Session

Modelling the neuromechanics of swimming, flying and pumping systems

11 Jul 2018, 15:00
New Law School/--100 (University of Sydney)

New Law School/--100

University of Sydney

60

Conveners

Modelling the neuromechanics of swimming, flying and pumping systems

  • Alexander Hoover (Tulane University)

Description

In many biomechanical systems, motion emerges from the complex interaction of muscles, body elasticity, and local environmental forces. An organism's nervous system also plays a significant role in guiding the emergent kinematics and is in turn shaped by the environment in which this system inhabits. For swimming and flying animals, the role of the nervous system can manifest itself in a number of ways, from providing feedback during active swimming, to the timing of muscular activation when manoeuvring in a fluid environment. Other times, the local fluid environmental forces can determine the effective motion of these systems and shape how they are regulated. Recently, a variety of modelling approaches have been used in an effort to understand the interplay between the fluid environment and the neuromechanical organization of the organism. In this minisymposium, the speakers will discuss recent research from across a broad range of biological fluid-structure interaction systems that are influenced by the underlying neuromechanical organization. Topics range from the role of feedback and timing in locomotion, control mechanisms in biomechanical pumps, and examining how environmental effects shape the preferred kinematics.

Presentation Materials

There are no materials yet.
Building timetable...