Download or read book Elastic Mechanisms in Animal Movement written by R. McNeill Alexander and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 1988-01-01 with total page 150 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Originally published in 1988, this book is about the uses and implications of elastic properties in various aspects of animal biology. After a brief study of the properties of elastic materials, the book considers the functions of springs in the bodies of animals. Drawing on specific examples, the uses of elastic structures as, amongst other things, muscle antagonists, energy stores, catapults and suspension springs are described. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in animal mechanics.