Revolutionizing Industrial Automation: Accenture and Schaeffler's Humanoid Robot Initiative
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Accenture and Schaeffler AG have joined forces to develop advanced humanoid robots for industrial applications. Leveraging cutting-edge AI and data technologies from Nvidia and Microsoft, this initiative aims to redefine industrial automation by enhancing efficiency, flexibility, and human-robot collaboration. Unveiled at Hannover Messe 2025 in Germany, the project showcases various robotic systems, including autonomous mobile robots, cobots, and general-purpose humanoids like Agility Robotics' Digit and Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix. The partnership also includes a proof-of-concept (PoC) that uses AI simulations to optimize factory planning, robot testing, and live operations.
Accenture and Schaeffler Redefine Industrial Automation Through Innovative Collaboration
In the heart of Germany, during the prestigious Hannover Messe 2025 event, two global leaders—Accenture and Schaeffler AG—unveiled an ambitious plan to transform industrial automation through humanoid robotics. This alliance combines the latest artificial intelligence and data technologies from Nvidia and Microsoft, aiming to create more efficient and flexible solutions for manufacturing environments. Demonstrations at the event highlighted several key innovations, such as human-centric workflows, seamless human/robot collaboration, and fully automated processes.
The tools presented include state-of-the-art industrial automation systems, autonomous mobile robots, and Schaeffler’s innovative cobot EMMA. Additionally, general-purpose humanoid robots such as Agility Robotics’ Digit and Sanctuary AI’s Phoenix were showcased. These machines are designed to perform complex tasks in dynamic industrial settings. Andreas Schick, Schaeffler’s COO, emphasized the potential of this project to enhance the company’s existing automation offerings. Meanwhile, Patrick Vollmer from Accenture highlighted how physical AI is revolutionizing the training and control of entire fleets of robots, enabling smarter and more adaptive manufacturing environments.
To further streamline operations, Accenture and Schaeffler developed a PoC with three integral components: virtual factory planning using digital twins on Nvidia Omniverse, humanoid robot testing within simulated environments, and optimizing live robotics operations via Microsoft Fabric. By leveraging Nvidia’s Metropolis vision AI, these robots can mimic human movements for improved learning capabilities. Currently, Digit is being evaluated for material handling, while Phoenix learns real-world tasks through AI-powered simulations.
This collaboration underscores the growing importance of integrating robotics into modern factories, where humans and machines work together seamlessly. As Mike Geyer, head of digital twins at Nvidia, pointed out, tomorrow’s factories will demand sophisticated coordination between people, automation systems, and multi-robot fleets.
Through their joint efforts, Accenture and Schaeffler are not only advancing technology but also shaping the future of industrial production.
This partnership exemplifies the transformative power of combining AI and robotics to address critical challenges in manufacturing. It highlights the significance of co-innovation and strategic alliances in turning emerging technologies into practical solutions. For manufacturers striving to boost productivity, flexibility, and workforce adaptability, this initiative serves as a beacon of what’s possible when visionary companies unite under a shared goal. The future of industrial automation is here, and it promises to be both intelligent and collaborative.