Geometrical Properties of Modelled Robot Elasticity: Part II — Center of Elasticity

Abstract

Abstract The elastic characteristics of many robot systems can be modeled by a 6 × 6 stiffness or compliance matrix. Several new and important results are presented via screw theory: i) A generalized center-of-elasticity is proposed based on Ball’s (1900) principal screws and its properties are investigated, ii) If a compliant axis exists, it is shown to pass through the center. iii) The perpendicular vectors from the center to the wrench-compliant axes are coplanar and sum to zero. A similar result holds for the twist-compliant axes, iv) Linear and rotational properties are characterized by dual ellipsoids in three-dimensional space. These elements simplify the understanding of complex elastic properties.