New Hexagon business unit to develop data-driven solutions for smart manufacturing

Jun. 7, 2016 – Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence North America has launched its new Integrated Solutions strategic business unit, dedicated to Smart Factory systems for advanced manufacturing.

Describing it as a “highly-specialized team,” the business unit will develop automated commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) systems by integrating Hexagon’s 3D measurement technologies with sensors, software and robotics. These data-driven automation solutions aim to deliver actionable information for predictive manufacturing in a connected Industry 4.0 environment. With on-demand access to real-time factory floor data, operators and managers will be able to monitor, troubleshoot and control production processes “at an unparalleled level,” said Hexagon.

The Integrated Solutions team is also working to develop “new-to-market” solutions featuring robotics integrated with metrology technologies. These in-line, near-line or off-line measurement work cells will be “scalable, portable, modular and ready for use” on the modern shop floor, said Hexagon, adding that the Smart Factory systems will “continuously collect and process data during production operations, providing speed and confidence for fast decision-making and rapid responses to shop floor issues. Manufacturers will be able to easily adopt these configurable, automated work cells into their production space.”

“The Integrated Solutions strategic business unit is harnessing the core strengths of Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence and leading the way toward the Smart Factory. As manufacturers advance toward Industry 4.0, they don’t have to go it alone,” said Jeff Perry, director of integrated solutions, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “The Integrated Solutions team is focused on engineering metrology-assisted automation solutions based on Hexagon’s proven hardware and diverse software portfolio, as well as our vast, worldwide technical support network. These innovative COTS systems will serve the needs of forward-thinking customers transitioning to smart production for greater productivity and the compelling cost savings derived from using real-time data.”