Ben Heller

Dr. Ben Heller MEng. PhD.

Associate Professor


Summary

Dr Ben Heller is an Associate Professor in the Centre for Sports Engineering Research at Sheffield Hallam University. His expertise is in medical engineering and instrumentation, particularly for the ambulatory monitoring of human activity. Current research areas include ambulatory monitoring of physical activity, motivation of exercise in virtual worlds, ecologically valid measurement of dynamic balance (the smartfloor), characterisation of running biomechanics and advanced functional electrical stimulation approaches in neural rehabilitation.

About

Dr Ben Heller is a Associate Professor in the Centre for Sports Engineering Research at Sheffield Hallam University. His expertise is in medical engineering and instrumentation, particularly for the ambulatory monitoring of human activity. 

After gaining a degree in Engineering Science at the University of Cambridge Ben completed a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde. He subsequently worked in Medical Physics and Clinical Engineering at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals for 14 years where he specialized in the design of medical instrumentation and the clinical measurement and rehabilitation of movement. After moving to CSER in 2006, Ben continued his work in rehabilitation, but also in the measurement and analysis of information for sports applications. 

Currently Ben's research focuses on the motivation of movement and exercise through the use of technology-mediated games, monitoring activity and performance in sport and recreation through wearable technology, ecologically valid measurement of dynamic balance (the smartfloor), characterisation of running biomechanics and advanced functional electrical stimulation approaches in neural rehabilitation. In addition to his research Ben supervises several PhD students and manages the Sheffield Physical Activity Observatory; a collection of resources for objectively measuring physical activity.

Areas of interest:

  • Motivation of movement and exercise through the use of technology-mediated games
  • Monitoring activity and performance in sport and recreation through wearable technology
  • Ecologically valid measurement of dynamic balance (the smartfloor)
  • Characterisation of running biomechanics 
  • Advanced functional electrical stimulation approaches in neural rehabilitation (SheffStim)

Teaching

Research

Research centre:

  • Centre for sports Engineering Research (CSER)

Research theme groups:

Current research projects:

  • Inertial measurement of physical activity
  • Modelling of active travel (walking / cycling / running)
  • Motivation of exercise in virtual environments
  • Measurement of dynamic balance LED pacing technologies

Collaborators and sponsors:

  • EU (Horizon 2020)
  • On Ag
  • Birmingham City Council
  • Adidas
  • Scribe Labs
  • Department of Health 
  • Dynamic Movement Orthotics

Publications

Journal articles

Sconce, E., Heller, B., Maden-Wilkinson, T., & Hamilton, N. (2024). Examining the effect of verbal feedback vs. real-time software feedback on kinetic and kinematic metrics of the Nordic hamstring exercise. Sport Sciences for Health. http://doi.org/10.1007/s11332-024-01294-6

Jones, B., Heller, B., Van Gelder, L., Barnes, A., Reeves, J., & Wheat, J. (2024). Running Gait Complexity During an Overground, Mass-Participation Five-Kilometre Run. Sensors, 24 (22). http://doi.org/10.3390/s24227252

D'Andrea, F., Taylor, P., Yang, K., & Heller, B. (2023). Can inertial measurement unit sensors evaluate foot kinematics in drop foot patients using functional electrical stimulation? Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 17. http://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2023.1225086

Van Gelder, L., Barnes, A., Wheat, J., & Heller, B.W. (2023). Runners’ responses to a biofeedback intervention aimed to reduce tibial acceleration differ within and between individuals. Journal of Biomechanics, 157. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111686

Bullas, A., Choppin, S., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2022). Comparison of Complex and Simple Anthropometrics in the Descriptive Anthropometric Assessment of Male Cyclists. International Journal of Kinanthropometry, 2 (2), 13-27. http://doi.org/10.34256/ijk2222

Chiu, C.-.Y., Dunn, M., Heller, B., Churchill, S., & Maden-Wilkinson, T. (2022). Modification and refinement of three-dimensional reconstruction to estimate body volume from a simulated single-camera image. Obesity Science and Practice. http://doi.org/10.1002/osp4.627

Royle, A., Heller, B., & Dunn, M. (2021). Do children and adolescents with cerebral palsy walk with reduced dynamic stability compared to their typically developing peers? A systematic review. APCP Journal, 12 (2), 14-32. https://apcp.csp.org.uk/journals

Haake, S., Heller, B., Schneider, P., Smith, R., & Green, G. (2021). The influence of neighbourhood equity on parkrunners in a British city. Health Promotion International. http://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/daab138

Sconce, E., Heller, B., Maden-Wilkinson, T., & Hamilton, N. (2021). Agreement between methods and terminology used to assess the kinematics of the Nordic hamstring exercise. Journal of Sports Sciences. http://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2021.1968127

Anderson, E., Stone, J., Dunn, M., & Heller, B. (2021). Coach Approaches to Practice Design in Performance Tennis. International Journal of Sports Science and Coaching. http://doi.org/10.1177/17479541211027294

