A Flexible Robotics-Inspired Computational Model of Compressive Loading on the Human Spine

The use of powerful robotics tools in modeling and analysis complex biomechanical systems has led to the development computationally effective scalable human models. Our early work this regard focused on a humanoids-based rigid-body kinodynamics monitor instantaneous accumulating effects external loads body joints. Nevertheless, despite their high-computational efficiency, flexible nature spine its characteristic were not taken into account, resulting less accurate estimations spinal compressive forces. Accordingly, work, we propose model mechanics for assessing loading, integrate it our robotics-based whole-body model. Such can quantify force distribution along muscles' activity measured back configuration known forces, which both contribute increasing ergonomic risk level. predictions are validated through an experimental six subjects. Three different tests conducted considering loading conditions. Results demonstrate potential proposed approach monitoring predicting muscles with average relative error 10% against data. Minimizing required number sensors amount computational resources, presented is particularly suitable online evaluation real working scenario.