Modelling of the toe trajectory during normal gait using circle-fit approximation.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Gait Analysis
• Robotics

Background:

• Understanding human gait is crucial for developing effective rehabilitation technologies.
• Previous models often simplify complex toe trajectories, limiting their application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the use of circle-fitting for approximating relative toe trajectories during normal gait.
• To develop linear regression models describing these trajectories based on walking parameters.
• To explore the potential application of these findings in gait rehabilitation technology design.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four subjects walked at seven different speeds.
• Best-fit circle algorithms were employed to approximate the relative toe trajectory.
• Linear regression models were established to correlate trajectory parameters with walking cadence and leg length.

Main Results:

• The mean approximation error of the circle-fit method was less than 4%.
• Normalized radius remained constant, while normalized center offset decreased with increased walking cadence.
• A positive linear relationship was observed between curve range and walking cadence.

Conclusions:

• Circle-fitting is a generally applicable method for approximating relative toe trajectories in normal gait.
• Defined regression functions provide a quantitative description of toe trajectories.
• These findings offer valuable insights for the design of advanced gait rehabilitation technologies.