Abstract

Mathematical modelling and computer simulation are nowadays the main methods of investigation employed in biomechanics of human movement. Until recently usefulness of these methods was restricted due to high cost of equipment and therefore they were used mainly in laboratories. The fact that computers have become considerably less expensive and that there appeared microcomputers made it possible to use mathematical modelling and computer simulation in sports hall and in a stadium not only for investigating but also for perfecting the movement techniques. Microcomputers are easy to use, the results of calculations can be presented in a graphic form which simplifies their interpretation. The coaches and sportsmen can use them during both training and competition and therefore they are used more and more widely. This paper contains a review of cognitive and methodological aspects of modelling and simulation of human movement in biomechanics. There have been presented the following problems: 1) physical and mathematical modelling, 2) parametric identification of biomechanical objects, 3) choise of model quality criteria, 4) the ways of creating and solving motion equations useful in biomechanics, 5) verification of simulation results. Stress has been put on the necessity to find a compromise between accuratness of theoretical analysis of a biomechanical problem and the degree of complexity of a mathematical model, available computing devices, knowledge and intuition of a research worker. Verf.-Referat