Mechanics of Human Movement

This course deals with applying principles of mechanics to movements of the human body. Understanding the biomechanics of human movement is necessary for the prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and design of aids for rehabilitation. This course will introduce the necessary anatomy, modeling and analysis techniques, and discuss some applications to the design of assistive devices.

INTENDED AUDIENCE : Students from Engineering, Physiotherapy, Prosthetics & Orthotics can attend this course.PREREQUISITES : Engineering Mechanics

COURSE LAYOUT

Week 1 : Introduction to the musculoskeletal system, joints, movements, terminologyWeek 2 : Skeletal muscles – structure, function, characteristicsWeek 3 : Principles of statics applied to the human bodyWeek 4 : Principles of statics applied to the human body - continuedWeek 5 : Principles of statics applied to the human body - continuedWeek 6 : Principles of kinetics applied to the human bodyWeek 7 : Principles of kinetics applied to the human body - continuedWeek 8 : Principles of kinetics applied to the human body - continuedWeek 9 : Inverse dynamics analysis, balanceWeek 10 : Introduction to human walkingWeek 11 : Characteristics of normal and pathological gaitWeek 12 : Applications to the design of assistive devices