Mechdyne Introduces 3D Interactive Visualization Solution for Workstation-Based Design, Engineering Applications

Industry-First Integration of 3D-Enabled HDTV With Immersive, Interactive Software Supports ProENGINEER, SolidWorks, ArcGIS, Maya and More


MARSHALLTOWN, IA--(Marketwire - June 24, 2008) - Mechdyne Corporation today 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 in technical application environments. These new televisions leverage a unique DLP® smooth picture, diagonal sub-frame sampling format to display stereoscopic images. Mechdyne's Conduit software is one of the only means by which images created in popular commercial applications for manufacturing, design, geophysical mapping, medical imaging and other technical fields can 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 switches easily between 2D and 3D stereoscopic modes for maximum versatility. During review meetings, switching from presentation slides to spreadsheets to stereoscopic models can be done quickly. The rear projected display is only eleven inches (11") deep. The entire system, including optical tracking system, fits on the cart and will easily roll through a standard sized door. This very bright display uses an LED (light emitting diode) light source that has an incredible 20,000 hour or more life expectancy, which equates to almost seven years of eight hour per day use.

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, VP of 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 by which Conduit module(s) are chosen and whether or not optional tracking is included. The system is available now, and additional information on the 3D Review Station can be found at http://www.mechdyne.com/.

About Mechdyne Corporation

Mechdyne Corporation is the world's largest company dedicated to consulting and development of immersive, networked and collaborative visualization systems. The company addresses complex projects where an in-depth understanding of user requirements leads to the development of products and customized solutions involving elements of visual, software and support systems. Mechdyne's product divisions provide advanced display technology, audio/visual systems design, and implementation services, as well as immersive and interactive software development and support. Headquartered in Marshalltown, Iowa, Mechdyne's customers include leading government laboratories, military research programs, energy companies and a variety of 'edutainment,' manufacturing, and other users of visualization technology. More information is available at www.mechdyne.com.

Contact Information: For more information: Jeff Brum Mechdyne Corporation 519-664-0036, ext. 221 Matt Schmidt FS Communications 650-345-3549