Arm trajectory formation in monkeys

Abstract

The formation of forearm trajectories of moderate velocities (0.3-1.3 rad/s) was studied in monkeys performing a simple visuomotor task. The experiments were designed to test the hypothesis that the transition from one position to another is subserved by a rapid shift to a final equilibrium of forces in agonist and antagonist muscles. This idea is attractive because it suggests the possibility that in simple movements the trajectory is determined by the inherent inertial and viscoelastic properties of the limb and muscles around a joint. The results indicate that these moderate speed movements are controlled by a gradual, and not a step-like, shift to the final equilibrium position.