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Securing Biomechanical Data Quality: A Comprehensive Evaluation of On-Board Accelerometers for Shock and Vibration
Corentin Bosio1, Christophe Sauret1,2, Patricia Thoreux1,3
1Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, EPF Engineering School, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC-Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, F-75013 Paris, France.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
This study evaluated three inertial measurement units (IMUs) for biomechanics. Blue Trident excelled in shock measurement accuracy, while Xsens was stable for low-frequency vibrations, aiding sensor selection for dynamic analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sensor Technology
- Human Motion Analysis
Background:
- On-board accelerometers are vital for real-world biomechanics.
- Monitoring vibrations and shocks is crucial for human motion analysis.
- Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) are increasingly used for this purpose.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the accuracy, repeatability, and variability of three commercial IMUs (Xsens, Blue Trident, Shimmer 3).
- To compare their performance in measuring vibration and shock parameters relevant to human motion analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a controlled laboratory setup with an electrodynamic shaker.
- Generated sine waves at various frequencies and amplitudes.
- Created shock profiles with defined peak accelerations and durations.
Main Results:
- Blue Trident showed the highest accuracy in shock amplitude and timing (relative errors <6%).
- Xsens provided stable measurements for low-frequency vibrations.
- Shimmer 3 exhibited significant signal quality variability.
Conclusions:
- Findings guide IMU selection for specific biomechanical applications.
- Optimal accuracy and reliability in dynamic measurement environments are achievable.
- Further research into angular motion performance is recommended to enhance motion analysis.
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