International. Hexagon announced the creation of a new Robotics section with the aim of fostering the progress of independent solutions, employing its expertise in artificial intelligence, spatial intelligence and advanced measurement technologies.
The newly created unit aims to address the world's growing need for automation in critical areas by providing robotic systems that can enrich today's workforce challenges.
"Robotics has always been a fundamental pillar of innovation at Hexagon," said Norbert Hanke, the company's interim president and chief executive officer. "From total stations and drones for construction to laser trackers for manufacturing and autonomous off-road systems for mining and agriculture, we have pioneered precise autonomous systems based on robotics. Today, we take the next step by creating a dedicated robotics division to leverage the investments made in recent years and develop autonomous solutions that complement an ever-shrinking, ageing and ever-changing workforce."
Hexagon highlights that advances in artificial intelligence, simulation and reinforcement learning are expanding the possibilities of robotic systems, making them more independent, adaptable to complex environments and performing complex tasks. The company says its leadership spot in measurement technology and essential sensors gives it spatial intelligence and digital twins that make it easier for robots to interact with and learn from their environment.
The Robotics section will focus especially on industrial applications. Hexagon has strong experience in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aeronautics, energy, warehousing and logistics, where demand for high-capacity and adaptable robots continues to grow.
To lead this new phase, Arnaud Robert was appointed president of Hexagon's Robotics division. With a PhD in computer science from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Robert has 25 years of experience in artificial intelligence, more than a dozen patents, and a career that includes global product launches and business transformation across six industries.
"Hexagon is a global leader in measurement technology and positioning solutions, which will make a difference in this rapidly growing market," said Robert. "I am honored to lead this innovative division together with the team and develop autonomous robotics solutions that leverage the latest advances in robotics and AI with the goal of redefining efficiency, intelligence and automation in various industries."
Robert will take the reins of managing the R&D, product, operations, business strategy and alliances sectors, reporting directly to Norbert Hanke in his role as CEO of Hexagon.
With this new division, Hexagon strengthens its commitment to emerging technologies that revolutionize industrial processes, with a vision focused on independence, innovation and sustainability.
