Virtual pivot point in human walking: always experimentally observed but simulations suggest it may not be necessary

The intersection of ground reaction forces in a small, point-like area above the center of mass has been observed in computer simulation models and human walking experiments. This intersection point is often called a virtual pivot point (VPP). With the VPP observed so ubiquitously, it is commonly assumed to provide postural stability for bipedal walking. In this study, we challenge this assumption by questioning if walking without a VPP is possible. Deriving gaits with a neuromuscular reflex model through multi-stage optimization, we found stable walking patterns that show no signs of the VPP-typical intersection of ground reaction forces. We, therefore, conclude that a VPP is not necessary for upright, stable walking. The non-VPP gaits found are stable and successfully rejected step-down perturbations, which indicates that a VPP is not primarily responsible for locomotion robustness or postural stability. However, a collision-based analysis indicates that non-VPP gaits increased the potential for collisions between the vectors of the center of mass velocity and ground reaction forces during walking, suggesting an increased mechanical cost of transport. Although our computer simulation results have yet to be confirmed through experimental studies, they already strongly challenge the existing explanation of the VPP's function and provide an alternative explanation.