Hexagon’s Mining division has acquired Canadian-based HARD-LINE, a global leader in mine automation, remote control technology and mine production optimization. The move will enhance Hexagon’s life-of-mine technology stack, and will particularly complement its HxGN Underground Mining, HxGN Autonomous Mining, and HxGN MineProtect offerings.
“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,” said Nick Hare, president of Hexagon’s Mining division.
“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.”
Both Hexagon and HARD-LINE believe in an interoperable, OEM-independent system for mining automation.
“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,” said HARD-LINE President Walter Siggelkow.
Source: Hexagon