Schaeffler joins forces with Hexagon Robotics to develop humanoid robots

Schaeffler has agreed a strategic technology partnership in the field of humanoid robotics with the Swiss company Hexagon Robotics. The cooperation centers on the development and supply of high-precision strain wave and planetary gear actuators from Schaeffler’s actuator platform.

This move sees the company systematically bringing its core competence in power transmission to the development of humanoid robotic systems. Moreover, Schaeffler is also planning to deploy at least one thousand humanoid robots from Hexagon Robotics in its global production system within the next seven years. The goal is to gradually automate production processes, boost production efficiency and systematically scale the deployment of humanoid robots in the industrial environment.

Dr. Jochen Schröder, Chief Operating Officer at Schaeffler AG, says: “Our innovative actuator platform is the technology backbone for the next generation of humanoid robots. In other words, we are creating the foundation for making humanoid robotics fit for widespread use. The cooperation with Hexagon Robotics shows how Schaeffler combines hardware excellence with industrial application. Not only are we developing key components, we are also integrating robots from Hexagon systematically into our own plants with the clear aim of further boosting our competitiveness through the use of physical AI.”

Arnaud Robert, President of Hexagon Robotics, says: “We have developed a humanoid specifically for the industrial market, leveraging our core expertise in sensor fusion, spatial intelligence, and physical AI. We are delighted to see our humanoid AEON move into real-world production. Working with Schaeffler allows us to deliver demonstrable business value across various factory environments and scale our operations.”