Human and avian running on uneven ground: a model-based comparison.
R Müller1, A V Birn-Jeffery2, Y Blum3
1Motionscience, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany roy.mueller@uni-jena.de.
Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
|September 23, 2016
Summary
Birds and humans share similar leg swing adaptations for running on uneven terrain. However, their distinct leg morphologies lead to different strategies for handling inclines and declines.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Comparative Physiology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Birds and humans are successful bipedal runners, having evolved this locomotion independently.
- Direct comparison of their bipedal locomotion is challenging due to anatomical differences in their locomotor systems.
Approach:
- Utilized a simplified mechanical model, the spring-mass model, to analyze and compare avian and human running strategies.
- Examined locomotion on both level and uneven ground conditions.
Key Points:
- Humans exhibit steeper leg angles at touchdown and stiffer legs compared to cursorial ground birds.
- Swing-leg adaptations (angle and kinematics) show similarities between birds and humans across various uneven terrains.
- Avian crouched legs offer a wider range of adaptation for drops and downward steps than straight human legs.
- Human straight legs appear to utilize leg stiffness adjustments for obstacles and upward steps, unlike avian postures.
Conclusions:
- Despite independent evolution, a common mechanical framework (spring-mass model) can describe bipedal running in birds and humans.
- Morphological differences dictate distinct compensatory strategies for navigating uneven ground, particularly concerning vertical changes.
- Understanding these comparative biomechanics provides insights into the adaptability and constraints of bipedal locomotion.
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