"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 Rollén, 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, currently being demonstrated at the Institute of Navigation (ION) GNSS Conference, 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.
A Hexagon network, powered by Locata, has already been successfully deployed and used in Western Australia on a large open cut gold mine, supporting their high precision guidance systems as a part of the product development process.
"We are thrilled to extend and strengthen our collaboration with Hexagon and their powerful positioning brands," said 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 consumer 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 for both the 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
About Locata
Locata Corporation provides terrestrial positioning networks which function as local ground-based replicas of GPS. The company's LocataNets work alongside satellite-based GPS systems to improve reliability and expand coverage for modern industrial, commercial, government and consumer applications where GPS is erratic, jammed or unavailable. Partnering with large geo-informatics companies, including
Leica Geosystems, the company is pioneering a new level of centimeter-accurate positioning -- available anywhere, indoors or out. To learn how Locata can help you deploy a local, ground-based positioning system that complements or replaces GPS, visit
www.locatacorp.com
Locata, LocataNet and LocataLite are trademarks of Locata Corporation. All product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners in the U.S. and other countries.
Media Contact: VOXUS PR Lindsay Stril Email Contact (253) 444-5443