SwingBots: Nonlinear Resonance for Sustainable Automation

The SwingBots project is about constructing energy-efficient industrial robots. In our ongoing ERC-funded project, M-Runners, we developed new theoretical foundations and technological solutions for realizing repetitive robot motions mechanically, by nonlinear resonance. We now want to leverage this knowledge to build a robot where most robot motions are generated by a tuned interplay between moving masses of the robot links and elastic elements instead of purely relying on electric motors. This concept is especially beneficial for repetitive or close-to-repetitive motions as often encountered in engineering and industry. As a prominent example, we look at pick-and-place applications. By focusing on use-case identification, market research, and building a prototype with commercial viability, the SwingBots project aims to take the first steps towards commercialization, which is bolstered by the protection of several granted patents. The better the mechanical resonance matches the motions required for the applications, the less the actuators need to do - and the higher the energy efficiency. Besides efficiency, the approach promises to increase safety in human-robot interaction and more silent, robust, and cheaper robots.