Lecture Sensors and Measurement Techniques in Biomedicine - Chapter 5: Force and motion measurement

The precise measurement of force and motion is a cornerstone of biomedical engineering, providing critical insights into physiological processes and enabling the development of advanced medical devices. This chapter introduces the fundamental concepts underpinning force and motion measurement, emphasizing their profound importance in understanding biomechanical functions. By establishing a clear context for various objects of measurement—from fundamental physical quantities to complex body motions driven by muscular activity—the discussion sets the stage for exploring the diverse sensors and methodologies essential for accurate data acquisition in both research and clinical applications. This foundational knowledge is pivotal for anyone seeking to analyze, diagnose, or intervene in biological systems.

Students and researchers in biomedical engineering, electronic technology, biomechanics, and related medical fields interested in the principles and applications of force and motion measurement.

This academic manuscript, titled "Force and Motion Measurement," provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and techniques crucial for biomedical engineering applications. It systematically addresses objects of measurement, detailing fundamental physical quantities like displacement, velocity, acceleration, and force, along with their standardized SI units. The document meticulously explores the complexities of body motions, distinguishing between those generated by muscular activities (skeletal, cardiac, smooth muscles) and passive motions, while also discussing the role of coordinate systems in motion analysis. A significant focus is placed on motion measurements, where a wide array of sensors and measurement techniques are presented. These include contact methods such as resistive potentiometers (translational, rotational, electrogoniometers), photopotentiometers, capacitive displacement sensors, differential transformers, and variable reluctance pickups. Noncontact measurement principles, utilizing image sensors (MOS, CCD), photoencoders, Hall effect sensors, and magnetic scales, are also detailed. Furthermore, the chapter delves into specialized in vivo measurement techniques, exemplified by strain-gauge sensors applied to myocardial contraction studies and clinometers for inclination sensing. The practical value lies in equipping readers with a thorough understanding of selecting and implementing appropriate force and motion measurement systems for research, diagnostics, and therapeutic device development.