Cybernetic training using optimized muscle activation signals by musculoskeletal model simulation for the upper limb

Abstract

Athletes' motor skills are generally improved by various sports training systems using skilled athletes' various activities. Here, we propose a new training system that the use of optimized muscle activation signals, hereinafter called OPTIMAS, as a tool for improving the overall sport performance of engaged subjects. The focus of this studyis on an underhand throw of a softball player to verify the validity of the proposed training system. At first, we calculate the OPTIMAS for the underhand throw of a softballbased on the subject's physical characteristics using a musculoskeletal model of the upper limb. Then, the subject practices to improve his skills by comparing his electromyogram measured in real time with that of the OPTIMAS waveform produced by optimization. Here, the subject aims to approach the OPTIMAS waveform. The results of the proposed training system show that the subject was much improved the pitching performance in the early stage of the training term. © 2013 The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers.