Foot
Pressure Analysis
Our research produced novel transducers
for measuring pressure and we are currently developing shear sensors.
In collaboration with industry, we have also developed a unique
shape estimation system, CAD, which produces a highly accurate
three-dimensional model of the foot to be constructed, effectively
a digital last. This device will permit us to experiment in insole
design on a model, which may be integrated with pressure, 3D goniometry,
foot/ankle proprioception and Electomyographic information. The
potential in treating diabetic, rheumatic and other functional
foot problems is exciting.
Gait
Analysis
The Gait Analysis Laboratory consists of an electronic motion
analysis system, Vicon system by Oxford Metrics Ltd. The Dundee
Gait Laboratory continues to strive to improve the quality of
its facilities and the Vicon 512 with eight cameras are successfully
installed.
Biomechanics,
Prosthetics, Orthotics, Rehabilitation Engineering
This area of research consists of the collaboration of both
the foot pressure and gait laboratories in biomechanical assessment
of prosthetics, orthotics and rehabilitation engineering.
Clinical
Audit, Knee/Hip/Shoulder Replacements
All our work is aimed at improving the life of those afflicted
with musculoskeletal disease. Therefore whatever we do relies
on the outcomes being accurately assessed from a patient perspective.
This industry-sponsored unit conducts outcome studies throughout
the world in order to independently assess the results of joint
replacement surgery. This work complements the signal processing
and neural networking by showing an accurate and comprehensive
assessment of the effects of clinical outcomes.
Bone
Density and Signal Processing
Modern computers are able to permit us to explore the complex
information available from common or garden clinical images
such as radiographs. Using Fourier transforms of wave analysis
we have made very accurate predictions about the likelihood
of fracture in osteoporotic bone. The
foot pressure lab, the gait lab and the bone density group are
exploring the use of this highly complex signal processing analysis
in the clinical decision making process using neural networks
and Finite Element Analysis.
