Schneider Electric Launches Lexium Cobot Technology for Industrial Plants

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today launched the Lexium Cobot, a collaborative machine featuring next-generation automation and advanced industrial robotics technology. The Lexium Cobot is designed to work closely alongside humans, performing uniquely gentle and diligent movements using dynamic torque and speed monitoring.

Developed to improve plant productivity and safety, the Lexium Cobot helps to minimize downtime caused by labor shortages, something which currently costs factories as much as 20 per cent in productive capacity. The Lexium Cobot’s technological capabilities qualify it to engage in various applications that would not be possible using conventional industrial robots.

“The launch of the Lexium Cobot represents a significant leap in the evolution of robotics," says Hugo Lafontaine, VP, Industrial Automation Canada, Schneider Electric. "Unlike traditional industrial robots that necessitate process integration from the outset, Lexium Cobots are purposefully engineered to collaborate seamlessly with workers. They deliver swift ROI, effortless integration, without the need for extensive process overhauls, and contribute to the enhancement of plant agility, productivity, and safety.”

All models have collision detection and safety functions to ensure machine and human safety. Their rounded edges and overall low weight further reduce the risk of injury to operations personnel. Depending on the application and risk assessment, these features can eliminate the need for additional safety equipment and, thus, take up 30-40 per cent less space than traditional industrial robots. The Lexium Cobot can also be quickly integrated into industrial plants without spending large amounts of time and capital.

New advances in machine efficiency

The Lexium Cobot’s high efficiency – through simple programming, quick setup, ease of use and training – helps industrial companies recover investment costs faster when they modernize their facilities to become smart factories.

Cost of ownership is lower; implementation requires minimal changes to existing production layouts; and Lexium Cobots have one of the smallest footprints in the industry. Seamless integration with EcoStruxure, Schneider Electric’s IoT-enabled, plug-and-play, open, interoperable architecture and platform, reduces design, development, and commissioning time, making machine delivery and startup quick and easy.

Lexium Cobots can work in standalone configurations so they are ideal for production environments by collaborating with their human counterparts to ease heavier, more repetitive, or complex tasks. They also boast significant weight-bearing potential and programming options:

• Strong payloads – The Cobot’s five versions differ in size and working radius, with payloads ranging from 3 to 18 kgs, handling repetitive and monotonous tasks so operators can focus on more value-added jobs or reduce their workload.
• Programming flexibility – Easy programming and commissioning with hands-on teaching. Graphical programming helps operators change applications effortlessly and adapt quickly to production process changes.

Source: businesswire.com