Dynamics of Mechanical Systems and the Generalized Free-Body Diagram—Part II: Imposition of Constraints

Abstract

In this part of the work we present some applications of the formulation developed in Part I (, 2008, “ Dynamics of Mechanical Systems and the Generalized Free-Body Diagram—Part I: General Formulation,” ASME J. Appl. Mech., 75(6), p. 061012) for the generalized free-body diagram in configuration space. This involves the specification and imposition of constraint conditions, which were identified as Step 2 of the analysis of a mechanical system in Part I. We will particularly consider bilaterally and unilaterally constrained systems, where constraints are realized via ideal or nonideal interfaces. We also look at the general case where the constraint configuration is possibly redundant. The results represent novel forms of dynamics models for mechanical systems, and can offer the possibility to gain more insight for simulation, design, and control.