James Wakeling, an associate professor at Simon University, developed a new method to view muscle activation in much finer detail than current technology for muscle simulation can achieve. This new method uses ultrasound imaging, 3-D motion-capture technology, and data-processing software to scan and record 3-D maps of the muscle structure. One of the most of the amazing aspects of this new technology is that it captures the 3-D maps of the muscle structures in only 90 seconds, whereas previous imaging techniques took 15 minutes. The previous 15-minute imaging time was much too long for someone to be asked to hold a muscle contraction, so this new muscle imaging method will be much easier and comfortable for patients.

Wakeling’s main goal with his new software is to be able to improve the simulation software that models and predicts how people move and how forces affect their joints. Wakeling’s new technology captures a lot of detail that previous muscle imaging software could not even come close to recording. This detail includes changes in muscle shape, how the muscles bugle, and the changing curvature of internal muscle fibers. Wakeling hopes to see his technology predict the results of orthopedic surgeries that will aid in treating many patients, such as children living with cerebral palsy.

Sources:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/01/120123175709.htm

http://www.gizmag.com/3d-muscle-contraction-imaging/21216/