FINITE-ELEMENT DYNAMIC MODELING OF A TRANSLATING AND ROTATING FLEXIBLE LINK

A finite element dynamic model for a translating and rotating beam is formulated. The developed model adopts a finite element mesh with a fi xed number of elements, where the element length is constant. The time -dependent boundary conditions manifested by the prismatic joint const raints are considered. A transition element with variable stiffness is introduced at the interface with the joint hub. In this finite elemen t formulation, all the inertia coupling terms between the beam referen ce motions and the local elastic deformations are considered. In addit ion, the model accounts for the dynamics of the end mass as well as th e associated coupling effects. Numerical simulations and comparisons w ith results obtained by other methods are presented to demonstrate the validity and accuracy of the developed model.