Project Info
Shoulder loading during military load carriage
Anne Silverman
asilverm@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
This project aims to quantify the influence of hip-belt use on the magnitude and symmetry of shoulder loading during heavy load carriage (greater than 40% body weight). The effects of backpack configuration on lower-limb joint mechanics will also be explored. Joint kinematics, joint torques, backpack forces and centers of pressure will be characterized.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Not applicable.
Research paper: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103277
Lab website: fbl.mines.edu
Primary Contacts:
Anne Silverman, asilverm@mines.edu | Jordan Sturdy, sturdy@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Programming experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar is required. Strong interest in biomechanics, dynamics, biology.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
- Understanding of biomechanics research studies (data sources: motion capture, ground reaction forces, flexible pressure sensors, etc; signal processing techniques and statistical analysis)
- Programming and processing experience
- Biomechanical data analysis and visualization
- Introduction to biomechanical modeling
- Written and verbal communication skills, with opportunities to present work in a lab and conference settings.
MENTORING PLAN
The student will present brief research updates at our biweekly lab meetings and meet with Dr. Silverman and Jordan Sturdy (graduate research assistant) on the other weeks. The student will be integrated into our research group with communication via Slack and professional development activities. There will be milestones with a projected timeline setup at the beginning of the academic year and will be revisited periodically.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Sophomore
Junior
Senior