Dynamical properties of manipulators exhibiting flexibilities

Abstract

Some important dynamic properties of manipulators with flexible joints and links are presented. Partial feedback linearization, the zero dynamics of flexible-link manipulators, and a class of multibody flexible structures are considered. It is shown that the nonlinear systems in this class are non-minimum-phase when sensing and actuation are noncollocated. Only link flexibility is included. However, analogous results can be obtained if the effects of joint flexibility are considered