NOVI, Mich.—Cooper Standard Automotive Inc. has been named a finalist for the 2019 Automotive News PACE Awards for its proprietary artificial intelligence-based polymer compound development software.
The firm said it developed its own proprietary AI software to accelerate development of polymer compounds—recipes for rubber and plastic materials—for specific applications. Using this software, Cooper Standard said it has shortened material development times while also realizing rapid discovery of new compounds that offer superior performance properties, which yield superior products.
It's the second-straight year the firm has been named a finalist for the award. It won in 2018 for its Fortrex compound, a lightweight elastomeric material that offers reduced weight while delivering superior weatherseal performance and aesthetics.
"We are very pleased that our material science innovations have been recognized as an Automotive News PACE Award finalist for the second consecutive year," Jeffrey Edwards, chairman and CEO of Cooper Standard, said in a statement. "Our culture of engagement has enabled us to achieve breakthroughs in material science, including the processes that aid in development, such as our AI-based software."
The Automotive News PACE awards, which stands for Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence, is in its 25th year and seek to honor supplier innovations that have entered the market and are delivering measurable customer benefits. The winners will be revealed on April 8.
