– It’s fantastic to see so many students involved in projects spanning from technical development to artistic exploration. The lab provides an essential arena for learning and innovation, says Daniel Hagen, director of UiA Motion Lab.
Established in 2013, Motion Lab has evolved into a state-of-the-art testing and development environment funded by the University of Agder (UiA) and the Research Council of Norway (RCN). The facilities are accessible to students, researchers, and external partners alike, with student engagement being particularly strong this spring.
Active student involvement
Several projects are running throughout 2025, primarily bachelor's, master's, and PhD projects supervised by faculty from the mechatronics program. Motion Lab has also become an essential platform for students participating in internships and research- and innovation projects.
For example, Daniel Hagen and Motion Lab are partnering in an ongoing project with artist Per Fronth, funded by Cultiva Digital. This project supports the use of digital technologies to create, deliver, communicate, and experience innovative art. They are exploring how a mobile Stewart platform can be incorporated into an artistic installation involving a sailboat, with students actively participating in technical preparations and experimental realization of the artist's vision.
Another project, funded by RCN, is based on an invention developed during a master’s thesis in 2024. This involves an autonomous hooking system (AHS) aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in lifting and load-handling operations. Students are actively involved in exploring new technologies with commercial potential.
In June and July, the lab will host an artistic choreography and dance project, creatively combining technology and movement. Students will play key roles in operations and technical support.
Students are also involved in the innovation project SAKO, developing a new robot for healthcare applications. Although this robot has not yet been completed or tested in the lab, the project aims to use advanced robotics to alleviate the physical demands on healthcare workers. Currently, UiA’s autonomous mobile robot platform (UiAbot) is used by students to develop and test sensor and software solutions in preparation for the task-specific custom-built robot.
Additionally, students are spending the summer and autumn developing a digital twin of Motion Lab. This digital replica will enable virtual testing of ideas and simulations, opening new application possibilities and enhancing flexible access.
Important for UiA’s societal mission
Motion Lab is more than just a research infrastructure—it is pivotal to the university's commitment to practical education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation.
– Motion Lab is a clear example of how UiA integrates education, research, and society. Students gain practical skills by engaging in real-world projects, while the lab serves as a vital bridge connecting academia and industry, Hagen explains.
– This makes Motion Lab central to our efforts in educating the problem-solvers of tomorrow, he concludes.