Curtis, D., Heller, B., & Senior, T. (2021). Methods for estimating moment of inertia of cricket bats. Sports Engineering, 24, 11. http://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-021-00349-y

Sconce, E., Heller, B., Maden-Wilkinson, T., & Hamilton, N. (2021). Development of a novel Nordic hamstring exercise device to measure and modify the knee flexors’ torque-length relationship. Frontiers in Sport and Active Living, 3, 629606. http://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2021.629606

Quirk, H., Heller, B., & Wright, N. (2020). Feasibility and acceptability of physical activity monitoring as an educational tool in the management of pediatric type 1 diabetes. Canadian Journal of Diabetes, 44 (8), 688-696. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcjd.2020.06.013

Choppin, S., Clarkson, S., Bullas, A., Thelwell, M., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2020). Anatomical and principal axes are not aligned in the torso: considerations for users of geometric modelling methods. Journal of Biomechanics, 110151. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110151

Munoz-Organero, M., Powell, L., Heller, B., Harpin, V., & Parker, J. (2019). Using recurrent neural networks to compare movement patterns in ADHD and normally developing children based on acceleration signals from the wrist and ankle. Sensors, 19 (13), 2935. http://doi.org/10.3390/s19132935

Caballero, C., Davids, K., Heller, B., Wheat, J., & Moreno, F.J. (2019). Movement variability emerges in gait as adaptation to task constraints in dynamic environments. Gait and posture, 70, 1-5. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2019.02.002

Caballero, C., Davids, K., Heller, B., Wheat, J., & Moreno, F.J. (2019). Movement variability emerges in gait as adaptation to task constraints in dynamic environments. Gait and posture, 70, 1-5. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2019.02.002

Brayne, L., Barnes, A., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2018). Using a wireless consumer accelerometer to measure tibial acceleration during running : agreement with a skin mounted sensor. Sports Engineering, 21 (4), 487-491. http://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-018-0271-4

Muñoz-Organero, M., Powell, L., Heller, B., Harpin, V., & Parker, J. (2018). Automatic extraction and detection of characteristic movement patterns in children with ADHD Based on a convolutional neural network (CNN) and acceleration images. Sensors, 18 (11), 3924. http://doi.org/10.3390/s18113924

van Gelder, L., Barnes, A., Wheat, J., & Heller, B. (2018). The use of biofeedback for gait retraining: A mapping review. Clinical Biomechanics, 59, 159-166. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2018.09.020

van Gelder, L.M.A., Barnes, A., Wheat, J., & Heller, B. (2018). Characterizing the learning effect in response to biofeedback aimed at reducing tibial acceleration during running. Proceedings, 2 (6), 200. http://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2060200

Solomons, C., Slovak, M., Heller, B., & Barker, A. (2017). Reducing the sensation of electrical stimulation with dry electrodes by using an array of constant current sources. Medical Engineering & Physics, 51, 91-95. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2017.11.001

Fullerton, E., Heller, B., & Munoz-Organero, M. (2017). Recognising human activity in free-living using multiple body-worn accelerometers. IEEE Sensors Journal, 17 (16), 5290-5297. http://doi.org/10.1109/JSEN.2017.2722105

Hext, A., Heller, B., Kelley, J., & Goodwill, S. (2017). Relay exchanges in elite short track speed skating. European Journal of Sport Science, 17 (5), 503-510. http://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2016.1276219

Kenney, L., Heller, B., Barker, A.T., Reeves, M.L., Healey, J., Good, T.R., ... Howard, D. (2016). A review of the design and clinical evaluation of the ShefStim array-based functional electrical stimulation system. Medical Engineering & Physics, 38 (11), 1159-1165. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2016.08.005

Bullas, A., Choppin, S., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2016). Validity and repeatability of a depth camera based surface imaging system for thigh volume measurement. Journal of Sports Sciences, 34 (20), 1998-2004. http://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2016.1149604

Slovak, M., Chindo, J., Nair, K.P.S., Reeves, M.L., Heller, B., & Barker, A.T. (2016). Sensory barrage stimulation in the treatment of elbow spasticity: a crossover double blind randomized pilot trial. Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface, 19 (2), 220-226. http://doi.org/10.1111/ner.12383

Domone, S., Lawrence, D., Heller, B., Hendra, T., Mawson, S., & Wheat, J. (2016). Optimal fall indicators for slip induced falls on a cross-slope. Ergonomics, 59 (8), 1089-1099. http://doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2015.1132013

Williamson, T., Kenney, L.P.J., Barker, A.T., Cooper, G., Good, T., Healey, J., ... Smith, C. (2015). Enhancing public involvement in assistive technology design research. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 10 (3), 258-265. http://doi.org/10.3109/17483107.2014.908247

Kenney, L.P., Heller, B., Barker, A.T., Reeves, M.L., Healey, T.J., Good, T.R., ... Howard, D. (2015). The design, development and evaluation of an array-based FES system with automated setup for the correction of drop foot. IFAC Papers OnLine, 48 (20), 309-314. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ifacol.2015.10.157

