*************************CREATE YOUR EXPERIENCE********************

1. EST opens Online Shop
2. EST becomes reseller for Force Dimension
3. WorldViz VideoVision and PPT available from EST
4. EST now resells the ACT Kern 3D Displays
5. 5DT introduces new HMDs and Gloves
6. Cybermind announces new HMD 800 series
7. AnimationStar: Low Cost Animation Solution from Ascension
8. Manufacturers Special: Ascension
9. EST Newsletter Special Offer: Ascension Nest of Birds*
10. News, Updates and Patches
11. Shows

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This will be the last newsletter for the year 2004.
Thank you all for your trust in our company. We wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a happy and successfull New Year 2005.
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1. EST opens Online Shop
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To make it easier for our customers to get their favourite products from
EST, we decided to offer them in our new Online Shop
at: http://www.it4tomorrow.de/shop/

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any questions.

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2. EST becomes reseller for Force Dimension
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EST will be representing Force Dimension, a manufacturer of high-end haptic
force feedback devices.
Force Dimension is backed by more than a decade of first-hand haptic
technology expertise and research work at the renowned Swiss Federal Institute
of Technology (EPFL) in Lausanne, Switzerland. Thanks to its unique patented
parallel mechanical design, the Force Dimension haptic devices offer highest
performance, most importantly in stiffness, for a surprisingly attractive price.
The high-end haptic devices are all built with best quality materials such as aluminium
and all feature very attractive and ergonomic design.

The product lines include the following products:

3-DOF OMEGA Haptic Device:
The 3-DOF OMEGA haptic device is a cost-effective desktop solution that combines
state-of-the-art haptic technology with a compact design. The OMEGA offers an
unmatched combination of strength and precision, making it the perfect haptic add-on
to industrial-strength applications. Like all other DELTA devices, the OMEGA is
compatible with Red Hat Linux, Windows NT/2000/XP and Mac OSX
(http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/haptic/ForceDimension/3DofOmega.html).

3-DOF DELTA Haptic Device
The 3-DOF DELTA is the ideal platform for high-precision haptics and force-feedback
interface developments. With the gripper clip-on technology and up to seven control
channels, the DELTA offers the ultimate architecture for researchers designing advanced
custom user interfaces. The DHD software API also provides powerful functionalities for
fast prototyping and control of extended haptic interfaces
(http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/haptic/ForceDimension/Delta3Dof.html).

6-DOF DELTA Haptic Device
With six active degrees of freedom and full gravity compensation, this device provides
force and torque feedback to the user. The 6-DOF DELTA offers state-of-the-art forcefeedback
capabilities with unmatched performance. Using the gripper clip-on technology, the
6-DOF DELTA can be converted to a 3-dof DELTA device in a matter of seconds. Custom
design handles may also be attached
(http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/haptic/ForceDimension/Delta6Dof.html).

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/haptic/ForceDimension/overview.html

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3. WorldViz VideoVision and PPT available from EST
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VideoVision is the ultimate solution for affordable and flexible augmented reality applications.
See the virtual and the real world simultaneously. Augment your reality with computer generated
imagery and animations. Precisely manipulate reality for scientific research applications.
VideoVision includes two separate color cameras with NTSC/PAL output signals, a precision
omni mount, hardware-accelerated image acquisition, and a host PC for combining the
captured video with computer generated images.
Durable Superlock fasteners allow easy and secure attachment of VideoVision to almost any
head-mounted display. Easily detachable when not needed.

VIZARD and VideoVision
Use the built-in commands in WorldViz’ 3D authoring tool Vizard to control the capture, exposure
or to buffer up to 20 seconds of video for adding temporal delays. Vizard also makes it extremely
easy to add interactive 3D content by importing virtually any 3D file format.

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/hmd/WorldViz/VideoVision.htm

The PPT X4 motion capture system breaks the cost-performance barrier, bringing customers high-quality
optical tracking over very large ranges (more than 10 x 10 meters) at an affordable price. Using proven CCD
technology and proprietary WorldViz image processing technology, the PPT family of products continues
to deliver flexible and accurate tracking solutions. As a real-time system, you get to see tracking results
the instant a subject performs a motion. With the system’s power and ease of integration with existing real-time
rendering tools, the PPT X4 is an ideal solution for real-time applications such as Virtual Reality.

Features:

- 10 x 10 meter wide area tracking
- Instant calibration
- Fully wireless targets
- Portable: 4 sensors in 1 briefcase
- Up to 4 optical sensors
- Sub-millimeter precision
- Full 3DOF position tracking
- Less than 20 milliseconds latency
- Easy installation
- Resilience to metallic interference
- No strobe lights needed
- Competitive price

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/tracking/WorldViz/ppt.htm

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4. EST now resells the ACT Kern 3D Displays
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The 3D display from ACT Kern enables to view auto stereoscopic 3D images or animations
without the use of glasses or any other aids in “3D real time”. The 3D object portrayed is not
only displayed in two dimensions, as it has been until now, it is seen in 3D. It appears as
though a hologram jumps out at you which makes one want to touch the image but ends
up grabbing only air.

