SensAble Technologies' Revolutionary New Freeform System Blurs the Line Between Physical and Digital Modeling.

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 10, 1999--

For years the computer modeling industry has sought "sculpting" metaphors and "clay-like" ease of use. Today, SensAble Technologies made this vision a reality by launching the FreeForm(TM) modeling system. By allowing users to model on the computer using their sense of touch, the FreeForm system is able to blend the intuitiveness and expressiveness of physical modeling with the power and productivity of digital modeling. It is available immediately from certified resellers and directly through SensAble Technologies.

FreeForm tools use familiar, physical metaphors, such as sculpting and wire cutting, that work in a direct and obvious manner. Controlling these tools through touch gives users an unprecedented connection to their model. "Intent" flows directly into the digital form, and any type of nuance or gesture can be faithfully captured. In addition to delivering the flexibility and expressiveness of clay, direct model interaction and familiar tools help eliminate the months-long learning curve typically needed to master 3D modeling software. As a result, the well-known productivity benefits of digital modeling can now be applied to a variety of modeling challenges previously beyond the capabilities of computer software.

"FreeForm is the closest thing to real sculpting in the computer I have ever experienced" reports Michael DeFeo, Senior Sculptor at Blue Sky Studios. "Not only does it emulate real, physical sculpting but it also offers additional techniques not possible in real clay, such as pushing out from the inside. SensAble, and FreeForm in particular, are leading the way in providing modelers what they have always been missing in the computer - the ability to model with fine, continuous control that can only be provided by touch."

Hasbro sculptor Dave Bilyeu appreciates how FreeForm modeling complements the product development process. "FreeForm's interactive technology opens up a whole new approach to ideation, prototyping, and final model execution" according to Bilyeu. "The many possible solutions it offers during the developmental process allows for quicker decision-making and a variety of approaches to a single project - which results in bringing a better product to market."

The FreeForm system interfaces digitally with the rest of the computerized design and production process. Whether conceptual designs to be turned into manufactured products or "synthespians" for digital content creation, FreeForm models can be taken downstream into leading surface modeling, CAD, and animation packages. According to Jim Baum, Executive Vice President at the Parametric Technology Corporation, "SensAble's FreeForm modeling system extends the reach of the digital product development process so that now Pro/ENGINEER(R) can seamlessly integrate with the initial conceptual design stages. The result is a significant opportunity for our customers to reduce their time to market."

The FreeForm system is available immediately for $14,950 US and includes the PHANTOM(TM) Desktop interface hardware and FreeForm modeling software. It runs on Pentium-based Windows NT workstations. For international pricing, contact SensAble Technologies or a certified reseller.

About SensAble Technologies

SensAble Technologies, the industry leader in 3D Touch(TM) force feedback technology, is redefining the way professional computer users interact with their 3D data. SensAble and its products, including the PHANTOM family of hardware interfaces and the GHOST(R) software development platform, have won numerous awards and have been featured in many publications worldwide, including The Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek and Fortune. The company has over 200 customers in more than 25 countries, including General Electric, DaimlerChrysler, Boeing, Honda, France Telecom, Shell, Sandia National Laboratories, Mayo Clinic, and leading universities.

SensAble, PHANTOM, FreeForm, GHOST and 3D Touch are trademarks or registered trademarks of SensAble Technologies, Inc. All other companies and products referenced herein have trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

SensAble Technologies, Inc., 215 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142. Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]