Human sitting posture exposed to horizontal perturbation and implications to robotic wheelchairs

Abstract

In this article human sitting posture exposed to perturbations through the vibration of seat is analyzed and modeled. Motor control aspects related to sitting such as muscle activation patterns due to horizontal perturbations are addressed. Further, this analysis is augmented by presenting results of vibration studies performed on sitting posture where frequency response measures as apparent mass and transmissibility functions are introduced. A biomechanics and control model is proposed on the basis of both physiological and vibration experimental studies. Finally, the implications of the findings to robotic wheelchair control are discussed and suggestions are made to enhance user's comfort and feeling of safety. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.