Owen Beck is an assistant professor at The University of Texas at Austin. He directs the Human Locomotion Lab, which studies walking and running biomechanics, physiology, and performance (https://sites.edb.utexas.edu/hll/)
Ph.D. in Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, 2017
B.S. in Kinesiology, Humboldt State University, 2013
Biomechanics, Energetics, Walking, Running
AI-driven hip exoskeleton control framework that rapidly generalizes to a broad range of users and real-world locomotor tasksThe objective of this proposal is to develop a robotic hip exoskeleton control framework that rapidly tunes to the specific-users movement patterns and provides personalized assistance across real-world mobility tasks. We will thoroughly evaluate the developed controls and existing state-of-the-art controls during both outdoor ambulation tasks and within the laboratory to mechanistically explain how hip exoskeletons improve user physiology and mobility. This technological development will improve the ability of robotic exoskeletons to assist community members with distinct movement patterns, thereby improving the ability of a diverse population to maintain satisfactory levels of independence, quality of life, and physical activity.
Electrical Stimulation to Restore Youthful Walking in Older AdultsOlder adults require more effort to walk than young adults, primarily due to their characteristic movement patterns. This project aims to restore more youthful movements and walking effort in older adults using electrical stimulation. Doing so will reveal how the nervous system contributes to age-related deterioration in walking ability, while informing interventions capable of improving community ambulation in older adults.
Performance-Enhancing Socks
We are developing textiles that augment the biomechanics of the foot to improve running performance.
Sponsored Research Agreement: New Balance
Discover to Impact Office: Proof of Concept+ Award
McCamish Parkinson's Disease Innovation Program Training Postdoctoral Fellowship (Emory University)
Linking muscle-tendon dynamics and energetics to inform exoskeleton design for improved locomotor economy in agingAged tendons elicit uneconomical muscle dynamics, contributing to the slower walking speeds and higher metabolic rates of older versus young adults. Accordingly, this project uniquely and systematically alters older adult leg muscle dynamics during isolated contractions and during walking to uncover the optimal muscle dynamics for economical movement. Project results will inform assistive device design, surgical procedures, as well as rehabilitation and exercise programs aimed to improve older adult leg muscle and tendon function, and in turn, improve their ability to navigate the community.
Ningzhen Zhao, Ph.D., expected 2028 (Supervisor)Alternating muscle activation patterns across rotator cuff and deltoid muscles during fatigue.
