Part (a) of the figure shows a simplified model of how the biceps muscle enables the forearm to support a load. What are the advantages of this arrangement as opposed to the alternative shown in part (b), where the flexor muscle is in the forearm instead of in the upper arm? Are the two equally effective when the forearm is horizontal? What about for other angles between the upper arm and the forearm? Consider also the rotational inertia of the forearm about the elbow and of the entire arm about the shoulder.
(a)

Fig. 8.47(a)
(b)

Fig. 8.47(b)

Transcribed Image Text:

Flexor (biceps) Flexor