Complete dynamic modeling and approximate state space equations of the flexible link manipulator

This work treats the problem of dynamic modeling and state space approximation for robotic manipulators with flexibility. Case studies are planar manipulators with a single flexible link together with clamped-free ends and tip mass conditions. In this paper, complete dynamic modeling of the flexible beam without premature linearization in the formulation of the dynamics equations is developed, whereby this model is capable of reproducing nonlinear dynamic effects, such as the beam stiffening due to the centrifugal and the Coriolis forces induced by rotation of the joints, giving it the capability to predict reliable dynamic behavior. On the other hand, in order to show the joint flexibility effects on the model dynamic behaviors, manipulator with structural and joint flexibility is considered. Thus, a reliable model for flexible beam is then presented. The model is founded on two basic assumptions: inextensibility of the neutral fiber and moderate rotations of the cross sections in order to account for the foreshortening of the beam due to bending. To achieve flexible manipulator control, the standard form of state space equations for a flexible manipulator system (flexible link and actuator) is very important. In this study, finite difference method for discretization of the dynamic equations is used and the state space equations of the flexible link with tip mass considering complete dynamic of the system are obtained. Simulation results indicated substantial improvements on dynamic behavior and it is shown that the joint flexibility has a considerable effect on the dynamic behavior of rotating flexible arm that should not be simply neglected. The effects of tip mass is proved to be increasing the elastic deformations' amplitudes and increasing stability.