Lawrence, D., Domone, S., Heller, B., Hendra, T., Mawson, S., & Wheat, J. (2015). Gait adaptations to awareness and experience of a slip when walking on a cross-slope. Gait & Posture, 42 (4), 575-579. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2015.09.006

Clarkson, S., Wheat, J., Heller, B., & Choppin, S. (2015). Assessment of a Microsoft Kinect-based 3D scanning system for taking body segment girth measurements : a comparison to ISAK and ISO standards. Journal of Sports Sciences, 34 (11), 1006-1014. http://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2015.1085075

Everson-Hock, E.S., Green, M.A., Goyder, E.C., Copeland, R.J., Till, S.H., Heller, B., & Hart, O. (2015). Reducing the impact of physical inactivity: evidence to support the case for targeting people with chronic mental and physical conditions. Journal of Public Health, 37 (2), 1-9. http://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdv036

Storm, F., Heller, B., & Mazza, C. (2015). Step detection and activity recognition accuracy of seven physical activity monitors. PLOS ONE, 10 (3), e0118723. http://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0118723

Prenton, S., Kenney, L.P., Stapleton, C., Cooper, G., Reeves, M.L., Heller, B.W., ... Williamson, T. (2014). Feasibility study of a take-home array-based functional electrical stimulation system with automated setup for current functional electrical stimulation users with foot-drop. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 95 (10), 1870-1877. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2014.04.027

Jarchi, D., Wong, C., Kwasnicki, R.M., Heller, B., Tew, G.A., & Yang, G.Z. (2014). Gait parameter estimation from a miniaturized ear-worn sensor using singular spectrum analysis and longest common subsequence. IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, 61 (4), 1261-1273. http://doi.org/10.1109/TBME.2014.2299772

Mcseveny, K., Heller, B., Light, A., & Machaczek, K. (2013). ‘You could, couldn’t you?’: a preliminary investigation of older people’s interaction with a bespoke virtual environment using a gesture interface. Journal of Gaming & Virtual Worlds, 5 (3), 235-249. http://doi.org/10.1386/jgvw.5.3.235_1

Heller, B., Clarke, A.J., Good, T.R., Healey, T.J., Nair, S., Pratt, E.J., ... Barker, A.T. (2013). Automated setup of functional electrical stimulation for drop foot using a novel 64 channel prototype stimulator and electrode array : results from a gait-lab based study. Medical Engineering and Physics, 35 (1), 74-81. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2012.03.012

Pratt, E.J., Reeves, M.L., van der Meulen, J.M., Heller, B., & Good, T.R. (2012). The development, preliminary validation and clinical utility of a shoe model to quantify foot and footwear kinematics in 3-D. Gait & Posture, 36 (3), 434-438. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2012.04.002

Cooper, G., Barker, A.T., Heller, B.W., Good, T., Kenney, L.P.J., & Howard, D. (2011). The use of hydrogel as an electrode-skin interface for electrode array FES applications. Medical Engineering & Physics, 33 (8), 967-972. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2011.03.008

Sha, N., Kenney, L.P.J., Heller, B., Barker, A.T., Howard, D., & Moatamedi, M. (2008). A finite element model to identify electrode influence on current distribution in the skin. Artificial organs, 32 (8), 639-643. http://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1594.2008.00615.x

Graham, L.E., Datta, D., Heller, B.W., & Howitt, J. (2008). A comparative study of oxygen consumption for conventional and energy-storing prosthetic feet in transfemoral amputees. Clinical Rehabiliation, 22 (10-11), 896-901. http://doi.org/10.1177/0269215508088990

Jepson, F., Datta, D., Harris, I., Heller, B., Howitt, J., & McLean, J. (2008). A comparative evaluation of the Adaptive knee and Catech knee joints: a preliminary study. Prosthetics and orthotics international, 32 (1), 84-92. http://doi.org/10.1080/03093640701676376

Graham, L.E., Datta, D., Heller, B., Howitt, J., & Pros, D. (2007). A comparative student of conventional and energy-storing prosthetic feet in high-functioning transfemoral amputees. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 88 (6), 801-806. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2007.02.028

Sha, N., Kenney, L.P.J., Heller, B.W., Barker, A.T., Howard, D., & Wang, W. (2007). The effect of the impedance of a thin hydrogel electrode on sensation during functional electrical stimulation. Medical engineering and physics, 30 (6), 739-746. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.medengphy.2007.07.012

Suzuki, S., Haake, S., & Heller, B. (2006). Multiple modulation torque planning for a new golf-swing robot with a skilful wrist turn. Sports engineering, 9 (4), 201-208. http://doi.org/10.1007/BF02866058

Datta, D., Heller, B., & Howitt, J. (2005). A comparative evaluation of oxygen consumption and gait pattern in amputees using Intelligent Prostheses and conventionally damped knee swing-phase control. Clinical rehabilitation, 19 (4), 398-403. http://doi.org/10.1191/0269215505cr805oa

