3-D Visualization System Provides Improved Functionality

Originally Published June 2000

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3-D Visualization System Provides Improved Functionality

Glare and reflections on the viewing panel have been minimized

A stereoscopic visualization system offers engineers, scientists, and medical professionals who routinely view complex computer-generated graphic models crisp 3-D images even under unfavorable lighting conditions. Comprising a stereoscopic viewing panel that mounts directly over the monitor screen and polarized eyewear, the Monitor ZScreen 2000 improves upon the previous generation by providing a larger viewing area, enhanced antireflective properties, and faster start-up time, according to Stereographics Corp. (San Rafael, CA).

A larger viewing area and enhanced properties are among the features of a new-generation stereoscopic visualization system.

"Stereoscopic visualization is an increasingly vital technology to those who need to accurately visualize complex data," says Stereographics CEO and president David Forter. The family of Monitor ZScreen products, he adds, provides convenience and functionality in meeting the exacting needs of professionals who work in molecular modeling, medical imaging, computational chemistry, and related fields.

The technology replicates the stereopsis effect, the process by which the brain interprets information received from both eyes to create the perception of three dimensions. The product works with the user's computer display and software to separate images specific to the left and right eyes, creating the illusion that on-screen objects have depth and presence in three-dimensional space. While several types of 3-D visualization systems are on the market, ZScreen 2000's enhanced functionality gives it a clear advantage over the competition, according to Stereographics.

The bezel-mounted viewing panel produces bright images, while glare and distracting reflections are minimized. Combined with lightweight, passive, polarized eyewear that can be worn comfortably for extended periods, the system eliminates interference from fluorescent lighting and allows for viewing on nonstereo monitors without scrolling. It also enables small-group collaboration. "I can easily fit five people around my workstation and present the information in 3-D," says Dale Cameron of Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., who has installed the system to view data used in computer-aided drug design.

The Monitor ZScreen 2000 series is compatible with all Unix and Windows NT workstations as well as Linux systems.—Norbert Sparrow

World's Smallest Discoidal Capacitor Introduced

40% smaller than the manufacturer's previous model

Pacific Aerospace & Electronics Inc. (Wenatchee, WA) has announced the development of what it claims is the world's smallest multilayer ceramic discoidal capacitor. The new component measures only 0.050 in. in diameter and is just 0.030 in. thick. It is 40% smaller than the company's previous model.

Discoidal capacitors measure only 0.050 in. in diameter and are just 0.030 in. thick.

Discoidal capacitors are widely used for filtering electrical interference noise from sensitive electronic circuits. These microminiature components have numerous applications, and they are especially suitable for use in implantable devices since they allow the development of ever-smaller configurations. This particular capacitor can be incorporated into a variety of hermetic feed-through applications that have stringent EMI-filtering requirements. It has been used in defibrillators, pacers, bone-growth stimulators, cochlear implants, and neurostimulators.

The capacitor was developed in the research laboratories of the company's filter division. It is available as either a bare capacitor chip or in various alternative package configurations. Capacitance and voltage ratings range from 100 to 6000 pF, and 50 to 200 V dc.—Karim Marouf

Software Allows Programming of Fluid Dispensers

Windows-based system is designed to be easy to use

Techon Systems Inc. (Garden Grove, CA) has introduced Techconsoft, a Windows-based programming application designed to be used with the company's automated fluid dispensers. Techconsoft incorporates Windows graphical and icon-driven concepts to provide an intuitive and user-friendly programming environment. Pull-down menus allow operators to quickly input dispensing parameters, while on-screen positioning displays allow for real-time monitoring and control.

This fluid dispenser uses Techconsoft Windows-based programming software.

Programs can be created with Techconsoft in minutes and saved for unlimited future use. The software is available for both versions of the company's gantry tables—the TS3030 and TS4545. The TS3030, a tabletop automated gantry dispensing table with a 300 X 300-mm work area, offers general assembly users the ability to completely automate their dispensing operations. The TS4545, with a 450 X 450-mm work area, is designed for larger dispensing operations. Both tables are compatible with the company's line of dispensing equipment, including its valves, controllers, and barrels.—Karim Marouf

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