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A model of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system for human locomotion

I. Emergence of basic gait

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Abstract

The generation of human locomotion was examined by linking computational neuroscience with biomechanics from the perspective of nonlinear dynamical theory. We constructed a model of human locomotion, which includes a musculo-skeletal system with 8 segments and 20 muscles, a neural rhythm generator composed of 7 pairs of neural oscillators, and mechanisms for processing and transporting sensory and motor signals. Using a computer simulation, we found that locomotion emerged as a stable limit cycle that was generated by the global entrainment between the musculo-skeletal system, the neural system, and the environment. Moreover, the walking movements of the model could be compared quantitatively with those of experimental studies in humans.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Tokyo, Komaba, Meguro-ku, 153, Tokyo, Japan

    Gentaro Taga

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  1. Gentaro Taga
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Part of this paper was presented to IVth International Symposium on Computer Simulation in Biomechanics, Paris, France, July 1, 1993

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Taga, G. A model of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system for human locomotion. Biol. Cybern. 73, 97–111 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00204048

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00204048

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