In this paper, we consider the problem to minimize the energy consumption for controlled multibody systems utilizing passive elastic elements for energy storage useful for robot systems in manufacturing. Firstly, based on the linearized equations of motion, we analyze the relationship between the consumed energy and the operating time, and the optimal trajectory using optimal control theory. Then, we verify the analytical solution by comparing with the numerical one computed considering the full nonlinear dynamics. After that we derive a condition for the operating time to be optimal, and propose the optimal design method for springs. Finally, we show the effectiveness of the design method by applying it to a 2DOF manipulator.