Hexagon adds OPC UA support to SpatialAnalyzer

Key Takeaways

• Hexagon's SpatialAnalyzer now supports OPC UA, enabling seamless integration with industrial control systems
• The new OPC UA client features encryption and authentication for secure data exchange
• Hexagon introduces SARCA, a robot-calibration device that improves industrial robot accuracy by up to 10 times
• SpatialAnalyzer 2026.1 supports the Leica Absolute Tracker ATS800 and various precision scanners
• The release includes Google Sheets integration for automated data workflows and compatibility with RDS 6.6 and the Leica TS20

Introduction to OPC UA Support

Hexagon's Manufacturing Intelligence division has announced the addition of OPC UA support to its SpatialAnalyzer software, a leading solution for large-scale metrology and alignment. This integration enables the connection of laser measurement data with industrial control systems used in automated production lines, supporting metrology-assisted automation for complex parts.

Industry Demand for Precision

The demand for precision in large-format manufacturing is on the rise, particularly in the aerospace, energy, and shipbuilding sectors. According to Forecast International's May 2026 report, Airbus and Boeing have a combined commercial aircraft order backlog of over 16,000 aircraft, equivalent to approximately a decade of production at current delivery rates. To meet this demand, manufacturers require precise and efficient production processes. While robots can increase productivity, they often lack the precision needed for large assemblies, making OPC UA a crucial standard for communication between industrial control systems.

Technical Specifications

The new OPC UA client in SpatialAnalyzer features:

• Encryption and authentication for secure data exchange
• 25 new MP/SDK commands for developers building automated OPC UA workflows
  The following table compares the key features of SpatialAnalyzer 2026.1 with its previous version:

  Feature	SpatialAnalyzer 2026.1	Previous Version
  OPC UA Support	Yes	No
  SARCA Robot-Calibration Device	Yes	No
  Leica Absolute Tracker ATS800 Support	Yes	No
  Google Sheets Integration	Yes	No
  Precision Scanner Compatibility	Expanded	Limited

New Releases and Updates

In addition to OPC UA support, Hexagon has introduced SARCA, a robot-calibration device that improves industrial robot accuracy by up to 10 times. SpatialAnalyzer 2026.1 also supports the Leica Absolute Tracker ATS800 for room scanning and conventional laser position tracking. Furthermore, the release includes Google Sheets integration for automated data workflows and expanded support for precision scanners, such as the API LADAR, Leica RTC360, and Nikon LR.

Conclusion

The integration of OPC UA support in SpatialAnalyzer marks a significant milestone in the development of metrology-assisted automation for large and complex parts. With the introduction of SARCA and the Leica Absolute Tracker ATS800, Hexagon is poised to revolutionize the manufacturing industry with its cutting-edge solutions.

Bottom Line

Hexagon's SpatialAnalyzer 2026.1, with its new OPC UA support, SARCA robot-calibration device, and expanded compatibility with precision scanners, is set to transform the large-format manufacturing landscape. By providing a secure and efficient means of integrating laser measurement data with industrial control systems, Hexagon is helping manufacturers increase productivity while maintaining precision, ultimately driving innovation and growth in the industry.