Nacka Strand, Sweden, Sep 21, 2011 – Hexagon (sto:HEXAB) has entered into an exclusive industry partnership with Locata Corporation Pty Ltd to integrate the revolutionary Locata positioning technology with Hexagon’s positioning receivers. This collaboration will leverage each company’s expertise to create the world’s first combined GPS-Locata positioning receiver. For the first time customers will have access to a tightly integrated solution providing high-precision positioning without satellites.
"Accurate positioning is a critical part of innumerable modern applications and Hexagon is undeniably a leader in supplying these GPS-style positioning and measurement technologies through our Leica Geosystems and NovAtel brands." said Ola Rollen, Hexagon’s President and CEO. "However, as new applications for machine automation and robotics increasingly move into environments like mining and indoor warehousing – where satellite signals are blocked, unreliable or unavailable – it has become very clear there is a need for a ground-based back-up to GPS."
The Locata technology works by deploying ground-based LocataLite transmitters which augment conventional GPS systems. The LocataLites work without needing the additional corrections, communication or other assistance normally used for GPS high precision systems.
"We are thrilled to extend and strengthen our collaboration with Hexagon and their powerful positioning brands." stated Nunzio Gambale, Chairman and CEO of Locata. "They have already worked closely with us for several years developing new applications."
Hexagon will leverage the Locata technology to integrate and develop new product offerings. Hexagon will incorporate Locata signals into the GPS-Glonass-Galileo-Compass positioning receivers to provide an additional "Local Constellation". This combined solution promises to enable many new positioning capabilities for an increasing number of demanding industrial, commercial, military, government and mobile applications.
Under the strategic partnership Hexagon gains access to licenses and the right to integrate Locata’s receiver technology, sell LocataLites into any market in which Hexagon’s combined GPS-Locata receivers are sold, co-brand LocataLites and other collaborative assistance involving knowledge transfer and training required for integration and support. Hexagon has also extended its’ current agreement with Locata for exclusive rights to Locata networks for the global mining market.
About Hexagon
Hexagon is a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualisation technologies. Our customers can design, measure and position objects, and process and present data, to stay one step ahead of a changing world. Hexagon’s solutions increase productivity, enhance quality and allow for faster, better operational decisions, saving time, money and resources. Hexagon has over 12 000 employees in more than 40 countries and net sales of about 2 200 MEUR. Our products are used in a broad range of industries including surveying, power and energy, aerospace and defence, safety and security, construction and manufacturing. Learn more at www.hexagon.com.