Task space decomposition for invariant control of constrained robots

An approach, motivated by analytical mechanics and linear algebra methods, is proposed for task space decomposition. The approach relies on the introduction of a new set of kinematic parameters describing the constrained motion of the end-effector, using the analytical forms of material and program constraints. These parameters define a new basis in the end-effector configuration space. A general inner product characterized by the unity matrix is introduced in this basis and in its dual, which gives rise to the definition of a new set of metrics for the end-effector configuration space. The vectors defined in these bases are considered as pseudo-orthogonal. Returning to the original bases of the configuration space, the symmetric matrices for the vanishing bilinear forms can be defined. In this way, the freedom and constraint subspaces can be defined in a rigorous, analytical way. The physical meaning of the resulting metrics is explained. It is shown that the task space decomposition is invariant, although non-Euclidean metrics are being used. To illustrate the application of the methodology and to explain further the properties of the task space decomposition, two examples are presented. In the first example, the robot end-effector tracks a planar surface. A particular definition of the program constraint gives rise to the introduction of skewed bases, which better explains the inherent features of the approach. In the second example, a task of operating a planar joystick, with constrained orientation of the end-effector, is considered. The relevant bases of the task space are translated in this case and it is possible to explain other features of the method.