Movement and signal analysis by means of a computer-assisted system

The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of an optoelectronic system for recording mandibular movements and the conformity of simultaneous recordings of the electromyographic activity in the masseter, the temporal and the suprahyoid muscles. A simulator test to identify the inherent noise of the MacReflex motion analysis system was performed by means of a micrometer screw. The test showed a very small noise inherent in the clinical set-up of the monitoring system. The values obtained also reflected external vibrations. A clinical pilot study was performed to find a feasible site for attaching the reflective markers, either to the incisal teeth of the mandible or as chin marker. In tests including the muscle activity, the conformity between the curves of the movement and muscle activity was good. The method was easy to use in clinical tests, the software of the system reduced the analysis time to a minimum and a number of variables could be measured with a high degree of precision.