ASTM F3109-16

5.1 Multi-axis force measuring platforms are used to measure the ground reaction forces produced at the interface between a subject's foot or shoe and the supporting ground surface. These platforms are used in various settings ranging from research laboratories to healthcare facilities. The use of force platforms has become particularly important in gait analysis where clinical evaluations have become a billable clinical service.

5.2 Of particular importance is the application of force platforms in the treatment of cerebral palsy (CP) 5.3 Another application is treatment of spina bifida. According to the Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society (GCMAS) 5.4 More recently force platforms have been used for pre- and post-surgical evaluation of TKA (total knee arthroplasty) and THA (total hip arthroplasty) patients. Such data provides an objective measure of the mechanical outcome of the surgical procedure.

5.5 In addition to the clinical applications there are numerous medical and human performance research activities which rely on accurate measurement of ground reaction forces using multi-axis force platform measurement instruments.

5.6 As a standards organization ASTM has historically provided excellent standards for the calibration of force transducers and force-measuring instrumentation. Force platforms, however, are different from force transducers. Force platforms typically provide a large active working surface unlike force transducers which provide more or less point of interaction with the load-applying environment. Moreover, force platforms typically provide six-axis measurements and are expected to be used in environments causing multi-axial loading.

1.1 This standard specifies procedures for performance verification of multi-axis force platforms commonly used for measuring ground reaction forces during gait, balance and other activities.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Other metric and inch-pound values are regarded as equivalent when required.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.