HANNOVER, Germany, Apr 1, 2025 – Accelerating the growth, redesign, and construction of factories to boost production, site-efficiency, and operational agility, Hexagon’s manufacturing intelligence division announced its digital factory solution’s global “as-a-service” roll-out.
Global automotive and aerospace manufacturers are using Hexagon’s digital factory solutions to map and model brownfield facilities in preparation for increases in production or the introduction of new lines in competitive global markets undergoing significant change. In the future, it will be offered as a service, helping manufacturers access the information needed to remodel assembly workflows, increase automation, install advanced equipment, and stay competitive.
Digital Factory-as-a-Service provides manufacturers with expert teams to conduct large-scale 3D scans and surveys. These teams can scan thousands of square meters within hours, offering precise and current details about plants and equipment. The service includes identifying needs, setting workflows, collecting data, and delivering BIM models. Custom services are also available to analyze and use factory data effectively. The data works with tools from Hexagon and other vendors to create detailed 3D factory models for various applications.
Digital Factory as-a-Service is a scalable solution supporting single factories and multiple facilities across different locations. It provides access to accurate visualizations for planning scenarios such as setting up new factories, tracking production status, or reconfiguring brownfield facilities. These real-time insights assist manufacturers in preparing for new equipment installations or changes to processes and workflows, pivot production lines confidently to maximize new opportunities, adapt to new constraints, and introduce new technologies. Manufacturers can test flexible or zero-tooling scenarios and evaluate workflows with robots, cobots, and AGVs (autonomous guided vehicles) to reduce risks in plant changes.
Without requiring BIM tools or 3D visualization expertise, staff can walk through a digital replica of their space to envisage how new production cells or equipment would function. They can identify clearances, ensure equipment fits through access routes, and spot potential problems, preventing disruptions and delays. Teams dispersed around the globe can collaborate remotely, accelerating decision-making while reducing travel costs associated with projects by 50% and the need for site visits by up to 70%.
Nicolas Lachaud-Bandres, vice president industry solutions, Hexagon, said, “The launch of Hexagon’s Digital Factory as-a-service is a landmark in manufacturing, enabling businesses anywhere in the world to achieve far greater operational efficiency and agility through fast access to millimeter-accurate, up-to-date 3D simulations of factories, whether long-established or planned.”
“Many factories lack accurate plans, having been adapted multiple times, and are now constrained in terms of available space as manufacturers seek to ramp up production. Plans for new facilities must ensure they fully optimize the site but may also need to change quickly in response to shifts in supply and demand, or regulation.”
“We are overcoming these challenges, providing a replica of the available space which companies can manipulate and remodel without repeated visits. Visualizations make all the information easily understood by everyone involved in projects, including senior staff who can make strategic decisions with greater confidence.”
The services help manufacturers speed up their digital transformation by connecting assets and data to build digital replicas of their facilities. This approach supports the future development of smart factories in the industry. Data can be stored either in Hexagon’s cloud or on the customer’s own systems. The open platforms and compatible software allow different team members and tools within an organization to use the data effectively.
Source: Hexagon
About Hexagon
Hexagon AB, established in 1975, specializes in digital reality solutions integrating sensors, software, and autonomous technologies. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Hexagon operates in over 50 countries and employs approximately 24,800 people. The company serves various industries, including construction, mining, agriculture, aerospace, automotive, defense, and manufacturing. Its offerings encompass reality capture measurement, intelligent positioning, situational intelligence, and industrial design solutions. In 2023, Hexagon reported annual revenues of approximately €5.44 billion. Since 2000, Hexagon has completed over 170 strategic acquisitions, enhancing its position in digital transformation and enabling clients to utilize data for improved efficiency, productivity, quality, and safety across various applications.