We recently had the opportunity to connect with Dr. Hung (Jim) La, an Associate Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, the Principal Investigator (PI) and Director of the Advanced Robotics and Automation (ARA) Laboratory, and one of our long-term system users. We were also joined by Pratik Walunj, a student working towards a master’s degree in computer science and a research assistant who works closely with Dr. La in the ARA Lab. 

In this blog, we’ll dive into what they shared with us about the ways our system is being used in cutting-edge robotics and inspection technologies across a range of applications.

Where our engagement with the University of Nevada, Reno started

Our collaboration with Dr. La and the University of Nevada, Reno began over 10 years ago, when we supplied a 16-camera system. The lab then developed a robot operating system (ROS) interface for Cortex. The result was a bridge between ROS and Cortex, enabling seamless data streaming to the robot. Now, other students who are experienced with ROS are taking things further by adapting the package for use in ROS 2 environments. 

Follow the ARA Lab on GitHub to stay up to date on their public repositories. 

Broadening applications of our motion capture system

Dr. La shared that, over the years, our motion capture system has become an integral part of the ARA Lab’s research and teaching activities. It has been used extensively in projects funded by the National Science Foundation and NASA, supporting a wide range of robotics applications. 

The system has proven useful in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, with over 40 students who graduated under Dr. La having used the system in their work. One even went on to become a robotics lead with a major defense and aerospace contractor, continuing to apply the skills developed using our system. 

Today, the system continues to play a pivotal role in developing and testing algorithms for multi-robot systems, particularly aerial drones and magnetic climbing robots for steel structure inspection. The system supports the ARA Lab’s work in precise motion tracking, multi-agent coordination, and data validation for robotic control and navigation. 

Here’s a more detailed look at the current applications and expanding areas of research, all led by Dr. La as the ARA Lab’s PI:

1. Designing an all-terrain vehicle

Pratik was involved with designing an innovative unmanned all-terrain vehicle, capable of inspecting bridges and buildings in detail. This versatile robot can traverse water, ground, walls, and ceilings. Using an ultrasonic thickness sensor mounted on the robot, the system can measure the thickness of steel at specific points, enabling condition assessments to determine wear and tear. He developed the design from scratch and is now enhancing its functionality with path planning, obstacle avoidance, motion planning, and autonomous inspection features. 

2. Testing for multi-UAV wildfire monitoring 

Under a NASA Space Grant, the ARA Lab is exploring multi-unmanned-aerial-vehicle (UAV) systems for wildfire monitoring. This research is being conducted by a PhD student, Gaurav Srikar. The aim is to develop deep learning and a collaborative control algorithm to enable coordinated and reliable multi-drone operations. Our motion capture system allows the team to test and validate the coordination framework for these drones, precisely and in 3D.

The ability to conduct tracking of multiple UAVs is enhanced with Cortex’s 2D-to-6D tracking, allowing reliable object tracking even in a confined space with many drones present.

3. Developing a multi-robot systems

The ARA Lab is beginning work on an autonomous multi-robot system which would be useful in large-scale projects, for example in work on sizable steel bridges, where multiple robots would be required to work together, supporting one another in localization and navigation. To achieve this, the team would use our motion capture system to evaluate its algorithms using LiDAR odometry data to determine the robots’ positions in a 3D space.

4. Validating bridge vibration monitoring 

Another PhD student, An, working together with the Department of Transportation, will also be using our motion capture system. The lab is building an AI model of bridge vibration. To validate the model, the Motion Analysis system will be used to offer ground truth measurement of the bridge vibration.  

In conclusion, Dr. La shared: “I am very thankful for the support we first received from Motion Analysis over a decade ago, and for their continued innovation. All these years later, we still rely on the system to evaluate the performance of our robotic devices, and plan to continue doing so on upcoming projects. 

For localization, we frequently use the system’s rigid body tracking features. Having worked with other motion capture systems in the past, I appreciate how Motion Analysis’ system stands out for its fast and convenient calibration, as well as its high frame rate, which is invaluable for measuring accurate 6DOF data at high speeds. 

The system’s precision and reliability have also attracted interest from other departments, including two international faculty representatives in mechanical engineering.”

If you enjoyed reading this blog, check out how EPFL is paving the way for safe, accurate gas leak detection, and how the team has made use of our mocap system in its localization research. Read the case study here.

To learn more about how Motion Analysis can help you, your faculty or your organization drive advancement, book a demo today.

