The model-based investigation of motions of anthropomorphic systems is an important interdisciplinary research topic involving specialists from many fields such as Robotics, Biomechanics, Physiology, Orthopedics, Psychology, Neurosciences, Sports, Computer Graphics and Applied Mathematics. This book presents a study of basic locomotion forms such as walking and running is of particular interest due to the high demand on dynamic coordination, actuator efficiency and balance control. Mathematical models and numerical simulation and optimization techniques are explained, in combination with experimental data, which can help to better understand the basic underlying mechanisms of these motions and to improve them. Example topics treated in this book are



Modeling techniques for anthropomorphic bipedal walking systems
Optimized walking motions for different objective functions
Identification of objective functions from measurements
Simulation and optimization approaches for humanoid robots
Biologically inspired control algorithms for bipedal walking
Generation and deformation of natural walking in computer graphics
Imitation of human motions on humanoids
Emotional body language during walking
Simulation of biologically inspired actuators for bipedal walking machines
Modeling and simulation techniques for the development of prostheses
Functional electrical stimulation of walking.