SCHNEIDER Electric has announced the launch of the Lexium cobot, featuring next-generation automation and robotics technology designed to work alongside humans to perform ‘gentle and diligent’ movements.
Developed to improve plant productivity and safety, the Lexium cobot is said to help minimise downtime caused by labour shortages. The product’s capabilities qualify it to engage in various applications that Schneider Electric revealed would not be possible using conventional industrial robots.
All models take into account human safety with collision detection, while their rounded edges and overall low weight further reduce the risk of injury to operations personnel.
The Lexium cobot can be integrated into industrial plants, with Schneider Electric adding that implementation requires ‘minimal changes’ to existing production layouts.
The cobots can work in standalone configurations so they can collaborate with human counterparts to ease heavier, more repetitive, or complex tasks. Five versions differ in size and working radius, with payloads ranging from 3 to 18kgs.
Mike Teller, global OEM strategy and sustainability leader, Schneider Electric, said, “The release of the Lexium cobot to the market marks a crucial step in next-generation robotic systems. Traditional industrial robotic systems must be designed into processes from day one. Although they can be very effective at accurately and consistently performing operations which are repetitive and arduous for workers, their speed and power make them unsuitable to work alongside people.
“The Lexium cobot, on the other hand, is intentionally designed to work with people, and offers a fast return on investment, easy integration without the capital costs of major process rework, and helps make plant more agile, productive, and safe environments.”
