Schneider Electric Introduces All-New Automation Tech at SPS

This week, at the Smart Production Solutions (SPS) show in Germany, automation industry leader Schneider Electric debuted a wide array of technology, giving visitors a glimpse into several new innovations that will be available in 2025 and beyond, with portfolio additions including IPC controllers, edge I/O modules, motor and servo drive units, SCARA robotics, and software tools for edge computing, digital twins, AI, and electrical design.

These innovations and more were on display at SPS in Hall 1, Booth 540. 

Modicon M660 Motion Controller

Motion programming is one of the most urgent tasks in automation, requiring constant feedback updates and output calculations, often for several or dozens of motor and servo drives, all in an instant. Building upon decades of motion control experience, Schneider is introducing the Modicon M660 motion controller, an industrial PC (IPC) designed to handle more tasks with high efficiency. The Intel processor and 64-bit system open the door to integration with digital twin and AI technologies and algorithms that were beyond the scope of dedicated motion control devices.

Lexium 38i Servo and Stepper Drive

Motor controllers are also becoming more compact and capable, with the new Lexium series no exception. Designed to be built right onto the motor for decentralized control, these low-voltage motor drives can provide control and power for motors up to 1.2 kW in size. Networking and power inputs, as well as diagnostic LEDs, provide a simple way to install and operate motors across a wide range of machines.

Lexium 38i drives attached to motors. Image used courtesy of Schneider Electric

Modicon Edge I/O

Distributed I/O is becoming more popular as controllers are increasingly able to work with thousands of I/O points across multiple networks. From basic digital I/O signals to complex analog and motion signaling, the Modicon Edge I/O NTS provides network connections to various Ethernet-based industrial protocols.

Lexium SCARA Robot

SCARA robots perform at some of the highest speeds of all robots, most commonly used for picking and placing small objects. The new Lexium SCARA boasts a small installation footprint, while, at the same time, offering a longer z-arm stroke than many similarly-sized competitive models. The drives and control electronics are housed in the base, reducing the installation time and infrastructure. Accessories are also available to upgrade the robot to an IP65 rating for various working conditions.

Lexium SCARA robot in an electronic assembly operation. Image used courtesy of Schneider Electric

Software Updates

Schneider’s EcoStruxure edge system has been upgraded with the addition of many apps that allow integrators and end users to customize the Linux-based environment for a variety of applications.

The CONNECT platform from AVEVA has similarly been updated to support new applications of data sharing, AI, digital twins, and process visualization.

The SEE electrical design software from ETAP welcomes 3D Panel, a specialized software for the manufacture of switchboards and cabinets. SEE 3D Panel works with SEE electrical or other electrical CAD products to optimize wiring layouts, improve quality, and more seamlessly provide data for cutouts, drilling, and wire cutting.

Medium Voltage Motor Drives

The Altivar series introduces the ATV6100, a medium-voltage drive with a smaller footprint and features that increase energy efficiency, a continual goal for all motor and motion applications. Energy and asset management are common terms in world of distributed control technology, and this is no exception. Energy management with enhanced lower-power harmonics, and asset management through a smaller footprint that accelerates maintenance and installation tasks.

The new Altivar ATV6100 medium-voltage drive unit. Image used courtesy of Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric at SPS and Beyond

These new innovations were showcased at SPS, but Schneider hopes to make an impact in the world of industrial automation throughout 2025. Decreasing energy consumption and increasing user accessibility and integration are sure to be some of the primary goals as we progress into manufacturing in the new year.