Motion capture labs are the epicenter of movement science—the platform where data is captured and translated into meaningful insights, informing academic research, physical therapy, athletic performance, and the development of new products and technologies. Mocap continually opens up new possibilities in research and development, and does so across various industries.

Recently, we spoke about the financial aspect of setting up a mocap lab and gave some tips on writing a strong grant proposal with the potential to interest funders. Now, in this basic guide, we’ll take you through the process of setting up a lab in practice, from choosing the appropriate space and selecting the right technology to calibrating and maintaining your system.

1. Planning your space

Allocating physical space for your mocap lab is a key step in the setup process. While it can be complex, it also offers a valuable opportunity to shape the environment to align with your goals. If your organization or campus doesn’t have suitable real estate options available, consider alternatives—such as renting or partnering with an entity that has the necessary space.

Regardless of location, securing the right environment is crucial. As you evaluate potential facilities—on-site or elsewhere—keep the following key features in mind:

• Ceiling height and floor space – The required lab dimensions will depend on the application and the complexity of movement. Whatever the scenario, it is important to plan for both the capture volume—with sufficient space for the subject to move naturally—and for the equipment setup, as well as workstations.

• Unobstructed visuals – Cameras must be well placed without walls, equipment, or other objects obstructing the line of sight or causing visual interference. Additionally, there needs to be enough space between cameras to allow for proper calibration and full coverage of the capture volume. 

• Stable, even flooring – This is necessary to record accurate force data and to ensure the subject’s safety while performing the required movements.

• Power and connectivity – It is important to consider whether the space is equipped with sufficient and reliable power sources and network infrastructure to support all components of the motion capture system and prevent signal loss.

2. Investing in a mocap system

A mocap system is made up of several interconnected hardware and software components. Although the parts may vary depending on the application, we’ll discuss the most essential ones typically used in biomechanics-focused setups, starting with hardware—and what to consider when choosing which technology to invest in.

2.1. Hardware

The hardware components that typically form part of a mocap system include:

• Camera system – These are high-speed, high-resolution cameras that track the positions of markers placed on the subject or object. Various cameras with different specs are available, so it is important to investigate which would best suit your application. 

Below are a few considerations when choosing cameras for a mocap lab:

• Frame rate and resolution – This depends on the application, with some requiring higher resolution, while others need specific frame rates to capture entire movements.
• Camera coverage – Assess the camera configuration and coverage area to ensure it can adequately capture the movement you need to study.
• System scalability – Choose a camera system that can grow with your needs (for example, adding more cameras or integrating other measurement devices such as force plates, EMGs, etc.).

• Mounts and cables – Cameras are typically set up using precision mounts and pre-labeled cables for simplified installation. 

• Markers – These are passive (reflective) or active (LED) markers that are strategically placed on the body or object to be tracked. It is important to determine which markers would best suit your needs in terms of ease of use, occlusion handling, and data quality.

Generally speaking, in biomechanics-focused mocap research, carefully placed markers are used to define body segments and track joint motion with high precision. Markers are typically positioned on key anatomical landmarks, and the exact placement depends on the physical activity being studied. These markers derive a skeletal model, allowing researchers to calculate joint kinematics (such as angles and velocities) and kinetic variables (such as joint forces and moments) based on the captured motion.

To organize motion capture data effectively, especially in biomechanics, markers are grouped and managed using a marker set. This defines how markers are identified, how body segments are constructed, and how the system interprets motion based on marker positions. Whether you’re working in real time or processing captured data afterward, the marker set serves as the foundation for building accurate models of the subject’s movement.

For more on the components that make up a marker set, read our blog, “How to develop a marker set that meets your needs”.

• Calibration equipment – These tools are used to set up and calibrate the system for optimal data collection.

Before any motion capture project begins, a thorough calibration process must take place. No matter which cameras you use, making sure that they are receptive to markers and synchronized properly has a distinct effect on the accuracy of your captured data. Plus, when the initial basics are completed successfully, it smooths the next stages of using mocap software.

The calibration process typically includes using a fixed-calibration object or L-frame to define the 3D space, followed by a calibration wand to establish a reference point for the cameras and map out the entire capture space.

For a detailed look at the calibration process using our technology, read our blog, “How to do camera calibration for Cortex and BaSix”.

2.2. Software

Putting the hardware to use requires specialized software that captures, processes, and analyzes motion data. It’s important to evaluate the software’s capabilities—such as real-time visualization, data processing, and analysis tools—to make sure it meets your needs.

Check out our “Software buyer’s guide” for more insight on how to select the right software, including what questions you should be asking and the top features you should be looking for.

