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MuscleLab
Users
Manual
Model 4000/4000e
U S E R S
M A N U A L
M U S C L E L A B
INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................................................................3
THE DOCUMENTATION.........................................................................................................................................................3
IMPORTANT NOTICE! ........................................................................................................................................................3
W HERE TO FIND US ...............................................................................................................................................................3
INSTALLING THE SYSTEM...................................................................................................................................................4
COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................................................................4
INSTALLING M USCLELAB SOFTWARE ................................................................................................................................4
CONNECTING POWER SUPPLY .............................................................................................................................................5
CONNECTING M USCLELAB TO PC ......................................................................................................................................5
UP AND RUN..............................................................................................................................................................................5
GETTING STARTED.................................................................................................................................................................6
FILE ..........................................................................................................................................................................................6
REPORTS..................................................................................................................................................................................6
M AKE A NEW TEST ...............................................................................................................................................................6
SYSTEM ....................................................................................................................................................................................6
HELP .........................................................................................................................................................................................6
THE FIRST STEPS ....................................................................................................................................................................7
CONNECTING SENSORS AND ACCESSORIES TO MUSCLELAB.............................................................................8
EMG SENSOR ...........................................................................................................................................................................8
A NGLE SENSOR .......................................................................................................................................................................8
FORCE SENSOR ........................................................................................................................................................................9
LINEAR ENCODER.................................................................................................................................................................10
A CCELEROMETER................................................................................................................................................................10
CONTACT MAT .....................................................................................................................................................................11
PHOTOCELLS.........................................................................................................................................................................12
FORCE PLATFORM ...............................................................................................................................................................13
W HEN THE VARIOUS SENSORS ARE USED.........................................................................................................................13
CAUTION................................................................................................................................................................................. 15
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .......................................................................................................................................................15
GENERAL PRODUCT PRECAUTIONS AND MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................15
CLEANING..............................................................................................................................................................................15
M USCLELAB MAIN UNIT - TYPE 4000/4000E...................................................................................................................16
RECOGNIZED ACCESSORIES.................................................................................................................................................16
Sensor - Linear encoder type ET-Enc-02 ............................................................................................................... 16
Angle sensor Biometrics............................................................................................................................................ 16
Power supply - type MW160........................................................................................................................................ 16
EMG preamplifier type ET-Emg-02 ......................................................................................................................... 16
Accelerometer type ET-Acc-02 ................................................................................................................................. 16
Contact mat type ET-Irm-01 ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Force plate type ET-PLT-02 ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Photo cell type WL170-N132 ................................................................................................................................... 16
SYMBOL EXPLANATIONS ...................................................................................................................................................17
APPENDIX ............................................................................................................................................................................... 18
TERMINOLOGY .....................................................................................................................................................................18
A BBREVIATIONS...................................................................................................................................................................18
TECHNICAL DATA ...............................................................................................................................................................19
CE MARKING .........................................................................................................................................................................20
Ergotest Technology a.s.
U S E R S
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Introduction
Welcome to MuscleLab. You have now available what Ergotest Technology believes to be one of the most
powerful and flexible test systems for evaluation of muscle behavior on the marked. You can make a wide variety
of dynamic and isometric muscle tests. You will get access to information that earlier could only be measured at
specialized well-equipped laboratories. In fact, many of these laboratories are using MuscleLab as a tool for
analysis.
The documentation
The purpose of this manual is to guide you through the first basic steps necessary to set up the MuscleLab
system, install the computer software and give you an idea where to begin.
For more detailed explanation of how to operate the software itself, please refer to the built in online help.
Furthermore, the methodology of various tests will be described in separate documents and stored in Adobe
Acrobat format. These documents are found on the MuscleLab CD under DOC directory. Since these files will be
constantly updated, we suggest that you visit our Internet homepage for latest news.
You will need a program called Adobe Acrobat Reader to read the Acrobat documents. This program is free and is
found on the MuscleLab CD. You may also download the latest version free from Adobes home page on the
Internet: http://www.adobe.com/prodindex/acrobat/readstep.html
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
FOR YOUR OWN AND YOUR PATIENTS SAFETY, PLEASE CAREFULLY READ THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
BEFORE YOU START USING THE SYSTEM. (Ref. page 15).
Where to find us
For questions, inquiries, support or service contact your local dealer or
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Web: http://www.ergotest.com
MuscleLab CD.
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Up and run
This chapter describes how to start up the system
The MuscleLab should now be connected to the PC (where MuscleLab software is installed) via USB serial cable.
