Digital technology group Hexagon on Wednesday announced the acquisition of Canadian mine automation, remote control and mine production optimisation company HARD-LINE.

HARD-LINE specialises in remote control solutions and network infrastructure, allowing for the tele-remote operation of heavy machinery from a control station in a safe area on the surface or underground, regardless of distance.

The acquisition will enhance Hexagon’s life-of-mine technology stack, and will particularly complement its newest portfolios, HxGN Underground Mining and HxGN Autonomous Mining, as well as its HxGN MineProtect offerings. The portfolios realise a life-of-mine vision, autonomously managing vehicle traffic, improving fleet situation awareness and introducing drill automation while protecting drivers, pedestrians and equipment in the most demanding environments.

HARD-LINE’s solutions will help strengthen the solution offering with remote control via electronic and hydraulic by-wire technologies, innovation necessary for achieving full autonomy in the mine. Like Hexagon, HARD-LINE believes in an interoperable, original-equipment-manufacturer-independent system for mining automation, improving safety and productivity, critical to bringing autonomous technology to the wider mining industry.

“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. 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,” said Hexagon Mining division president Nick Hare.

HARD-LINE president Walter Siggelkow added that the acquisition benefits both companies and customers in many ways.

“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.”