Datta, D., Harris, I., Heller, B., Howitt, J., & Martin, R. (2004). Gait, cost and time implications for changing from PTB to ICEX® sockets. Prosthetics and orthotics international, 28 (2), 115-120. http://doi.org/10.1080/03093640408726696

Gharooni, S., Heller, B., & Tokhi, M.O. (2001). A new hybrid spring brake orthosis for controlling hip and knee flexion in the swing phase. IEEE transactions on neural systems and rehabilitation engineering, 9 (1), 106-107. http://doi.org/10.1109/7333.918283

Heller, B.W., Datta, D., & Howitt, J. (2000). A pilot study comparing the cognitive demand of walking for transfemoral amputees using the intelligent prosthesis with that using conventionally damped knees. Clinical rehabilitation, 14 (5), 518-522. http://doi.org/10.1191/0269215500cr345oa

Heller, B.W., Granat, M.H., & Andrews, B.J. (1996). Swing-through gait with free-knees produced by surface functional electrical stimulation. Paraplegia, 34 (1), 8-15.

Andrews, B., Granat, M., Heller, B., Macmahon, J., Keating, L., & Real, S. (1994). Improved harness crutch to reduce upper limb effort in swing-through gait. Medical engineering & physics, 16 (1), 15-18. http://doi.org/10.1016/1350-4533(94)90004-3

Granat, M., Heller, B., Nicol, D., Baxendale, R., & Andrews, B. (1993). Improving limb flexion in FES gait using the flexion withdrawal response for the spinal cord injured person. Journal of biomedical engineering, 15 (1), 51-56. http://doi.org/10.1016/0141-5425(93)90093-E

Heller, B., Veltink, P.H., Rijkhoff, N.J.M., Rutten, W.L.C., & Andrews, B.J. (1993). Reconstructing muscle activation during normal walking: a comparison of symbolic and connectionist machine learning techniques. Biological cybernetics, 69 (4), 327-355. http://doi.org/10.1007/BF00203129

Conference papers

Bullas, A., Choppin, S., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2022). Validation of A 3DMDbody5 System for The Extraction of Surface Anthropometrics [Abstract only]. International Journal of Kinanthropometry, 2 (S1), 3. http://doi.org/10.34256/ijk22S1

Bullas, A., Heller, B., Choppin, S., & Wheat, J. (2022). Sensitivity of Anthropometrics in the Longitudinal Assessment of Mountain Bike Cyclists [Abstract only]. International Journal of Kinanthropometry, 2 (S1), 1. http://doi.org/10.34256/ijk22S1

Anderson, E., Stone, J., Dunn, M., Shafizadeh, M., & Heller, B. (2019). Evaluating representative design in tennis practice tasks. In 3rd Scientific Conference on Motor Skill Acquisition.

d'Andrea, F., Heller, B., James, D., Koerger, H., & Dunn, M. (2019). Ground reaction force estimation in football using inertial measurement units during alternate lateral bounding. Footwear Science, 11 (sup1), S77-S78. http://doi.org/10.1080/19424280.2019.1606087

Anderson, E., Stone, J., Shafizadeh, M., Dunn, M., & Heller, B. (2018). Representative Movement Behaviour Measurement in Sport: Gold Standard Measurement versus Gold Standard Data. In Measuring Behavior Conference.

Heller, B., Mazumdar, S., & Ciravegna, F. (2018). Large scale, long-term, high granularity measurement of active travel using smartphones apps. Proceedings, 2 (6), 293. http://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2060293

Foster, L., Heller, B., Williams, A., Dunn, M., Curtis, D., & Goodwill, S. (2016). Development of smart inner city recreational facilities to encourage active living. In Garcia, C.R., Caballero-Gil, P., Burmester, M., & Quesada-Arencibia, A. (Eds.) Ubiquitous computing and ambient intelligence : 10th International Conference, UCAmI 2016, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Gran Canaria, Spain, November 29 – December 2, 2016, (pp. 458-468). Springer: http://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-48799-1_50

Bullas, A., Choppin, S., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2016). ISAK and digital 3D body measurement: A longitudinal case study from elite cycling. In World Conference on Kinanthropometry and Body Composition ISAK-UADY, Merida, Mexico, 2016 - 2 November 2016 (pp. 215-217).

Bullas, A., Heller, B., Choppin, S., & Wheat, J. (2016). The relationship between peak power and leg size in mountain bike cyclists. In World Conference on Kinanthropometry and Body Composition ISAK-UADY 2016, Mexico, 2016 - 2 November 2016.

