Vision systems manufacturer expands by acquisition

Citation

(2002), "Vision systems manufacturer expands by acquisition", Sensor Review, Vol. 22 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2002.08722dab.007

Vision systems manufacturer expands by acquisition

Vision systems manufacturer expands by acquisition

Keyword: Meta Vision Systems

Meta Vision Systems, whose factory in Oxford, England, produces laserbased seam finding and tracking systems for automating arc welding processes, has acquired Integrated Sensor Systems (iSS), East Kilbride, Scotland, a manufacturer of bespoke equipment for weld seam tracking mainly in pipe mills and for pressure vessel applications (see Plate 3).

Said Mike Wilson, Meta's managing director, "iSS dovetails neatly into our management structure and product portfolio. For example, its highend, custom engineered solutions complement our volume sales of standard products through major robot and welding equipment vendors throughout the world.

"Our marketing and brand recognition, with over 500 sensor systems operating in 30 countries, will strengthen sales of iSS products and promote us to the market-leading position in our industry; whilst their engineering expertise reinforces the overall technical capability of the newly enlarged company."

Key staff from iSS have moved to the Meta facility in Oxford, where all operations including manufacture are being consolidated. Bob Beattie, formerly managing director of iSS, becomes engineering director of Meta.

Plate 3 Mike Wilson (right), managing director, Meta Vision Systems and Bob Beattie of iSS concluding the acquisition of the latter company by Meta on 14 March

The company's other company in Quebec, Canada, is unaffected by the developments, except that it is now able to offer iSS products, which include a special system for measuring the flatness of strip in rolling mills.

Strathdon Investments, Meta's venture capital investor, has provided extra funds for integration and growth following the acquisition, which was completed on 14th March.

Contact Mike Wilson, managing director, Meta Vision Systems Ltd, Oakfield House, Oakfield Industrial Estate, Eynsham, Oxfordshire OX8 1TH. Tel: 01865 887900; Fax: 01865 887901; E-mail: sales@meta-mvs.com