Angular constraints on the Inverted Double Pendulum - 'Acrobot'

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on implementing constraints in a Java model of the 'Acrobot', based on Sutton's work. The model aims to simulate a gymnast's movements on a high bar, specifically addressing the issue of preventing the inner angle between the two joints from reaching zero. The user has attempted various methods to enforce these constraints, including angular velocity conditions and potential energy barriers, but has encountered bugs during rapid changes in angular velocity. The need for a reliable method to measure the angle between the two joints is also highlighted.

PREREQUISITES
  • Java programming skills for implementing the model.
  • Understanding of angular velocity and its effects on joint movement.
  • Familiarity with constraint satisfaction problems in physics simulations.
  • Knowledge of potential energy concepts in mechanical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for implementing constraint satisfaction in physics simulations.
  • Explore techniques for measuring angles between two moving joints in a pendulum system.
  • Investigate potential energy functions to manage joint constraints effectively.
  • Learn about debugging techniques for handling rapid changes in angular velocity in simulations.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for robotics engineers, physics simulation developers, and computer scientists interested in constraint-based modeling and angular dynamics.

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I am attempting to recreate Sutton's work on the 'Acrobot' and have modeled a good solution to the following:
http://webdocs.cs.uAlberta.ca/~sutton/book/ebook/node110.html

The physics is implemented in exactly the same way, however my particular Java implementation requires some constraint satisfaction so that particular movements cannot occur. As it stands, the Acrobot will gain momentum and then begin the second pendulum will rotate 360°. The purpose is to model a gymnast swinging on a high bar.

WP_001320.jpg


From the case figures, the two angles of the two joints are measured independently of one another. Suppose the angular velocity of the first joint is positive and starts from 0, as it revolves, the accumulated angle will eventually reach 2∏ and be reset to zero. Vice versa, a negative velocity will accumulate a negative angle until it reaches -2∏ and be reset to 0. Another point of interest is in Figure 1, θ1 is true if the ω1 >0, however if ω1 < 0 then the θ (which is already known, so we don't need this calculation, but in the context of the Figure) would be -(2π - θ1).

If you imagine the second joint as the 'hips' of an acrobat, the inner angle between the two cannot become 0. On the other hand, suppose the acrobot is vertical and the second joint has a positive velocity, it is fine for the second pendulum to continue around, but here the new angle between must not reach zero.

So, what is required are constraints that stop the inner angle becoming zero in particular scenarios. I have attempted a faulty solution that you can see below. I have also attempted to think about measuring the angle between the two, but cannot figure out a method.

I would greatly appreciate some help, as this should be simple but perhaps I am over complicating it.

Attempt:
I created multiple cases, such that if ω1 > 0 and ω2 < 0, and θ1 + θ2 > ∏ then θ2 = -(∏ - θ1). Others include using just the angles, splitting the area into spaces and solely the velocities. All of them show bugs if the acrobot suddenly changes angular velocity or goes overhead.
 
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I have also attempted to think about measuring the angle between the two, but cannot figure out a method.
I would use those angles as primary variables to describe the state of the acrobot.
How do you want to add the constraint on the opening angle? As physical barrier? Add a potential which is large for small opening angles, and negligible elsewhere.

Why did you open a second thread? It is easier if you post everything in one thread.
 

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