Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Increased forearm activity may reflect greater steering input or control effort, which, if optimised, could reduce cornering time and thereby improve lap performance. This proof-of-concept case study aimed to quantify forearm muscle activity during two test sessions, with data-driven driver feedback in between sessions to inform steering technique. One ex-professional European karting driver was recruited for this study. A 20 Hz GPS was mounted on the kart, and two electromyography sensors were attached to the left and right flexor digitorum superficialis. In session one, the driver completed 19 laps; EMG data from the fastest lap (51.99 s) were analysed and used to provide feedback. In session two, the driver completed 20 laps, achieving a best time of 51.60 s. EMG analysis revealed greater left forearm activity during left-hand corners in session one, shifting to greater right forearm activity during right-hand corners in session two. The 0.39 s improvement in lap time suggests that EMG-informed feedback may influence steering technique and enhance performance. These findings highlight the potential of integrating EMG analysis into driver coaching, particularly in training and qualifying contexts.
Source: Applied Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/app15168801
Authors: Chris Mills, Tim Blackmore, Michael Wakefield, Emma Neupert
Institutions: University of Portsmouth, Biomatics, Inc. (Japan)
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W4413221228