Headings denoted with an asterisk ( * ) is retrieved from the course syllabus version Autumn 2015
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
The course focuses first on the anatomy and physiology of the human muscle-force system, then on biomechanical applications involved in human movement. Fundamental topics of muscle physiology, anatomy, and treatment, and muscle modeling will be covered first. From this foundation, the course will focus on methods to analyze biomechanical problems, including kinematics and kinetics of movement and the muscle force system. Finally, relevant topics requiring such analyses will be discussed, with some emphasis on walking. Emphasis is placed on analysis, interpretation and critical evaluation of results.
Intended learning outcomes
After the course, the student should be able to:
Apply principles of classical mechanics to the study of human motion
Describe motion with precise, well-defined mechanical and anatomical terminology
Describe the internal and external forces acting on the body during typical human activities
Understand how muscle actions control movements
Model muscle activation and movement
Understand the methods and limitations of different experimental and analytical techniques used
Preparations before course start
Specific preparations
Most students are expected to have complete courses in basic mechanics and dynamics, with possible exception to those studying Sports Technology. No previous coursework in anatomy or physiology is required.
Literature
The course book will be: Biomechanics of Movement; The Science of Sports, Robotics, and Rehabilitation, by Thomas K Uchida and Scott L. Delp. ISBN 9780262044202. It’s available for purchase from internet bookstores, both as a book and as an e-book (though the e-book is more expensive). It’s also possible to rent the e-book via the publisher (MIT Press)
Software
1) Matlab
2) The open source program OpenSIM version 4.0 from SimTK will be used in several assignments. It is a free, open-source software (https://simtk.org/projects/opensim). It is installed in the computer lab, and I recommend you install it on your own computers.
Support for students with disabilities
Students at KTH with a permanent disability can get support during studies from Funka:
PRO1 - Project, 7.0 credits, Grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
The course grade is based on 5 at-home group assignments and 1 at-home group final project. Some of these are presented orally and some in written form.
The section below is not retrieved from the course syllabus:
Project ( PRO1 )
Other requirements for final grade
All projects must be completed satisfactorily.
Ethical approach
All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.