SwarmRail

SwarmRail is a novel solution for overhead manipulation from a mobile unit driving in an above-ground rail structure.

The system was presented to the public for the first time at the ICRA 2020.

Specifications of the Functional Demonstrator

Video

System description

The SwarmRail-concept is based on the combination of omnidirectional mobile platform and L-shaped rail profiles that form a through-going central gap. This gap makes possible mounting a robotic manipulator arm overhead at the underside of the mobile platform. Compared to existing solutions, SwarmRail enables continuous overhead manipulation while traversing rail crossings. It also can be operated in a robot swarm, as it allows for concurrent operation of a group of mobile SwarmRail units inside a single rail network. Experiments on a first functional demonstrator confirm the functional capability of the concept. Potential fields of applications reach from industry over logistics to vertical farming.

Dr.-Ing. Martin Görner German Aerospace Center Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics, Analysis and Control of advanced robotic systems Oberpfaffenhofen-Weßling Tel.: +49 8153 28-1089 Fax: +49 8153 28-1134

Dr.-Ing. Thomas Hulin German Aerospace Center Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics, Analysis and Control of advanced robotic systems Oberpfaffenhofen-Weßling Tel.: +49 8153 28-1306 Fax: +49 8153 28-1134

Dr.-Ing. Roman Weitschat German Aerospace Center Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics, Cognitive Robotics Oberpfaffenhofen-Weßling Tel.: +49 8153 28-1096 Fax: +49 8153 28-1134