Hexagon Acquires HARD-LINE to Drive Advancements in Mine Automation and Tele-Remote Technology

Hexagon Acquires HARD-LINE to Drive Advancements in Mine Automation and Tele-Remote Technology

(IN BRIEF) Hexagon, through its Mining division, has acquired HARD-LINE, a Canadian company specializing in mine automation and remote-control technology. HARD-LINE’s expertise lies in providing remote control solutions and network infrastructure for tele-remote operation of heavy machinery in mines. The acquisition will enhance Hexagon’s life-of-mine technology stack and complement its latest portfolios, including HxGN Underground Mining, HxGN Autonomous Mining, and HxGN MineProtect. By incorporating HARD-LINE’s solutions, Hexagon aims to strengthen its remote control capabilities and drive advancements towards full autonomy in mining operations. The acquisition reinforces Hexagon’s commitment to an interoperable system for mining automation and its dedication to improving safety and productivity in the mining industry.

(PRESS RELEASE) TUCSON, AZ, United States, 12-Jul-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Hexagon (STO: HEXA-B), a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies, through its Mining division, is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of HARD-LINE, a Canadian company renowned for its expertise in mine automation, remote-control technology, and mine production optimization. HARD-LINE specializes in delivering remote control solutions and robust network infrastructure, enabling the tele-remote operation of heavy machinery from secure control stations located on the surface or underground, regardless of distance.

This strategic acquisition further strengthens Hexagon’s comprehensive life-of-mine technology stack, particularly complementing its latest product portfolios, namely HxGN Underground Mining and HxGN Autonomous Mining, in addition to the acclaimed HxGN MineProtect offerings. These portfolios embody a holistic life-of-mine vision, autonomously managing vehicle traffic, enhancing fleet situational awareness, introducing drill automation, and safeguarding drivers, pedestrians, and equipment in the most challenging mining environments.

By integrating HARD-LINE’s solutions, Hexagon will fortify its offering with remote control capabilities leveraging cutting-edge electronic and hydraulic by-wire technologies. These innovations are crucial in realizing full autonomy within mining operations. Hexagon and HARD-LINE share a common belief in the importance of an interoperable, OEM-independent system for mining automation, prioritizing safety and productivity, and playing a vital role in the adoption of autonomous technology across the wider mining industry.

The acquisition of HARD-LINE reaffirms Hexagon’s commitment to advancing mine safety and automation, empowering customers with state-of-the-art technologies that optimize operations, drive efficiency, and create safer work environments.

“The pressure to remove humans from dangerous situations where it’s unsafe to operate a manned vehicle is increasing, particularly as mines push deeper underground for minerals and metals. We recognize that remote control is a key enabler of the autonomy required to answer this need, which is one of many reasons we’re so delighted to welcome HARD-LINE to the Hexagon family,” expressed Nick Hare, President of Hexagon’s Mining division.

President of HARD-LINE, Walter Siggelkow, said: “With Hexagon’s expertise and our internationally recognized technology – this acquisition really benefits both companies and customers in many ways. While HARD-LINE solutions have positively changed how critical mining tasks are accomplished underground by our customers over decades, the geographical footprint achievable with Hexagon will only increase our impact towards safer mines through autonomous processes.”

Hexagon is the global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, quality and safety across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, public sector, and mobility applications.

Our technologies are shaping production and people related ecosystems to become increasingly connected and autonomous – ensuring a scalable, sustainable future.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 24,000 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 5.2bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.

Media contact:

Laura Fereres
Sr Director, Marketing
Mining division
laura.fereres@hexagon.com
+1 520 795 3891

SOURCE: Hexagon AB