Motion Capture Technology

Today, the use of optical motion capture technology to objectively capture and record motion is a widely accepted technique, used daily by researchers and clinicians all over the world. By understanding the basics of human motion, medical professionals can improve treatment during a rehabilitation process and obtain guidance in selecting suitable training equipment.

Qualisys motion capture systems are also used in industrial applications. Complex, 3D vibration problems can easily be measured and analyzed. In car development, interior design can be improved by using motion capture and ergonomics tools to evaluate comfort and safety factors for the car driver. Animation and virtual reality presentations use motion capture for increased realism and a more interactive environment.

Qualisys motion capture breakdown

• The core component of Qualisys motion capture system is one or more infrared optical cameras, Oqus, emitting a beam of infrared light.
• Small light-weight, retro-reflective markers are placed on an object/person.
• Cameras emit infrared light onto the markers that reflect the light back to the camera sensor. This information is then used to calculate the position of targets with high spatial resolution.
• To make a 3D reconstruction of 2D data, the system needs to be calibrated. A wand is simply moved around in the capture volume while a stationary reference object in the volume defines the lab coordinate system.
• With a Qualisys system, the calibration procedure is only a 10-20 second exercise.
• Once the system is calibrated and the person is wearing its set of reflective markers, movement can be recorded, processed and analyzed.