ZURICH, Switzerland, Apr 24, 2026 – Hexagon Robotics and Schaeffler are moving from pilot to deployment of AEON humanoid robots in factory production. Following a 2025 pilot, Schaeffler plans to deploy at least 1,000 units across its global manufacturing network by 2032 and will supply actuators for the systems.
“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,” said Arnaud Robert, president of Hexagon Robotics. “Working with Schaeffler allows us to deliver demonstrable business value across various factory environments and scale our operations.”
During the pilot phase, AEON used its sensor suite and wheel-based locomotion to operate a multi-machine station to load, unload, and inspect parts in a production environment. The system handled machine interaction and inspection steps within a single workflow. AEON was also featured at Schaeffler’s Global Production Forum 2025 and Schaeffler Partner Days 2026.
The companies will deploy AEON systems across multiple sites. Additional applications, including automated part inspection, are scheduled for rollout starting at the end of 2026. The work includes collection and use of production data to support deployment across new use cases and production settings.
Dr. Jochen Schröder, chief operating officer at Schaeffler AG, said: “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.”
The partnership also includes hardware integration, as Schaeffler will supply actuators for AEON systems. The companies are integrating humanoid robots into production processes across global manufacturing operations.
Source: Hexagon
About Hexagon Robotics
Hexagon Robotics is a division of Hexagon AB that develops autonomous systems and humanoid robots for industrial use. It integrates measurement technologies, sensors, and AI to operate in industrial environments. The division builds systems such as the AEON humanoid robot for inspection, material handling, and machine tending. Its systems serve manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, warehousing, and logistics sectors. Hexagon Robotics was established in 2025 as part of Hexagon’s automation strategy. The company operates from Stockholm, Sweden, through its parent organization. Its systems combine spatial data, digital twin models, and sensor inputs to control robotic movement and interaction. Customers include industrial enterprises using automation in production and operations. Global employees of Hexagon Robotics are about 24,500 across Hexagon operations.
About Schaeffler
Schaeffler is a manufacturer of mechanical components and systems founded in 1946. It produces rolling element bearings, linear guides, and drivetrain components for automotive and industrial applications. The company supplies products for powertrains, chassis systems, and industrial machinery, along with repair and maintenance services. Its operations serve automotive, aerospace, industrial equipment, and energy sectors. Schaeffler is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany. It operates production sites, research centers, and sales offices in more than 50 countries. Customers include automotive manufacturers, industrial equipment producers, and aftermarket service providers. The company also supplies components for electric mobility and renewable energy systems. Schaeffler employs about 113,000 people globally.