A complete set of control equations for the human musculo-skeletal system.

A mathematical model of the total human musculo-skeletal system is presented. The model comprises a link-mechanical and a musculo-mechanical set of ordinary first-order differential equations which deacrihe the dynamics of the segment model and muscle model respectively. The interdependence of the two sets of equations is demonstrated. The set of musculo-mechanical quations contains the two neuromuscular control parameters motor unit recruitment and stimulation rate, and the significance of such a representation for a control-theoretical treatment of musculo-skeletal systems is discussed. Finally, after a short discussion of the successful application of the present model in the prediction of an optimal human motion, further possibilities are indicated of the use of the model for investigations into the control behaviour of musculo-skeletal systems.