Skip to content

Robot Dynamics

Overview

Robot dynamics describes the relationship between forces/torques and robot motion. It answers the question: "What joint torques are needed to produce desired motion?"

Lagrange-Euler Formulation

The Lagrangian \(L = K - P\) (kinetic energy minus potential energy) leads to:

\[\tau = M(q)\ddot{q} + C(q,\dot{q})\dot{q} + g(q)\]

Where: - \(M(q)\): Mass/Inertia matrix - \(C(q,\dot{q})\): Coriolis and centrifugal forces - \(g(q)\): Gravity vector - \(\tau\): Joint torques

Newton-Euler Formulation

Recursive formulation that propagates velocities and accelerations from base to tip, then propagates forces back.

Algorithm Steps:

  1. Outward recursion: Compute \(\omega_i, \dot{v}_i\) for each link
  2. Inward recursion: Compute \(\tau_i\) for each joint

Manipulator Equations of Motion

\[M(q)\ddot{q} + N(q,\dot{q}) = \tau\]

Where \(N\) represents all nonlinear terms including Coriolis, centrifugal, and gravity effects.

Dynamic Parameters

Key parameters affecting robot dynamics: - Link masses - Moments of inertia - Center of mass locations - Friction coefficients

Practical Considerations

Friction Models

  • Coulomb friction
  • Viscous friction
  • Stiction (static + kinetic)

Actuator Dynamics

  • Motor constants
  • Gear ratios
  • Backlash

← Back to Index | ← Robotics Basics