DESIGN OF FORCE PLATE FOR GAIT ANALYSIS

Gait analysis provides a simple approach to identifying biomechanical abnormalities in walking and running. Force plates, commonly used in biomechanics laboratories, serve as pedagogical tools to explain motion dynamics and kinematics. They measure ground reaction forces, crucial for understanding the loads associated with human activity. In cases of amputation, force analysis is vital to avoid overloading, which risks boneimplant interface damage, and underloading, which unnecessarily prolongs rehabilitation. Modern sensor technology and advanced data acquisition systems have simplified force analysis. A force plate is a metal platform embedded with sensors that generate electrical signals proportional to the applied force. This project focuses on developing a cost-effective, highly sensitive prototype force plate. The system incorporates signal conditioning using a deflected control card, instrumentation amplifiers, and linearization circuits for individual pressure sensors integrated into a rubber mat. Creating a robust optical force platform for research involves systematic steps. It begins with understanding biomechanics and the types of force transducers used, followed by data acquisition involving sampling, signal amplification, processing, and calibration to ensure accuracy. Using force and weight data from the prototype, gait analysis was performed on volunteers with abnormalities such as diplegic and hemiplegic patterns. This demonstrates the potential of the low-cost force plate to analyse and address gait issues effectively.