Astroid Delivers Unique CAD Viewing and Control Functionality to Solid Edge Users

Sydney, Australia 8 May 2006 -- Users of Solid Edge software have gained an advanced 3D viewing capability through an advanced Spatial User Interface (SUI) on the Astroid 6000 spatial controller. 

The combination of the existing Astroid technology and version 3.0 of the Solid Edge add-in delivers to Solid Edge users a level of integration and new functionality that has never before been available with any spatial controller or in any CAD package. 

Basically, the development means that any Solid Edge user can freely roam right inside any three dimensional design as if he or she was operating a camera, and all aspects of a shape can be seen in extreme detail. 

Mr John Hilton, president of Spatial Freedom Inc and inventor of the Spaceball� technology that pioneered spatial controllers, says the development represents a step forward for CAD viewing and control functionality for Solid Edge users. 

"I have wanted to provide this type of advanced 3D viewing capability for over two decades, basically since I invented the Spaceball�," said Mr Hilton. "Solid Edge is the first CAD package that can benefit from this significant development in viewing dynamics. It puts the Solid Edge user with an Astroid at a distinct advantage over any other CAD user."

"The Astroid now delivers the ability to get inside the design to freely move about in real time to inspect design elements in minute detail. This is a powerful new tool and is stunning the CAD community."

The SUI features include:

• Three modes of interaction; object control, camera control and pan/zoom control. 
• In object control it allows pushing and spinning the model about a 3D point called the motion handle. 
• In camera control it allows pushing and spinning the virtual camera around and through a stationary model. 
• In pan/zoom control you push and zoom the 2D image. 
• Automatic sensitivity adjustment to ensure consistent pan/zoom operation. 
• The motion handle is displayed as a small graphic like a mouse cursor and can be placed anywhere on the model. 
• Perspective views have the view angle displayed. 
• Camera control has an optional 'Prevent Tilting' feature to stop the camera tilting sideways. 
• Buttons are programmed just like keyboard function keys.

Overall, the SUI has greatly improved viewing interaction leading to significant productivity improvements. Operation is intuitive leaving the user to concentrate on the design, not on how to control the view.

"This is the first time CAD users can get inside their designs in the design environment," said Mr Hilton. "We are hearing many 'wow, I didn't know I could do that with Solid Edge system' types of responses."

"The motion handle ensures you are always in control of the model - you can position and orient the model with ease.

"Camera control delivers the ability to freely fly in and around a design for quality design reviews, fantastic demonstrations and, with AVI capture, quick product animations. Even visibility studies are a breeze."

About Spatial Controllers 

Spatial controllers are a type of 3D mouse with a spring mounted sensor that detects a 3D push and twist. The sensor is lightly held by a user's fingertips and is pushed and twisted in any 3D direction. The push and twist is commonly used to move and rotate an object around on the computer screen. Spatial controllers are also known as 3D motion controllers and 3D input devices. About Spatial Freedom, Inc. Spatial Freedom was founded by John Hilton, the inventor of the Spaceball�, to commercialize his new spatial controller technology. His vision and desire to create a new generation low cost spatial controller for the CAD/CAM/CAE industry led to the development of the Orion� technology and later the commercial development of the Astroid 6000, the first truly affordable spatial controller. 

www.spatialfreedom.com

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