Introduction to Biomechanics
At the end of my presentation, the class will be able to:
- Define biomechanics
- List the biological factor that could increase how fast a pitcher will be able to pitch, or predispose someone to throw fast.
i. And list what mechanics concepts explains this
The overall goal of the presentation is to help the class understand a bit about how Physics can explain and predict a lot about sports and athletes.
Demonstration
Materials for Demonstration
- Throwing Arm (built by UBC Physics mechanical shop) See Photos below
- Wooden frame (approximately 40cmx40cm with 25cm legs)
- Bungee cord – the thicker the better
- Frictionless rotating cylinder
- Rope (for brake)
- Metal “forearm” to be fixed at 90 degrees to metal cylinder
- Metal scoop to simulate hand.
- Metal pegs set on ‘forearm’ and on wood frame, 5 cm apart (3 on each)
- Radar gun
- Small ball
(Good to mention: that it is simplified model of throwing arm – many more muscles/tendons in real arm)
(Good to mention: that scientific examinations often do not come out as expected, so results are not confusing)
Stylized
model of throwing arm:
Throwing Arm built by UBC Physics workshop:
Procedure
- Take three speed measurements at each of the three settings (1, 2, 3) with the radar gun pointed directly behind the ‘hand’.
- Analyze the average of the speed at each of the settings
Results
You should find a noticeable (measurable) difference in between settings: Setting 3 (as shown above) produces the fastest throw, while Setting 1 produces the slowest.