Hexagon’s key acquisition of UK safety system firm Xwatch

By Mike Woof April 26, 2024 Read time: 2 mins

Hexagon’s acquisition of UK firm Xwatch Safety Solutions is a strategic move that expands its portfolio. Xwatch has been a pioneer in the field of construction machine safety systems with its XW series, which has features such as height control, slew control, and rated capacity indication (RCI).

The XW Series units help operators set up safe virtual working zones, boosting safety measures around equipment. The strategic move for Hexagon is that it follows the collaboration between Xwatch and Leica Geosystems, already part of Hexagon. This has resulted in the innovative 3D Avoidance Zone system.

Coupling the Xwatch XW Series with the 3D machine control systems from Leica Geosystems means that machine operators can now set out safe zones right across a worksite, without having to reset the technology every time the machine is moved. For example, when a wheeled excavator is being used on a highway job alongside live traffic, the operator can carry out the job at each area then move the machine and begin working again immediately.

The system ensures that the machine only operates within the limits of safe zone and the boom or counterweight cannot overhang the live traffic lanes. The Xwatch system works with the 3D control from Leica Geosystems to generate a safe working corridor within the restrictions of the highway. And the system disables the machine hydraulics if the operator accidentally moves beyond the safe working zone.

This is a significant step as it integrates the safety solutions from Xwatch within Hexagon’s range of construction tools to improve risk management and decision-making processes, delivering safer construction environments.

Dan Leaney, director of Sales and Operations at Xwatch Safety Solutions commented: "Joining Hexagon represents a transformative opportunity for us to push the boundaries of safety technology in the construction industry. It allows us to leverage Hexagon's global expertise and reach, bringing our cutting-edge safety solutions to a wider audience and significantly impacting worker safety worldwide.

Connected Construction

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Machine guidance system aids asphalt runway construction
    July 16, 2012
    Automatic 3D machine guidance is a highly sophisticated area and a high level of expertise is often required to ensure applications of the advanced technologies work as desired. Fugro is a specialist firm that has gained experience using 3D guidance tools over many years and for certain tricky projects, Hexagon, the parent of Leica Geosystems, has turned to Fugro for assistance. For one difficult job in particular, Fugro's specialists were brought in at the request of an Icelandic contractor. The project ca
    Read More
  • IRF-SATC webinar addresses the impact of Covid-19 on freight and logistics sectors
    October 22, 2020
    A wind of trade protectionism referred to as “Covid nationalism” has started blowing on global trade markets in the wake of the coronavirus pandemics. Countries are now implementing border restrictions in an attempt to control the spread of the virus.
    Read More
  • Tough competition in concrete paving market
    February 13, 2012
    One thing is clear in the concrete slipforming sector. This comparatively niche market for equipment is rapidly becoming a good deal more competitive as key manufacturers jostle for position.
    Read More
  • Paving control package for concrete or asphalt pavers
    March 16, 2012
    Leica Geosystems has launched v3.0 of its Leica PaveSmart 3D system, which is designed specifically for concrete and asphalt paving and milling applications. This upgraded package is now said to support a wider range of paving equipment and applications than before. PaveSmart 3D v3.0 will be available late March 2012 through Leica Geosystems’ direct sales and approved paving solution distribution channels, including GOMACO.
    Read More

Highlighted Content