MOBL | Biomechanics Lab | NC State ISE

MOBL (MObile Biomechanics Laboratory)

Introduction

MOBL, The Mobile Biomechanics Laboratory is an open-access Android-based app designed to enhance undergraduate biomechanics education. The app features 10 modules, each demonstrating key biomechanics concepts such as joint angular kinematics, body segment center of mass, and jumping height. Students can use MOBL to interact with data in real time, fostering a hands-on learning experience. Additionally, both the Android Package (.apk) for installation and the source code, developed in Android Studio, are available on this site. This accessibility ensures that educators and students alike can explore the app’s functionalities in educational settings.

Functionability description

We initially tested MOBL on a Samsung S7 tablet to ensure stability and usability. However, the app’s compatibility on other devices is not guaranteed, so we recommend testing it on your Android device.

  • Module 1: Reconstructs 2D poses using computer vision.
  • Modules 2 & 3: Measure elbow flexion/extension angles.
  • Module 4: Calculates trunk lateral bending angles.
  • Modules 5 & 6: Track shoulder adduction/abduction angles.
  • Modules 7 & 8: Determine the center of mass for males and females based on anthropometric data.
  • Module 9: Captures knee bending angles.
  • Module 10: Estimates jumping height.

As shown in the figures below, these modules provide users with visual and quantitative insights into human movement.

the 10 MOBL units are depicted
  • For the detailed description of the app, please refer to our paper in the reference section.

Accessing Instructions

  • Android source code was provided on our GITHUB page.
  • You can download the .apk file here to test this app on your device.
  • If you come up with any questions, feel free to contact hwang69@ncsu.edu.

Citation

  • Please cite the following paper if you use the app or code provided here.
    • Wang, H., Lu, L., Xie, Z., Su, B., & Xu, X. (2022). A mobile platform app to assist learning human kinematics in undergraduate biomechanics courses. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting.

Tutorial Demo

Hope this quick tutorial can give you a rough idea about MOBL.