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Optimized adaptive tracking control for an underactuated vibro-driven capsule system
Get PDFThis paper studies the issue of adaptive trajectory tracking control for an underactuated vibro-driven capsule system and presents a novel motion generation framework. In this framework, feasible motion trajectory is derived through investigating dynamic constraints and kernel control indexes that underlie the underactuated dynamics. Due to the underactuated nature of the capsule system, the global motion dynamics cannot be directly controlled. The main objective of optimization is to indirectly control the friction-induced stick–slip motions to reshape the passive dynamics and, by doing so, to obtain optimal system performance in terms of average speed and energy efficacy. Two tracking control schemes are designed using a closed-loop feedback linearization approach and an adaptive variable structure control method with an auxiliary control variable, respectively. The reference model is accurately matched in a finite-time horizon. The key point is to define an exogenous state variable whose dynamics is employed as a control input. The tracking performance and system stability are investigated through rigorous theoretic analysis. Extensive simulation studies are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the developed trajectory model and optimized adaptive control system
Validity and Reliability of Surface Electromyography Measurements from a Wearable Athlete Performance System
Get PDFThe Athos ® wearable system integrates surface electromyography (sEMG ) electrodes into the construction of compression athletic apparel. The Athos system reduces the complexity and increases the portability of collecting EMG data and provides processed data to the end user. The objective of the study was to determine the reliability and validity of Athos as compared with a research grade sEMG system. Twelve healthy subjects performed 7 trials on separate days (1 baseline trial and 6 repeated trials). In each trial subjects wore the wearable sEMG system and had a research grade sEMG system’s electrodes placed just distal on the same muscle, as close as possible to the wearable system’s electrodes. The muscles tested were the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), and biceps femoris (BF). All testing was done on an isokinetic dynamometer. Baseline testing involved performing isometric 1 repetition maximum tests for the knee extensors and flexors and three repetitions of concentric-concentric knee flexion and extension at MVC for each testing speed: 60, 180, and 300 deg/sec. Repeated trials 2-7 each comprised 9 sets where each set included three repetitions of concentric-concentric knee flexion-extension. Each repeated trial (2-7) comprised one set at each speed and percent MVC (50%, 75%, 100%) combination. The wearable system and research grade sEMG data were processed using the same methods and aligned in time. The amplitude metrics calculated from the sEMG for each repetition were the peak amplitude, sum of the linear envelope, and 95th percentile. Validity results comprise two main findings. First, there is not a significant effect of system (Athos or research grade system) on the repetition amplitude metrics (95%, peak, or sum). Second, the relationship between torque and sEMG is not significantly different between Athos and the research grade system. For reliability testing, the variation across trials and averaged across speeds was 0.8%, 7.3%, and 0.2% higher for Athos from BF, VL and VM, respectively. Also, using the standard deviation of the MVC normalized repetition amplitude, the research grade system showed 10.7% variability while Athos showed 12%. The wearable technology (Athos) provides sEMG measures that are consistent with controlled, research grade technologies and data collection procedures
A new perspective: consumer values and the consumption of physical activity
Get PDFPurpose.
Physical inactivity is a global pandemic and is the fourth biggest cause of death worldwide. Numerous campaigns and initiatives have been implemented globally but yet participation levels remain static. The purpose of this paper is to offer sports providers, educators, policy makers and facilitators a new perspective on consumer values and the consumption of physical activity.
Design/methodology/approach.
Researchers conducted a quantitative questionnaire and collected 342 responses through Facebook (social media) from the geographical region, South Wales. Data were analysed using independent t-tests to compare the means between two unrelated groups (active/non-active) against the Sport and Physical Activity Value Model value dimensions.
Findings.
The findings are divided into three sections of consumption (pre, consumption, post), results identify differences of consumer values between the active and non-active respondents. For example, service values, the non-active individual have higher expectations of the servicescape and provider than active individuals, suggesting that servicescape concept is one of the key dimensions of consumer value.
Research limitations/implications.
The study was confined to one geographic region (South Wales) and only quantitative data were collected when further studies will require exploratory qualitative methods to have a greater understanding.
Practical implications.
Findings from this study have been used to assist with the design and creation of an exercise class within a deprived area focussing on the values of consumption for the active and non-active. This study offers the sports provider, educator, policy maker another viewpoint of the consumption of physical activity.
Originality/value.
