Delphi Offers SmartWindow Technology to Enhance Window 'Express Up' Function And Prevent Finger Hurts

TROY, Mich., Oct. 21 -- Delphi will feature its SmartWindow non-contact window management system at Convergence 2002 in Detroit, Mich. The system uses optical technology for "express up" power window obstacle detection, which stops or reverses the window without pinching or contacting the obstacle.

"Express up power windows are not new to the automotive industry. In fact many companies, especially European and Japanese manufacturers, currently offer 'express up' power windows on their vehicles," said Lothar Veeser, business line executive for Delphi Mechatronic Systems. "But consumers in North America may be unfamiliar with the option itself."

The Smart Window technology offers an improved system for European or Japanese vehicles currently offering "express up" closure, and is now available for North American vehicle manufacturers to consider with "express up" windows as well.

Delphi has also conducted consumer research on the SmartWindow, including an Allison Fischer study and focus groups to assess consumer reaction to its SmartWindow non-contact window management system. The focus group study sample consisted of men and women who were minivan, luxury car, and/or large or luxury sport-utility vehicle owners and had children under the age of 18 living at home. The group was shown the SmartWindow non-contact system and a competing system. Respondents clearly saw the benefit and value of a non- contact system.

"SmartWindow is a real breakthrough that will help strengthen consumer perception and acceptance of improved 'express up' window operations," Veeser continued. "With just a wave of their hands, consumers saw just how quickly SmartWindow detects and responds to obstacles in the protection zone without ever touching them."

Developed by Prospects, Corp. and licensed to Delphi, the patented SmartWindow system uses advanced LightPlane(TM) infrared sensor technology, which can sense obstacles as small as 4 mm (0.16 in.). The LightPlane sensor "learns" the correct, obstacle-free background within the window's infrared protection zone and continuously monitors window operations. If there is a change in the expected background reading while the window is going up, a signal is instantaneously (as quick as 25 microseconds) sent to the module and the window immediately stops or reverses. This will assist vehicle manufacturers in complying with the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 118.

Unlike indirect obstacle sensing systems that monitor window position and motor current/torque, the SmartWindow management system does not require contact with the obstacle, which is especially important for effective "v-gap" management.

SmartWindow is initially targeted for express side-windows, but can be used in a variety of other automotive and commercial vehicle power applications, including power sunroofs and convertible tops. In addition, highly marketable features -- such as global close using the keyfob, automatic cabin venting for interior temperature control, and rain detection to protect upholstery -- are under development and can be integrated using the SmartWindow system based on customer needs and requirements.

"We are sharing our consumer research findings and working with vehicle manufacturers to provide them the most appropriate system to meet their needs," Veeser continued. "In fact, the SmartWindow non-contact window management system has been very well received, because it combines convenience, safety and protection in a comprehensive package."

In December 2001 Delphi signed an agreement with Prospects, Corp. granting Delphi exclusive license to manufacture SmartWindow(TM), Prospects' optical anti-trap technology, for the automotive and truck markets.

Delphi Mechatronic Systems is a wholly owned subsidiary of Delphi Corp. It is a leading automotive switch, electronics and sensor supplier globally and is a market leader in mechatronic devices. The unit has manufacturing facilities in the United States, Germany, Spain, Poland, Mexico, Brazil, and through a joint venture in Korea. It has engineering facilities in the United States, France and Germany.

For more information about Delphi and its operating subsidiaries, visit Delphi's Virtual Press Room at www.delphi.com/media .