Switch MuscleLab unit on. The ON Lamp should be illuminated. If the power supply is connected.
Start MuscleLab program by double-clicking the MuscleLab Icon on your computer desktop or in
the folder named Ergotest.
The first time you run the program, you must specify which MuscleLab model you have. Also default COM port
must be selected. If you do not know which port this is go to System menu and select System setup. Then
press Select communication port button. A list of available COM ports is shown. If you disconnect the USB
cable from the MuscleLab unit, one of the COM ports will disappear. When you re-insert the USB cable it will
appear again. This is the COM port you shall select.
You may now navigate through the various menus.
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Getting started
When you open the application you will see a blank screen with a menu bar on top. (For further details, please
refer to the online context sensitive help) This is a short description of what is found under the menus:
File
Under File you will find all the data files, standard Windows printer setup and program Exit. The data files can be
shared into two categories.
Files that hold information based on input from the user. These files are: Athlete/patient file,
Exercise description file, Groups and Sensor registration and calibration file. In fact the Sensor
registration and calibration file holds both data inserted by the user and data read from a sensor
connected to MuscleLab. Common for all these files is that the user must insert some information
before running any test.
Files that holds data that was recorded from sensors during tests. The contents of these files are
automatically maintained as the various tests are carried out. It is however possible to edit some of
the test criterias manually for some of the test types.
Reports
From this menu you can recall various stored test results and create graphs and text reports for on-screen
analysis and hard copy printouts.
Make a new test
Select the test you want to perform from the menu. This action will establish contact with the MuscleLab unit and
prepare the system for data recording.
System
The system menu holds options that are global to the system, such as language, units like pounds[lbs] or
kilograms[kg] etc. Also the MuscleLab microprocessor can be re-programmed by selecting Update MuscleLab
program item. This ensures you the MuscleLab unit will not be out-dated as new functions and tests are
added/modified.
Help
MuscleLab comes with context sensitive help function, which means that wherever you are in the program, you
will get help related to the specific topic you are working on.
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Open the Person file and register the person(s) you want to test
Quite often it is useful to arrange the persons in groups. Go to Group, create a new group, give the new
group a name and select the persons that should be in the group. One person may be present in several
groups.
Go to exercise file and add the exercises that you want to test the subject in. This applies to Power and
force/velocity test, Rehab test, Advanced test, YoYo MultiGym test and Force platform test. The other
tests are on the other hand standardized: Jump test on contact mat, Sprint test, Running analysis and
Stair test. There is however one exception: Under Jump test there is a test called Series of Jumps . This
is not a standard test and could be jumping over hurdles, jump training with biofeedback or whatever
you want.
Open the sensor file and make sure that the sensors you will use are registered and calibrated. (See table
page 13)
That is all. Now choose the test you want to run. Refer to the online help for further assistance.
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EMG sensor
Connection is found on the MuscleLab front. Normally you would probably use disposable surface electrodes.
The EMG cable with built in preamplifier has button connectors for easy connection. Follow standard procedures
for skin preparation, use of contact gel etc.
Angle sensor
Connection is found on the MuscleLab front. The sensors are made by Biometrics Ltd. The sensor must be
capable of reaching across the joint so that the two endblocks can be mounted where least movement occurs
between the skin and underlying skeletal structure. In certain circumstances more than one size of sensor will be
appropriate.
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Force sensor
Force sensors are available in many shapes and ranges. MuscleLab is designed to use the most common type;
strain gauge sensors.
Example of use: The force sensor is used together with a linear encoder.
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Rotary encoder
Rotary encoders are primarily used to monitor rotation velocity of a spinning wheel. A current use is for
measurements on the YoYo machine. This machine utilizes the inertia of a spinning wheel to create resistance in
strength training.
Linear encoder
The linear encoder is used to measure motion in function of time. The MuscleLab software then calculates
distance, velocity, power etc. Usually the encoder is connected to the moving part of a load stack or to a free
load.
Accelerometer
The accelerometer may be used for several purposes. Below is an example where it is combined with a linear
encoder. As the load moves, so will the accelerometer and thus directly read the acceleration.
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Contact mat
The Infrared contact mat (IR-mat) can be used for several types of tests.
With this device we can measure contact time and flight time while jumping
or running. From these simple data a lot of information can be extracted.
