Performance of Lightweight Manipulators under Joint Variable Feedback Control: Analytical Study of Limitations

The performance limitations of joint variable feedback controlled manipulators due to manipulator flexibility are studied in fine and gross motions. A finite dimensional time-domain manipulator model is used in the study. Fine motion analysis results agree very well with the previously reported results based on infinite dimensional frequency domain models. The limitations of a class of adaptive controllers in high speed gross motion control are studied. Manipulation speeds are quantified as low, medium, or high with reference to the arm flexibility and dynamic nonlinearities.