Virtual prototyping and hardware-in-the-loop testing for musculoskeletal system analysis

In this paper, we present some ongoing research in the development of tools for biological hypothesis testing, leveraging research methodologies that have revolutionized the mechatronics domain. In particular, this work emphasizes: (a) development of suitable low-resolution computational models, (b) simulation, testing and iterative what-if studies performed using virtual prototyping; and (c) development of a test-bed suitable for hardware-in-the-loop testing. We anticipate that such a coupling of computational analysis with development of hardware-in-the-loop simulations plays a significant role in rapid and systematic validation of biological hypotheses. Specifically in the context of musculoskeletal system analysis, we focus on presenting two aspects in greater detail: (i) development of a low-resolution screw-theoretic computational model; and (ii) development of an integrated framework for rapid virtual prototyping and hardware-in-the-loop testing. A case study of bite force estimation in members of the felid (cat) family helps unify the presentation of many of these aspects.