Zeiss has purchased Steinbichler Optotechnik, a leading supplier of optical 3D digitisation systems, for an undisclosed amount.
Steinbichler’s technology will augment the product offerings from the Zeiss Industrial Metrology business group, which includes the Automated Inspection unit focused specifically on automotive inspection.
Steinbichler Optotechnik, with headquarters in Neubeuern, Germany, provides systems for digitisation with optical 3D sensors and in-surface inspection on car body and sheet metal parts. The company has a global workforce of more than 200 people, and a broad spectrum of competencies in photogrammetry and laser scanning.
Zeiss Industrial Metrology recorded revenues of €561 million in 2014. The company provides its Eagle Eye II triangulation scanner for its Pro horizontal measuring machines.
Steinbichler offers the Abis surface inspection systems and the Comet sensors, which can be installed with robots as complete solutions. The company also supplies interferometric tyre inspection systems in its Intact series, which is used for non-destructive testing and quality control in car, truck, aerospace and F1 tyre production.
The two companies have collaborated on projects in the past, and Steinbichler’s portfolio is compatible with the Zeiss software line, such as the Zeiss PiWeb platform and the surface measuring programmes.
Dr Rainer Ohnheiser, head of the Industrial Metrology business group, commented on the acquisition: ‘This will further strengthen the Zeiss Industrial Metrology business group in the field of optical measuring technology, promote digitisation and position it as a solutions provider in the area of quality processes in car body production. In the future, Zeiss will therefore cover the entire process from the CAD data model and digitisation right up to car body shell inspection.’
Dr Marcus Steinbichler, managing partner of Steinbichler Optotechnik, added: ‘The competencies and positioning of the two companies are the perfect match. Access to the Zeiss global distribution and service organisation will enable us to reach even more customers and address additional, new sectors.’
Subject to approval, the transaction is due to be finalised by mid-summer this year. The company's headquarters will remain in Neubeuern, and Dr Marcus Steinbichler will head the new company as its managing director.
Further information:
