A Finite Element Method for Linear Modeling and Control of a Single Flexible Link Robotic Manipulator

A linear finite element procedure is presented for modeling a single flexible link robotic manipulator system. The model takes into consideration the DC motor, torsional springs/dampers, cantilever beam and the accelerometer at the tip. The finite element method for system modeling is validated through comparison to experimental data using the frequency response. With a validated model for the system, feedback control is implemented for vibration reduction and accurate positioning of the beam tip. The accuracy of the controlled model is compared to experiment and a discrete time transfer matrix method of modelling. The closed-loop finite element method model exhibited an accurate response, related to experiment, with encoder feedback and accelerometer feedback using digital compensator