The IR-mat consists of two units; Master and Slave. These two units build
a carpet of infrared light (not visible to the human eye) a few millimeters
above the floor. Whenever this light carpet is interrupted, for example if
you step into the area between them, a switch is activated. This switch is
used to start and stop the MuscleLab built in timer. Connect Master unit to
Contact mat input on rear side of MuscleLab unit.
or to measure contact time and flight time in running analysis (combined with photocells).
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For successful operation it is important that you set up the Master and Slave units correctly.
Imagine you see the two IR-mat units, Master and Slave, from above. The figures A, B, C and D illustrate the
placements of the two units and the emitted light pattern.
Fig. A shows normal setup. The light beam emitted from each unit covers the whole width of the opposite facing
unit. This will be the case when distance between the Master and Slave unit is kept between approx. 3 to 20
meters depending on the reflective properties of the floor. You can verify that the two units are correctly set up
by checking the T2 control lamp on the MuscleLab front panel. The T2 lamp on MuscleLab front panel should be
off. Whenever the light beams between Master and Slave is interrupted, the T2 lamp will light.
Fig. B will not operate correctly because the units are placed too close to each other. The light beams do not
cover all the receivers on the opposite unit.
Fig. C will not operate correctly because the Master and Slave unit is too far from each other.
Fig. D illustrates a compromise if you are operating in a limited space. Master and Slave unit are close to each
other, but the two unites are displaced in parallel. A negative effect of this setup is that the effective sensitive
width is narrowed.
Photocells
Use photocells to measure time intervals. The photocell consists of two parts. One active part
(transmitter/receiver) and one passive reflector. A typical setup is shown below. For optimal operation the
distance between the active photocell and reflector should be kept between 0.01 and 2.5m.
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Force platform
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)
Make sure the platform is placed on a firm and flat surface. If you step on it,
it should not wag. Note that lower right corner of the platform is defined
where the signal cable enters the plate.
Connect the platform to the MuscleLab
In the MuscleLab program, go to sensor registration and calibration
Select Force platform as sensor type, give the force plate a name (D) and
enter the information found on the sticker near the platform cable entry. Z
and X dimensions are of special importance, indicated as B and C on the
illustration on the right Also check the default check box.
Select sensor calibration tab
Press Load=0 button
Enter your exact body weight (in kg) in the calibration load field
Press Auto calibration button
Step on the platform centre and stand in a steady position. Youll hear a
bleep and if you look at the screen youll see a red circle indicating the
position where you should stand. When the red circle blinks, information
from the platform is recorded.
Youll hear a new bleep and the red circle moves to the bottom centre. You
must change your position on the plate accordingly. Remember to stand in
a steady position while the red circle is blinking.
Above sequence is automatically repeated for lower left, left, upper left,
upper, upper right, right and lower right position on the force plate. After
each bleep you move your body to the position indicated by the red circle.
When data from all nine positions have been recorded, new sensor Gain
values are automatically calculated (A).
Select OK to save the data and your force platform is ready for use.
The Gain values just recorded should not change over time, so you do not need to
repeat the above procedure every time you are about to use the platform. Once a
year should normally do. You may however calibrate the platform as often as you
like.
Remember that first time you make a test, you must specifically select the force
platform you just registered and calibrated. Also while making tests it is a good habit
to zero calibrate the platform prior to each test. This is easily done on the fly in the
Force platform test window by pressing Zero platform button. Zero values (also
called sensor offset values) tend to change slightly during use of the platform. This
happens for example if the platform is displaced on the floor causing slight change in
weight distribution on the four load cells.
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You dont need to use all the sensors in all tests. Normally you will need only one sensor to run a test, but in
some cases you can optionally add more.
Angle
sensor
Force
sensor
Rotary
encoder
Power and
force velocity
Linear
encoder
Acceler
ometer
EMG
sensor
Contact- Photomat
cells
Force
platform
Advanced test
Force platform
test
O
O
Jump test
X - or
force
platform
Sprint test
O (used
to start
timer)
Run analysis
YoYo
MultiGym
X - or
contactmat*
X= Required, O = Optional
*Using force platform only Squat Jump and Countermovement Jump are available.
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Caution
Safety precautions
The MuscleLab unit is designed and manufactured to be a safe device to use, both for the patient and the
operator. It is however essential that the below directions for use is not violated. Ergotest Technology a.s. takes
no responsibility for any accidents that may occur as a result of incorrect use of MuscleLab.
Power supply: Use only power supply type MW160 that is designed and tested with MuscleLab. Using other
types may seriously violate the safety standard of the product.
