Modeling and Optimization of Spine and Lower Extremities of a Motor Cycle Rider

Abstract

Motorcycle riders have to maintain almost a constant sitting posture in the seat with restricted provision for movement while riding which may eventually lead to rider discomfort and fatigue. This article focuses on the biomechanics modeling of the lower extremities and spine of a motorcycle rider. The proposed biomechanics model involves the five segments including the Pelvis, Femur, Tibia-Fibula, Foot, and the Spine of the rider. A custom-made python program is developed in which eight physical dimensions and weight of the rider has to be provided as input. Dimensions of the various motorcycles can be stored as a library. As a case study of the modeling, the comfort of a selected subject on two well-known vehicles in India is conducted. This model can be extended for calculating fatigue load experienced by the rider for the various dimensions and alterations of the vehicle. This model can also be used to customize the vehicle dimensions to increase the comfort of the rider. Validation study for modeling the real-time subjects using surface electromyography (sEMG) signals is needed which is the future scope of the work.