Do we need internal models for movement control?

Abstract

The issue of how humans and animals perform accurate movements has been addressed in various ways. Although this book is promoting concepts stemming from dynamical systems theory, other approaches have contributed to the understanding of movement as well. Among others, the equilibrium point theory and the computational theory deserve to be listed for their contribution to this field of research called motor control. In this chapter, using single-joint rhythmic movement as an example, I will start first emphasizing the respective contributions and drawbacks of each approach. Then I will address the issue of parameter selection. Indeed, despite diverging opinions about the possible nature of control parameter(s), all three approaches must deal with the problem of how adequate parameter(s) to achieve a desired movement are selected. At the end of this chapter, I will expose how the concept of internal model may offer a solution to this problem. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.