Product Overview: ForceDecks Dual Force Plate System by VALD
Introduction
ForceDecks, developed by VALD Performance, is a cutting-edge dual force plate system designed to revolutionize the assessment, training, monitoring, and rehabilitation of athletes and patients. This advanced technology combines sophisticated hardware and software to provide comprehensive insights into neuromuscular performance, movement patterns, and asymmetries.
Key Features and Functionality
Measurement Capabilities
ForceDecks utilize precision load cell sensors to accurately capture the forces exerted by an individual during a wide range of dynamic and isometric movements. The system measures two fundamental inputs: force and time, from which a variety of force derivatives are calculated, including power, velocity, displacement, acceleration, and impulse.
Dual Plate System
Unlike traditional single force plates, ForceDecks features a dual plate system, enabling the capture of detailed bilateral data. This setup provides deeper insights into inter-limb asymmetries and movement patterns, which are crucial for assessing performance, fatigue, and rehabilitation progress.
Auto-Detect Feature
One of the standout features of ForceDecks is its Auto-Detect capability. This feature allows for the automatic recognition and analysis of various test types, such as counter-movement jumps (CMJ), hop tests, drop jumps, and isometric mid-thigh pulls, without the need for pre-selecting the test type. This streamlines testing sessions, making it efficient and seamless to conduct multiple tests on multiple athletes in a short period.
Comprehensive Metrics
ForceDecks calculates hundreds of different metrics across dozens of tests, including peak force, jump height, asymmetry, rate of force development (RFD), dynamic strength index (DSI), and reactive strength index (RSI). These metrics are automatically generated and displayed in real-time, providing immediate, actionable insights into performance, symmetry, and movement quality.
Integration with VALD Hub
The data collected by ForceDecks is wirelessly transmitted to the ForceDecks app on iPhone or iPad and subsequently uploaded to VALD Hub. This centralized platform allows for the analysis and management of data, enabling users to track progress over time, compare results with relevant peers, and access normative data for various tests, age groups, and genders.
ForceDecks Vision
The ForceDecks Vision feature allows users to record video and force plate data simultaneously. This data is automatically time-synced and annotated with key landmarks, providing real-time feedback to athletes and facilitating a better understanding of key phases of their movements.
Hardware Specifications
Each ForceDecks plate is equipped with four load cell sensors and measures 485mm in length, 350mm in width, and 65mm in height, with a weight of 9kg per plate. The system also includes optional aluminium surrounds for added stability and protection.
Applications
ForceDecks is versatile and can be utilized in various aspects of athlete or patient care, including:
- Assessment: To evaluate neuromuscular performance and identify asymmetries.
- Training: To monitor and optimize training programs.
- Monitoring: To track progress and adjust strategies based on real-time data.
- Rehabilitation: To assess and enhance rehabilitation progress, ensuring safe and effective return to sport or activity.
Validation and Reliability
ForceDecks has been independently validated to ensure its precision and consistency. An extensive validation study demonstrated that ForceDecks provide reliable measurements across various tests and conditions, making it a trusted tool in the fields of sports science and clinical practice.
In summary, ForceDecks by VALD Performance is a powerful tool that offers unparalleled insights into athletic performance and rehabilitation through its advanced dual force plate system, sophisticated software, and innovative features like Auto-Detect and ForceDecks Vision.