Exechon Introduces New Robotic Manufacturing System XMini at IDEX 2017
February 20, 2017 | Lockheed MartinEstimated reading time: 2 minutes
Exechon, LLC, a joint-venture (JV) company comprising Abu Dhabi-based Injaz National, U.S. global security and aerospace company Lockheed Martin, and Sweden-based Tecgrant AB, introduced its new XMini today at the International Defence Exposition and Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The XMini is a robotic, next-generation intelligent portable machine system that uses Parallel Kinematics Machining (PKM) to support industrial automated manufacturing capabilities. As a standalone tool or as part of an existing production system, the XMini merges the flexibility and high dynamics of the articulated-arm robot with the stiffness and accuracy of the rigid machine tool. The device, which is made of carbon fiber, can be taken apart and reassembled inside spaces traditionally inaccessible to machines or people, such as an aircraft wing box.
The XMini is the first product developed by the JV, and establishes an engineering and manufacturing center for advancing this technology in the aerospace, defense and automotive sectors, as well as other industrial areas. The facility is set to open at Masdar Institute in 2017.
"Exechon is based in the UAE to nurture local innovation and accelerate the expansion of industrial automation and robotics manufacturing in the region," said Kalle Neumann, Exechon chief executive officer. "The XMini on display at IDEX is built locally in Abu Dhabi to support international aerospace, defense and automotive markets around the world."
Commenting on the partnership, Rick Edwards, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said, "We are excited to celebrate this milestone in the partnership with local experts to develop the XMini, which will enhance local manufacturing capabilities and create long-term economic benefits. The XMini reflects Lockheed Martin's commitment to supporting the UAE's goal of becoming the leading supplier of cutting-edge, automated manufacturing technology."
His Excellency Sultan Rashed Saeed Al Dhaheri, chairman of Injaz National added, "Today marks an important step in our international collaboration to bring this new technology and manufacturing capacity into the UAE. We look forward to continuing our partnership to facilitate meaningful and lasting economic impact throughout the Emirates."
Exechon has several key partnerships in the UAE and around the world to bring its products to market:
Tawazun Economic Council. The Council made the formation of the JV possible through its support of the UAE's strategy to develop advanced and pioneering technology for the UAE and worldwide markets.
Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. The Masdar Institute is a research-oriented university in Abu Dhabi. Our Application and Technology Center will be located on its campus.
Premier Composites. Dubai-based Premier Composites is the supplier for XMini carbon fiber components. Maintaining a local supply chain for critical parts lowers costs and maximizes local economic value addition.
AAR. An industry-leading provider of aviation services and integrated supply-chain solutions, U.S.-based AAR is responsible for XMini strategic production sourcing, procurement, kitting, and aftermarket component distribution.
The XMini can be found on display in the Lockheed Martin stand at IDEX, at 01-A11 in the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 97,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.
Suggested Items
Real Time with… IPC APEX EXPO 2024: Innovative Lamination Technology
05/07/2024 | Real Time with...IPC APEX EXPOKevin Barrett of Insulectro and Victor Lazaro of Indubond discuss their companies' partnership, focusing on Indubond's innovative lamination technology that uses induction heating. They discuss the advantages of this technology over traditional methods, its benefits to customers, and the crucial role of automation in manufacturing.
Nolan’s Notes: Coming to Terms With AI
05/07/2024 | Nolan Johnson -- Column: Nolan's NotesHow fast do things move in the world of data analytics? Here’s an example. We’ve been planning this issue on artificial intelligence for the past few months, and, in fact, I had already written this column about a month ago. Then I went to IPC APEX EXPO and upended it all. I originally had compared AI to drag racing in that (CPU) horsepower and new (data) vehicles have steadily delivered higher performance competition. That seemed pretty accurate given how generative AI models dominated the popular media with amazing results—and sometimes spectacular crashes.
DDM Novastar Unveils Affordable NovaPlace Automatic Pick and Place Systems
05/06/2024 | DDM Novastar Inc.DDM Novastar, a prominent U.S. manufacturer specializing in SMT and PCB assembly equipment, proudly announces the recent launch of their NovaPlace Pick & Place systems. This new line introduces entry-level yet high-performance pick and place machines.
May Issue of SMT007 Magazine: Coming to Terms With AI
05/06/2024 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamIn the May 2024 issue of SMT007 Magazine, we examine the profound effect artificial intelligence and machine learning are having on manufacturing and business processes. We follow technology, innovation, and money as automation becomes the new key indicator of growth in our industry.
iNEMI Names Grace O'Malley CTO
05/02/2024 | iNEMIThe Board of Directors of the International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (iNEMI) has named Grace O'Malley Chief Technical Officer (CTO).