Knees, Ankles, Feet, and Toes: The Biomechanics of Bipedal Human Walking

For most humans, bipedal walking is the natural mode of locomotion—so instinctive that it requires little conscious thought. Despite nearly 2,500 years of research, the biomechanics of human gait remains a complex puzzle. This book revisits and proposes several mechanisms of bipedal walking that have been subjects of scientific discussion for several decades. It explores gait stabilization, efficiency, and general dynamics. Readers will encounter surprising facts and a mechanistic explanation for the puzzling double-humped ground reaction force profile observed in human walking. The insights provided can assist engineers and medical professionals involved in the remobilization of patients. Additionally, these biomechanical insights are framed by reflections on science and higher education, leading to proposals for remedies aimed at creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and goal-directed academic system.     «

For most humans, bipedal walking is the natural mode of locomotion—so instinctive that it requires little conscious thought. Despite nearly 2,500 years of research, the biomechanics of human gait remains a complex puzzle. This book revisits and proposes several mechanisms of bipedal walking that have been subjects of scientific discussion for several decades. It explores gait stabilization, efficiency, and general dynamics. Readers will encounter surprising facts and a mechanistic explanation f...     »

Technische Universität München, TU München, TUM, TUM School of Engineering and Design, TUM, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Biomechanics, Bipedal walking, Foot dynamics, Center of pressure (CoP), Zero moment point (ZMP), Ground reaction force, Inverted pendulum model, Ankle torque, Gait cycle, Step-to-step transition, Foot function, Stance phase dynamics, Swing leg dynamics, Gait energetics, Plantar flexors, Gait efficiency, Foot-ground interaction, Passive dynamics, Gait rehabilitation, Bipedal robots, Collision mechanics, Leg swing, Academic education     «

Technische Universität München, TU München, TUM, TUM School of Engineering and Design, TUM, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Biomechanics, Bipedal walking, Foot dynamics, Center of pressure (CoP), Zero moment point (ZMP), Ground reaction force, Inverted pendulum model, Ankle torque, Gait cycle, Step-to-step transition, Foot function, Stance phase dynamics, Swing leg dynamics, Gait energetics, Plantar flexors, Gait efficiency, Foot-ground interaction, Passive dynamics, Gait rehabilitation, B...     »