TECHNOLOGY & HUMAN PERFORMANCE How has technology influenced human performance in the last 100 years?

Ergonomics Back to Careers class folks! Ergonomists find ways to improve mechanical objects. Goal is to “improve” human movement.

Ergonomics The study of maximizing human performance by improving our use of mechanical objects. – What are some mechanical features in the following diagram? (Skeleton rider)

Luge and Skeleton Riders

Ergonomics & Sports Athletic performance can be ENHANCED with supporting aids, equipment, and training technology. Aids help athletes recover from injuries. Goal is to apply technology to drive humans to higher levels of performance.

Ergonomics cont… In order to improve the performance of the mechanical devices, these scientists must also consider the physical characteristics of those individuals who will use the equipment. The end result is, that humans will be able to perform more comfortably, efficiently, and safely.

PAST vs. PRESENT Consider the following…

Sports Equipment Can you tell which helmet is safer?

Ergonomics and Safety Sport industries are in constant pursuit of new and improved prophylactic equipment. Prophylactic – refers to prevention, preservation, or protection

Protective Equipment When designing new protective equipment, scientists must ensure that the equipment is able to: Deflect forces Absorb forces Disperse forces Slow rate of force Limit excessive movement Transmit force to another body area Protect against sharp instruments and further injury

Protective equipment cont…

Sport Shoes

Shoes Cont… Different sports require different types of shoes Shoe specifics are determined by: Playing surface Activity/Movement patterns Position Weather conditions

Electronic Devices Can these items help improve YOUR game?

Technique Assistance Can Michael Phelps swim faster than this robot?

Equipment Revolution Fabrics Playing surfaces Running shoes Bodysuits Personal equipment

Oh How Far We Have Come? Ice Hockey Football Cycling Baseball Swimming Car Racing Rock/Paper/Scissor???

Cycling How do you like me now?

Speed Kills Which of the following is the fastest? A B

Speed Kills Or perhaps…..C?

Shoes Marketing vs. Protection?

Swimming Fashion vs. Performance?

Hockey… a closer look! A sport that has really been affected by technology

Hockey

Hockey cont… Goalie pads used to be made of leather which was water and sweat absorbent. These pads gained weight throughout the course of a game. Today they are made of synthetic materials which are much stronger, lighter and less absorbent.

Other Sports Car Racing – Driver’s suits made of fire retardant materials which can withstand a blaze which is 704 degrees for 12 seconds.

Other Sports Cont… Runners – use wicking fabrics which remove moisture away from the skin and thus improve the body’s cooling process.

Other Sports Cont… Speed Skating – The Clap Skate allows the blade to remain in contact with the ice for a longer period, which results in greater force per stride!

Computer Technology in Sport Timing and measurement devices Personal devices (for safety) Coaching Motion analysis “Virtualized” reality Etc.

Discussion Items… How far it too far? Where do we draw the line? Old Records vs. New Records? Money vs. Integrity?

It is now up to you…