Application of rigid finite element method to dynamic analysis of spatial systems

Abstract

This paper presents an application of the rigid finite element method to modeling of flexible links of spatial systems. It is assumed that the movement of the base, with which the flexible system is connected, is known. The model presented takes into account large deflections of the link and an influence of centrifugal forces on deflections and deformations. Methods applied in dynamic analysis of manipulators with rigid links are used to derive the equations of motion. The results of numerical calculations are compared with those obtained by other authors who used the finite element approach.