This document outlines the key topics to be covered in the BIOE 3200 biomechanics course for Fall 2015. Students will learn to define and distinguish between kinematics, which describes motion without regard to causes, and kinetics, which analyzes the forces that cause motion using Newton's laws. The course will teach how to draw free body diagrams, apply equations of motion, and use kinematic relationships to solve biomechanics problems involving subjects extending their legs as quickly as possible.

1. BIOE 3200 Fall 2015

2.  Define kinematics and kinetics
 Identify differences between kinematics and
kinetics

3.  Kinematics – description of motion with no
regard to what is causing it
◦ Distance, position
◦ Angle
◦ Velocity
◦ Acceleration
 Kinetics – analysis of forces and torques that
cause motion (Newton’s second law)
◦ Equations of motion (sum of forces and moments)
◦ Work and energy methods (changes in speed)
◦ Impulse and momentum (impact and collision)

4.  Draw diagram of system and FBDs, showing all
forces and moments; show coordinate system
and assume directions for forces and moments
 Show lines of actions of velocities and
accelerations
 Apply equations of motion; unknowns are forces
or accelerations
 Indicate directions of forces and accelerations in
solutions, with appropriate units
 Use kinematic relations between position,
velocity and acceleration if given/required

5.  Subject extends leg as quickly as possible
 Electrogoniometer measures knee joint
angle over time (aligned with thigh and
shank axes)
 Angular displacement with respect to
vertical axis measured; angular velocity (ω)
and angular acceleration (α) computed.
 Assume weight and dimensions from
anthropomorphic measures (or from
individual)
 Determine torque and tensile force
produced by extensor muscles at specific
angle, angular velocity and/or angular
acceleration (see example in text)