities. ******This RTI request is for equipment is essential for the pursuit of my NSERC funded research program, specifically a motion tracking system to acquire detailed measurements of complex human movement patterns, and a head-mounted virtual reality (VR) system that will provide flexibility to test a wide range of visually-based training paradigms. ******New advances in technology have led to impressive gains in 3D optical motion tracking. Powerful camera systems can track single or an array of body markers with a high degree of accuracy and over an impressive filming volume. Paired with phenomenal improvements in computer and software processing capabilities, these modern systems make it possible to track complex human movement patterns at a fraction of the cost of older, less technologically advanced systems. The requested cameras will replace aging laboratory equipment (i.e. originally purchased in 2005) no longer supported by the manufacturer. Wear and tear and the lack of replacement parts (i.e. markers, cables) have resulted in a massive reduction in experimental testing and processing capacity, thus the need for a replacement has become critically urgent. The replacement equipment and associated software will offer advanced motion tracking capabilities, which will support innovative research and training at the University of Guelph. ******Similar advances in VR technology now offer exciting and innovative enhancements for the study of neural mechanics and human movement. The requested VR system will provide a visually immersive “real life” environment that will dramatically enhance our dual-task performance testing and training. Because it is perceived as “fun” to use, this system is also expected to enhance participant engagement and retention for studies that can run several weeks.******New equipment will be seamlessly integrated with other measurement tools already present the applicant's lab (e.g. force plates) to enable unprecedented capture of complex human movement. Using this data, complex models will be developed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of neuromotor control, and to inform the development of strategies to improve performance while dual tasking. This research has significant knowledge translation potential for a wide range of end users (e.g., people who regularly perform complex motor tasks coupled with challenging cognitive tasks such as military or emergency service personnel).