Fundamentals of motion and biomechanics

This chapter presents the basis for understanding motion fundamentals and biomechanics that are utilized in the rest of the book. The chapter covers basic concepts in linear algebra, complex numbers, forces and motions of particles, rigid bodies (with examples on human models), basic statistics (including the meaning of the p-value and confidence intervals), and time and frequency analysis. It concludes with an introduction to vibration that includes vibration fundamentals, random vibration, and equivalent systems, including examples of supine humans. One point that should be taken from this chapter is that complicated motions and systems, such as the human body, can be simplified, and simplification can be a very powerful tool.