Dassault Systèmes (DS), a provider of 3D and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, and ICEM, a provider of styling, surface modelling and rendering solutions, have announced an agreement pursuant to which Dassault Systèmes would acquire ICEM, thus extending CATIA leadership to the broad and diversified styling communities.

“Aesthetics and design quality create emotions and are key contributors to product success and brand recognition. With ICEM"s unique set of technologies and expertise in this domain combined with DS"s recognised leadership in 3D and PLM, customers will benefit from a new level of integrated process performance from styling concepts to final shape,” said Bernard Charlès, president and CEO, Dassault Systèmes.

According to Lee Cureton, president and CEO, ICEM, “Marrying ICEM"s automotive and industrial design know-how with DS"s PLM savoir-faire and market penetration is an exciting opportunity to expand the reach of ICEM"s technologies to strategic markets, including aerospace, high-tech, luxury and consumer goods.”

DS has invested in “Capture and Reuse” technologies allowing customers to create alternative designs. The joined R&D forces will work together to create the next generation of concept styling and production surfacing solutions.