VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, France, July 7, 2025 – Dassault Systèmes has acquired Ascon Qube technology, developed by Ascon Systems for software-defined automation systems. This acquisition strengthens Dassault Systèmes’ capabilities in modeling, simulation, and optimizing virtual factory twins. The technology helps companies in automation-driven sectors develop machine-level software using an AI-based platform. It supports the improvement and optimization of production workflows.
Ascon Qube, developed by Ascon Holding GmbH, addresses the challenges of hard-coded PLCs and fragmented production systems. The SaaS-ready platform uses a model-based approach and AI to plan, develop, and control production processes. This improves interoperability and flexibility in industrial automation environments.
In the generative economy, adapting production lines to new requirements or products is complex. Each machine runs software designed for its specific function, so changing multiple machines takes time. Reprogramming and reconfiguring these systems can delay production changeovers, affect product quality, and extend delivery timelines. Software-defined automation helps solve these issues by supporting faster production adjustments, improving quality, and optimizing equipment usage.
Dassault Systèmes will integrate Ascon Qube technology into its DELMIA portfolio and powered by the 3DEXPERIENCE knowledge platform. This is a milestone in accelerating the delivery of Dassault Systèmes’ 3D UNIV+RSES environment, combining virtual twins, training AI engines, and protecting customer IP.
This technology will create new Experiences as a Service (XaaS) models that let manufacturers simulate, plan, and run processes with finer detail. It uses software-driven automation for machines, replacing PLCs. This shift helps customers make on-time decisions, reduce downtime, improve performance, and keep operations running without any roadblocks.
Source: Dassault Systèmes
About Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes SE, established in 1981 and based in Vélizy-Villacoublay, France, is a global software company focusing on 3D design, digital mock-ups, and product lifecycle management (PLM). The company creates virtual tools that help improve real-world outcomes for consumers, patients, and communities. Its software portfolio includes CATIA for product design, SOLIDWORKS for 3D mechanical engineering, DELMIA for manufacturing processes, and SIMULIA for advanced simulations. These solutions support industries like aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, industrial equipment, life sciences, and technology. As of 2024, the company has approximately 24,000 employees across 194 offices worldwide. Dassault Systèmes reported €6.21B in revenue in 2024 and serves over 350,000 enterprise customers in more than 150 countries.
About Ascon Systems
Ascon Systems Holding GmbH, established in 2017 and headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, develops software-defined automation solutions for industrial manufacturing. Its main product, Ascon Qube, is a cloud- and edge-compatible platform that supports machine-level process planning, control, and monitoring through live digital twins and AI-based automation. The platform is used in industries such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, industrial equipment, and intralogistics. It allows users, including those without specialized IT or OT backgrounds, to configure and manage automated workflows. Ascon Systems employs about 110 people across five locations in Germany and operates a SaaS-based, low-code environment aimed at replacing hard-coded PLCs and fragmented automation systems. The company reports annual revenue of approx. USD 15.7 million. Its technology is designed to improve production flexibility and enable process adjustments, helping manufacturers address the inefficiencies common in traditional automation environments and support the adoption of digital twin and agile production practices.