Influence of the Initial Guess on the Estimation of Knee Ligament Parameters via Optimization Procedures.

Optimization procedures provide ligament parameters by minimizing the difference between experimental measurements and computational simulations. Literature values are used as initial guesses of ligament parameters for these optimization procedures. However, it remains unknown how these values affect the estimation of ligament parameters.

Methodology to identify subject-specific dynamic laxity tests to stretch individual parts of knee ligaments.

The mechanical properties of ligaments are important for multiple applications and are often estimated from laxity tests. However, the typical laxity tests are not optimized for this application and, a potential exists to develop better laxity tests in this respect. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop a methodology to identify optimal, dynamic laxity tests that isolate the stretch of the individual ligaments from each other.

Improving ultrasound-based bone registration using the iterative closest point algorithm paired with a complex optimization solver.

The Iterative Close Point (ICP) algorithm is used for bone registrations based on ultrasound measurements. However, the ICP has been shown to suffer from local minima. The Complex optimization, as a more robust routine compared to the commonly used gradient-based algorithms, could be an alternative for solving the ICP problem.

Prediction of gait kinetics using Markerless-driven musculoskeletal modeling.

Video-based motion analysis systems are emerging in the biomechanics research community, yet there is limited exploration of kinetics prediction using RGB-markerless kinematics and musculoskeletal modeling. This project aimed to provide ground reaction force (GRF) and ground reaction moment (GRM) predictions during over-ground gait by introducing RGB-markerless kinematics into a musculoskeletal modeling framework. Full-body markerless kinematic inputs and musculoskeletal modeling were used to obtain GRF and GRM predictions which were compared to measured force plate values.

Assessment of the effect of a total contact cast on lower limb kinematics and joint loading.

Background: Total contact casts (TCCs) are used to immobilize and unload the foot and ankle for the rehabilitation of ankle fractures and for the management of diabetic foot complications. The kinematic restrictions imposed by TCCs to the foot and ankle also change knee and hip kinematics, however, these changes have not been quantified before. High joint loading is associated with discomfort and increased risk for injuries.

Ground reaction force and joint moment estimation during gait using an Azure Kinect-driven musculoskeletal modeling approach.

Background: Gait analysis is burdened by time and equipment costs, interpretation, and accessibility of three-dimensional motion analysis systems. Evidence suggests growing adoption of gait testing in the shift toward evidence-based medicine. Further developments addressing these barriers will aid its efficacy in clinical practice.

A parametric investigation on seat/occupant contact forces and their relationship with initially perceived discomfort using a configurable seat.

The present work investigates the contact forces between sitters and seat as well as their correlations with perceived discomfort. Twelve different economy class aeroplane seat configurations were simulated using a multi-adjustable experimental seat by varying seat pan and backrest angles, as well as seat pan compressed surface. Eighteen males and 18 females, selected by their body mass index and stature, tested these configurations for two sitting postures.