Research work in the ZHAW movement laboratory

The movement laboratory of the Institute of Physiotherapy at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences is an important part of her research work. The laboratory enables a more in-depth analysis of movement and a better understanding of movement disorders.

In the movement laboratory, they analyse movement sequences and muscle activities using state-of-the-art technology. This enables them to precisely detect problems such as movement asymmetries or incorrect loading. At the same time, they sharpen the understanding of how therapeutic aids and interventions such as orthoses, shoes, exoskeletons or targeted training affect movement and health. The staff are experts in physiotherapy and movement analysis. Together with their partners, they close the gap between development and application. They know both the concerns of patients and the needs of healthcare professionals who apply new developments. This benefits their clinical partners, researchers, product developers from the medtech industry – and ultimately the patients.

Recommended Products

Vantage is Vicon’s flagship range of cameras. The sensors have resolutions of 5, 8 and 16 megapixels, with sample rates up to 2000Hz – this allows you to capture fast movements with very high accuracy. The cameras also have built-in temperature and bump sensors, as well as a clear display, to warn you if cameras have moved physically or due to thermal expansion. High-powered LEDs and sunlight filters mean that the Vantage is also the best choice for outdoor use and large volumes.

The Optima is the flagship among force plates. The patented calibration technology guarantees the highest possible accuracy across the entire surface of the plate – ideal for gait analysis, biomechanical research and other applications where the highest quality data is essential.

The Cometa Pico (EMG) sensors are small, light-weight and have on-board storage to allow measurements in the field. Easy to attach and easy to charge, the long battery life, the high signal-to-noise ratio and the wireless range are other features that make the aktos the best EMG system on the market today.

XoSoft – adaptable soft exoskeleton

Anyone whose walking has been impaired due to a stroke or from birth can nowadays walk better again with the help of support structures. But these mostly heavy and inflexible constructions often only adapt to part of the movement process. That’s why ZHAW researchers are working with European partners to develop a support structure that stiffens or softens depending on movement. The innovative fabric is equipped with sensors, with the help of which an integrated electronic system learns the movement of the affected limbs and then supports, relieves or allows them to move freely at the right moment. The construction should be thin and can be worn like leggings or socks under clothing.

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