Biodex System 4 Standard Operating Procedures
Applied Research Centre (ARC)
Revised November 10, 2015
Biodex overview
The Biodex is a robotic dynamometer. The unit is comprised of:
 A dynamometer with the capability to add various attachments
 An adjustable seat with the capability to add armrests
 A computer terminal loaded with Biodex Advantage software, including:
o A wizard feature to guide new users through test setup and execution
o Tutorial videos for setup
o Report generation in graph, numerical or narrative formats
o Patient database
o Protocol creation and bank
Usage of research equipment in the ARC – General Guidelines
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All users must read and sign the document “ARC Standard Operating Procedures”
located at http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/hlhpri/media/ARC_SOPs.pdf . The signed
copy must be returned to the Lab Coordinator.
Space and mobile equipment (e.g. met cart) in the ARC should be booked using the
QReserve system. Booking requests will not be granted until that user has signed this
SOP and completed training on the machine. Instructions are located at
http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/hlhpri/media/QReserve.pdf .
All doors in the ARC require card access (except for the boardroom 220 ARC from 8:304:30). If you do not have card access yet, please complete the Key Access form and
return to the Lab Coordinator:
http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/facilities/media/ARC_card_form_2.doc
If there is a change in equipment status (lost, damaged, broken), please complete the
Change in Equipment Status webform located at
http://www.umanitoba.ca/faculties/kinrec/research/arcform.html
Biodex resources
Description
Biodex multi-joint system
setup/operation manual
Biodex advantage software (V.4X
operation manual)
Biodex EMG/analog signal access
configuration utility software
manual
Multi-joint export utility and data
parser macro manual
Biodex research tool kit software
manual
Biodex multi-joint system
installation instructions manual
Seat back brace attachment manual
Closed chain attachment manual
Setup guide poster
Location
PDF available through Applied
Research Centre website
Lab Coordinator
x
Lab Coordinator
x
Lab Coordinator
Lab Coordinator
Lab Coordinator
Lab Coordinator
Lab Coordinator
Lab Coordinator
On wall of 224 ARC
Usage of research equipment in the ARC – Biodex Specific Guidelines
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Users should be trained in the operation of all equipment by an experienced user and
this document must be signed by the Lab Coordinator before unsupervised use. Please
contact the Lab Coordinator if you wish to be trained in the use of the Biodex. Training
consists of a minimum of one guided session on equipment usage by the Lab
Coordinator, and one session wherein the potential user will demonstrate a basic
understanding of the system. The Lab Coordinator will sign off on this form after you
have demonstrated proficiency in this session and signed a pledge of confidentiality.
The Biodex is currently located in 224 ARC
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To minimize risk of injury:
o Avoid placing hands or fingers between the dynamometer input shaft (or
attachment) and the mechanical range of motion stops.
o Set the chair to its minimum height before allowing a subject to mount or
dismount.
o Range limits should always be set after the subject is positioned according to
protocol and before switching to a test or exercise mode. Always assume that
previously set limits are inappropriate for successive subjects.
o You must always be present during testing or exercise sessions. Do not allow
subjects to test or exercise by themselves.
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To minimize technical difficulties:
o Default protocols or protocols created by other users must not be edited. Only
your own created protocols may be edited. Users are responsible for verifying
that their protocols have not been edited.
o Filenames of protocols and participant data must be organized using a system of
prefixes provided by the Lab Coordinator. Each research group will be given an
identifying prefix as training is completed (although they will be free to use any
coding system following that prefix). The Lab Coordinator will periodically perform
an audit to ensure this system is being used.
o The Biodex will not function in any mode if the remote comfort stop is not
connected to the dynamometer. The remote should be placed in the subject’s
free hand before the start of any test or exercise session.
o Every attachment has a dot at its connection point. Align this dot with the
dynamometer shaft’s red dot to ensure a full range of motion.
o Instructions for all participant setups provided in the manual and poster assume
that you are starting with the system in its neutral position.
o Any attachments must be removed prior to the automatic calibration occurring
when the system is powered on.
o You must shut down the system after use. You must exit both the Biodex
software and Windows itself prior to shutting down the system (computer and
dynamometer power switches are located on the back of the controller/cart).
Failure to do so may result in lost or damaged files.
o The Biodex PC is not connected to the network and does not automatically back
up files. Users are encouraged to back up their files (including protocols) using a
USB drive.
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Proper testing technique:
o You should verify calibration each day of testing. If you are going to use your
data in court or for research, calibrate and verify before a test is performed.
Record calibration values (torque) in the notebook labelled “Biodex Calibration
Log” on the Biodex cart along with the date and your name.
o Be consistent in warm-up procedures, commands, setups and instructions.
o During each session and prior to exercise, each participant should perform trial
repetitions before each speed to become familiar with what to expect.
o Be sure to familiarize the subject with the equipment before testing to eliminate a
learning curve. It is recommended that the participant perform two or three
exercise sessions on the system prior to testing.
o Use proper stabilization techniques, making every attempt to restrict motion only
to the area of interest. Body parts on either side of the joint(s) being rehabilitated
or tested should be firmly secured. Studies have reported significant differences
in data gathered with and without stabilization.
o Verbal and visual encouragement of the participant should be consistent.
o Axis alignment of the dynamometer’s shaft with subject’s anatomical axis of
rotation is crucial.
o The machine should be cleaned after use. A disinfectant spray bottle and paper
towels are available in the room.
Faculty of Kinesiology and
Recreation Management
Biodex SOPs and training completed by:
_______________________________________________
User name
_______________________
Date
_______________________________________________
Signature
Approved by:
_______________________________________________
Lab Coordinator
_______________________
Date