Visteon Signs $250,000 Agreement with Mechanical Dynamics
1 December 1999
Visteon Signs $250,000 Agreement with Mechanical Dynamics, Adopts ADAMS(R) Virtual Prototyping Tools for Driveline DevelopmentANN ARBOR, Mich., Nov. 30 -- Visteon Automotive Systems, one of the world's leading automotive suppliers, has signed a two-year agreement with Mechanical Dynamics, Inc. , creator of ADAMS(R) mechanical system simulation software, to acquire driveline virtual prototyping software for use throughout Visteon's Chassis Systems organization. Under terms of the agreement, worth approximately $250,000, Visteon will implement a new ADAMS simulation software package specifically designed to capture the company's proprietary driveline design and engineering methods. The software will allow Visteon engineers to model and test driveline components and systems such as differentials, axles, driveshafts, and independent rear suspensions on the computer, before building physical prototypes. They can then incorporate these models into their customers' full vehicle models. "Visteon recognizes the value of ADAMS virtual prototyping technology, and we're pleased they have committed to implementing it as an enterprise-wide solution in driveline development," said Robert R. Ryan, Mechanical Dynamics' president and chief operating officer. "In today's incredibly competitive global automotive marketplace, suppliers are an integral part of the total solution. By adopting this ADAMS tool, Visteon will be able to maximize the value they offer their customers." Visteon executives noted that embedding ADAMS technology into the development process gives the organization a leading-edge simulation tool and a significant competitive advantage. Along with streamlining internal processes, Visteon will be able to integrate its driveline component and system models more closely with those of its customers, many of whom are using ADAMS to develop full vehicle models. Along with the ADAMS/Driveline product, Mechanical Dynamics will provide implementation services as Visteon deploys the new technology throughout its Chassis Systems organization. Recognized as the de facto standard for virtual prototyping in the automotive industry, ADAMS is used by every major automotive manufacturer as well as many leading automotive suppliers and tire manufacturers. The ADAMS/Driveline product is part of Mechanical Dynamics' strategy to provide software that allows automotive manufacturers and suppliers to simulate the functional performance of a complete "digital car." By using common tools in the design process, OEMs and suppliers can reduce design iterations, improve product quality, and speed time-to-market. Visteon, based in Dearborn, Mich., has 77,000 employees and a global delivery system of more than 125 technical, manufacturing, sales, and service facilities in 21 countries. In a recent survey, automotive executives named Visteon the world's leading systems integrator, best body exterior supplier, and best supplier of transmission and drivetrain systems. Mechanical Dynamics pioneered the field of mechanical system simulation, and has remained focused on this technology since its founding in 1977. Thousands of engineering teams in nearly every manufacturing industry use the company's ADAMS software to build and test virtual prototypes, realistically simulating on their computers the full-motion behavior of complex mechanical system designs. Using ADAMS can help manufacturers reduce the number of costly physical prototypes, improve design quality, and significantly shorten product development cycles. Additional information about Mechanical Dynamics can be obtained by writing to the company at 2301 Commonwealth Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105. Phone: 734-994-3800. Fax: 734-994-6418. E-mail: info@adams.com. World Wide Web: http://www.adams.com ADAMS and the Mechanical Dynamics logo are registered trademarks of Mechanical Dynamics, Inc. All other company, brand, or product names are or may be trademarks of their respective holders.