Truncation errors of assumed shape modeling for flexible-link manipulators

Abstract

The assumed mode shape method has been widely used to derive finite degree-of-freedom dynamic models for flexible-link manipulators, which theoretically have infinite degree-of-freedom dynamics. For a single flexible manipulator, this approximation changes locations of the zeros of transfer functions between base torque and end-effector displacement. The change in locations of zeros considerably affects accuracy of the model and therefore the performance of model-based controllers. This article presents a comprehensive study on the change in locations of zeros due to the truncation associated with assumed mode shape method. It is shown that the locations of approximate zeros depend on four non-dimensional parameters, whereas the locations of analytical zeros depend on only two non-dimensional parameters. Approximate zeros are obtained from assumed mode shape method models, whereas analytical zeros are derived from infinite order models. A thorough study of the differences between approximate zeros and analytical zeros versus the number of mode shapes as well as all the physical parameters is performed. Moreover, guidelines are provided to select the numbers of mode shapes such that the approximate zeros become close to the analytical zeros. These guidelines can easily be used by control and modeling engineers, making them valuable for modeling and control of flexible robot manipulators.