Extant literature on physical activity predominately focusses on levels and there is little benefits in the way of understanding the dimensions of consumer values and the consumption of physical activity. This study contributes to this literature
A preliminary comparison study of burnout and engagement in performance students in Australia, Poland and the UK
Get PDFWhile there is a growing body of research concerning the well-being of music students, burnout and engagement remain largely unexplored. Likewise, cross-national variations in approaches to music education, and different educational experiences of men and women may influence burnout and engagement. This preliminary study aimed to inform further research by establishing the levels of, and exploring cross-national and sex differences in burnout and engagement in music performance students at conservatoires in Australia, Poland and the UK (n = 331). Self-reported levels of burnout were, typically, low to moderate. Nevertheless, one in ten students reported symptoms such that they could be classified as burned out. Australian and UK students displayed more burnout than students in Poland, although Australian students reported lower levels of reduced sense of accomplishment than Polish and UK students. Self-reported engagement was, typically, moderate to high. Students in Poland reported higher levels of engagement than those in the UK. Women displayed higher levels of global burnout and emotional/physical exhaustion, while men reported lower levels of reduced sense of accomplishment. Further research on burnout and engagement could build on this investigation to gain a better understanding of their impact and the influence of the educational experience on students’ music-related well-being
Y Gymraeg yn y Cyfnod Sylfaen
Get PDFMae’r Cyfnod Sylfaen (CS) yn gwricwlwm statudol ym mhob ysgol gynradd y wladwriaeth yng Nghymru ers 2008. Mae’r bedagogeg yn ddatblygiadol, ac yn annog y plant i ymddiddori drwy ddysgu drwy brofiadau. Mae’r papur hwn yn rhan o werthusiad ehangach o’r CS a gomisiynwyd gan Lywodraeth Cymru yn 2012, ac mae’n ystyried un o’r saith maes dysgu sy’n rhan o’r CS; Datblygu’r Gymraeg. Darganfu nad oedd gwahaniaeth arwyddocaol yn sut oedd y CS yn cael ei weithredu mewn ysgolion a lleoliadau cyfrwng Cymraeg a Saesneg. Ond, yn gyffredinol, datblygir y Gymraeg yn ffurfiol mewn gweithgareddau boreol ar gyfer y dosbarth cyfan (e.e. amser cylch) sy’n mynd yn groes i weledigaeth Llywodraeth Cymru o gydblethu’r iaith ym mhob agwedd ar y CS. Mae’r papur yn ystyried sut mae ysgolion a lleoliadau yn mynd ati i ddatblygu unigolion dwyieithog, yn ôl gobeithion polisi Llywodraeth Cymr
The importance of history, language, change and challenge: What Vygotsky can teach sports coaches
Get PDFAims
In recent years, recognition of the pedagogical nature of coaching has gained increasing traction. However, within this line of inquiry, only limited attention has been given to the work of Lev Vygotsky. The aim of this article is to construct a more comprehensive case about how Vygotsky’s principal ideas can aid our understanding of both the act and process of sports coaching.
Methods
The method involves constructing a case from Vygotsky’s original work, and how it has been interpreted by others, related to the applicability of using some of his concepts to further our understanding of sports coaching practice. The case presented represents an interpretive and considered approach to the question and task at hand.
Discussion
The discussion is centred on the utility of Vygotsky’s theorising to sports coaching practice. In particular his advocacy of (1) the cultural-historical perspective; (2) the claim of language as the greatest mediator in learning; (3) how perezhivane contributes to such knowledge generation; (4) the zone of proximal development and the role of the ‘more capable other’ within it; and (5) the dialectical approach, focussing on the dynamic relationship between everyday and scientific concepts, are given primacy
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Conclusion
Finally, a reflective conclusion summarises the main points made and suggests possible future courses of action
The Physiological Demands of Youth Artistic Gymnastics; Applications to Strength and Conditioning
Get PDFThe sport of artistic gymnastics involves a series of complex events that can expose young gymnasts to relatively high forces. The sport is recognized as attracting early specialization, in which young children are exposed to a high volume of sports-specific training. Leading world authorities advocate that young athletes should participate in strength and conditioning related activities in order to increase athlete robustness and reduce the relative risk of injury. The purpose of this commentary is to provide a needs analysis of artistic gymnastics, and to highlight key issues surrounding training that practitioners should consider when working with this unique population
Applying the TARGET Pedagogical Principles in Physical Education to Enhance Students' Physical Literacy
Get PDFA mastery motivational climate, emphasizing self-referenced and individualized learning in physical education (PE), is consistent with a personalized physical literacy disposition defined as the knowledge and understanding, perceived competence, confidence and motivation to remain physically active for a lifetime. The TARGET acronym (i.e., task, authority, recognition, grouping, evaluation and time) represents the pedagogical principles that promote a mastery motivational climate. The purpose of this article is to propose TARGET as a pedagogical framework to enhance physical literacy in PE
Design for Multi-Dimensional Stages of Lymphoedema Self-Management
Get PDFThis study investigates the experience of people with the chronic medical condition lymphoedema, to inform the design of new products. Articles from literature that describe lived lymphoedema experiences are thematically synthesised from a behavioural lens. People with lymphoedema go through stages toward achieving levels of expertise, motivation and routine, to maintain effective self-management in the long-term. A preliminary framework is proposed that presents four themes (competence, autonomy, daily routine and socio-psychological) and their stages. The purpose of the framework is to assist designers in understanding how people with lymphoedema experience self-management. Focusing on facilitating a transition through these multi-dimensional stages is suggested as a means to aid the design of supportive health products. Related design implementations are discussed through product examples. This framework is developed as part of a wider research project, where the following stages will be concerned with refinement of the framework through primary research with people with lymphoedema and their healthcare providers
European Tourism Indicator System for Sustainable Destination Management in County Donegal, Ireland
Get PDFTourism is one of Ireland's most important economic sectors. In 2017, the overall visits to the
country have increased by over 10%. However, such growth if not managed correctly can present
many challenges to destinations, particularly along Irelands 2500km driving route, the Wild Atlantic
Way (WAW). This paper reports on the application of the European Tourism Indicator System for
sustainable destination management in County Donegal, Ireland. While significant data was
generated on tourism activity at local level, results do suggest that a number of the indicators would
need further research going forward. This evidence informed approach to tourism planning can
assist Local Authorities in future planning considerations, while also helping to protect the long-term
sustainability of the tourism product in County Donegal