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BREED Technologies Embarks on Virtual Safety Systems

23 February 1998

BREED Technologies Embarks on Virtual Safety Systems

    DETROIT, Feb. 23 --  Engineers at BREED Technologies
have begun utilizing virtual reality in the development and
engineering of occupant safety systems.
    BREED's new three-dimensional virtual reality safety systems will be
integrated with virtual vehicle prototypes to simulate how an occupant
interacts with an automobile's airbag during a crash.  Virtual reality will
facilitate BREED engineers' ability to view numerous airbag deployments and
determine which occupant restraint system will provide optimum protection in
various crash scenarios.
    BREED also is using virtual reality for its seat belt operations to
compare and evaluate belt fit and retractor and buckle packaging.
    "A whole new perspective can be gained by viewing in a three-dimensional
stereoscopic environment," said Joseph Mazur, team leader, software
development.  "Virtual reality systems are going to be fundamental tools for
the engineer in the near future, and BREED will be at the forefront of this
new technology."
    Headquartered in Lakeland, Fla., BREED is rapidly emerging as one of the
world's most fully integrated leading suppliers of complete automotive
occupant safety systems.  The company supports its growing list of automotive
customers with advanced engineering, testing and manufacturing facilities
located in 13 countries.  Information about BREED and its products is
available on the Internet at http://www.breedtech.com.

SOURCE  BREED Technologies