Hext, A., Heller, B., Kelley, J., & Goodwill, S. (2016). Measuring straight time in elite short track speed skating relays. Procedia Engineering, 147, 622-626. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2016.06.258

(2015). INNOVAGE: DEVELOPING AN INTERGENERATIONAL SOCIAL INNOVATION TO ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. The Gerontologist, 55 (Suppl_2), 278. http://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnv578.04

Brayne, L., Barnes, A., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2015). Using a wireless inertial sensor to measure tibial shock during running : agreement with a skin mounted sensor. In 33rd International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports, Poitiers, France, 29 June 2015 - 3 July 2015. http://isbs2015.sciencesconf.org/

Barnes, A., Paya, J.G., Castelli, A., & Heller, B. (2015). Foot strike patterns in runners wearing floating heel, minimalist and conventional footwear. 33rd International conference on biomechanics in sports, 2015, 519-522. https://ojs.ub.uni-konstanz.de/cpa/article/view/6445

Heller, B., Senior, T., & Wheat, J. (2014). The Smartfloor : a large area force-measuring floor for investigating dynamic balance and motivating exercise. Procedia Engineering, 72, 226-231. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2014.06.040

Curtis, D., Hurt, G., & Heller, B. (2014). The reliability of a tapping test as an indicator of cricket bat performance. Procedia Engineering, 72, 666-671. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2014.06.113

Nebas, T., & Heller, B. (2014). A smartphone based system for kite and board measurements in kitesurfing. Procedia Engineering, 72, 477-482. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2014.06.084

Foster, L., Heller, B., Goodwill, S., & Curtis, D. (2014). Visual tracking of a GPS target within a FieldLab. Procedia Engineering, 72 (72), 168-173. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2014.06.044

Bullas, A., Choppin, S., Heller, B., Clarkson, S., & Wheat, J. (2014). Kinanthropometry application of depth camera based 3D scanning systems in cycling : repeatability and agreement with manual methods. In 5th International Conference on 3D Body Scanning Techniques, (pp. 290-298). Hometrica Consulting: http://doi.org/10.15221/14.290

Clarkson, S., Wheat, J., Heller, B., & Choppin, S. (2014). Assessing the suitability of the Microsoft Kinect for calculating person specific body segment parameters. In 4th IEEE Workshop on Consumer Depth Cameras for Computer Vision, Zurich, Switzerland, 6 September 2014. http://www.vision.ee.ethz.ch/CDC4CV/index.html

Clarkson, S., Wheat, J., Heller, B., Webster, J., & Choppin, S. (2013). Distortion correction of depth data from consumer depth cameras. In 3D Body Scanning Conference, Los Angeles.

Clarkson, S., Choppin, S., Hart, J., Heller, B., & Wheat, J. (2012). Calculating body segment inertia parameters from a single rapid scan using the Microsoft Kinect. In 3rd International Conference on 3D Body Scanning Technologies, Lugano, Switzerland, 16 October 2012 - 17 October 2012. http://www.3dbodyscanning.org/2012/

Domone, S., Wheat, J., Choppin, S., Hamilton, N., & Heller, B. (2012). Wavelet based de-noising of non-stationary kinematic signals. In 30th Annual Conference of Biomechanics in Sports, Melbourne, Australia, 2 July 2012 - 6 July 2012. http://w4.ub.uni-konstanz.de/cpa/issue/view/ISBS2012

Yoxall, A., Heller, B., & Chamberlain, P. (2011). Oom Bop Bop Good Vibrations: the use of sensory feedback to create motion inhibition. In Include 2011, Royal College of Art, London, 18 April 2011 - 20 April 2011. http://www.hhc.rca.ac.uk/3845/all/1/proceedings.aspx

Senevirathne, S.G., Kodagoda, M., Kadle, V., Haake, S., Senior, T., & Heller, B.W. (2011). Application of serious games to sport, health and exercise. In Proceedings of the 6th SLIIT Research Symposium, Sri Lanka, 27 January 2011.

Haake, S., Goodwill, S.R., Heller, B., Schorah, D., & Gomez, J. (2010). Dynamic modeling of a springboard during a 3 m dive. Procedia engineering, 2 (2), 3299-3304. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2010.04.148

Reeves, M., Heller, B.W., Good, T., Healey, T.J., van der Meulen, J., Clarke, A., ... Barker, A.T. (2010). SHEFSTIM: A clinical trail of self-tuning array stimulation for foot-drop. 1st annual conference of the international functional electrical stimulation society.

Seals, E.J., Wheat, J., Heller, B., & Mawson, S. (2010). Between-session reliability of measuring whole-body reaching kinematics. In BASES 2010 Annual Student Conference, Aberystwyth, 2010 - 1 April 2010.

Wheat, J., Heller, B., & Lovick, S. (2009). Computerised games for balance training: a pilot study on collegiate females. The engineering of sport 7, 687-696. http://doi.org/10.1007/978-2-287-99054-0_80

Heller, B., Wheat, J.S., Mawson, S., & Wright, P. (2008). Second lives for the third age: using virtual worlds to encourage exercise participation in older people. In Estivalet, M., & Brisson, P. (Eds.) The engineering of sport 7, (pp. 191-198). Springer: http://doi.org/10.1007/978-2-287-09413-2_23

Gomez, J., & Heller, B. (2008). Dectecting location using sensors based on the 805:15:4 wireless stabdard. The Engineering of Sport 7, 233-238. http://doi.org/10.1007/978-2-287-09413-2_28

