Journal of Bionic Engineering ›› 2020, Vol. 17 ›› Issue (3): 580-590.doi: 10.1007/s42235-020-0046-z
Biomechanical Functions of the Canine Metacarpal and Metatarsal Pads during Locomotion: A Comparative Analysis
Huaibin Miao1, Zhuo Wang2, Jing Liu1, Zhihui Qian1*, Luquan Ren1, Lei Ren1,3*
- 1. Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
2. First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
3. School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
Biomechanical Functions of the Canine Metacarpal and Metatarsal Pads during Locomotion: A Comparative Analysis
Huaibin Miao1, Zhuo Wang2, Jing Liu1, Zhihui Qian1*, Luquan Ren1, Lei Ren1,3*#br#
- 1. Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
2. First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
3. School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
摘要： It is generally known that forelimbs and hindlimbs play different roles during locomotion, but the possible differences in the bio-mechanical functions of the metacarpal pad and metatarsal pad remain unknown. This study combined kinematic and pressure data from dogs to investigate the key roles of the metacarpal and metatarsal pads. The peak vertical ground reaction force of the metacarpal pad was found to be larger than that of the metatarsal pad, whereas the peak vertical ground reaction force of the fore toes was equal to that of hind toes, and the vertical deformations of the metacarpal and metatarsal pads were almost equal; moreover, the obtained stiffness of the metacarpal pad was several times greater than that of metatarsal pad based on in vivo measurement data. The results showed that the metacarpal pad demonstrated the biomechanical characteristics of cushion and support; however, the support characteristics of the metatarsal pad were weak. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging was performed to gather evidence to interpret the various roles played by the metacarpal pad and the metatarsal pad. It was found that the morphology and volumes of internal adipose tissues were closely related to the functions played by the metapodial pad during movement.