Concluding Remarks - Human Motion Simulation: Predictive Dynamics - page 237

it is assisting the older population with daily activities such as walking, or using
exoskeletons to replace a particular function for people with disabilities, these
devices are expected to provide ample help. Design and testing of these devices
requires a fundamental understanding of their effect on a human's biomechanics.
10.2.3 Sports biomechanics and kinesiology
Predictive dynamics can also be used to obtain a greater understanding of the per-
formance of athletes. Whether the task is a golf swing or a baseball pitch, PD can
be used to quickly model it, accurately analyze it, and, most importantly, simulate
the various conditions under which it is executed. Imagine the scenario of chang-
ing an individual's swing angle and foot location and then executing the simula-
tion to see which scenario yields better results for that individual. Having the
capability to simulate a sports activity to optimize for the performance has signifi-
cant implications on how athletes train.
10.2.4 Human performance
Predictive dynamics can be used to simulate and analyze human performance.
Consider a task where a soldier has to climb up a set of stairs to accomplish a
mission while carrying a heavy load. These heavy loads continue to increase,
whether it is backpack contents or tools that are being added onto the soldier.
Bulk added onto the soldier, reductions in flexibility or range of motion, and addi-
tional weight being carried are some of the factors that are readily considered in
the PD formulation. This helps the designer of new equipment to assess and better
understand the influence of such changes on the soldier's performance.
Predictive dynamics has also been implemented to address performance issues
in assembly line workers in manufacturing plants or construction workers. It can
be used in any situation where simulation is needed prior to subjecting a human
being to unknown conditions.
10.2.5 Testing equipment, digital prototyping, human systems
integration
Dynamic tasks that humans perform on a daily basis can be tested and analyzed
using PD. These tasks vary in complexity and in their need for accuracy.
Digital prototyping is now used consistently by the majority of large compa-
nies all over the world. Instead of physical prototyping, computational power is
used to run virtual experiments in the digital world. It is used to assess many
aspects of engineering, including aerodynamics, thermodynamics, mechanical
stresses, and many others. Digital prototyping has saved companies time and
resources, and PD allows humans to be involved in the digital prototyping
process.