A Conservation Theorem for Constrained Multibody Systems

This paper presents a general conservation theorem for multibody systems subject to simple nonholonomic constraints. It is applicable to both conservative and nonconservative systems. The derivation of this theorem is based on Kane’s equations with undetermined multipliers. A power equation and a first integral of motion have been derived. They emerge in physically meaningful forms and include expressions for evaluating the power and energy flowing into the system. Like Kane’s equations, the power equation and the first integral of motion are derived in matrix form. This makes them particularly useful for the computer formulation and solution of multibody system dynamics.