Interactive visualization of human arm structure and function

An interactive 3-D model of the human arm is developed using anatomic data derived from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Muscles crossing the elbow joint and responsible for elbow flexion-extension or forearm supination-pronation are modeled. Muscle origins, insertions, and geometry constraining the actuator path are identified, permitting the direction of muscle force to be calculated. Through an interactive graphics interface, users can completely specify initial conditions, joint constraints, muscle model parameters, and neural activation patterns. Using these values, each muscle's contribution to net torque is calculated using a dynamic muscle model resulting in realistic upper extremity motion. The interaction of internal anatomic structures is animated using rendered MRI images. The model integrates MRI derived visualization techniques with a dynamic model of human muscle and limbs, facilitating the creation of an interactive atlas of gross and functional anatomy. >