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Awarded the “Mindhack” award at the Robotics Challenge 2026.

wemonte AG: Drone-based manipulation approach for wiring harness assembly

As part of the Robotics Challenge 2026, wemonte AG is pursuing a novel automation approach: assembly and handling tasks are not performed by a stationary industrial robot, but by an autonomously flying drone with an integrated gripper and positioning system.

Result and solution approach

The contribution from wemonte AG deliberately sets itself apart from classic robotics solutions. At its core is an autonomously navigating indoor drone that uses its own localization system to orient itself, navigates to defined waypoints, and is coordinated via a central control and communication unit. The docked manipulator combines a gripper with an axis system for precise positioning.

In the demonstrator, the drone takes off from a pickup station, picks up a pre-assembled strand of wire, and transports it to the assembly station. There, after a precise landing, the joining operation is carried out using the manipulator. Even assembled modules can be picked up with the same gripper system and transported between different stations. The system thus enables flexible material and assembly processes without permanently installed robot cells.

Why this approach is relevant in practice

The demonstrator showcases an alternative approach to automating wiring harness manufacturing. Mobile robot systems can be flexibly deployed between different workstations and do not require a permanently installed robot cell. Particularly for adaptable production environments and the handling of long wiring harnesses, this approach opens up new possibilities for resource-efficient and flexible manufacturing concepts.

About wemonte AG

Wemonte AG, based in Stuttgart, develops customized testing technology for the final inspection of electrical components, as well as solutions for automated production lines and ergonomic workplaces. The company combines testing technology, additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and modern automation technologies to create comprehensive production solutions.

Further information about wemonte AG can be found at: www.wemonte.de

Results video of the solution approach of wemonte AG
The winning team from wemonte AG at the Robotics Challenge 2026
Contact Person

Robert Süß-Wolf
Research Coordination Management Set

robert.suesswolf@arena2036.de
Contact person

Alexandra Popa
Knowledge transfer and science communication