Non-linear dynamics of multibody systems: a system-based approach

Abstract: This paper presents causal block-diagram models to represent the equations of motion of multi-body systems in a very compact and simple closed form. Both the forward dynamics (from the forces and torques imposed at the various degrees-of-freedom to the motions of these degrees-of-freedom) or the inverse dynamics (from the motions imposed at the degrees-of-freedom to the resulting forces and torques) can be considered and described by a block diagram model. This work extends the Two-Input Two-Output Port (TITOP) theory by including all non-linear terms and uniform or gravitational acceleration fields. Connection among different blocks is possible through the definition of the motion vector. The model of a system composed of a floating base, rigid bodies, revolute and prismatic joints, working under gravity is developed to illustrate the methodology. The proposed model is validated by simulation and cross-checking with a model built using an alternative modeling tool on a scenario where the nonlinear terms are determining.