Manfred Schedl
Papers
11
Total Citations
128
H-Index
5
About
Manfred Schedl is a leading figure in space robotics, whose career at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) has been defined by pushing the boundaries of what robotic systems can achieve in orbit. His research focuses on the development of lightweight, torque-controlled robotic arms and articulated hands, with a primary application in on-orbit servicing (OOS)—the repair, refueling, and deorbiting of satellites. Schedl’s foundational work on DLR’s light-weight robot technology (LWR III) not only set a global standard but was successfully transferred to industry leader KUKA, demonstrating a rare and impactful bridge between research and commercial application. His most cited paper (55 citations) critically assesses the technological limits of torque-controlled systems, while his leadership on the CAESAR project (20 citations) showcases a direct lineage of this technology for space assembly and maintenance. More recently, Schedl has pioneered the Motion Suspension System (MSS), a cable-driven testbed that solves the critical challenge of simulating zero-gravity on Earth for space robots. With a career spanning two decades, his work is essential for enabling a future where robotic systems actively manage and sustain orbital infrastructure.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2CAESAR: Space Robotics Technology for Assembly, Maintenance, and Repair20 citations · 2018
- 3
- 4
- 5DLRs dynamic actuator modules for robotic space applications12 citations · 2012
- 6
- 7Analysis of Sensor Errors of a Suspension Systems for Space Robots3 citations · 2024
- 8
- 9
- 10