Paris, France – June 02, 2009 – ESI Group (ISIN FR0004110310), a pioneer and world-leading supplier of digital simulation software for prototyping and manufacturing processes, announced today the release of VA One 2008.5. VA One is a complete solution for simulating noise and vibration across the full frequency range seamlessly combining Finite Elements, Boundary Elements, and Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) in one model. The new release comprises over 40 major enhancements across all modules.

New isolators and junctions

Isolators and noise control treatments are an important part of the design of quiet products with superior noise and vibration performance. VA One 2008.5 includes improved models of isolators and noise control treatments between structural and acoustic subsystems. The models have been developed in conjunction with leading isolator manufacturers. “ITT Enidine specializes in the design and manufacture of advanced isolation systems,” said Jeff Weisbeck, Research Scientist at ITT Enidine, “we are pleased to announce our collaboration with ESI Group in the development of improved isolator models in VA One.”

More accurate models of acoustic radiation

The Fast Multipole Boundary Element algorithm in VA One 2008.5 has been further enhanced to provide more accurate models of acoustic radiation at low frequencies. Applications include the design of quieter Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) and the acoustic design of brake assemblies with reduced propensity for squeal.

Productivity enhancements

VA One 2008.5 contains a number of key enhancements for speeding up model creation including faster creation of manual junctions between subsystems, interactive design of poroelastic noise control treatments and automated meshing of non-manifold CAD geometry.

“Whirlpool’s commitment to our customers includes delivering appliances with superior noise and vibration performance,” said Dr. Robert Unglenieks, Lead Engineer at Whirlpool Corporation’s St. Joseph Technology Center Sound and Vibration Laboratories. “VA One is an important tool in our NVH processes to reduce our reliance on building and testing prototypes. It drives us to a deeper understanding of the physics and provides substantial time and cost savings”.

“We are pleased to announce the release of VA One 2008.5” said Dr. Phil Shorter, Director of Vibro-Acoustic Product Operations at ESI Group. “The enhancements in this release continue our commitment to providing our customers with state-of-the-art methods for vibro-acoustic analysis and design”.

About ESI Group

ESI is a world-leading supplier and pioneer of digital simulation software for prototyping and manufacturing processes that take into account the physics of materials. ESI has developed an extensive suite of coherent, industry-oriented applications to realistically simulate a product’s behavior during testing, to fine-tune manufacturing processes in accordance with desired product performance, and to evaluate the environment’s impact on product performance. ESI’s products represent a unique collaborative and open environment for Simulation-Based Design, enabling virtual prototypes to be improved in a continuous and collaborative manner while eliminating the need for physical prototypes during product development. The company employs over 750 high-level specialists worldwide covering more than 30 countries. ESI Group is listed in compartment C of NYSE Euronext Paris. For further information, visit www.esi-group.com.

Press Relations

ESI Group     
Elise Lavoue     
elise.lavoue@esi-group.com  
Tel. : +44 (0) 1865 784 833