Tracking control of a flexible-link manipulator using neural networks: experimental results

In this paper, the problem of tip position tracking control of a flexible-link manipulator is considered. Two neural network schemes are presented. In the first scheme, the controller is composed of a stabilizing joint PD controller and a neural network tracking controller. The objective is to simultaneously achieve hub-position tracking and control of the elastic deflections at the tip. In the second scheme, tracking control of a point along the arm is considered to avoid difficulties associated with the output feedback control of a non-minimum phase flexible manipulator. A separate neural network is employed for determining an appropriate output to be used for feedback. The controller is also composed of a neural network tracking controller and a stabilizing joint PD controller. Experimental results on a single-link flexible manipulator show that the proposed networks result in significant improvements in the system response with an increase in controller dynamic range despite changes in the desired trajectory.