Gomez, J.E., & Heller, B. (2008). Detecting Location using Sensors Based on the 802:15:4 Wireless Standard. In Estivalet, M., & Brisson, P. (Eds.) The Engineering of Sport Conference, Biarritz, France. Springer

SHA, N., KENNEY, L.P.J., HOWARD, D., MOATAMEDI, M., HELLER, B., & BARKER, A.T. (2008). AN ELECTRODE ARRAY DESIGN FOR USE WITH A MULTICHANNEL FUNCTIONAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATOR. Advances in Mobile Robotics, 289-293. http://doi.org/10.1142/9789812835772_0035

Sha, N., Kenney, L.P.J., Heller, B., Barker, A.T., & Moatamedi, M. (2007). An FE model to identify electrode influence on current distribution in the skin. In 9th Vienna International Workshop on Functional Electrical Stimulation, 19-22 September, Vienna, Austria, 19 September 2007 - 22 September 2007. http://ifess.org/?q=9thviennaworkshop

Heller, B., & Haake, S. (2006). Pacing lights - a new approach to controlling speed in the gait laboratory. In Moritz, E.F., & Haake, S.J. (Eds.) The engineering of sport 6, (pp. 63-68). Springer: http://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-46051-2_12

Kenney, L., Taylor, P., Mann, G., Bultstra, G., Buschman, H., Hermens, H., ... Sha, N. (2006). Recent Developments in Implantable and Surface Based Dropped Foot Functional Electrical Stimulators. In Climbing and Walking Robots, (pp. 89-96). Springer Berlin Heidelberg: http://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-26415-9_10

Scott, E., Mawson, S., & Heller, B. (2006). Functional electrical stimulation for the enhancement of gait in subjects with incomplete spinal cord injury. In 4th World Congress for Neuro-rehabilitation, Hong Kong, 12 February 2006 - 16 February 2006. http://www.hkada.org.hk/ecmanage/template/images/WCNR.pdf

Heller, B., & Haake, S. (2005). The SMART sensor project: empowering the user. In Subic, A., & Ujihashi, S. (Eds.) Proceedings of the Asia-Pacific congress on sports technology, (pp. 412-417). Australasian sports technology alliance

Suzuki, S., Haake, S., & Heller, B. (2005). Skill analysis of the wrist release in golf swing to utilize shaft elasticity. In Subic, A., & Ujihashi, S. (Eds.) The impact of technology on sport, (pp. 188-193). Australasian sports technology alliance

Heller, B., Haake, S., & Kirtley, C. (2004). An instrumented insole for measurement of foot motion. In Hubbard, M., Mehta, R.D., & Pallis, J.M. (Eds.) The engineering of sport 5, (pp. 201-206). International sport engineering association

Heller, B., Baker, T., Sha, N., Newman, J., & Harron, E. (2003). Improved control of ankle movement using an array of mini-electrodes. In FES User Day Conference, Birmingham UK, 2003.

Heller, B., & Taylor, P. (2002). A new family of programmable stimulators. In FESnet Conference, Glasgow, Scotland, 1 September 2002.

Biering-Sorensen, F., Maxwell, D.J., Heller, B., Marques, A.M., Cloostermans, J.T.M.M., & Hermens, H.J. (2000). Surface funcational electrical stimulation (FES) for walking in complete spinal cord lesioned (SCL) individuals. In 5th Annual Conference of the International Funcational Electrical Stimulatio Society, Aalborg, Denmark, 18 June 2000 - 20 June 2000.

Gharooni, S., Tokhi, O., & Heller, B. (2000). The use of elastic element in a hybrid orthosis for swing phase generation in orthotic gait. In 5th Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society, Aalborg, Denmark, 18 June 2000 - 20 June 2000.

Mayagiotia, R.E., Duntston, S.C.M., & Heller, B. (1999). Evaluation of balance during activities of daily living. In Blanchard, S.M., Eckstein, E.C., Fouke, J.M., Nerem, R.M., & Yoganathan, A.P. (Eds.) Proceedings of the first joint BMES/EMBS conference, (pp. 520). Piscataway, NJ: IEEE EMB: doi:10.1109/IEMBS.1999.802598

Datta, D., Howitt, J., Heller, B., & Billingham, G. (1997). Cognitive demands and dynamic cosmesis of walking of amputees using intelligent knee : a comparative evaluation. In Ueda, S., Nakamura, R., & Ishigama, S. (Eds.) 8th World Congress of the International Rehabilitation Medicine Association, Kyoto, Japan. Monduzzi International proceedings division

Gharooni, S., Heller, B., & Tokhi, O. (1997). A novel technique for generating hip flexion during the swing phase of gait. In 5th IPEM Clinical Functional Electrical Stimulation Meeting, Salisbury, 13 March 1997 - 14 March 1997.

