Instrumented staircase for ground reaction measurement

A staircase was developed to record ground reactions during stair climbing at different slopes (inclinations). Each step is instrumented with six stra in-gauge-based force transducers which allow the measurement of three-dimen sional ground reaction force and moment as well as the centre of pressure ( COP) location. A specific sensor arrangement permits accurate recording, es pecially of the COP location. The overall design of the staircase and detai ls of a single instrumented step are presented. Static and dynamic characte ristics have been evaluated by different experimental procedures. Prelimina ry results of ground reaction forces are shown.