Gentherm, a specialist developer of innovative thermal management technologies, has invested in Forciot, a Finnish-based technology developer of sensors for touch, motion and force measurement.
The technology being developed by Forciot has the potential to be integrated into vehicle interiors, including into steering wheels for Hands on Detection (HOD) functionality for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Forciot’s innovative stretchable and printed sensors and advanced electronics are targeted to help accurately measure touch, motion and force. Forciot’s sensors may be used to sense an occupant’s presence and potentially to replace buttons and other Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) within vehicle interiors.
“The automotive industry is changing extremely fast, and we see potential opportunities with Forciot’s stretchable electronics and sensor technology to address the challenges that our customers are facing today and in the future,” said Phil Eyler, President and CEO of Gentherm. “Our investment in Forciot provides us an opportunity to expand our Automotive and Electronics solutions and help improve vehicle safety and passenger comfort.”
“We are very excited to cooperate with Gentherm, who passionately drives innovation and advanced functionality to their future solutions. This cooperation and investment enables us to scale up Forciot operations further to prepare for the mass volume phase and supports our global business and technology development growth plans as well,” said Tytti Julkunen, Forciot Chairman of the Board.