Product advantages

- No shutter or 3D glasses needed.
- Minor optical crosstalk, only 2 % between left and right picture view. That means there is as
  good as no overlapping of the left and right images.
- High resolution.
- Excellent depth perception.
- High quality images.
- Fantastic 3D impressions, good enough to want to touch.
- Realistic impression.

Sample application uses are:

- Medicine
- CAD
- Military
- Earth science

For further information please see:
http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/3D%20Displays/A.C.T%20Kern/introduction.html

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5. 5DT introduces new HMDs and Gloves
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The 5DT Head Mounted Display (HMD) offers the user affordable quality, high resolution (SVGA),
a crisp image and superior sound quality packaged in a sleek, comfortable and extremely light
headmount design. The HMD provides for user configurable immersion levels. Other features are
adjustable top/back ratchets, a mounting base for head trackers and a flip-up mode for reality checks.
SVGA, PAL and NTSC input signals are accepted.

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/hmd/5dt/hmd800.html

The 5DT Data Glove 5 Ultra is designed to satisfy the stringent requirements of modern Motion Capture
and Animation Professionals. It offers comfort, ease of use, a small form factor and multiple application
drivers. The high data quality, low cross-correlation and high data rate make it ideal for realistic realtime
animation.
The 5DT Data Glove 5 Ultra measures finger flexure (1 sensor per finger) of the user's hand. The system
interfaces with the computer via a USB cable. A Serial RS 232 - platform independent) option is availible
through the 5DT Data Glove Ultra Serial Interface Kit. It features 8-bit flexure resolution, extreme comfort,
low drift and an open architecture. The 5DT Data Glove Ultra Wireless Kit interfaces with the computer via
Bluetooth technology (up to 20m distance) for high speed connectivity for up to 8 hours on a single battery.
Right- and left-handed models are available. One size fits many (stretch lycra).

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/gloves/5dt/glove5ultra.html

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6. Cybermind announces new HMD 800 series
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Following an extensive period of research and redesigning Cybermind introduces the newest addition to
the hi-Res family of Head Mounted Displays: The "hi-Res800(tm)_PC"

With the introduction of the hi-Res800_PC Cybermind tackled the various points of discussion
raised by the customers of the hi-Res900.

The improvements are:
- The perfected immersive effect (reduction of the amount of light that enters the display)
- The added comfort (the face mask now fits on a wider range of heads and rest comfortably
  on the forehead)
- The control unit is integrated into the headset and various controls including volume can now
  be adjusted without removing the HMD.
- The Standard VGA cable length is 2 meters but this can now easily be extended to customer's
  requirement.
- Portable Solution Optional (No control box means just a rechargeable battery with belt clip).

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/hmd/cybermind/hi-Res800_PC_Specs.pdf

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7. AnimationStar: Low Cost Animation Solution from Ascension
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Animation Star is the world's first truly affordable, fully functioning animation workstation.

It includes a Pentium 4 class computer, which acts as the server box for a new Ascension motion-capture
tracker and a full-feature version of Alias MOCAP software. Communication with an animator's graphics
computer is handled via a high speed Ethernet interface over which models can be imported into the
motion-capture environment for animation purposes. When done, motion files can be exported in the FBX
file format for final rendering and compositing. Import and export capability for most popular 3D software
including Alias/Wavefront Maya, Discreet 3D Studio MAX, NewTek Lightwave, and Softimage 3D/XSI
are supported.

To meet requirements of novice as well as experienced animators, Animation Star offers full body magnetic
motion-tracking in an 8 ft (2.4m) by 8 ft (2.4m) capture zone that contains a metal distortion shield. The shield
prevents steel rebar in floors and nearby metallic objects from distorting measurements. The embedded MOCAP
software is the industry's leading software program for real-time capture, editing, blending and utilization of
motion data. A graphical user's guide provides a simple and intuitive "Wizard" enabling animators to quickly
and easily install the system, map performer motions onto a character, and run a motion-capture session.

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/tracking/ascension/animationstar.htm

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8. Manufacturers Special: Ascension
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Ascension motion trackers help you acquire the critical velocity essential for success.

- 5 product lines: DC magnetic, AC magnetic, laser optical, active optical and inertial tracking technologies
- 14 tracking products.

Speed
Launched in 1986, Ascension has accelerated to the forefront of the motion tracking industry. Using DC magnetic,
infrared-optical, inertial and laser technologies, Ascension provides turnkey motion capture systems for animated
entertainment as well as custom tracking solutions for original equipment manufacturers to integrate onto their
products. PC circuit board to standalone unit, Ascension sets the pace.