Other general considerations when choosing a mocap system include:

• Accuracy and precision – Ensure the system can provide the level of spatial and temporal accuracy required for your research or application.
• Expandability and compatibility – Consider the system’s ability to integrate with other equipment, such as force plates or EMG systems, to enable comprehensive biomechanical analysis.
• Cost and maintenance – Determine the total cost of ownership, including the initial purchase, software licenses, installation, training, and ongoing maintenance and technical support.

3. Getting set up

• Installing and configuring the mocap system – Motion capture systems usually include a software suite designed for streamlined installation and configuration on supported workstations. After installation, setup tools help ensure system prerequisites are met and assist in detecting connected cameras. Depending on the system, the software would then typically allow users to define the capture volume and label each camera based on its physical location. Many mocap platforms also support real-time data streaming to third-party analysis tools and offer standard export formats or integrations for broader compatibility.

• Testing, validation, and troubleshooting – Before your first motion capture session, it’s important to test and validate the system to ensure accurate performance. If issues arise—such as marker dropouts, data spikes, or missing camera feeds—check camera focus, exposure, cabling, and potential reflective interference.

4. Maintaining your mocap system

Beyond setting up your mocap lab, it’s important to keep up maintenance for optimal performance from your system. Clean camera lenses and inspect cables and mounts regularly, and be sure to recalibrate after any physical adjustments. In addition, keep your software up to date to benefit from new features, performance enhancements, and bug fixes. If you are a Motion Analysis user and need support, feel free to reach out to our team for support.

Ready to get started?

Explore our cutting-edge technology, from our range of cameras to suit your needs and budget and our motion capture software solutions. Reach out to us for a demo or consultation. Together, let’s drive the future of movement.

Establishing and maintaining a motion capture lab may require a significant financial investment, but the eventual output could be transformative for an organization, an entire field of study, or the lives of individuals.

Motion capture labs are, after all, hubs for innovation. They are the spaces in which researchers, clinicians, biomechanists, sport scientists, and technologists are equipped with the insights to support clinical assessments, streamline physical therapy, optimize prosthetic design, enable evidence-based rehabilitation, engineer advanced sporting equipment and apparel for injury prevention and optimal performance, and aid in the design of robotics for various applications, to name only a few areas of research and development.

Some organizations, like academic institutions or small entities, may however face budgetary constraints that inhibit them from setting up their own mocap labs. If this sounds like a familiar challenge, you might opt for alternatives like shared facilities or rentals. Alternatively, you may also stand to benefit from external funding if your area of focus is compelling enough and aligns with funders’ priorities.

While securing a grant is not guaranteed, there are proactive steps that you can take to increase your chances. In this blog, we will begin by taking a high-level look at two prominent funders, as examples, exploring a number of their priorities in awarding funds, and will then unpack a handful of tips for writing a grant proposal that has the potential to stand out in a competitive environment. 

Understanding Funder Priorities

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) serves as the world’s largest public funder of biomedical research. The agency provides financial assistance for projects that advance its mission, “to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability”.

Although eligibility requirements may vary among programs, the NIH generally awards grants to organizations whether they are domestic or foreign, public or private, or non-profit or for-profit. These include governments, federal institutions, higher education institutions, and hospitals. While rare, grants are also extended to individuals in some cases. For a more detailed explanation, read more about the NIH’s eligibility criteria here.

At any point, the NIH typically has over 1,000 active funding opportunities available, across a number of categories, such as research training, research and development, construction and modernization, and small business, to name a few.

If you are interested in searching for NIH funding, it is important to understand how the agency is structured and which of the institutes, centers, and offices (ICOs) would be most inclined to support your work. You can find out more here.

The NIH receives numerous applications and makes funding decisions based on peer review scoring, recommendations by Council, and research portfolio balance. The agency also considers unmet scientific opportunities, emerging public health priorities, as well as training, workforce, and infrastructure circumstances.

Another such funder is the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), which supports science and engineering research and education, excluding medical sciences, through hundreds of funding opportunities that include grants, cooperative agreements, and fellowships. 

The NSF accepts proposals submitted on behalf of qualified scientists, engineers, and educators, usually from the organization that employs them. These include higher education institutions; non-profit, non-academic organizations; as well as tribal nations. Depending on the opportunity, for-profit organizations, state and local governments, and federal agencies may also be eligible to apply.

The agency promotes interdisciplinary and convergent research and education. It supports initiatives that could lead to groundbreaking discoveries, particularly with the potential to improve lives. The NSF funds research partnerships between universities and colleges, industry, non-profits, government, and other organizations in the U.S. and internationally. Learn more about the NSF’s funding here.

