Modelling of the hamstring muscle group by use of fractional derivatives

Abstract: This paper deals with a viscoelastic model of the hamstring muscle group. The model includes fractional derivatives of stretching force and elongation, as well as restrictions on the coefficients that follow from the Clausius–Duhem inequality. On the basis of a ramp-and-hold type of experiment, four rheological parameters have been calculated by numerical treatment ab initio. Riemann–Liouville fractional derivatives were approximated numerically using the Grünwald–Letnikov definition. Obtained results were verified by use of the Laplace transform method. The stretching force in time domain involves Mittag-Leffler-type function. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]