Due to the declining populations in developed countries, retirement ages are going up, and the workforce is getting older. Aging in the physical labor workforce presents a unique challenge. This project seeks to address that challenge by developing real-time computation procedures to automate and optimize musculoskeletal rehabilitation. The procedures that will be developed will also enable wearable technologies that will help to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. In the new procedures, sensor signals will be used directly to actuate dynamic biomechanical computer models based on multibody system dynamics. The computer models will be synchronized to dynamic measurements of human motion using advanced state and force observers, which will enable them to draw conclusions regarding biomechanical parameters and performance. The information gained will be used as a “remote virtual physiotherapist” to provide real-time feedback during rehabilitation processes.

2022

2026