Triple purchase is measure of Metris ambition

, the 3D-inspection specialist, has acquired three companies in a move that the group claimed would help it stay at the leading edge of automotive and aerospace metrology.

The three businesses — LK, 3D Scanners and Arc Second — will give Metris coverage across the complete metrology range, from high-end accurate CMM manufacturing to automated shopfloor scanning and indoor GPS technology, the company claimed.

According to Metris, the acquisitions will mark a major expansion of its Derby technical development centre’s capabilities.

LK’s portfolio was strengthened earlier this year with the launch of a new CMM machine called Ascent, which provides straightforward inspection solutions for customers requiring quick, accurate component measurement and reporting, but who are not looking to make heavy investments in capital equipment.

3D Scanners, which manufactures non-contact scanners for articulated and robot arm CMMs, claimed the greater financial muscle of Metris represents an opportunity for the company to expand its technology.

‘The new technologies that 3D Scanners has developed require a better capitalised partner to develop them to their full potential. Metris is ideally positioned to further expand the footprint of our technology,’ said the company.

Indoor GPS is an area of particular interest to Metris due to the increasing adoption of the technology by production businesses.

US-based Arc Second develops indoor GPS positioning and tracking systems that enable factory wide-localisation of multiple objects with metrology accuracy, applicable in both manufacturing and assembly. Currently used by aerospace manufacturers, the technology is also being adopted by automotive and other industrial companies.

Bart Van Coppenolle, Metris chief executive, said: ‘Through these acquisitions Metris becomes a total solution provider offering both unique breakthrough optical as well as classical tactile metrology technologies, combined with best in class services.’

Belgium-based Metris has raised funds in excess of €35m (£24m) to finance the acquisition.