Biomechanical modelling in sports - selected applications

In the past decade computer models have become very popular in the fi eld of sports biomechanics due to the exponential advancements in computer technology. Biomechanical computer models can roughly be grouped into multi-body models and numerical models. The theoretical aspects of both modelling strategies will be shortly introduced. This chapter focuses on the presentation of instructive application examples each representing a specialized branch within the fi eld of modelling in sports. Special attention is paid to the set-up of individual models of human body parts. In order to reach this goal a chain of tools including medical imaging, image acquisition and processing, mesh generation, material modelling and fi nite element simulation becomes necessary. The basic concepts of these tools are thoroughly described and fi rst results presented. The chapter ends with a short outlook into the future of sports biomechanics.