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Trot-gallop gait transitions in quadrupeds
J A Vilensky1, J N Libii, A M Moore
1Department of Anatomy, Indiana University School of Medicine, Fort Wayne 46805.
Physiology & Behavior
|October 1, 1991
Summary
This review assimilates information on trot-gallop transitions, incorporating engineering approaches and new data from cats and monkeys to establish general principles.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Locomotion analysis
- Comparative physiology
Background:
- Previous studies have examined kinematics, mechanics, energetics, and mathematics of gait transitions separately.
- A comprehensive assimilation of existing knowledge on trot-gallop transitions is lacking.
- New engineering (mathematical) approaches offer novel analytical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize existing research on trot-gallop gait transitions.
- To introduce and summarize the engineering (mathematical) approach to analyzing these transitions.
- To present novel data and propose general principles for trot-gallop transitions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing studies.
- Summary of the engineering (mathematical) framework for gait transition analysis.
- Inclusion of unpublished experimental data from feline and primate locomotion.
Main Results:
- Assimilation of diverse information on trot-gallop transition kinematics, mechanics, and energetics.
- Application of an engineering (mathematical) approach to understand transition dynamics.
- Presentation of new data on gait transitions in cats and monkeys.
Conclusions:
- General principles governing trot-gallop transitions are proposed.
- The engineering (mathematical) approach provides a valuable framework for analysis.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complexities of gait transitions.