ABSTRACT
The problem under study is the systematic characterization of a series of gradually evolving cyclograms with a small number of features. The mathematical quantities derived from the geometric properties of the hip-knee cyclograms are the main features considered in this study. Our thesis is that the gradual evolution of gait on inclined planes, which is manifested by progressive shape change of these closed-contour curves can be tracked by observing the evolution of their geometric moments. Experimental slope-walking data obtained for each 1° interval within the range of −13° to +13° (±23.1%) on a variable-inclination treadmill was used in this study.
The parameterization procedure presented here is fairly general in nature and maybe employed without restriction to any closed curve such as the phase diagram and the moment-angle diagram of human gait. The technique may be utilized for the quantitative characterization of normal gait, global comparison of two different gaits, clinical identification of pathological conditions and for the tracking of progress of patients under rehabilitation program.