Gharooni, S., Heller, B., & Tokhi, M.O. (1997). Production of hip and knee flexion in the swing phase by use of a new hybrid orthosis. In Popovic, D. (Ed.) Proceedings of the 2nd Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society. Conference Organizing Committee and IFESS

Heller, B., Granat, M.H., Hermens, J.H., Baardman, H.J., Biering-Sorensen, F., & Marques, A.M. (1997). Clinical rehabilitation using electrical stimulator via telematics (CREST). In Popovic, D. (Ed.) 5th Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society, Aalborg University Denmark. Conference Organizing Committee and IFESS

Heller, B.W., Veltink, P.H., & Waarsing, J.H. (1997). FESchart : a visual programming language for stimulators. In Popovic, D. (Ed.) Proceedings of the 2nd Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society, Vancouver, Canada, 16 August 1997 - 21 August 1997. Conference Organizing Committee and IFESS

Hermens, H.J., Baardman, G., Granat, N.H., Heller, B., Biering-Sorensen, F., Garcia, F.J., & Veltink, P.H. (1997). Clinical rehabilitation using electrical stimulation via telematics (CREST) an EU programme for improvement of gait of incomplete paraplegics. In 5th IPEM Clinical Functional Electrical Stimulation Meeting, Salisbury, 13 March 1997 - 14 March 1997.

Louison, K., Wilson, A.J., & Heller, B. (1997). Strategies for the improvement of stability in FES elicited standing. In 5th IPEM Clinical Functional Electrical Stimulation Meeting, Salisbury, 13 March 1997 - 14 March 1997.

Granat, M.H., Hermens, H.J., Baardman, G., Heller, B., Biering-Sorensen, F., Garcia, F., & Veltink, P.H. (1997). Clinical rehabilitation using electrical stimulation via telematics (CREST). In Popovic, D. (Ed.) Proceedings of the 2nd Annual Conference of the International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society. Conference Organizing Committee and IFESS

Heller, B. (1997). A visual programming language for stimulators. In 5th IPEM Clinical Functional Electrical Stimulation Meeting, Salisbury, 13 March 1997 - 14 March 1997.

Heller, B., & Granat, M.H. (1992). The use of machine learning techniques to induce control rules for FES assisted gait. In Biological Engineering Society International Symposium on Therapeutic Stimulation, Liverpool, UK, 1 August 1992.

Heller, B., Andrews, B.J., & Riijkhoff, N.J.M. (1991). Inductive cloning of a state model for normal gait. In Nagel, J.H., & Smith, W.M. (Eds.) Proceedings of the Annual International Conferen of hte IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Part 2/5, (pp. 918-919). Piscataway, NJ: IEEE: http://doi.org/10.1109/IEMBS.1991.684261

Granat, M.H., Heller, B.W., & Andrews, B.J. (1991). Synthesis of FES-assisted crutch aided swing-through locomotion in paraplegia. Proceedings of the Annual Conference on Engineering in Medicine and Biology, 13 (pt 2), 883-884.

Heller, B.W., Granat, M.H., Kirkwood, C.A., & Delargy, M. (1990). Preliminary studies of swing-through gait using FES. In Popovic, D. (Ed.) Proceedings of the 10th International Conference - Advances in External Control of Human Extremities, Dubrovnik, Dubrovnic. Nauka

Heller, B.W., & Andrews, B.J. (1989). An analysis of swinging gaits and their synthesis using functional electrical simulatio. In Proceedings of the 3rd Vienna International Workshop on Functional Electro Stimulation, Baden-Baden, Vienna, Baden-Baden, Vienna. Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Vienna

Wheat, J.S., Heller, B., & Lovick, S. Computerised Games for Balance Training: A Pilot Study on Collegiate Females (P135). In The Engineering of Sport 7, (pp. 687-696). Springer Paris: http://doi.org/10.1007/978-2-287-09411-8_80

Book chapters

Curtis, D., & Heller, B. (2010). Elastic modulus and related properties. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C.G. (Eds.) Encyclopedia of International Sports Studies. Routledge

Heller, B. (2006). Amplification and signal conditioning. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C.G. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Routledge

Heller, B.W. (2006). Computer interfacing. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Taylor & Francis

Heller, B.W. (2006). Electronics. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Taylor & Francis

Heller, B.W. (2006). Angular Motion Sensors. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Taylor & Francis

Heller, B.W. (2006). Linear motion sensors. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Taylor & Francis

Heller, B.W. (2006). Force and other sensors. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Taylor & Francis

Heller, B.W. (2006). Signal and display storage. In Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf, C. (Eds.) Encyclopaedia of International Sports Studies. Taylor & Francis

Reports

Copeland, R., Lowe, A., Humphreys, H., Breckon, J., Haake, S., & Heller, B. (2021). UOA2403 REF3 Placing Physical Activity at the Heart of the NHS. Sheffield Hallam University. https://www.shu.ac.uk/research/in-action/projects/move-more

Wheat, J., Fleming, R., Burton, M., Penders, J., Choppin, S., & Heller, B. (2006). Establishing the accuracy and feasibility of Microsoft Kinect in various multi-disciplinary contexts. Sheffield Hallam University for EPSRC Engineering for Life. http://www.depthbiomechanics.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/10/EFL-report.pdf

Theses / Dissertations

Brayne, L.C. (2021). An investigation into football-specific dynamic balance measures. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Heller, B., Wheat, J., & Penitente, G. http://doi.org/10.7190/shu-thesis-00463

d'Andrea, F. (2021). Ground reaction force estimation to assess football player movement on hybrid turfs. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Dunn, M., Heller, B., & James, D. http://doi.org/10.7190/shu-thesis-00372

van Gelder, L.M.A. (2020). Runners’ individual learning responses to a biofeedback intervention to reduce tibial acceleration. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Heller, B. http://doi.org/10.7190/shu-thesis-00300

Hext, A. (2019). Measuring relay exchange kinematics in short-track speed skating using a multi-camera network. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Goodwill, S.

