Towards a neuronal network controller for vertical jumping from different initial squat depths

In this study, a forward dynamic simulation model of the human musculoskeletal system was used to explore various strategies of generating muscle stimulation patterns for vertical squat jumping. It was shown that a simple mapping from joint angles to muscle stimulation onsets yielded successful control, albeit not optimal control, for jumps from different initial squat depths. Furthermore, it was shown that this mapping could be implemented in a straightforward way in a simple network of Hodgkin-Huxley type neurons.