Hokuyo Automatic Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1946 and based in Osaka, Japan, Hokuyo Automatic Co. , Ltd. is a provider of original automation technologies with items such as counters, photoelectric sensors, and automatic doors for a wide range of industrial automation systems and manufacturing processes. In December 2024, Lumotive, LLC raised USD 17.

83 million in series B funding from investors Swisscom Ventures, East Bridge Capital, EDOM Technology, Grazia Equity, Hokuyo Automatic Co. , Ltd. , TSVC, Gates Frontier, MetaVC Partners, Quan Funds, USAA Ventures, and Himax Display, Inc.   The company's main product categories include scanning rangefinders.

These devices use laser-based technology to measure distances, detect obstacles, and ensure safety in industrial and logistics environments. Some models, such as the UST-10LX and UAM-05LP-T301, are compact and lightweight, making them suitable for installation on AGVs and robotic applications. Photoelectric switches: These sensors use light to detect objects, making them useful for positioning, counting, and automation control in manufacturing lines. Models such as the PGL-050W3/180W3 provide long-distance laser-based detection capabilities.

Sensors for the Iron and Steel Industry: Designed for use in harsh industrial environments, these sensors facilitate operations such as position detection, alignment, and safety monitoring in steel production facilities. Optical Data Transmission Devices: These products enable contactless data transfer over short and medium distances, reducing wear and tear in automated systems. The company will use the December 2024 funding to accelerate growth in three strategic areas: global market expansion, data center AI infrastructure, and aerospace and defense.