DaimlerChrysler Chooses Perceptron AutoGauge(R) Systems for New Dakota Line at 'Dodge City' Plant

Warren Truck Plant Completes Transition to IPNet(R) Platform

PLYMOUTH, Mich., Dec. 7 -- Perceptron, Inc. today announced that DaimlerChrysler has added three new AutoGauge(R) systems to its 2005 model year Dakota truck lines. The undertaking completes a three-year transition from existing Perceptron P1000 measurement systems to IPNet(R)-based measurement solutions at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.

The first IPNet(R) systems were installed at the "Dodge City" location in 2001 for utilization in the production of Dodge Ram trucks. Perceptron's PC- based IPNet(R) platform, which provides 100% in-line measurements, automatic alarming capabilities and web-based reporting and analysis, will assist Dodge in reducing process variation and implementing process improvements. Dimensional quality data is easily accessible to anyone on the plant network for expedient and proactive process control.

"The overall flexibility of our AutoGauge(R) measurement solution is key to this product's appeal," says Bill Corriveau, Perceptron Senior Vice President, Global Automotive Business Unit. "AutoGauge(R) systems can be easily adapted to accommodate a wide variety of model configurations being manufactured on a single production line without sacrificing the benefits of 100% measurement."

IPNet(R)-based measurement solutions are currently being used at "Dodge City" to monitor cab, box, and motor compartment sub-assemblies. The production facility also utilizes a dedicated AutoGauge(R) system to check critical gap and flush measurements on both truck models.

About Perceptron AutoGauge(R)

AutoGauge(R) in-process measurement stations use non-contact laser sensors to measure dimensional characteristics on 100% of the vehicles produced. The measurement data is stored in the system controller and is remotely accessible via web browser for use in quality control, process variation reduction and process improvement. AutoGauge(R) systems may be comprised of both stationary and robot-mounted sensor systems. For stationary sensor systems, multiple sensors are attached to a mounting structure and aimed at specific points on the part or assembly. Robot-mounted measurement systems add the mobility of standard industrial robots, which can be programmed to position the sensor to measure multiple points inside and on the surface of the parts and assemblies. Robot-mounted AutoGauge(R) systems are often programmed to measure points on several different body styles that are produced on the same line.

About Perceptron

Perceptron produces information-based process improvement solutions for industry as well as technology components for non-contact measurement and inspection applications. Automotive and manufacturing companies throughout the world rely on Perceptron's process management solutions to help them improve quality, shorten product launch times and reduce overall manufacturing costs. Headquartered in Plymouth, MI, Perceptron has approximately 215 employees worldwide, with operations in the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Brazil, and Japan. For more information, please visit http://www.perceptron.com/ .