Mechanical Engineering Commons^™

Development And Validation Of A 3-D Model To Predict Knee Joint Loading During Dynamic Movement, Scott G. Mclean, Anne Su, Antonie J. Van Den Bogert

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

The purpose of this study was to develop a subject-specific 3-D model of the lower
extremity to predict neuromuscular control effects on 3-D knee joint loading during movements that can potentially cause injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. The simulation consisted of a forward dynamic 3-D musculoskeletal model of the lower extremity, scaled to represent a specific subject. Inputs of the model were the initial position and velocity of the skeletal elements, and the muscle stimulation patterns. Outputs of the model were movement and ground reaction forces, as well as resultant 3-D forces and moments acting …

Exotendons For Assistance Of Human Locomotion, Antonie J. Van Den Bogert

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

Background: Powered robotic exoskeletons for assistance of human locomotion are currently
under development for military and medical applications. The energy requirements for such devices are excessive, and this has become a major obstacle for practical applications. Legged locomotion in many animals, however, is very energy efficient. We propose that poly-articular elastic mechanisms are a major contributor to the economy of locomotion in such specialized animals. Consequently, it should be possible to design unpowered assistive devices that make effective use of similar mechanisms.

Methods: A passive assistive technology is presented, based on long elastic cords attached to an
exoskeleton and guided …