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A comparison of resonance tuning with positive versus negative sensory feedback

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Abstract

We used a computational model of rhythmic movement to analyze how the connectivity of sensory feedback affects the tuning of a closed-loop neuromechanical system to the mechanical resonant frequency (ωr). Our model includes a Matsuoka half-center oscillator for a central pattern generator (CPG) and a linear, one-degree-of-freedom system for a mechanical component. Using both an open-loop frequency response analysis and closed-loop simulations, we compared resonance tuning with four different feedback configurations as the mechanical resonant frequency, feedback gain, and mechanical damping varied. The feedback configurations consisted of two negative and two positive feedback connectivity schemes. We found that with negative feedback, resonance tuning predominantly occurred when ωr was higher than the CPG’s endogenous frequency (ωCPG). In contrast, with the two positive feedback configurations, resonance tuning only occurred if ωr was lower than ωCPG. Moreover, the differences in resonance tuning between the two positive (negative) feedback configurations increased with increasing feedback gain and with decreasing mechanical damping. Our results indicate that resonance tuning can be achieved with positive feedback. Furthermore, we have shown that the feedback configuration affects the parameter space over which the endogenous frequency of the CPG or resonant frequency the mechanical dynamics dominates the frequency of a rhythmic movement.

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  1. The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA

    Carrie A. Williams & Stephen P. DeWeerth

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  1. Carrie A. Williams
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  2. Stephen P. DeWeerth
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Correspondence to Stephen P. DeWeerth.

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Williams, C.A., DeWeerth, S.P. A comparison of resonance tuning with positive versus negative sensory feedback. Biol Cybern 96, 603–614 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00422-007-0150-8

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