Flexpoint Sensor Systems, Inc., today announced that a Steering Wheel Horn Pad Sensor that features Bend Sensor® technology has achieved "Implementation Ready" status with a major US Fortune 100 Automaker that we have been jointly developing this product with for the last several years. There are a total of four vehicle platforms currently being considered for Flexpoint's longer-lasting, more cost-effective horn switch.
The sensor has been slated to replace their current horn assembly and implementation has been initially targeted for two of these platforms. An automobile platform is a shared set of common design, engineering, and production efforts, as well as major components over a number of outwardly distinct models and even types of automobiles, often from different, but related marques.
While automotive platforms can consists of anywhere from 150,000 to 4 million cars, a product is typically launched in a platform of between 50,000-100,000 vehicles for a "shake-out" period and then incorporated into additional vehicles over the years. Once established we expect the horn pad to be incorporated into additional platforms typically consisting of 300,000 – 500,000 cars annually. Once in full production, the annual revenue is expected to be in excess of $1MM annually and will grow over time as the steering wheels in additional vehicle platforms are fitted with Flexpoint's horn pad and additional features are added.
In the automotive industry, Implementation Ready status indicates that "the part or assembly is ready for implementation in today's production vehicles. The product has been tested and an industrial validation performed. A cost analysis has also been completed to show that it can be cost-effectively implemented into production cars today."
The "Implementation Ready" designation is crucial for Flexpoint because it validates the viability of Bend Sensor® technology. Only products that are proven to be durable and reliable enough for inclusion in major vehicle platforms are eligible to achieve the distinction of "Implementation Ready."
"Achieving Implementation Ready status and having our technology designated for vehicle platforms is a major accomplishment for Flexpoint and our shareholders. It encompasses years of rigorous testing and development work," said Flexpoint CEO Clark Mower . "To work with a world leader in the automotive industry and their designated Tier – 1 supplier validates our products and technology. We are also optimistic that additional products will be incorporated into platforms beginning as early as next year. We look forward to being able to issue a joint-press release with our partner when the automaker begins production of the specific platforms in which the horn switch product will be featured."
Source: http://www.flexpoint.com