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The accuracy of joint surface models constructed from data obtained with an electromagnetic tracking device
L J van Ruijven1, M Beek, E Donker
1Department of Functional Anatomy, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Netherlands. l.j.vanruijven@amc.uva.nl
Journal of Biomechanics
|June 1, 2000
Summary
This study presents a method for creating articular surface models using electromagnetic tracking devices. The models achieved high accuracy, with root mean square errors as low as 0.07mm, though errors increased with surface complexity.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Medical Engineering
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Electromagnetic tracking devices are integral to biomechanical analysis.
- Accurate modeling of articular surfaces is crucial for understanding joint function and pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a method for constructing articular surface models using electromagnetic tracking.
- To assess the accuracy and reproducibility of these models.
Main Methods:
- Optimized the accuracy of an electromagnetic space tracker.
- Measured random points on joint surfaces and fitted eighth-degree polynomials.
- Validated model accuracy against computed tomography (CT) data and through reproducibility tests.
Main Results:
- All polynomial fits converged well with the measured data.
- Root mean square (RMS) errors ranged from 0.07 to 0.18 mm.
- Model accuracy was influenced by surface size and complexity, primarily due to tracker systematic errors.
Conclusions:
- The evaluated method effectively constructs accurate models of articular surfaces.
- Systematic errors in electromagnetic tracking impact model accuracy, particularly for larger and more complex joint surfaces.