Human Robotics: Neuromechanics and Motor Control [HARDCOVER] [2013] [By Etienne Burdet]

by Etienne Burdet

A synthesis of biomechanics and neural control that draws on recent advances in robotics to address control problems solved by the human sensorimotor system. This book proposes a transdisciplinary approach to investigating human motor control that synthesizes musculoskeletal biomechanics and neural control. The authors argue that this integrated approach—which uses the framework of robotics to understand sensorimotor control problems—offers a more complete and accurate description than either a purely neural computational approach or a purely biomechanical one. The authors offer an account of motor control in which explanatory models are based on experimental evidence using mathematical approaches reminiscent of physics. These computational models yield algorithms for motor control that may be used as tools to investigate or treat diseases of the sensorimotor system and to guide the development of algorithms and hardware that can be incorporated into products designed to assist with the tasks of daily living. The authors focus on the insights their approach offers in understanding how movement of the arm is controlled and how the control adapts to changing environments. The book begins with muscle mechanics and control, progresses in a logical manner to planning and behavior, and describes applications in neurorehabilitation and robotics. The material is self-contained, and accessible to researchers and professionals in a range of fields, including psychology, kinesiology, neurology, computer science, and robotics.

Genres: Engineering

Unknown Binding

First published September 13, 2013

Reviews

[Jason Porter · Rating 4 out of 5]

An in-depth study characterizing the neuro-muscular control of the human body. It focuses on arm movements and has a fascinating study on motor learning. For those interested in the mechanics of the body, I highly recommend this book.

[Hani Awni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating review of the current state of knowledge about neural control of movement. Comes from the perspective of a controls engineer, more accessible to an engineer audience than a neuroscientist audience.
Essentially discusses the controls problem presented to the brain by the neuro/biomechanical system that it is controlling. Incidentally, also functions as an excellent introduction to non-linear control theory via a concrete application.

I'm extremely excited to see where this field goes in the next few years. They're finally starting to tackle complex, whole-body movements instead of comparatively simple, planar tracking problems.

[Navid · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book covers multiple aspects of human motion generation and motor control, with a focus on modeling. The book is well-written and inclusive.

[Tyler Critchfield]

Great textbook on motor mechanics and learning - a good mix of simplicity and detail.