The vector-network method for the modelling of mechanical systems

This paper presents an extension of the vector-network approach to the problem of motion prediction. The entire procedure is a basic application of concepts of graph theory in which laws of vector dynamics have been combined. A comprehensive mathematical model for the systematic formulation of the equations of motion of dynamic three-dimensional constrained multi-body systems is derived. The method embodies simultaneously the three-dimensional inertial equations associated with each rigid body and the kinematic constraints into a symmetrical format yielding the differential equations governing the response of the system. The modelling technique is thoroughly described in this work and its validity is impartially established.