Properties of body segments based on size and weight

Abstract

Abstract Values are presented for body constants based on a study of nine male white cadavers of normal appearance and average build. The limb data are supplemented by a further analysis of 11 upper and 41 lower limbs. Techniques used in the study form standard procedures that can be duplicated by subsequent workers. Each cadaver was measured, weighed, and somatotyped. Joints were placed in the midposition of the movement range and the body was frozen rigid. Joint angles were bisected in a systematic dismemberment procedure to produce unit segments. These segment lengths were weighed, measured for linear link dimensions, and analysed for segment volumes. The segment centers of mass were located relative to link end points as well as in relation to anatomical landmarks. Finally, each segment was dissected into its component parts and these were weighed. The specific gravity of each body part was calculated separately. Data are expressed in mean values together with standard deviations and, where available, are correlated and evaluated with other values in the literature.