Use of a mechanical model to show the benefits of modern anatomical features of homo sapiens for head stabilization during running

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Title Use of a mechanical model to show the benefits of modern anatomical features of homo sapiens for head stabilization during running
Publication Type thesis
School or College College of Engineering
Department Mechanical Engineering
Author Alston, Joseph D.
Date 2011-05
Description Stabilization of the head is critical for running. Homo sapiens possess several anatomical features that are useful for head stabilization. In order to test the functional value of some of these features, namely the location of the center of mass and the muscular connection between the skull and shoulder girdle, mechanical models are created. These mechanical models are representative of Homo sapiens and their ancestors. These models are subject to the kinematics and dynamics of a complete running gait cycle. The results show that the location of the center of mass for the Homo sapiens is superior to that of its ancestors for the purposes of head stabilization. Furthermore, the results show that the muscular connection between the skull and the shoulder girdle of Homo sapiens permit the counter rotation of the shoulders to reduce the energy needed to stabilize the head during running.
Type Text
Publisher University of Utah
Subject Analysis; Anatomy; Dynamics; Evolution; Running; Shoulder; Head stabilization
Dissertation Institution University of Utah
Dissertation Name Master of Science
Language eng
Rights Management Copyright © Joseph D. Alston 2011
Format application/pdf
Format Medium application/pdf
Format Extent 1,637,137 bytes
Identifier us-etd3,18798
Source Original housed in Marriott Library Special Collections, QM5.5 2011 .A47
ARK ark:/87278/s64x5phz
Setname ir_etd
ID 194591
Reference URL https://collections.lib.utah.edu/ark:/87278/s64x5phz
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