IMTS 2024: Q&A with Hexagon CEO Paul Rogers
Peter Brown | September 11, 2024
Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence supports designers and engineers with a combination of software and hardware solutions for the product lifecycle from idea to production and beyond.
One of the major trends Hexagon sees in the market is the challenge of bridging the skills gap and supporting the workforce as millions begin to retire in the manufacturing sector.
Paul Rogers, president and CEO at Hexagon, sees this as implementing artificial intelligence and automation to help in this endeavor to help manufacturers do more while freeing up employees to focus on other areas.
Prior to joining Hexagon, Rogers was CEO of EnergyBot, a joint venture by Vistra and Boston Consulting Group designed to introduce a cutting-edge digital marketplace to the energy broker market.
Rogers sat down with GlobalSpec to discuss his keynote address at the upcoming IMTS tradeshow as well as what the company is demonstrating at the show. Additionally, Rogers discusses some of the latest technologies introduced.
GlobalSpec: In your keynote, you highlighted several emerging trends in manufacturing technology. Could you elaborate on which of these trends Hexagon is most actively addressing and how they align with your strategic vision for the Americas and Asia Pacific regions?
Paul Rogers: One of the major trends Hexagon is focusing on is empowering the workforce, and supporting upskilling as the older generation of manufacturers retires. Over the next decade, 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will be needed, and of the open jobs, 2.8 million will come from retirement. Hexagon is actively supporting our customers by empowering them with technology to help bridge this skills gap. We are supporting our customers in implementing AI and automation in value-add ways, helping manufacturers do more with less and freeing up the workforce to focus on the business critical tasks that really matter.
We are also finding ways to make technology more easily accessible for everyone involved in the manufacturing process, even non-tech experts or those who are new to the field. By developing easy to use tools like our new handheld 3D scanners, MARVELSCAN and ATLASCAN, we are democratizing access to metrology solutions. Making technology that is intuitive to operate reduces the learning curve for new users and empowers a new generation of manufacturers. Having easier-to-use technology helps Gen Z see manufacturing as a technologically advances field and help older workers learn how to use new, advanced technologies, bridging the generational and tech skills gaps.
GlobalSpec: Hexagon has a reputation for innovation in measurement and digital solutions. Can you share specific examples of recent innovations or product developments that Hexagon is showcasing at IMTS this year?
Rogers: Some of our most notable product launches at the show include:
Leica Absolute Tracker ATS800: A newly developed laser tracker technology, combining laser tracking with laser radar functionality and bringing traditional reflector-tracking accuracy to non-contact large-part measurement. By combining direct scanning and position tracking capabilities, the ATS800 replaces two pieces of hardware with a single, software-agnostic device. With this tracker, manufacturers can accurately measure fine edges and features across large distances, with unparalleled measurement process productivity.
Metrology Mentor: Built to address the inconsistencies and miscommunications in the manufacturing process that sow distrust and reduce confidence in results, Metrology Mentor allows manufacturers to automate and standardize CMM programming to deliver rapid, reliable and repeatable collision-free programs. Nexus-native Metrology Mentor automatically creates measurement programs directly from CAD data in line with ISO & ASME standards, improving consistency. It helps standardize workflows, data and processes, to eliminate the complications that arise when different people execute tasks in different ways.
GlobalSpec: Digital transformation is a critical theme in modern manufacturing. How does Hexagon support manufacturers in their journey toward Industry 4.0, and what unique solutions are you presenting at IMTS to facilitate this transition?
Rogers: The reality is we’re at a tipping point with Industry 4.0 — while most manufacturers are still on paper, the readiness and affordability is finally there. We’re seeing a massive market right now for paperless solutions and for improving the shop floor to better meet the needs of the next generation. Hexagon’s solutions are designed to help manufacturers innovate beyond silos, share and analyze data in real time, bring products to market faster — and ultimately, help shops of all sizes better compete.
To help manufacturers break down silos on the shop floor with a solution that doesn’t break the bank, one solution we introduced is Nexus Connected Worker. This software solution allows all parts of the manufacturing process to connect through one single source of truth and digitizes older, existing machinery, easily connecting existing point solutions to the cloud.
GlobalSpec: Data analytics and IoT are revolutionizing manufacturing processes. How does Hexagon leverage data to enhance manufacturing efficiency and decision-making, and what advancements can attendees expect to see in your offerings?
Rogers: One of the many ways Hexagon empowers manufacturers with data driven decision making is through the HxGN Production Machining Suite. This software suite empowers manufacturers to achieve operational excellence in the production of discrete parts, tools and components by integrating the portfolio of CAD/CAM and metrology programming, process simulation, shop-floor production intelligence, and AI-driven optimization. This comprehensive solution fosters collaboration among engineering, design, and production teams. Through the utilization of digital twins and real-time data sharing, manufacturers can overcome siloed operations, ensuring that every part is produced with precision and efficiency.
The use of digital twins and simulation technology is a major focus for Hexagon, because it allows our customers to save time and money on testing products, accelerating innovation and time to market.
GlobalSpec: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in manufacturing. How is Hexagon integrating sustainable practices into its solutions, and what initiatives are you promoting at IMTS to support eco-friendly manufacturing?