Bullas, A.M. (2017). The importance of complex anthropometrics in the assessment of cyclists. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Wheat, J., Heller, B., & Choppin, S. http://doi.org/10.7190/shu-thesis-00065

Clarkson, S.A. (2015). The use of consumer depth cameras for calculating body segment parameters. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Choppin, S., Wheat, J., & Heller, B.

Parker, J. (2012). Stroke patients' utilisation of extrinsic feedback from computer-based technology in the home. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Hammerton, J., Mountain, G., Heller, B., & Mawson, S.

Qutishat, D. (2011). Balance and response time in patients with chronic tennis elbow. (Doctoral thesis). Supervised by Mawson, S., Wheat, J., & Heller, B.

Images

Gent, S., Burton, M., & Heller, B. (n.d.). Physiofun - Engineering for Life. [Jpeg].

Presentations

Hext, A., Heller, B., Kelley, J., & Goodwill, S. (2016). Measuring straight time in elite short track speed skating relays. Presented at: The Engineering of Sport 11, Delft, The Netherlands, 2016

Reed, H., Leitao, R., Heller, B., & Dearden, A. (2014). Innovage: social innovation 'iStep'. Presented at: 2014 National MND Conference

Posters

Bullas, A., Heller, B., Choppin, S., & Wheat, J. (2016). The effect of distance between anthropometric measures in geometric models of thigh volume. Presented at: BASES Biomechanics Interest Group Conference, Liverpoool

Heller, B.W., Good, T., Healey, T.J., & Barker, A.T. (2010). A novel, portable 64 channel surface array stimulator. Presented at: 1st annual conference of the International functional electrical stimulation society (UK and Ireland chapter), Manchester, 2010

Sha, N., Heller, B., & Barker, A.T. (2004). 3D modelling of a hydro gel sheet - electrode array combination for surface functional electrical stimulation. Presented at: 9th IFESS Annual International Conference, Bournemouth, 2004

Postgraduate supervision

Current supervised PhD students:

  • Brayne, L., The evaluation of dynamic balance in sport 
  • Bullas, A M.,The importance of complex anthropometrics in the assessment of cyclists
  • Hext, A., Analysis of the short-track speed-skating relay exchange 
  • Van Gelder, L.,The use of real-time biofeedback in gait retraining 
  • Anderson, E., An investigation of movement demands in elite tennis

Completed supervised PhD students:

  • Clarkson, S., Using consumer depth cameras to measure body segment parameters, June 2015  
  • Balance and response time in patients with chronic tennis elbow, 2011  
  • A surface electrode array-based system for functional electrical stimulation, 2009
  • Synthesising the swing phase in orthotic gait using a hybrid FES spring brake orthosis, 2001  

Completed postgraduate examinations:

  • MPhil Internal - 0
  • MPhil External - 0
  • PhD Internal - 2
  • PhD External - 5

Media

Dr Ben Heller is a principal research fellow in the Centre for Sports Engineering Research at Sheffield Hallam University. His expertise is in medical engineering and instrumentation, particularly for the ambulatory monitoring of human activity. Current research areas include ambulatory monitoring of physical activity, motivation of exercise in virtual worlds, ecologically valid measurement of dynamic balance (the smartfloor), characterisation of running biomechanics and advanced functional electrical stimulation approaches in neural rehabilitation.

The Centre for Sports Engineering Research (CSER) is led by Dr David James. It is the world's largest academic group in sports engineering and an internationally renowned centre of excellence for research and knowledge transfer. The centre's work is based on four research disciplines; applied computing, biomechanics, design engineering, and skill acquisition. In each area, researchers develop fundamental knowledge and deliver applied solutions to enhance athletic performance, reduce injury and promote physical activity.

CSER works in partnership with many sport, health and commercial organisations. We are immensely proud of our work with Team GB Olympic, and Paralympic athletes, and we enjoy research partnerships with global organisations such as the International Tennis Federation, FIFA, and Adidas.

Areas of expertise:

  • Motivation of movement and exercise through the use of technology-mediated games
  • Monitoring activity and performance in sport and recreation through wearable technology
  • Ecologically valid measurement of dynamic balance (the smartfloor)
  • Characterisation of running biomechanics 
  • Advanced functional electrical stimulation approaches in neural rehabilitation (SheffStim)

Notable media coverage:

Cancel event

Are you sure you want to cancel your place on Saturday 12 November?

}