Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Subject-specific Musculoskeletal Model for Studying Bone Strain During Dynamic Motion
Published on: April 11, 2018
Modelling the passive and nerve activated response of the rectus femoris muscle to a flexion loading: a finite
J W Fernandez1, M L Buist, D P Nickerson
1The Bioengineering Institute, Auckland University, New Zealand.
Abstract:
A muscle modelling framework is presented which relates the mechanical response of the rectus femoris muscle (at the organ level) to tissue level properties, with the capability of linking to the cellular level as part of the IUPS Physiome Project. This paper will outline our current approach to muscle modelling incorporating micro-structural passive and active properties including fibre orientations and nerve innervation. The technique is based on finite deformation (using FE analysis) coupled to electrical nerve initiated muscle activation, and we present the influence of active tension through an eccentric contraction at specific flexion angles. Finally we discuss the future goals of incorporating cell mechanics and validating at the organ level to provide a complete diagnostic tool with the ability to relate mechanisms of failure across spatial scales.
Related Concept Videos
Design Example: Frog Muscle Response
When the switch connecting the RL circuit is closed, a brief muscle contraction is observed. This is because, at a steady state, the inductor acts like a short circuit,...
Deformation of Member under Multiple Loadings
In the case of a member with a variable cross-section, the strain is not constant but depends on the position. The deformation of an...
Motor Unit Stimulation
The latent period of contraction marks the onset of excitation-contraction coupling, when the action potential propagates across the sarcolemma, preparing the muscle fibers for contraction. As the fibers enter the contraction phase, the...
Relaxation of Skeletal Muscles
When an action potential reaches the axon terminal, it depolarizes the membrane and opens voltage-gated sodium channels. Sodium ions enter the cell, further depolarizing the presynaptic membrane. This depolarization causes voltage-gated calcium channels to open.
Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
