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Cooperative selection of movements: the optimal selection model
J Vaughan1, D A Rosenbaum, F J Diedrich
1Department of Psychology, Hamilton College, Clinton, NY 13323, USA.
Psychological Research
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Human motor control involves selecting movements by matching task needs with optimal limb biomechanics. This model explains how unique movement combinations are chosen for tasks like fingertip oscillation and obstacle tapping.
Area of Science:
- Human motor control
- Biomechanics
- Movement selection
Background:
- Selecting movements from infinite possibilities is a key challenge in motor control.
- Fingertip movements can be achieved through various joint combinations (knuckle, wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip).
Purpose of the Study:
- To model the selection process for unique movement combinations.
- To explain how task requirements and biomechanical performance influence movement choice.
Main Methods:
- Developed a model considering similarity between task requirements and optimal limb biomechanics.
- Applied two model variants to fingertip oscillation and obstacle tapping tasks.
Main Results:
- The model successfully accounts for selected movements in both free oscillation and obstacle tapping.
- Obstacle collision impulse is partly controlled by aiming beyond the surface.
Conclusions:
- Movement selection is based on matching task demands with optimal biomechanical performance.
- Force control in impacts involves spatial representation and aiming strategies.