Calibration device for quantifying error in force plates

The purpose of this design project is to build a testing device and create a testing procedure for quantifying the error in different manufacturers´ force platforms. An inverted pendulum design is used to model a person balancing while quietly standing [1]. This strategy of balancing involves a person using muscles in their ankles and calves to keep their center of gravity above their base of support [1] [2]. The inverted pendulum device will include a weight, which attaches to a flexible rod that is secured to the force platform by means of a mounting plate. The center of gravity of a weight will act as the center of gravity of a person and a flexible rod simulates small movements of the ankle and hip to maintain balance while standing. The result of this project provides valuable information to hardware manufacturers and to the biomechanics community by quantifying error in force platforms.