Dassault Systèmes Wins PACE Award for DELMIA Automation

Virtual Factory Commissioning Solution Recognized in IT Category

Auburn Hills, Mich., USA, May 11, 2009 – Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), a world leader in 3D and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), has announced that its DELMIA Automation solution was recognized as a 2009 Automotive News PACE (Premiere Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence) Award Winner. In its 15th year, the PACE Awards are one of the global automotive industry’s highest honors, acknowledging suppliers for superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance.

Awarded under the PACE Information Technology category, DELMIA Automation software makes it possible for manufacturing engineers to create a virtual production cell or line that includes all devices and their behavior in order to test how a line will perform prior to any physical build. Using the virtual line with the actual PLC controller that will be on the factory floor, months before the line is assembled, saves weeks on the commissioning of the production line.

“We are truly honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Philippe Charlès, CEO, DELMIA, Dassault Systèmes.  “It is gratifying to be recognized for our commitment to developing efficient solutions that enable innovation within the automotive industry, helping it to survive and thrive amidst today’s challenges.” 

According to a study performed by analyst ARC Advisory Group, early implementations of DELMIA Automation have identified an average of 100 mechanical and electrical errors in logic, HMI, and drawings per manufacturing cell. Identification and correction of these issues prior to physical build eliminates two to three man weeks per startup, saving thousands of dollars in engineering and production labor costs. This economic benefit, especially, has become increasingly important for sustainable businesses today.

The 15th annual Automotive News PACE Awards competition was open to suppliers that contribute products, processes, materials or services directly to manufacture cars or trucks. Winners were chosen following an extensive review by industry, academic and business leaders including a comprehensive written application and site visit. DELMIA’s award application referenced recent DELMIA Automation projects with a major OEM.

The world’s leading vehicle manufacturers rely on Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions, comprised of CATIA for 3D design, DELMIA for digital manufacturing, ENOVIA for collaboration, and SIMULIA for realistic simulation. The company’s software and services allow businesses of any size to digitally define and simulate products, as well as the process and resources required to manufacture, maintain and recycle them to improve the environment.