Accuracy
Ascension’s tracking devices instantaneously track the location of one or more sensors in a designated field.
Those sensors can be mounted on humans, peripheral devices or medical instruments. The tracking occurs in real
time, with six degrees-of-freedom - three position coordinates and three orientation angles.

With DC magnetic, AC magnetic, laser optical, infrared optical and inertial tracking technologies to draw from,
Ascension can meet the diverse tracking needs of industries from animation to medicine, training to tactical warfare.

Solutions
From the operating room to the animator’s studio, Ascension trackers measure objects in space, track their
movements and transmit that data to host computers for interaction with an astounding range of software programs.
Monitoring fetal development. Animating kick boxers in a video game. Enabling automotive prototyping without
physical models. Guiding medical devices deep within the brain. Giving gestures to a virtual game-show host.
Teaching warehouse workers how to lift properly. Locating land mines.

Accountability
ISO 9001 certified, Ascension’s commitment to quality is the foremost of company objectives.

Ascension - Speed, accuracy, solution, accountability.

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9. EST Newsletter Special Offer: Ascension Nest of Birds*
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The Nest of Birds simultaneously tracks the position and orientation of up to 4 sensors, providing high speed,
accurate tracking data. Plugging directly into a USB or RS-232 interface, the Nest's installation CD lets you
get up and running fast! Ascension's DC magnetic tracking technology allows the Nest to accurately track
with minimal interference by conductive metals.

*Limited offer for January and February 2005 for a 4 Sensor Nest of Birds with USB interface: 6.300,- EUR not
including VAT and shipping. All orders must be placed until February, 28th, 2005.
Please call +49 631 36644 10 or write to mailto:newyearspecial@est-kl.com for a quotation.

For further information please see: http://www.est-kl.com/hardware/tracking/ascension/nestofbirds.html

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10. News, Updates and Patches
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Ascension Technology:

Ascension Technology has developed a landmark “noise-reduction” software program, Noise X, for its RS232
serial and ISA-based trackers -- Flock of Birds, miniBIRD, Nest of Birds, pcBIRD, and MotionStar Wired. It
accomplishes this in a new utility program that automatically measures interfering frequencies present in a
tracker’s magnetic field, and then determining the tracker’s best operating frequency to overcome jitter. As a result,
Ascension trackers now work better in noisy electromagnetic environments with a dramatic reduction in
environmental noise.

The Noise X software will be integrated in the production of all new Ascension RS232 and ISA-based trackers.
Customers of existing trackers can download the software and directions for its use from
Ascension’s ftp site at ftp://ftp.ascension-tech.com/PRODUCTS/NOISE_X.ZIP

SensAble Technologies:

SensAble Technologies, Inc. announced that version 8.0 of the FreeForm Modeling Plus software is now available.
The FreeForm Modeling Plus system is a unique 3D touch-enabled Computer Aided Sculpting (CAS) system that
allows users to rapidly produce highly detailed organic models. The version 8.0 software includes new
Multi-representational Geometry Technology (MGT), which combines multiple geometry types in an integrated
environment and provides expanded CAD interoperability with native Parasolid, IGES, and STEP file formats.
With MGT, users can add surface texture and organic details to imported NURBS models. The version 8.0 software
allows users to choose the best geometry for specific tasks within the job, resulting in higher levels of design freedom,
speed, and increased leverage of existing CAD/CAM tools.

SensAble Technologies:

SensAble Technologies, Inc. announced that version 2.0 of the FreeForm Concept software is now shipping.
The FreeForm Concept system is a unique touch-enabled system that gives designers a fast and intuitive way to
develop realistic 3D conceptual designs. By creating a robust linkage between conceptualization and engineering, the
FreeForm Concept system accelerates the transition from sketches to 3D model thereby shortening the product
development cycle. The version 2.0 software includes the new modeling tools: Shape, Emboss with Image, and
Emboss with Wrapped Image, import of 3D IGES files, updated rendering, mass properties calculation, support for
new graphics boards, and performance enhancements that increase productivity.

WorldViz:

Vizard Update - Latest version of Vizard debuts new licensing technology. The next release is 2.5 and will be
available from Dec. 15th.

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11. Shows
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During the next months you can visit us at the following shows:

VR 2005
12 - 16th March 2005
Bonn, Germany
http://www.vr2005.org

ITEC 2005
26 - 28th April 2005
booth E24
Amsterdam, Netherlands
http://www.itec.co.uk

uDay III
29th April 2005
Fachhochschule Vorarlberg, Austria
http://www.fhv.at

If you need further information just contact us.

Our latest product overview can be downloaded at http://www.est-kl.com/est-kl_vr.pdf.