Hexagon AB, developer of digital reality solutions that combine sensor, software and autonomous technologies, has announced its acquisition of LocLab, a creator of 3D digital twin content.
According to Hexagon, LocLab’s proprietary technology leverages a high degree of automation, workflows and artificial intelligence (AI), to support the cost- effective and time-efficient development of digital twins.
What’s more, LocLab’s in-house toolchain was set up to utilise several data input formats to balance speed, cost and accuracy, including terrestrial videogrammetry, survey data and point clouds, but reportedly only requires photographs or videos at minimum.
The AI-driven software can be used to create 3D models of machines, buildings and manufacturing facilities, or larger-scale areas like transportation networks.
It was designed to compare detected objects with LocLab’s object library of 3D elements (street objects, building components, rail equipment, etc.) to semi-automate the creation of 3D models by adding factors such as context and descriptive elements.
“We continue to advance the utility and potential of the digital twin,” said Ola Rollén, president and CEO of Hexagon.
“We call it the Smart Digital Reality.
“Like any digital twin, it provides an intuitive 3D hub for data management and information.
“But it has traits not always associated with digital twins: it’s data-rich, kept up to date in real-time and workflow-driven, making it seamlessly accessible.
“And most importantly, it’s autonomously intelligent, meaning it can implement physical world actions independent of human intervention.”
The acquisition is intended to improve the accessibility of Hexagon’s Smart Digital Reality for new and existing customers, while also providing LocLab’s customers with a platform for hosting, sharing and updating 3D digital twins.
Headquartered in Germany, LocLab claims to serve some of the world’s largest transportation, construction and design consultant companies and will work under Hexagon’s Geosystems division.
