Modeling and computational issues in the inverse dynamics simulation of triple jump

Abstract

The triple jump is a demanding field event consisting of an approach run, and then followed by a hop, a bound, and a jump. The three consecutive takeoffs are executed at high speed, during which a jumper must absorb extremely large impact forces. The purpose of this paper is to develop an effective formulation for the inverse dynamics simulation of all the jump phases separately. A planar model of the jumper is used, composed of 14 rigid segments connected by 13 hinge joints, and actuated by muscle forces in the lower limbs and resultant muscle torques in the upper body joints. The equations of motion of the model are obtained using a projective technique, allowing for effective assessment of the ground reactions as well as muscle forces and joint reaction forces in the lower limbs. Some numerical results of the inverse dynamics simulation of a triple jump are reported.