Hexagon AB acquired New River Kinematics (NRK), a U.S.-based engineering company that specializes in 3D analysis software for portable metrology applications.

Founded in 1994, NRK revolutionized coordinate measurement with the first metrology software to introduce a three-dimensional graphic environment for portable metrology. NRK develops and supports the industry standard in portable metrology software solutions. SpatialAnalyzer (SA), their flagship offering, is used to address a broad spectrum of challenges related to large scale measurement with portable metrology devices in manufacturing plants around the world.

“When it comes to industries like aerospace and shipbuilding, where parts are either very large or very expensive, mitigation of continuous rework is an absolute necessity; NRK‘s software facilitates this,” says Norbert Hanke, president, Hexagon Metrology. “From single part inspection to highly accurate, large scale multi-instrument surveys, SA’s advanced analysis capabilities support large-scale manufacturers who have no other option but to make components that fit."

NRK offers the only comprehensive solution to connect multiple products from any supplier. From arms and theodolites to trackers and scanners, SA’s advanced analysis capabilities combine inputs from any metrology device into a single platform. This is especially important in large-scale manufacturing processes, where larger CAD models and more complex data present additional challenges when it comes to accuracy and productivity.

“Also a strong resource in the field of measurement automation, NRK provides excellent growth prospects for Hexagon as more and more manufacturers look to increase efficiencies,” says Hexagon President and CEO Ola Rollén. “Additional opportunities include leveraging Hexagon’s distribution network and existing customer base to increase SA’s penetration in international markets and growing segments like aerospace, and to team up with Intergraph to strengthen applications in shipbuilding, component fabrication and other large-scale markets.”

NRK’s founders, Dr. Robert Salerno and Dr. Joseph Calkins, are excited about the opportunities ahead. “NRK remains fully committed to supporting the entire spectrum of portable metrology instruments and manufacturers. We are excited about taking NRK and SA to the next level and will continue to push the envelope on metrology software in order to help customers meet their challenges. That is, and will continue to be, one of the key strengths of SA.”

NRK, based in Williamsburg, Va., was fully consolidated on Jan. 1 and will immediately contribute to Hexagon's earnings. The company had a turnover of approximately 13.3 MUSD in 2012.