1) In SimMechanics, are second order dynamics considered?

I have used SimMechanics to design a closed loop mechanism, similar to that of a digger. However, I would like to know if second order dynamics are considered in the model.

Answer 1

[Sebastian Castro]

Second-order dynamics as in springs and dampers? Yes, they are. You can do any of the following:

1. Configure joint blocks to have internal stiffness and damping
2. Create a linear spring-damper in a straight line between two points
3. Interface a SimMechanics joint with Simscape to add other dynamic effects

By the way, if you're modeling a digger, I'd recommend looking at the "sm_backhoe" example in SimMechanics. It also has closed-loop control built into it.

- Sebastian