Automated optimization of residual reduction algorithm parameters in OpenSim

• Published in: Journal of biomechanics Vol. 137; p. 111087
• Main Authors: Sturdy, Jordan T., Silverman, Anne K., Pickle, Nathan T.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Ltd 01.05.2022; Elsevier Limited
• Subjects: Algorithms; Automation; Biomechanics; Decision making; Dynamic Consistency; Errors; Kinematics; MATLAB; Movement simulation; Open source software; OpenSim; Optimization; Python; Reduction; RRA; Simulation; Tracking; Biomechanics; OpenSim; RRA; Movement simulation; Dynamic Consistency; MATLAB; Python
• ISSN: 0021-9290; 1873-2380; 1873-2380
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111087

The residual reduction algorithm (RRA) in OpenSim is designed to improve dynamic consistency of kinematics and ground reaction forces in movement simulations of musculoskeletal models. RRA requires the user to select numerous tracking weights for the joint kinematics to reduce residual errors. Selection is often performed manually, which can be time-consuming and is unlikely to yield optimal tracking weights. A multi-heuristic optimization algorithm was used to expedite tracking weight decision making to reduce residual errors. This method produced more rigorous results than manual iterations and although the total computation time was not significantly reduced, this method does not require the user to monitor the algorithm’s progress to find a solution, thereby reducing manual tuning. Supporting documentation and code to implement this optimization is freely provided to assist the community with developing movement simulations.