When humans and animals carry load, there is an increase in the metabolic cost of locomotion proportional to the load; this is reduced when the load is elastically coupled to the load carrier [1]. There are existing paradigms in biomechanics that demonstrate this concept, such as the modern horse jockey riding style, the Suspended Load Ergonomic Backpack, and carrying loads with springy poles [1–3]. For example, the Suspended Load Ergonomic Backpack is designed to suspend a load with compliant springs that elastically decouple the motion of the load from the motion of the wearer [2]. It has been shown to reduce the peak forces and reduce the metabolic cost of locomotion compared to a standard backpack [2].
Volume Subject Area:
Poster Session II: Human Dynamics and Rehabilitation
This content is only available via PDF.
Copyright © 2011 by ASME
You do not currently have access to this content.