The Robotics Institute

RI | Seminar | October 29

Robotics Institute Seminar, October 29
Time and Place | Seminar Abstract | Speaker Biography | Speaker Appointments

Human Postural Control and the Prevention of Falls

Mark S. Redfern, Ph.D.

Departments of Bioengineering and Otolaryngology

University of Pittsburgh

 

 

Time and Place

Mauldin Auditorium (NSH 1305)
Refreshments 3:15 pm
Talk 3:30 pm

Abstract

 

Human postural control is a complex sensorimotor task that is fundamental to daily life. Falls are one of the leading causes of disability and death in the elderly, and the second leading cause of occupational injuries.  The Human Movement and Balance Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh is dedicated to the study of postural control issues in health and injury prevention. This presentation will discuss two areas of study: postural responses to slipping perturbations and the influence of attentional processes in postural control.  Finally, the potential implications of this research in control of bipedal robotics will be discussed.

 

 

Speaker Biography

 

Mark S. Redfern obtained his Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Michigan in 1988, studying in the Center for Ergonomics.  His graduate work focused on biomechanics and electromyographic modeling.  Previous to his graduate education, he trained and worked as a certified prosthetist, with clinical responsibilities in upper and lower extremity amputee care.  Currently, Mark is the William Kepler Whiteford Professor of Bioengineering and Associate Chair of the Department of Bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh.  He is also Director of the Human Movement and Balance Laboratories.

 

Dr. Redfern's current research focuses on human postural control, fall prevention, aging, and vestibular function.  He has over 50 peer review publications, 10 book chapters and over 70 proceedings and meeting abstracts.  He has served as associate editor for the journals Gait & Posture, J Applied Biomechanics, and Clinical Biomechanics.

 

 

Speaker Appointments

For appointments, please contact Chris Atkeson.

The Robotics Institute is part of the School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University.