Accuracy of a novel marker tracking approach based on the low-cost Microsoft Kinect v2 sensor

Microsoft Kinect for Windows v2 is a motion analysis system that features a markerless human pose estimation algorithm. Given its affordability and portability, Kinect v2 has potential for use in biomechanical research and within clinical settings; however, recent studies suggest high inaccuracy of the markerless algorithm compared to marker-based motion capture systems. A novel tracking method was developed using Kinect v2, employing custom-made colored markers and computer vision techniques. The aim of this study was to test the accuracy of this approach relative to a conventional Vicon motion analysis system, performing a Bland-Altman analysis of agreement. Twenty participants were recruited, and markers placed on bony prominences near hip, knee and ankle. Three-dimensional coordinates of the markers were recorded during treadmill walking and running. The limits of agreement (LOA) of marker coordinates were narrower than − 10 and 10 mm in most conditions, however a negative relationship between accuracy and treadmill speed was observed along Kinect depth direction. LOA of the surrogate knee angles were within − 1.8°, 1.7° for flexion in all conditions and − 2.9°, 1.7° for adduction during fast walking. The proposed methodology exhibited good agreement with a marker-based system over a range of gait speeds and, for this reason, may be useful as low-cost motion analysis tool for selected biomechanical applications.