A Dynamic Model for Concentric Tube Robots

Existing static and kinematic models of concentric tube robots are based on the ordinary differential equations of a static Cosserat rod. In this article, we provide the first dynamic model for concentric tube continuum robots by adapting the partial differential equations of a dynamic Cosserat rod to describe the coupled inertial dynamics of precurved concentric tubes. This generates an initial-boundary-value problem that can capture robot vibrations over time. We solve this model numerically at high time resolutions using implicit finite differences in time and arc length. This approach is capable of resolving the high-frequency torsional dynamics that occur during unstable “snapping” motions and provides a simulation tool that can track the true robot configuration through such transitions. Furthermore, it can track slower oscillations associated with bending and torsion as a robot interacts with tissue at real-time speeds. Experimental verification of the model shows that this wide range of effects is captured efficiently and accurately.