SBIR-STTR Award

Our innovative 3D Motion Analysis technology allows for fast and efficient screening of running technique in military personnel that has previously not been available to this scale. We propose providing education and training on our portable 3D Motion Analysis technology to military personnel to explore new ways to utilize this technology. The education and training will focus on ways to identify risk factors in movement patterns and running technique that increases forces on the body or reduce the ability to handle stresses placed on the body while running. The aim of this phase 1 submission is to create a memorandum of understanding with our current prospective user of the 3D Motion Analysis system and to explore new prospective users in other units and agencies.

It is estimated that 60% of Airmen will get a running related injury every year. Many of these are preventable injuries that burden medical and fitness professionals and impact combat readiness and a soldier’s ability to deploy. The injuries are also costly, with studies showing injuries from basic training costing the Air Force more than $43 million/year. Trace 3D offers a scalable, individualized solution that can help alleviate these injuries while also boosting combat readiness and running related performance. The goal for this Phase II proposal is to modify an existing commercial product (Trace 3D) with new algorithms that will categorize Airmen into running styles, and provide individualized plans to improve running form and a reduction in running related injury. A mobile application will also be created to maximize compliance with the prescribed program. Five Air National Guard bases have been identified as test sites for the modified Trace 3D system with Airmen who have under-performed on the run portion of fitness tests or are returning from injury. The goal is to increase the pass rate on the run portion of the fitness test and decreases in injury rates.