Bosch and Mechanical Dynamics collaborate on $1 million project to develop advanced sensor system for automotive occupant safety

Citation

(2002), "Bosch and Mechanical Dynamics collaborate on $1 million project to develop advanced sensor system for automotive occupant safety", Sensor Review, Vol. 22 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2002.08722bab.001

Bosch and Mechanical Dynamics collaborate on $1 million project to develop advanced sensor system for automotive occupant safety

Keywords: Automotive, Sensors, Safety, Bosch

Robert Bosch Corp., a leading supplier of automotive safety systems and other products, is working with Mechanical Dynamics, Inc. in a year-long, $1 million program to develop a sensor that could reduce the risk of injuries caused by air bags in automobile crashes. Approximately $400,000 in revenue from this project remains to be recognized by Mechanical Dynamics in the second half of 2001as additional services are performed.

"We are very pleased to work with Bosch on this critically important project," said Robert R. Ryan, president of Mechanical Dynamics. "They have always been in the forefront of automotive advancements, and this sensor program is one more example of the ground- breaking research they conduct. Utilizing our expertise in providing engineering solutions through virtual prototyping, we can help Bosch not only achieve their project timeline, but accelerate innovation while reducing the risk involved in developing a significant safety system."

Mechanical Dynamics' consultants are working with Bosch, automotive OEMs, and supplier partners in both the U.S. and Germany to develop and document analytical procedures and perform manufacturing design and analysis. The highly collaborative process includes conducting finite element analysis(FEA)studies, correlating test data with the analyses, and optimizing the design. "At Bosch, we've been working on these advanced sensor systems for several years," said Robert Jones, director of engineering, Sensor Systems, at Bosch. "Our experience has suggested several keys to success, and Mechanical Dynamics' mechanical design and analysis expertise, along with their knowledge of advanced computer-aided engineering tools, will give us a decided advantage in creating an optimal sensor that meets our development criteria."

Bosch designs and produces precision automotive components and systems sold to vehicle and power train manufacturers worldwide. These include systems and components for gasoline and diesel injection, airbag components, ABS and conventional braking systems, and telematics, as well as small motors, electrical, and electronic equipment.

Mechanical Dynamics' market-leading ADAMS(R) software allows engineering teams to build and test functional virtual prototypes of complex mechanical designs, realistically simulating full-motion behavior on their computers. This helps manufacturers produce better products faster and at lower cost, with reduced risk and increased communication throughout the product development process. The company's products are the de facto standard in the automotive industry, and lead the market in aerospace, rail, and general machinery. Building on industry partnerships, strategic acquisitions, a strong product pipeline, and a dedicated team worldwide, Mechanical Dynamics has established itself as the global leader in functional virtual prototyping.

Additional information about Mechanical Dynamics can be obtained by writing to the company at 2300 Traverwood Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105. Tel: +1 734-994- 3800; Fax: +1 734-994-6418; E-mail: info@adams.com; Online: http://www.adams.com