Inverse forming technology from Johnson Controls lifts instrument cluster image quality to new heights / Uniting technological precision and sophisticated craftsmanship in the instrument cluster

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Johnson Controls unveils an innovative instrument cluster in
Frankfurt at the 63rd International Motor Show (IAA) with the help of
some unique production technology. As a supplier to BMW's new
5-series, Johnson Controls, one of the world's leading suppliers of
automotive interior systems and electronics and batteries, has
developed an instrument cluster for this vehicle platform using a
manufacturing process based for the first time ever on inverse
forming technology for three-dimensional black panel film. As a key
benefit, this optimized process has eliminated distorted effects. The
digitally-controlled analog instrument cluster with integrated
5.7-inch TFT display utilizes a backlighting technology that has been
advanced by optimized glass technology along with a 1000:1 contrast
ratio. The resulting image quality and color fidelity means driver
information is presented with superb optics. The instruments operate
with tremendous accuracy, including the cruise control indicator,
which reacts immediately thanks to a new-generation stepper motor.

Maximum technical refinement is what characterizes the new BMW 5-
series instrument cluster, with its four distinctive gauges and
integrated 5.7-inch TFT display cell (640 x 160 pixels).
Thermoformed, inverse-molded 3-D black panel film was utilized for
the first time in this unit, and the application of the inverse
forming technology is what makes it unique. "It's the only one of its
kind on the market so far," said Achim Hosenfeld, Vice President
Electronics at Johnson Controls. "Unlike before, the film is placed
down into the forming tool. The result is a special embossed surface
structure that is imprinted by the texture of the tool. This
eliminates the need for an expensive anti-reflective coating and also
makes the display easy to read. This reliably implemented process
increases the overall quality and look-and-feel of the instrument
cluster as a whole to new heights."

Johnson Controls manufactures 24 versions of the digital analog
instrument cluster to meet the diverse requirements of the global
marketplace. "The new instrument cluster is a product of the
successful collaboration between our electronics, interior and
manufacturing specialists," added Achim Hosenfeld. "The electronics
in this product would have never reached such an advanced level
without the vast expertise of our employees, who continually take on
new creative challenges when it comes to the technical feasibility of
new product concepts. Our comprehensive manufacturing experience in
processing, forming and finishing plastic surfaces and films are
making an impact."

A more technically detailed version of the press release and
digital photos are available at www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk/press.

Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) is the global leader that brings
ingenuity to the places where people live, work and travel. By
integrating technologies, products and services, we create smart
environments that redefine the relationships between people and their
surroundings. Our team of 140,000 employees creates a more
comfortable, safe and sustainable world through our products and
services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12 million homes and one
million commercial buildings. Our commitment to sustainability drives
our environmental stewardship, good corporate citizenship in our
workplaces and communities, and the products and services we provide
to customers. For additional information, please visit
http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

Originaltext: Johnson Controls GmbH
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Further information is available from:

Johnson Controls GmbH
Automotive Experience
Industriestr. 20-30
51399 Burscheid Germany

Astrid Schafmeister
Tel.: +49 2174 65-3189
Fax: +49 2174 65-3219
E-mail: astrid.schafmeister@jci.com

Ina Longwitz
Tel.: +49 2174 65-4343
E-mail: ina.longwitz@jci.com