PLYMOUTH, MICH. (July 30, 2013) – Johnson Controls, a global leader in automotive seating, seating components, interiors and electronics, recently joined the Innovation Advisory Council of the AutoHarvest Foundation.

The Foundation is an e-collaboration marketplace for intellectual property focusing on advanced manufacturing.

“Being part of AutoHarvest further demonstrates Johnson Controls’ commitment to promoting and developing innovative automotive technologies,” said Michael Thomas, senior manager, technology scouting for Johnson Controls Automotive Seating, who will represent the supplier on the council.

Johnson Controls joins other council members representing some of the world’s leading automakers, suppliers, universities and national laboratories. The company has posted more than 30 opportunities to help inventors, universities and tech start-ups collaborate with Johnson Controls to bring new technologies to market and find new applications for existing technologies.

“We are delighted to have Johnson Controls as part of our Innovation Advisory Council,” said Jayson Pankin, co-founder and president of AutoHarvest. “As a leader in innovation, Johnson Controls will be a great addition to our network of members as we work to provide an inclusive system for advanced manufacturing innovators and technologies.”

Johnson Controls is recognized for its innovative products. The company recently was honored with the Automotive Innovations Award 2013 for seating and interior technologies that reduce overall mass, enhance comfort and improve functionality. 

About Johnson Controls:

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 168,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful.  In 2013, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #14 company in its annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens” list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience:

Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive seating, overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior electronics. We support all major automakers in the differentiation of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. With 240 locations worldwide, we are where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort and style of our products, from single components to complete interiors. With our global capability, we supply approximately 50 million cars per year.

About AutoHarvest

AutoHarvest Foundation, a 501(C)3 nonprofit, created and operates a unique innovation ecosystem led by some of the most highly respected figures in the automotive and manufacturing industries.  In 2012, AutoHarvest.org was launched as the world’s only truly neutral and global on-line meeting place for innovators of all types with an interest in advanced manufacturing.  This system allows users of all types to showcase capabilities, technologies and needs system-wide and then privately connect with fellow inventors and commercializers to explore technology and business development opportunities of mutual interest. The AutoHarvest interest group consists of over 200 prominent R&D and manufacturing organizations from industry, government and academia. Recently awarded a multi-year grant by the New Economy Initiative Foundation of Southeast Michigan, AutoHarvest is part of the Detroit Regional Innovation Network. For more information visit: www.autoharvest.org

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