A DYNAMIC FORCE AND MOMENT ANALYSIS SYSTEM FOR BRACHIATION

We describe a transducer system and analysis strategy that allows the determination of dynamic forces and moments applied by an arm-swinging animal during locomotion. We have employed readily available technolo gy and analysis procedures to produce a low-cost but effective system. The solutions to several problems in the design of the system are pro vided, and the functional characteristics of the system are demonstrat ed using both an inert pendulum and an actively brachiating gibbon (Hy lobates lar).