Rogers: The movement toward zero prototyping, using digital twins to allow for virtual prototyping and testing to reduce the need for expensive physical prototypes, is currently a major focus for Hexagon. Zero prototyping accelerates design iterations, facilitates early detection of flaws, saves time, reduces materials waste, and ultimately leads to better quality products reaching the market faster.
This movement toward zero prototyping is especially important in the automotive industry, given how expensive prototypes can be and how they slow down time to market in such a competitive industry. New manufacturing technology like digital twins reduce waste typically cause by physical prototypes and can help manufacturers test and utilize parts that are more environmentally friendly. By using zero prototyping, EV manufacturers can reduce costs, making EVs more accessible.
GlobalSpec: Could you share a recent success story where Hexagon’s technology significantly improved a manufacturer’s operations? What were the key challenges and how did Hexagon’s solutions address them?
Rogers: We recently spoke with Knight Construction & Supply Inc., a heavy industrial construction company, about how adding in-house metrology solutions, while not typical for construction companies, has been crucial for improving efficiency, reducing project costs, ensuring the quality of projects, and setting them apart from competitors who still use subcontractors for measurement work.
They now use the Leica Absolute Tracker ATS600 laser tracker and SpatialAnalyzer to keep up with last-minute changes, ensuring the accuracy of measurements for precise alignments before and during the project to guarantee safety and project success. Hexagon provided the company with the tools needed to conduct precise measurements, analyze data and make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle.
Having the ability to measure large parts on-site has allowed them to better serve their customers and increased their competitive advantage. For example, by using the laser tracker to scan a wastewater treatment plant's infrastructure during a recent project, the company was able to identify potential conflicts between new construction and existing piping and rebar. This allowed them to make adjustments to the project plan quickly, avoiding costly rework and delays.
GlobalSpec: What can IMTS attendees expect when they visit Hexagon’s booth? Are there any interactive demonstrations or new technologies you’re excited to showcase?
We have multiple demonstrations that we’re excited to showcase at IMTS this year, including our two new handheld devices, the ATLASCAN Max and MARVELSCAN, which we’ll be demonstrating on the Czinger hyper car. We also have a Hendrick motorsports virtual racecar simulation in our booth, as well as a demo of PRESTO, our robotic automation inspection cell.
Collaborations often drive innovation. Can you discuss any recent partnerships Hexagon has formed within the manufacturing ecosystem and how these collaborations enhance your product offerings?
I could not agree more that collaboration drives innovation. Partnerships have been key for fueling Hexagon’s growth in the Americas. We believe it takes an ecosystem to help manufacturers address the major challenges they are facing right now.
This year at IMTS, Hexagon and Tulip, a leader in frontline operations, are officially announcing the launch of a new collaboration, integrating Tulip’s no-code apps with Hexagon’s cutting-edge devices and software. This partnership will provide a seamless interface for operators to access all necessary information in one place, simplifying tasks for operators while driving increased productivity. Now, Tulip apps and Hexagon’s solutions can share data easier than ever before, highlighting the value of an open ecosystem where manufacturers can enhance their production visibility and make more informed decisions with real-time data.
We also recently announced another strategic technical partnership with Paperless Parts to help job shops optimize processes across their operations, from quoting to downstream manufacturing and inspection. Through this partnership, Hexagon and Paperless Parts can equip tech-forward manufacturers to increase revenue, drive operational efficiency, and leverage modern software solutions to make American manufacturing more competitive and profitable.
For Hexagon, partnerships with MSI Viking and Productivity Quality Inc. have been key to expanding our ability to support customers in the southeastern U.S. With over 10,000 active customers across automotive, aerospace, defense, medical device and general manufacturing segments in this area, this is a strategic move to deepen our support for manufacturers across America.
GlobalSpec: Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges for the manufacturing industry in the next five years, and how is Hexagon positioning itself to address them?
Rogers: I think one of the biggest challenges but also opportunities is for manufacturing technology companies to take a step back and meet manufacturers where they are, rather than forcing rapid digitalization. While many say we are experiencing “Industry 5.0,” we are still in Industry 4.0 and will be until shops start implementing more digitalization in their processes. We are at a tipping point where the barrier to entry for digitalization is going away, so we’re starting to see a bigger push behind digitalization, more appetite for AI, automation and other value-add solutions.
When a lot of people think “smart manufacturing” they think flashy new tech, robots on the factory floor, and AI. At Hexagon, we do all that, sure — but we’re also all about meeting our customers where they are at. The reality is, most manufacturers are not in a place yet to move into Industry 5.0. For many of these shops, embracing digitalization starts with better leveraging their data, eliminating paper processes, reducing silos and enhancing communication.
GlobalSpec: For the engineers and industrial professionals attending IMTS, what resources or support does Hexagon provide to help them stay ahead in their fields? How can they engage with Hexagon beyond the show to continue this collaboration?
Rogers: A good example of how we’re empowering smaller and mid-size shops is with our Machine Shop Excellence Learning Center, which offers a roadmap for shops looking to implement smart manufacturing practices. Think seven easily-implementable steps to automate tasks, boost efficiencies and embrace more sustainable practices. We even have a free benchmark tool for manufacturers to assess their current processes and how they stack up.
This free benchmarking tool speaks to our continued investment and commitment for supporting the smaller mom and pop shops with this movement toward smart manufacturing, meeting them where they’re at.
IMTS 2024 takes place this week in Chicago.