Sensor Fusion for Enhancing Motion Capture: Integrating Optical and Inertial Motion Capture Systems

Abstract

This research aimed to utilize a custom sensor fusion algorithm that combines Optical Motion Capture (OMC) and Inertial Motion Capture (IMC) measurements to combat the limitations of each. The goal was to demonstrate how IMC data can be integrated with OMC data, demonstrating capabilities for future gap-filling processes. The algorithm took the first and last frame of OMC data and filled the rest with IMC data to simulate gaps of up to 10 min. The algorithm was created using data from twelve participants who performed a hand cycling task simultaneously collecting OMC/IMC data from participants’ right hands. The algorithm presented average total errors of 2.5° across a 10-min duration without OMC measurements. The results demonstrated that fusing OMC/IMC modalities is feasible and provides additional options for future field-based biomechanical studies.