S3C: SWISS HUB FOR COLLABORATIVE ROBOTICS IN INDUSTRY

The S3C enables Swiss SMEs to test, validate, and adopt collaborative robots in real industrial environments.

"With the S3C, Swiss companies gain access to know-how and a demonstration platform for innovative cobotic solutions, bridging the gap between research and industrial application."

Prof. Dr. Gabriel Gruener

Bern University of Applied Sciences

The Swiss Cobotics Competence Center (S3C), located at Switzerland Innovation Park Biel/Bienne, is a national hub focused on advancing collaborative robotics (cobotics) for industry. Founded in 2022, S3C provides a vendor-neutral space where companies can explore, test, and implement cobotic solutions tailored to their production needs.

Cobots differ from traditional robots by working directly and safely alongside human operators. S3C facilitates the adoption of these technologies through modular test environments known as Cobotic Base Cells (CBCs), where users simulate tasks in sectors such as precision watchmaking, medtech, machine tools, and lab automation. These cells support practical experimentation and upskilling.

As a public-private partnership, S3C includes over 30 members from academia and industry. Founding partners include Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH), EPFL, ETH Zurich, Siemens, Aica, and VU Engineering. This interdisciplinary collaboration ensures access to the latest research and real-world applications.

S3C is part of Switzerland’s AM-TTC (Advanced Manufacturing – Technology Transfer Centers) initiative and recognized as a research institution of national importance. It is funded through the ETH Board and the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). The center supports SMEs and enterprises through workshops, pilot projects, and demonstrations that lower the barrier to cobot adoption.

By accelerating the deployment of collaborative robotics, S3C helps Swiss industry stay competitive in the global shift toward flexible, automated production.

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