A new testing rig for force platform calibration and accuracy tests

Accurate estimation of resultant joint forces and moments from gait analysis data depends heavily on the accuracy of measurement of the ground reaction force (GRF). Typically, multicomponent force platforms are used to measure the components of the GRF and the position of the centre of pressure. A new rig, designed to allow safe and quick static testing of the vertical component and centre of pressure outputs of such force platforms, is described. This rig has been used to test the accuracy of AMTI force platforms and was found to reduce dramatically the testing time. The results of the tests are also given.