Simulation modeling for sagittal lifting

Dynamic biomechanical models, as opposed to static models require the displacement-time information to obtain the kinematics needed to estimate the kinetics of the motion. However, the collection of this displacement data is both tedious and can require expensive equipment. Simulation models on the other hand can provide an indirect means of performing the biomechanical analyses without having to collect the displacement-time data. A typical simulation model for 2-D lifting activities will be presented. The bases for this model will be discussed and results of using this model will be presented and evaluated. These results include the motion pattern generated by the model vs, the actual pattern moved by the subject. The predicted kinematics and kinetics will also be presented and compared with kinematics traditionally estimated from biomechanical models.