Iteris and Valeo to Develop Integrated Automotive Vision Systems

    ANAHEIM, Calif.--June 19, 2001--Iteris Inc., a subsidiary of Odetics Inc. & and Valeo, one of the world's leading automotive suppliers, today announced that they have entered into a strategic and technical partnership that encompasses the technical and commercial development of advanced automotive vision systems for the car market.
    Under the terms of the agreement, Valeo and Iteris will jointly develop Iteris' advanced video-based image processing system called AutoVue, and integrate it into Valeo's comprehensive range of automotive sensor and electronic systems.
    Manufacturing will be provided by Valeo and, additionally, Valeo's marketing and engineering expertise will support the partnership from Bietigheim, Germany, and Auburn Hills, Mich., where Valeo's Switches and Detection Systems Branch R&D centers are located. The agreement balances technology fees and manufacturing proceeds.
    AutoVue will track visible road lane markings ahead, and warn the driver in case of an unintentional lane departure. It is also envisaged that future generations of AutoVue will be able to detect changes in weather and road conditions, and even obstacles and road signs, which could reduce some driver tasks by automating and enhancing functions such as lighting and wiping.
    If interfaced with other advanced features such as Brake-by-Wire or Steer-by-Wire, future generation systems have the potential to address road safety.
    "We feel that Valeo is the ideal partner for Iteris to work with and that this relationship leverages the strengths of both companies," said Francis Memole, Iteris vice president of vehicle sensors. "The combination of Valeo's global strength in automotive electronics, especially in Europe, coupled with our leading-edge vision technology will allow Iteris to succeed on a global scale," he added.
    "Iteris' video-based in-vehicle sensor technology combined with our advanced automotive electronics and sensor technologies represent an important part of our strategy to provide innovative detection systems for the automotive market.
    "This partnership moves Valeo well ahead on the roadmap to offer complete and intelligent vision all around the vehicle," said Martin Haub, Valeo senior vice president, research & development and product marketing.
    "Moreover, the integration of this new technology perfectly demonstrates how synergies can increase functionality whilst at the same time enhancing the performance of our existing systems. We are very excited about the promising and numerous opportunities this collaboration will offer," added Haub.
    Small enough to fit inside a windscreen mirror case, AutoVue is a compact and lightweight image processor device that will be located inside the front windscreen of a car. The AutoVue system uses a highly sensitive, computerized camera and a combination of sophisticated lane recognition algorithms and proprietary image recognition software and hardware to track lane markings in the road.
    Valeo plans to make Iteris' AutoVue technology an integral part of its "Seeing and Being Seen" Domain, which uses ultrasonic, infrared and radar sensors, as well as vision-based systems for a 360 degree surveillance of the vehicle. Those advanced driver support features and the resulting sensor fusion will be a prerequisite for future Collision Warning and Avoidance systems.
    Integrated video-based sensing brings a range of performance-enhancing options that will strengthen as well as support Valeo's existing vehicle systems.
    It is envisaged that AutoVue, when integrated into Valeo's complete range of environmental detection systems will improve certain vehicle functions such as lighting and windscreen cleaning management, rain and dirt sensing, as well as obstacle detection, through this unique blend of technology conceived through a diverse industry partnership.