Biomechanical Analysis of Human Motion (MSc)

Code

MMME4048

School

Mechanical, Materials & Manufacturing Engineering

Level

4

Credits

20

Semesters

Full Year UK

Summary

This module covers the measurement and analysis of human movement with a focus of understanding the technologies (and their limitations) used to assess sports performance.  It will include:

• Anatomical terminology and functional movements, including how to define joints for biomechanical analysis
• Different modes of data measurement in sports analysis
• Kinematic measurement techniques (video, marker-based motion capture, and Inertial Measurement Units)
• Data and signal processing 
• Clinical gait analysis terminology and applications
• Kinetic measurement techniques
• Inverse dynamics for predicting muscle forces via musculoskeletal modelling
• Professional use of biomechanics labs, and general review of how to conduct research in this field
• Data collection during gait analysis sessions and hands-on experience with motion capture suits

Target Students

Students studying MSc Bioengineering (H674), MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics (J921), or final year MEng (H300, including courses which have placement years) or BEng (H302, including courses which have placement years) Mechanical Engineering . Ideally, students will have successfully completed modules in Mechanics/Statics and Dynamics or equivalent (approved by module convenor). In the absence of this, additional materials will be supplied for students to catch-up on the relevant topics.

Assessment

• 40% Assignment 1: Assignment 1, weighted 40%, Lab report
• 60% Exam 1 (2-hour): Exam 1, weighted 60%, Online (ExamSys)

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

A student who completes this module will be expected to be able to:

A1. to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of key aspects and disciplines within the field of biomechanics of Sport and Exercise Science, including how biomechanical analysis can be applied to sports performance and injury prevention, and the use of functional anatomy to convey this information. 

A2. to address the main issues underpinning human performance and adaptation in the context of sport.

A4. to understand how the human body interacts and changes with its environment

A5. to recognise and explain current trends and developments in Sport & Exercise Science.

A6. to manage their own learning and use primary sources of knowledge to access the forefront of current research.

A7. understand (a) the ethical principles for research in humans and (b) the requirements for gaining ethical approval for research projects and monitoring their implementation throughout the project.

B2. to devise and sustain arguments using ideas and information at the forefront of the Sport and Exercise Science disciplines.

B3. to acquire information systematically, process it effectively, and draw appropriate conclusions.

B4. to apply accurately subject-specific techniques of analysis and enquiry.

B5. to undertake appropriate experimental design and statistical analysis.

B6. to work safely in the field and laboratory, using appropriate equipment and instruments and assess related health and safety issues in order to make, record and interpret accurate and valid measurements.

B7. to initiate and carry out an independent research project to a very high standard.

B9. to demonstrate numeracy and written and oral communication skills including writing and constructing scientific documents (e.g. research reports) using appropriate styles, conventions, and terminology on scientific topics.

B10. to develop effective ways of working including productive team work, scheduling of tasks and time management to meet deadlines.

B11. to demonstrate digital literacy.

Conveners

• Dr Samuel Smith