Sports Science Researchers Choose F-Scan® Datalogger for Analyzing Elite Athletes

Boston, MA – Tekscan’s new F-Scan Plantar Pressure Analysis Datalogger system was the measurement tool of choice for accurate data collection on a recent episode of ESPN’s Sports Science titled Dwight Howard: Max Vertical Reach.  The Sports Science team has used the F-Scan system for years to capture plantar pressure and force data on top athletes, and new Datalogger electronics make it even better at capturing data during quick contact activities like the high jump Howard performed for the episode.

Freedom of Movement and Improved Data Capture

In order to better understand how Howard was able to break Shaquille O’Neal’s record for max vertical reach, the Sports Science research team needed to quantify the vertical force he applied as he pushed off the ground.  They chose the F-Scan Datalogger system because of its high sampling rate and its ability to capture force and pressure information without interfering with the athlete’s natural motion.  As Howard moved through his routine, paper-thin in-shoe sensors transmitted force, pressure and timing data to the lightweight Datalogger Unit attached at his waist.  The data was recorded onto the system’s internal 8 GB memory stick, where it was stored until he completed all of his jumps.  Since the system does not require a physical connection to a computer, Howard had complete freedom of movement throughout his routine.  And, since the sensors were in his shoes, he did not have to worry about “targeting” a specific area to push off of a force plate.

Tekscan’s pressure mapping systems are used by prominent universities, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and corporations around the world for a variety of applications.  For more information on Tekscan and the F-Scan systems, please call 617-464-4500 or contact us.