Schneider Electric Expands Lexium Cobot Line at MODEX
At MODEX 2024, Schneider Electric introduced two new additions to its Lexium collaborative robot lineup—the RL 3 and RL 12—alongside the forthcoming RL 18 model slated for later release. The Lexium range spans from single-axis machines to high-performance, multi-axis cobots, with the capability to control up to 130 axes from a single processor. This architecture supports precise positioning, a critical factor in addressing manufacturing challenges related to production speed, flexibility, and sustainability.
Christine Bush, leader of the Robotics Center of Excellence at Schneider Electric, emphasized the growing need for advanced automation in domestic manufacturing. “As U.S. manufacturing increases, the demand for smart machines is growing, and customers are requiring robots with digital twin capabilities that validate machine performance to help them quickly increase production consistently, efficiently, and sustainably,” she stated. Bush further noted, “We are partnering with our customers to understand their challenges and pain points, then responding with complete, customized automation solutions – from power products and HMIs to PLCs and robotics – to simplify the process and meet their needs.”
Beyond the hardware, Schneider Electric delivers a fully integrated automation ecosystem through its EcoStruxure architecture. This framework connects smart devices, controls, software, and services, enabling a seamless flow of operational data from shop floor to top floor. The company’s Modicon motion controllers merge PLC, motion, and robotics control into a single hardware platform, coordinated via EcoStruxure Machine Expert software.
The Lexium cobots themselves are engineered for high precision, boasting a positioning accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm. Payload capacities span from 3 kg to 18 kg, accommodating diverse manufacturing tasks. Pricing ranges between $27,368 and $41,170, reflecting the advanced capabilities and integration potential of the units.
A key differentiator in the Lexium series is compatibility with EcoStruxure Machine Expert Twin. This digital twin software suite enables the creation of virtual models of physical machines, allowing manufacturers to simulate layouts, programming, and operational strategies before physical deployment. Schneider Electric reports that digitizing these processes can cut time-to-market by up to 50% and reduce commissioning time by as much as 60%. Investment costs can be lowered by 20% to 40% due to these efficiencies.
Enhanced computational power, open software standards, and robust networking contribute to faster assembly, installation, and maintenance. Centralized architecture and open-standard programming further streamline integration with existing systems. Collaborative robots also bring ergonomic advantages, reducing workplace strain and injury risks while maintaining consistent output and improving product quality.
For manufacturers aiming to remain competitive on a global scale, modernization through Industry 4.0 technologies is essential. Schneider Electric positions the Lexium line as a bridge to these advancements, incorporating AI, machine learning, IoT connectivity, and digital twin capabilities. Such tools allow rapid development of new manufacturing concepts, reduction in operational time, and adaptability to evolving customer demands.
Looking ahead, the company envisions its motion and robotics solutions playing a pivotal role in the transition toward Industry 5.0. This next phase emphasizes personalized automated manufacturing, where human creativity and machine precision converge to deliver tailored products at scale.
