Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 84 | Page 56

MARKET MOVEMENT
Zebra Technologies intends to acquire Photoneo , developer of 3D machine vision solutions

Zebra Technologies , a global provider in digitising and automating frontline workflows , announced it intends to acquire Photoneo , a developer and manufacturer of 3D machine vision solutions . The 3D segment of the machine vision market is the fastest growing , and this acquisition will further accelerate Zebra ’ s presence in the category .

By combining Photoneo ’ s 3D machine vision solutions with Zebra ’ s advanced sensors , vendor-agnostic software and AI-based image processing capabilities , customers will benefit from a unique portfolio of offerings to address their most challenging use cases .
Building on Zebra ’ s proven expertise in autonomous data capture , inspection software and deep learning AI capabilities , this combination expands the portfolio of highly differentiated 3D sensors and advanced 3D machine vision software .
These include high value applications such as bin picking , depalletising , creating digital twins , and inspecting objects used in automotive manufacturing , logistics and other key markets .
Photoneo ’ s intelligent sensors are particularly effective within the visionguided robotic , VGR segment . They are certified to interface with many of the largest robotic manufacturers for a variety of use cases including robot-arm applications for bin picking .
Photoneo differentiates itself through parallel structured light technology in complex 3D applications which provides a faster , more accurate , higher resolution and
Bill Burns
more robust solution comprised of both hardware and software .
“ This acquisition addresses the needs of customers globally who want to maximise the potential of machine vision within their frontline operations ,” said Bill Burns , Chief Executive Officer , Zebra Technologies .
“ Zebra Technologies will provide an ideal environment for Photoneo to further accelerate its innovation ,” said Jan Zizka , Cofounder and CEO , Photoneo Brightpick Group .
Zebra has made strategic investments in the machine vision market , most recently in the acquisition of Matrox Imaging in June 2022 to augment its portfolio of fixed industrial scanners and machine vision sensors .
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OPSWAT has acquired US based Fend Incorporated adding data diode technology to its portfolio

OPSWAT , a global provider in critical infrastructure protection established in the US , announced its acquisition of Fend Incorporated . Fend is a pioneering data pipeline and cybersecurity company dedicated to securing operational technology , against cyber threats , ransomware , and other evolving risks .

Based in Arlington , Virginia , Fend is known for its expertise in protecting US government agencies , utilities , oil and gas , manufacturing , and other critical industries where air-gapped environments are essential for defence against cyber incidents .
The announcement establishes OPSWAT as providing the most comprehensive variety of Data Diodes and Unidirectional Gateways in the industry that utilises proprietary technology like Multiscanning with up to 30 anti-virus engines , Deep CDR for zero-day threats , Sandboxing , and Proactive DLP technologies prevent sensitive data leakage .
“ Fend ’ s solutions are a strategic addition to our portfolio , allowing OPSWAT to deliver security for customers ’ most critical assets ,” said Benny Czarny , CEO and Founder of OPSWAT .
“ Joining OPSWAT represents a significant opportunity for Fend , allowing us to offer customers an even broader range of cyber defences ,” said Colin Dunn , CEO and Founder of Fend .
Fend ’ s data diode technology creates a secure one-way communication channel , allowing data to flow from one network to another while physically blocking reverse transmission . This hardware-based approach is valued in high-security environments like defence , industrial control systems , and critical infrastructure , where preventing external access is paramount .
Benny Czarny
Originally reserved for sensitive applications such as nuclear power plants , data diode technology has evolved to become more accessible and affordable , making it a practical solution for industries that require secure online monitoring and predictive analytics . With benefits such as increased operational efficiency , reduced unexpected downtime , and improved staff productivity , Fend ’ s data diodes offer protection across diverse industrial sectors .
This strategic move broadens OPSWAT ’ s existing product offering that includes high-speed data diodes and unidirectional gateway solutions to mobile , cell-based , cloud-based , and ruggedised products to support more critical infrastructure needs .
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