TOWARDS A VIRTUAL REALITY-ASSISTED MOVEMENT DIAGNOSTICS - AN OUTLINE

The paper proposes a concept of a movement diagnostics system of enhan ced performances. The existing system, using electromyographic (EMG) a nd ground reaction force signals as inputs, has been applied primarily to sports locomotion evaluation and testing, providing suitable quant itative criteria. The proposed enhancement relies on movement simulati on facility, incorporating subject-specific anatomical and functional data on the neuro-musculo-skeletal system of extremities. Reflecting t he principles of anthropomorphic robotics, the computer graphics simul ation is conceptualized to generate artificial (synthesized) movement patterns in virtual reality. By comparing synthesized and measured sig nals the suitable feedback information is provided that may be used to enhance the overall system's performance. Using the power of computer technology and computer graphics, a user-friendly system of high ergo nomic potentials is thus devised, in order to enhance the quality and efficacy of diagnostic procedure. The bioengineering principles used a nd the merging of measurement with simulation in the process of operat ion define a powerful instrument applicable to both healthy and pathol ogical movement assessment.