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Published on: October 14, 2017
Feed-forward control of a redundant motor system
Simon R Goodman1, Mark L Latash
1Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, Rec.Hall-267, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
Biological Cybernetics
|July 14, 2006
Summary
This study introduces a feed-forward control model for redundant motor systems, explaining multi-finger force production. It demonstrates how structured variability arises from feed-forward processes, not just feedback.
Area of Science:
- Motor control
- Robotics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Redundant motor systems present challenges for precise control.
- Understanding how the nervous system controls multi-effector systems is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel feed-forward control model for redundant motor systems.
- To validate the model using multi-finger force production tasks.
- To explore the origins of structured variability in motor control.
Main Methods:
- Developed a computational model of feed-forward motor control.
- Incorporated task-related and unrelated input signals.
- Utilized Jacobian knowledge for elemental variable generation.
- Introduced an index of task variable stabilization.
Main Results:
- Simulated phenomena like force-stabilizing synergies in two-finger tasks.
- Modeled changes in synergies with practice and preparation for fast actions.
- Demonstrated that structured variability can emerge from feed-forward control.
Conclusions:
- Feed-forward control mechanisms can generate complex patterns of motor variability.
- The model offers an alternative perspective to feedback-based control theories.
- Provides insights into the neural control of multi-effector movements.
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