Connecting MuscleLab to PC: The USB serial line is designed for connection to an external computing device,
such as a personal computer (PC). This external device must provide an isolation barrier from mains supply of
minimum 1.5kV. (Ref. IEC950)
Cleaning
Wipe the parts with a soft damp cloth. You may use some mild soap solution but no strong chemicals. This
cleaning procedure applies to the MuscleLab main unit and all its recognized accessories.
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Recognized accessories
The following parts are designed and recognized fore use with MuscleLab. Do not connect other devices without
consulting Ergotest Technology.
There are no serviceable parts inside the linear encoder. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest
Technology a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
There are no serviceable parts inside the Angle sensor. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest
Technology a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
There are no serviceable parts inside the EMG preamplifier. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest
Technology a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
There are no serviceable parts ni side the Accelerometer. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest
Technology a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
There are no serviceable parts inside the contact mat. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest Technology
a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
Force plate type ET-PLT-02
There are no serviceable parts inside the force plate. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest Technology
a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
There are no serviceable parts inside the photocells. All repair or service should be left to Ergotest Technology
a.s. or representative authorized thereof.
Ergotest Technology a.s.
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Symbol explanations
Type BF. Applies to MuscleLab main unit - type 4000/4000e. The four EMG channels are marked with this
symbol. These outputs are safely isolated from all other parts of MuscleLab or detached devices. That means that
the EMG electrodes connected to these outputs can be safely applied to the patient.
Type B. Applies to MuscleLab main unit - type 4000/4000e. The MuscleLab unit is of type B, except the
EMG channels. See type BF above. That is that MuscleLab and its detached devices are isolated to provide
sufficient protection against electric shock.
type MW160.
Attention, consult the user manual. Applies to MuscleLab main unit - type 4000/4000e and Power supply - type
MW160.
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Appendix
Terminology
Below you will find the definitions of some of the technical terms used:
Term
Unit
Explanation
Velocity (V)
Force (F)
Power (P)
Displacement (D)
Work (W)
Energy (E)
Term
Unit Explanation
mass (m)
kg
acceleration (a)
m/s2
gravity (g)
m/s2
Abbreviations
Abbreviation
Explanation
AP
Average Power
AF
Average Force
AV
Average Velocity
pV
peak Velocity
tpV
Displacement
bw
body weight
Int V
Interval Velocity
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Technical Data
General
Operating temperature
Power input
Safety isolating transformer
MuscleLab output power
Rechargeable external battery
Battery capacity/charge time
Computer interface
0 to +70 C
12VDC, 2A
Input: 100V-240VAC, 50/60Hz
Output: 12VDC, 3.5A
12VDC - 2A , 5VDC - 1A
Type Lithium-Ion, 12V, 4000mAh (101x69x25mm,190g)
Up to 8 hours / Approx. 4 hours.
USB or
- optionally Bluetooth Wireless link (103x70x28mm,100g)
(205x108x38mm,390g) /(205x108x38mm,430g)
Sensors
The following sensors are sampled at a frequency of 100Hz. This gives time resolution of 10ms
Linear encoder resolution
Rotary encoder resolution
Angle sensors range
< 0.075 mm
Standard: 200 Pulses/Revolution, others available on request
15 - 320 degrees
: 5VDC
: 1012ohm
: 4pA
: 100 dB
: 20nV/Hz-2
: 4V
: 1000
: 8Hz
: 1.2kHz
< 2us
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CE marking
On next page you will find the declaration of conformity, which is your guarantee that the MuscleLab complies
with the appropriate safety and quality rules.
Type of equipment
Electro medical measuring device for evaluation of muscular behavior
Brand designation or trade mark
MuscleLab, Ergotest Technology a.s., P.O. Box 65, N3970 Langesund Norway
Type designation etc.
MuscleLab Model PFMA 4000/4000e
The following harmonized standards or technical specifications (designations) which comply with good
engineering practice in safety matters in force within the EEA have been applied:
1. EMC
: EN60601-1-2 ( 1993 )
2. Safety
: EN60601-1-1 ( 1990 ) + A1 ( 1993 ) + A2 ( 1995 ) + A12 ( 1993 ) + A13 ( 1996 ) +
Corrigenda ( July 1994 )
The equipment conforms completely to the above stated harmonized standards or technical
specifications.
By signing this document, the undersigned declares as manufacturer that the equipment in question
complies with the safety requirements stated above.
Manufacturer
Date
Signature
7. Jan. 2003
Position:
Managing Director
Ole J. Olsen
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