A finite element structural dynamics model of a beam with an arbitrary moving base. II: Numerical examples and solutions (Q1205258)

A general lumped mass finite element structural dynamics model was developed for a three-dimensional elastic beam with an arbitrary and large base movement in a previous paper [see the foregoing entry]. In this paper, it is applied to solve both an eigenvalue problem of a spinning beam and to simulate the dynamic response of a space-based robotic manipulator arm with complex time-varying base motions. The comparison of the present results with existing solutions verifies the adequacy and the modelling flexibility of the present model. Some significant deficiencies existing in previous models are confirmed. An approximation in a linear dynamics model and its effect on the dynamic response are discussed in detail.