LMS International, the engineering innovation company, today announced that they have entered into an exclusive negotiation to acquire 100 % of the share capital of IMAGINE, of which 7 % are publicly held. IMAGINE is a France-based provider of 1-D multiphyics simulation solutions for mechanical and mechatronic systems. Through the acquisition, LMS extends its current solutions portfolio for functional performance simulation and physical testing, delivering a complete set of applications to model, simulate and test the real-life behavior of mechanical and mechatronic systems. As soon as the contemplated acquisition of the shares of the private shareholders will be completed, LMS intends to make a public offer to buy all shares of IMAGINE which are publicly held and to request the delisting of the latter from the Marché Libre of Euronext Paris

Since its inception in 1986, IMAGINE has become the technology leader in the growing market of mechatronic and control systems simulation. The AMESim software suite offers a complete 1-D virtual system analysis platform that allows users to model multi-domain mechatronic systems and to simulate their multi-physics performance. Typical applications include the engineering of engine valve train or injection systems, vehicle safety systems, aircraft landing gear of wing flap systems, and a wide range of hydraulic and pneumatic components like pumps, compressors and actuators.

Mechatronic system engineering has become a key development concern through the increased use of electrical and electronic systems in automotive, aerospace and other mechanical applications. IMAGINE is one of the first companies in this domain to integrate multiple technologies and mathematic routines into an integrated solution, which not only saves time and effort but also delivers higher quality simulation results. The AMESim suite also offers unique capabilities to simulate the multiphysics behavior of mechanical and mechatronic system in the concept stage, long before detailed CAD or 3-D simulation models become available. Through up-front analysis and validation of early concepts, development teams can dramatically reduce time, costs and risks in creating innovative products.

Dr. Urbain Vandeurzen, Chairman and CEO of LMS, commented, "The acquisition of IMAGINE with its leading solutions for mechatronic systems simulation represents a major milestone in expanding the leadership of LMS in intelligent system simulation. Through the acquisition, we can deliver a unique combination of 3-D system simulation and 1-D mechatronic system analysis. In addition we extend our capabilities to provide multi-attribute, multi-solver solutions for functional performance engineering, supporting world-class product development processes."

"We are delighted to join LMS and strongly believe the combination of our solution and services

will leverage the unique value of both companies. Our complementary solutions and the combined strength of our development, sales and service organizations will provide tremendous benefits to our mutual partners and customers," commented Dr. Vincent Braibant, CEO of IMAGINE. "Together we will further exploit the growing market opportunity for mechatronic system simulation and create new innovative solutions combining our mutual technologies."

As a result of this contemplated acquisition, LMS intends to further increase its international reach with additional offices in Europe and US. After the conclusion of the acquisition, LMS will employ more than 800 people at 31 locations worldwide.