About

Founded in 1999 and based in Northern Ontario, Ionic Mechatronics is a Canadian engineering and technology company specializing in automation, machine design, robotics, and industrial safety solutions. Over 25 years, they have grown steadily by solving unique challenges for industries such as mining, manufacturing, and energy. Their track record includes pioneering innovations like the world’s safest uranium drumming machines and the first robotic copper stripping system. Ionic has also commercialized successful products such as SafeBox, a remote lockout/tagout (LOTO) system now used by leading mining companies including Vale, Anglo American, Glencore, and Mosaic.

Project

Ionic Mechatronics is developing SafeGap, a first-of-its-kind cybersecurity solution designed to protect mission-critical and safety-rated industrial systems. Traditional safety products like SafeBox must remain “air-gapped” to maintain their safety ratings, but SafeGap provides a secure way to enable digital transformation without compromising cybersecurity. The technology allows for controlled data transfer between critical processes and IT networks, enabling real-time monitoring, risk assessments, and safe data integration while maintaining full compliance with safety standards. Developed in collaboration with CIT’s Sector Adoption Program and supported by Anglo American and local partners, SafeGap will be tested and commercialized for global deployment, ensuring industries can modernize while safeguarding against digital intrusion.

Impact

This project positions Ionic Mechatronics to expand its product line with a cybersecurity solution that complements SafeBox and strengthens their international market presence. SafeGap will create up to 10 new high-skill jobs in Northern Ontario, attract cybersecurity expertise to the province, and add an estimated $2M in annual export sales. The technology will protect critical infrastructure while establishing Ontario as a leader in cybersecurity product design and manufacturing. By combining SafeGap with their proven SafeBox platform, Ionic is creating a unique, Ontario-made product that will be adopted by industrial users worldwide, reinforcing both economic growth and technological leadership.