A sagittal-plane biomechanical model of human gait and computer simulation

This study developed a 2D normal gait model that features two independent hip joints which can move relatively to each other to simulate the rotation and tilt of hip in normal gait. Tracking control fed with joint angles of normal gait data was used in simulation. The joint angles, torques, and ground reaction force of gait in simulation with this model was compared with those in normal gait data. he results of simulation were: smooth gait movements and near normal trends of joint moments were achieved, but the abnormal joint moments require rectification after heel strike and during double support phase. The main reason for the abnormal joint moments in this simulation is the too simple control strategy rather than the structure of the model. While the model can not perfectly match real 3D human’s motions, the result of simulation can still provide a reference of kinetic. With a better control strategy, the result of simulation can be better and closer to normal gait data. In future, with different constraints setting, the model will be able to simulate orthotic gait, and than it has application on designing the orthosis for lower limbs.