The History of Motion Analysis Corporation and 3DAHM: A Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration

The field of biomechanics is driven by the pursuit of deeper understanding and innovative technologies that connect science with real-world applications in rehabilitation, sports medicine, and beyond. A key platform advancing this mission is the 3D Analysis of Human Movement (3DAHM) symposium, organized every two years by the technical group of the International Society of Biomechanics (ISB). For over three decades, 3DAHM has been at the forefront of biomechanics research, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and practitioners. Motion Analysis Corporation has been a crucial partner throughout this journey, playing a pivotal role in supporting the symposium and advancing motion capture technologies.

Origins of 3DAHM and Motion Analysis’ Role

3DAHM was established as a technical group under the ISB with the goal of furthering technical knowledge in human movement analysis, providing a space for scientists, researchers, and industry leaders to come together. One of the key figures in its inception was Tom Whitaker, founder of Motion Analysis, who served on the first executive board of the group. Whitaker’s involvement symbolized the close relationship between cutting-edge industry innovation and academic research. Since that early beginning, Motion Analysis has consistently provided industry representation on the 3DAHM executive board, ensuring the intersection of scientific research with practical technological advancements.

One of the long-standing contributors to 3DAHM is Georgios Stylianides, a longtime board member and dedicated user of Motion Analysis systems. His recent purchase of a new system at Juniata College reaffirms the strong and continued partnership between Motion Analysis and the global biomechanics community.

Motion Analysis and 3DAHM: A Partnership in Biomechanics

Motion Analysis has supported the goals of 3DAHM for more than three decades, with involvement that extends beyond the executive board. The company has long been committed to advancing the technologies that empower biomechanics research. Their motion capture systems have transformed the way researchers capture and analyze human movement, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in healthcare, sports science, and rehabilitation.

At the 2024 3DAHM Symposium in Montevideo, Motion Analysis will not only continue its legacy of sponsorship and involvement but will also contribute to the hands-on education of participants. As part of the pre-conference course, our very own Emily McHugh (Director of Product Development and Customer Support) will lead a comprehensive training session on the Thunderbird marker-based optical motion capture system. Attendees will gain practical knowledge of camera hardware components, calibration, data collection, and kinematic measurements using Cortex software. This course will offer an invaluable opportunity for researchers and practitioners alike to deepen their understanding of motion capture technology in biomechanics.

The 2024 3DAHM Symposium: A Global Gathering of Minds

The 2024 edition of the 3DAHM symposium marks a special milestone as it will be hosted in Latin America for the first time, in Montevideo, Uruguay. This global event invites researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders from around the world to engage in meaningful face-to-face discussions. In a post-pandemic world, the return to in-person interactions is especially poignant, allowing for real-time exchange of knowledge, ideas, and advancements.

Led by the host committee from Uruguay, and featuring an international lineup of speakers, 3DAHM 2024 will explore the intersections of biomechanics, rehabilitation, and sports medicine. Beyond the academic sessions, the cultural richness of Montevideo will be celebrated, with attendees being introduced to the biomechanics of the region’s most iconic cultural expression: Tango.

As part of Motion Analysis’ ongoing commitment to advancing biomechanics research and education, the company will be donating a system to the host university in Montevideo. This system will be used throughout the pre-conference course and will continue to serve the university in the years to come, reinforcing the company’s dedication to supporting academic and research institutions globally.

Pre-Conference Course: Bridging Theory and Practice

One of the highlights of Motion Analysis’ participation in 3DAHM 2024 is Emily’s pre-conference course on motion capture. This intensive, hands-on training session is designed to provide participants with a solid foundation in motion capture technology, from hardware setup to data collection and processing. The course will cover everything from camera calibration and subject preparation to kinematic analysis and data export using Motion Analysis’ Cortex software.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to test their newfound knowledge by taking a certification exam at the end of the course. Those who pass will leave the event not only with a deeper understanding of motion capture systems but also with a certificate of completion, adding a tangible recognition of their expertise in this critical area of biomechanics research.

The Power of Partnership between Industry and Academia

The collaboration between 3DAHM and Motion Analysis Corporation is a testament to the power of partnership between industry and academia. From Tom Whitaker’s role on the first executive board to today’s ongoing support through sponsorship, educational courses, and technology donations, Motion Analysis has been a vital force in advancing biomechanics research for over 33 years.

As the 2024 symposium approaches, the excitement for what’s to come is palpable. With the event being held in Latin America for the first time, and Emily’s pre-conference course promising to provide invaluable skills and certification, the stage is set for another milestone in the advancement of biomechanics. Motion Analysis remains deeply committed to supporting the biomechanics community and advancing human movement research around the world.