3D Systems Bundles Alibre Design Xpress with New Desktop Modeler

V-Flash modeler includes Alibre's parametric 3D CAD solution at no additional charge.

"We are very pleased to partner with an experienced and innovative software company like Alibre to give users of the V-Flash Desktop Modeler the best tools for making their designs a reality," said Abe Reichental, 3D Systems president and CEO. "With the capability to create high-quality, ready-to-use, three-dimensional models in the office, home, or school setting and the affordability of this solution, we believe that this modeler and its accompanying technology will usher in a new expansion era of rapid prototyping to a broader range of market applications."

Added Greg Milliken, CEO of Alibre, "Alibre and 3D Systems have a common vision of eliminating the barriers to 3D design and manufacturing. You no longer need tens of thousands of dollars or an expertise in 3D CAD. True 'art-to-part' on your desktop is now accessible to anyone. For literally the cost of about one license of a traditional 3D CAD system, you now can have a 3D idea factory right on your desk at the office, home, or school."

Launched in September with a base price of $9,900, the V-Flash Desktop Modeler is the first product from 3D Systems to use the company's new Film Transfer Imaging (FTI) technology platform. Currently, 3D Systems is conducting a phased rollout of the V-Flash Modeler in the United States and plans to introduce it in Europe in early 2008.

Alibre Design Xpress enables the parametric modeling of parts and assemblies, along with the creation of 2D drawings. The software has import and export capabilities via industry-standard formats such as STEP, IGES, DXF, and DWG, as well as STL export capability that provides a direct interface to the V-Flash Desktop Modeler and other rapid prototyping solutions from 3D Systems.