Inclusion of shear deformation term to improve accuracy in flexible-link robot modelling

Abstract The problem of developing a static and dynamic model of a single flexible manipulator link which is of sufficient accuracy for use in a multiflexible-link system is considered. Although flexible link modelling has received much attention in the past, none of the models developed have adequate accuracy for application in a multi-link system. Very high modelling accuracy is necessary because there is significant inter-link coupling in a flexible manipulator and any modelling errors are therefore cumulative. Previous work based on an assumed mode model has made some progress towards improving accuracy by including a correction factor derived from finite element analysis, and the work reported here extends this by including a shear deformation term in the equations. The significant improvements in modelling accuracy thereby achieved are demonstrated by simulations of link motion.