Key Elements for a Strong Proposal

While significant funding opportunities like these and others exist, the competition is tough, so it is beneficial to compile a well-prepared and impactful grant proposal. It is important to note that application requirements differ from one agency to another, and the proposal should align with the specified guidelines.

Here are a few general tips to keep in mind as you prepare for and compile your grant proposal:

• Do the Necessary Groundwork – Before you get started on your proposal, ensure that you have researched the different agencies and what their missions and priorities are—and assess whether your project objectives align with theirs. Gather all of the information you need to clearly outline your project and develop a roadmap that complies with the agency’s guidelines and timeline.

• Work Collaboratively – Get team members in your organization involved. Work together to formulate ideas, plan, get feedback and guidance, and compile and review the proposal. 

• Follow the Guidelines – As mentioned, each funder has different proposal formatting and structure requirements. Stick to these precisely, following the instructions provided.

• Present Your Objectives Clearly – Indicate exactly what you aim to achieve, the novel findings you intend to uncover, how you will measure success, and how your objectives contribute to the project and its anticipated impact. 

• Propose Your Methodology Realistically – Present a specific outline of your approach, the steps you will take, and the tools or resources you will need to carry out your research, also indicating why this method is most suitable.

• Indicate the Anticipated Impact – Funders are interested in understanding what novel contributions your work is expected to make, as well as whether it would bring about any innovative change. Give insights into who will be impacted, in what way and to what degree, as well as how this impact aligns with broader objectives.

• Detail a Practical Budget – This is arguably one of the most important components of a grant proposal as it demonstrates your understanding of the project’s scope and its feasibility. It also supports credibility and would likely affect the funding decision. 

When it comes to establishing a mocap lab, key costs potentially include securing or remodeling the necessary physical space, and acquiring the necessary hardware—such as cameras, marker kits, and force plates, as well as auxiliary devices like electromyography systems (EMGs) or inertial measurement units (IMUs)—along with software for data capture and analysis. Additionally, it is important to consider whether funding would be needed for staffing and technical expertise. 

• Demonstrate Forward Thinking – Include any preliminary data you might have, expand on the feasibility of the project, if necessary, and outline how you plan to deal with any potential risks or challenges that might arise. 

• Review the Proposal Draft Regularly – From the outset, aim to develop a coherent narrative, incorporating visual aids such as tables or charts where appropriate and allowed. Evaluate the draft regularly with your team members to ensure it stays aligned with the funder’s guidelines and the proposal objectives. 

• Double Check the End Product – Review the proposal thoroughly before submitting it, ensuring that no items have been missed, that the language and grammar are correct throughout, and that it reads well for the intended audience.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even a strong project concept can fall short of securing funding if you do not carefully compile your proposal. To increase your chances of success, steer clear of these common pitfalls.

• Misalignment with Funder Priorities – Regardless of the viability of the proposed work, misalignment with the funder’s objectives and mission could lead to rejection.

• Unrealistic Scope or Budget – Proposals that include over-ambitious or unachievable plans, or, similarly, an over-inflated or underestimated budget risk jeopardizing the funder’s confidence in your ability to execute the work.

• Weak or Vague Methodology – A non-specific methodology that does not explain how objectives will be achieved, or that reveals an impractical approach, is likely to lose the interest of serious funders who want to see achievable goals realized.

• A Lack of Supporting Data or Documents – Missing pilot study results, if required, or any requested supporting documents, may signal a lack of preparedness or make the proposal seem underdeveloped.

• Weak Writing or Rushed Work – Unclear language, disorganized information, or overlooked errors can weaken the narrative and fail to communicate key concepts.

Grant proposal writing is a multifaceted process that calls for thoughtful preparation, collaboration, and focused time and effort. With a clear understanding of expectations and a well-structured approach, a strong proposal can absolutely be achieved—and the effort may prove to be well worth it in the long run.

If you are in the process of preparing a grant proposal and need a supporting letter—whether to clarify the measurements that can be obtained from our system or to provide references of similar use cases using our technology—feel free to get in touch.

To find out more about Motion Analysis and how we can help you to equip your motion capture lab, reach out for a demo or consultation.

Disclaimer:

The content provided in this blog is for general information purposes only. Motion Analysis is not affiliated with the funding agencies mentioned in this blog and does not guarantee proposal success or funding outcomes. While every effort was made to correctly convey content at the time of publishing, readers are encouraged to consult the official websites of the respective funders for the most accurate and up-to-date information.