SOLID CONCEPTS INTRODUCES DIRECT INTERFACE FOR SOLIDWORKS 98PLUS
New SolidView 3.2 feature enables the direct viewing and measurement of SolidWorks part and assembly data

Palm Springs, CA - February 4, 1999-Solid Concepts Inc. announced today at the 1999 SolidWorks World User Exposition that they are introducing a new direct SolidWorks 98Plus interface for their SolidView 3.2 product.

SolidView is the only integrated 2D and 3D view and markup system that lets users create and distribute free SolidPlayer software that allows anyone with a Windows PC to view 2D and 3D data and, if authorized, measure the 3D data. This unique ability has enabled SolidView customers to save thousands of dollars and countless weeks in development time by reducing or eliminating the need to use 2D drawings to communicate design changes to partners, customers, and suppliers.

"This new interface will make it easier for SolidWorks users, and their product development partners, to share design information and eliminate the use of confusing 2D drawings", said Ray Bradford, Solid Concepts' vice-president of Software Development.

This new interface, which will be distributed free of charge to all existing SolidView customers, will allow SolidView users to directly view .sldprt and .sldasm files from SolidWorks 98Plus. Once the SolidWorks data has been loaded into SolidView, it can be measured, marked up, and communicated to anyone using SolidView's wide array of measurement and communication tools. The new SolidWorks interface was developed with the assistance of SolidWorks through their SolidWorks Partner Program. Solid Concepts has been a SolidWorks Solution Partner since 1996.

In addition to reading SolidWorks files, SolidView reads STL, VRML, 3D DXF, and a wide range of 2D raster and vector formats. Optional modules for IGES and VDA import are also available. Additional direct CAD interface for other popular CAD/CAM systems, such as Pro/Engineer, Catia, and Unigraphics are scheduled for release in the near future.

Solid Concepts Inc. is the world's leading supplier of third-party software for the rapid prototyping industry and is a recognized leader in rapid prototyping and manufacturing. Founded in 1991, the Company has enjoyed tremendous growth, fueled by a commitment to service and constant technical innovation. Solid Concepts Inc. is a privately held corporation headquarted in Valencia, California.