Hexagon, Schaeffler expand AEON robot partnership

Key Takeaways

• Hexagon Robotics' Division and Schaeffler are expanding their partnership to deploy humanoid robots, AEON, across global factories
• The partnership aims to increase flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability in manufacturing
• Schaeffler plans to deploy at least 1,000 AEON robots by 2032, with initial deployment starting in 2026
• The robots will utilize high-precision actuators and advanced sensor suites for precision manipulation and inspection

Introduction to the Partnership

Hexagon Robotics' Division and Schaeffler, a leading motion technology company, have announced the expansion of their strategic partnership to accelerate the rollout of humanoid robots, AEON, across factories worldwide. This partnership marks a significant step towards bringing humanoid robots into production environments, with the goal of increasing flexibility, improving efficiency, and enhancing sustainability.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The AEON robot features a unique sensor suite and wheel-based locomotion, enabling high-precision manipulation capabilities. During the pilot phase, AEON demonstrated its capabilities in operating a multi-machine station, loading, unloading, and inspecting parts in a real-world production environment. The robot's technical specifications include:

Future Deployment and Applications

Building on the successful pilot, the companies will now move to deployment across multiple sites, with additional applications such as automated part inspection targeted for rollout starting at the end of 2026. The partnership will focus on generating and utilizing real-world production data to enable faster deployment of AEONs across new use cases and production settings.

Benefits and Commitment

The partnership between Hexagon Robotics and Schaeffler reinforces their commitment to driving innovation in manufacturing and exploring next-generation autonomous solutions. For Hexagon Robotics, the partnership supports its mission to bring advanced robotics into real industrial use at scale. For Schaeffler, it represents a key step in progressing its vision of highly automated, data-driven production.

Bottom Line

The expansion of the partnership between Hexagon Robotics and Schaeffler is a significant step towards increasing the use of humanoid robots in manufacturing. With the planned deployment of at least 1,000 AEON robots by 2032, this partnership has the potential to transform the manufacturing industry, increasing efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of advanced robotics and automation technologies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of manufacturing.