3D Interactive Visualization
Source/Type: Compound Semiconductors Online - Company News Releases

June 25, 2008... Mechdyne Corporation introduced the 3D Review Station, an integrated computing, display, and software system that uses new 3D-ready HD televisions to make interactive 3D more accessible to designers and engineers. These new televisions reportedly leverage a unique DLP smooth picture, diagonal subframe sampling format to display stereoscopic images. Mechdyne's Conduit software allows images created in popular CAD applications to be displayed in fully interactive stereoscopic 3D on these televisions.

The 3D Review Station is a compact, roll-about visualization system for individual and small team collaboration in offices, research labs, and conference rooms. The system includes a 61" HD resolution screen, a high-powered 3D graphics workstation, a height-adjustable, wheeled cart, LCD monitor, 3D glasses, and a common hand-held game controller for interaction.

Customers can add on application support through Mechdyne's Conduit software to suit their needs. Available Conduit modules include support for ProENGINEER; Solidworks; the V5 releases of CATIA, ENOVIA, and DELMIA; SolidEdge; ArcGIS; ArcGlobe; Google Earth; Google SketchUp; Blender; and Autodesk's Maya, AliasStudio, Showcase, and 3ds Max.

The display is designed to switch easily between 2D and 3D stereoscopic modes for maximum versatility. Switching from presentation slides to spreadsheets to stereoscopic models can be done quickly, the company states. The rear projected display is 11" deep, and the entire system fits on a cart that rolls through a standard-size door. The display uses an LED light source that has a 20,000-hour or more life expectancy.

The included Windows workstation is configured with dual-core processors, 8 GB RAM, and dual GPUs to handle large simulations and 3D models. The 3D shutter glasses are a new design with sunglasses-styling and built-in rechargeable batteries.

The Conduit software that enables stereoscopic images on this unique format display also enables virtual-reality interaction. An optional, camera based motion tracking system allows users to move freely in front of the display while the perspective of the displayed image is viewed as if it was real. If a viewer moves to the side or ducks to look 'under' a model, the position is monitored and the model reacts in real time to show the appropriate viewpoint. The tracking system also allows a hand-held game controller to be used for navigation, model rotations, zoom and other capabilities.

"We developed the 3D Review Station solution so individuals and small teams can have access to powerful visualization capabilities at a cost-effective price," said Kurt Hoffmeister, vice-president, R&D, for Mechdyne Corporation "Our software capabilities give us the unique ability to offer this new display technology to designers and researchers and others who may not otherwise be able to take advantage of its unique format and price point."

Pricing for the 3D Review Station varies according to which Conduit modules are chosen and whether or not optional tracking is included. The system is available now.

For more information, call 641.754.4649

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