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Robot Manipulator Jacobian & Velocity Calculator

The kinematic Jacobian matrix relates actuator joint angular velocities to end-effector Cartesian velocities.

Length of proximal link.

Length of distal link.

Current shoulder joint angle.

Current elbow joint angle.

Angular speed of joint 1.

Angular speed of joint 2.

Calculated Result
1.017 m/s

End-Effector Linear Speed

Result Summary

End-effector velocity: (-0.954, 0.354) m/s. Jacobian determinant: 0.1414. Singularity status: WELL-CONDITIONED.

Calculation Breakdown

  1. Step 1: Jacobian Matrix ElementsJ = [[-0.754, -0.400], [0.354, 0.000]]
  2. Step 2: Determinant & Singularity Analysisdet(J) = L₁·L₂·sin(θ₂) = 0.1414
  3. Step 3: Linear Velocity Mappingv = J·ω => Vx = -0.954 m/s, Vy = 0.354 m/s, |v| = 1.017 m/s

What Is the Robot Manipulator Jacobian & Velocity Calculator?

The geometric Jacobian matrix maps joint-space velocity vectors to task-space Cartesian velocity vectors.

It also plays a crucial dual role in mapping tool forces to actuator torques via principle of virtual work.

How Does the Robot Manipulator Jacobian & Velocity Calculator Work?

Evaluates the partial derivatives of Cartesian position equations with respect to joint coordinates.

Multiplies the 2×2 Jacobian matrix by the joint angular velocity vector [ω₁, ω₂].

Calculates the matrix determinant to assess proximity to kinematic singularities.

Robot Manipulator Jacobian & Velocity Calculator Formula & Variables

The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:

v = J(θ) · ω, det(J) = L₁·L₂·sin(θ₂)

Maps joint rates to Cartesian velocity vectors through partial derivatives of forward kinematics.

How to Use the Robot Manipulator Jacobian & Velocity Calculator

  1. Input link lengths in meters.
  2. Specify current joint angles in degrees.
  3. Provide current joint angular velocities in rad/s.

Step-by-Step Example Calculation

Nominal Manipulator Posture

Input Values:

link1Length:0.5
link2Length:0.4
theta1:45
theta2:45
omega1:1
omega2:0.5
Worked Steps: Arm operating away from singular extension boundaries.

Understanding Your Result

The primary result reports total end-effector linear speed.

Summary displays directional velocity components Vx, Vy and singularity status.

Factors That Affect the Result

  • Elbow angle θ₂ (determinant depends solely on θ₂ for a 2R arm).
  • Actuator joint velocity limitations.

When Should You Use This Calculator?

  • Cartesian velocity control and resolved-rate motion control.
  • Singularity avoidance algorithms and force control.

Assumptions & Limitations

  • Valid for 2-DOF planar revolute chains.
  • Neglects joint flexibility and link compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note

Exact differential mapping derived from analytical kinematic equations.

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