Locomotion on Dynamically Adaptive Terrain
Advisor Information
Kota Takahashi
Location
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
4-3-2016 10:45 AM
End Date
4-3-2016 12:15 PM
Abstract
While modern treadmills have afforded many with the ability to change speed and inclination of the terrain surface, they lack the ability to simulate more real-life scenarios. The manipulation of obstacles and terrain is fundamental to answering targeted and specific questions about the intricacies of human movement. Our team is developing and validating a Variable Surface Treadmill (VST) to allow for dynamic simulation of complex terrestrial and extraterrestrial terrains. We expect that this unique treadmill will allow us to investigate the basic principles governing sensorimotor functions in human locomotion, as well as develop novel interventions to retrain people with mobility-affecting disorders. The rehabilitation of persons suffering from a mobility issues is an area of research and development with increasing momentum as we discover factors that improve or inhibit certain strategies. Whether it be astronauts with sensorimotor impairments returning from spaceflight, people with limb amputations, or stroke survivors, novel methods intended to treat their conditions with increased effectiveness are monumental to continued progress. The Variable Surface Treadmill (VST) will allow for the unique exploration of how humans adapt to complex terrain. In persons with movement disorders, this could potentially signal the arrival of a rehabilitation strategy that is more effective than normal walking while not increasing speed or elevation. We will be testing the effect of dynamically adapting terrain on walking patterns of healthy adults.
Locomotion on Dynamically Adaptive Terrain
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
While modern treadmills have afforded many with the ability to change speed and inclination of the terrain surface, they lack the ability to simulate more real-life scenarios. The manipulation of obstacles and terrain is fundamental to answering targeted and specific questions about the intricacies of human movement. Our team is developing and validating a Variable Surface Treadmill (VST) to allow for dynamic simulation of complex terrestrial and extraterrestrial terrains. We expect that this unique treadmill will allow us to investigate the basic principles governing sensorimotor functions in human locomotion, as well as develop novel interventions to retrain people with mobility-affecting disorders. The rehabilitation of persons suffering from a mobility issues is an area of research and development with increasing momentum as we discover factors that improve or inhibit certain strategies. Whether it be astronauts with sensorimotor impairments returning from spaceflight, people with limb amputations, or stroke survivors, novel methods intended to treat their conditions with increased effectiveness are monumental to continued progress. The Variable Surface Treadmill (VST) will allow for the unique exploration of how humans adapt to complex terrain. In persons with movement disorders, this could potentially signal the arrival of a rehabilitation strategy that is more effective than normal walking while not increasing speed or elevation. We will be testing the effect of dynamically adapting terrain on walking patterns of healthy adults.
Additional Information (Optional)
Winner of Honorable Mention Undergraduate Poster Presentation