Predicting Sit-to-Stand Body Adaptation Using a Simple Model

Abstract

Mathematical models that simulate human motion are used widely due to their potential in predicting basic characteristics of human motion. These models have been involved in investigating various aspects of gait and human-related tasks, especially walking and running. This study uses a simple model to study the impact of different factors on sit-to-stand motion through the formulation of an optimization problem that aims at minimizing joint torques. The simulated results validated experimental results reported in the literature and showed the ability of the model to predict the changes in kinetic and kinematic parameters as adaptation to any change in the speed of motion, reduction in the joint strength, and change in the seat height. The model discovered that changing one of these determinants would affect joint angular displacement, joint torques, joint angular velocities, center of mass position, and ground reaction force.