Polhemus, The Global Leader in High-Fidelity Motion Tracking, Opens Orlando Sales Office
Posted: February 01, 2022
COLCHESTER, VT (February 1, 2022) Polhemus, The Motion Tracking Experts™, announce the opening of a new office in Orlando, Florida. The Orlando office is the second U.S. location for Polhemus, with headquarters in Colchester, Vermont. Polhemus has been the global leader in high-fidelity motion tracking for more than 50 years, serving top-tier OEM’s around the globe, with sales distribution in over 18 countries.
Polhemus President, Skip Rodgers, commented, “Our latest motion tracking product, VIPER™, has been a game changer for many industries, including military and medical sectors, and a wide array of VR and AR applications in research and technology. We’ve been serving top Orlando companies for decades. The time was ripe to have an official presence in Orlando.”
The training and simulation industry is rapidly growing, and Orlando is recognized as a key area for sales growth. The Orlando office will be instrumental in meeting the high demand created by the launch of the VIPER™ product.
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6DOF tracking systems for over 50 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft and virtual and augmented reality.
Contact Sales for Product Information: sales@polhemus.com | 1-800-357-4777
Media Contact: Pamela Staub Pelino pam@polhemus.com | 1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
Polhemus Releases VIPER™
Posted: February 27, 2020
COLCHESTER, VT--- (February 27, 2020) Polhemus, the global leader in motion tracking, releases VIPER™, a break-through product for the motion tracking industry. VIPER is a customizable, high-speed, electromagnetic tracker with update rates up to 960Hz. Boasting latency as low as one millisecond, VIPER provides up to 16 separate tracking points, and taps proprietary smart sensing technology that’s never been possible before. The sophisticated tracking system sports a compact SEU (System Electronics Unit), power-packed with special features, capable of tracking through walls, people, and objects.
The VIPER system is customizable based on the user’s tracking needs. With three SEU configurations to choose from, multiple sensor options, and scalability that increases tracking range, many markets will benefit. VIPER provides new, robust motion tracking solutions for manufacturing, immersive leisure, automotive environments, and virtual and augmented reality applications.
The system’s smart sensing technology, FTT® (Fly True Technology), is a special feature that can be toggled on and off, and used only if the environment calls for it, furthering its capabilities.
According to Skip Rodgers, Polhemus President, “VIPER is a game changer for the healthcare market, due to small sensor size and feature-rich, high-quality tracking. In particular, the medical device market will benefit greatly from VIPER’s capability and performance.”
VIPER provides new solutions for training and simulation, as well as clinical applications, including image-guided surgery, laparoscopic surgery, endoscopy and much more.
VIPER will also enhance military and civil defense markets in the area of training and simulation, especially for scalable areas of coverage and applications that call for both high accuracy and ultra-low latency. University and research markets will also benefit, including biomechanics, neuroscience, and research efforts requiring high-precision tracking solutions with increased coverage area.
Polhemus Introduces G4™ Stylus
Posted: September 27, 2019
COLCHESTER, VT--- (September 19, 2019) Polhemus, the global leader in motion tracking, releases the G4™ Stylus, an innovative digitizing device that utilizes a wireless tracking system, allows freedom of movement, and provides users a long-range, mobile digitizing option.
The G4 Stylus is an easy-to-use, eight-inch pen-like device. The user can capture data points, and move freely around and behind objects. At the click of a button, measurements are digitized and recorded with a high level of accuracy. The G4 hub (pictured above) can be belt-worn for a complete mobile digitizing system in the field, in the lab, and on the go.
Polhemus has long been known as the gold standard for digitizing, and the G4 Stylus creates new options for digitizing large areas, and without the need for any special lighting conditions. Many areas will benefit, including agricultural studies and other research that requires mobile digitizing options, including outside environments.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6DOF electromagnetic tracking and digitizing systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, agricultural research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual and augmented reality, and high-tech location-based entertainment, and more.
Contact the Sales Department directly:
1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada.
1-802-655-3159 for countries outside the US
Polhemus Motion Trackers Expand Virtual Reality Game Engine and Application Support with OSVR
Posted: August 01, 2017
COLUMBIA, MD, August 1, 2017 – Sensics, the developers of groundbreaking Virtual Reality (VR) products and co-founder of Open-Source Virtual Reality (OSVR), announced today a new partnership with Polhemus, the premier motion measurement technology company. Polhemus tracking systems are now integrated into the OSVR software platform and this integration allows users to get optimized game engine plugins and compatibility with a very wide range of VR applications.
Polhemus is known for its award-winning proprietary technology, AC Electromagnetics. The technology is able to track a wide variety of objects, as well as people, by attaching small, lightweight sensors to selected tracking points. The Polhemus systems are unique, as there are no line-of-sight restrictions, allowing for continuous tracking. The 6DOF sensors are perfect for finger and hand tracking, head tracking, or embedding into an object or custom form factor.
“This partnership demonstrates our ongoing commitment to offer enterprise VR customers the widest range of cutting-edge technologies so they can create new experiences with ease,” said Yuval Boger, CEO of Sensics. “For many years, Polhemus has created sensors that support demanding applications and environments. Together we can help customers simplify and accelerate VR innovation without worrying about device-specific APIs.”
“We are excited to integrate into the OSVR platform and thus provide our customers immediate access to all leading engines including Unity, Unreal, CryEngine, WebVR, SteamVR and others.” said Skip Rodgers, President of Polhemus. “Our customers value high-quality, robust tracking systems, and they appreciate options for simple integrations. The use of the open-source OSVR platform enables this with ease. We are excited to join the ever-growing OSVR community.”
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom electromagnetic tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, medical training and simulation, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual reality, and high-tech entertainment. For more information on Polhemus motion tracking systems, visit www.polhemus.com, or contact: sales@polhemus.com.
About Sensics
Sensics provides technologies, products and expertise that brings companies’ VR dreams to life, offering them the missing pieces needed to develop groundbreaking solutions faster. Sensics delivers high-performance off-the-shelf products and customized “white label” designs, working with the most innovative technology partners in the world to develop VR experiences for gaming, healthcare, entertainment, training, education and more.
About OSVR
OSVR™ – Open Source Virtual Reality – is an ecosystem founded by Sensics and Razer towards creating the best possible game experience. The OSVR software platform is a cross-platform middleware layer that connects applications and game engines to hundreds of VR display, input and output devices using a common universal interface. This thriving global ecosystem enables choice and innovation for those deploying VR for the most sophisticated applications to the simplest scenarios. Visit www.osvr.org for more information.
Polhemus Media Contact:
Pam Staub Pelino
1-802-655-3159 ext. 236
1-800-357-4777
Polhemus Releases Completely Embeddable Micro Sensors for FASTRAK Motion Tracking System
Posted: March 07, 2017
COLCHESTER, VT--- (3/7/2017) Polhemus, the global industry leader in motion tracking, announces the release of Micro Sensors 1.8™ for the Polhemus FASTRAK®, the 6DOF electromagnetic system that set the industry standard in motion tracking. The Micro Sensors are completely embeddable with no line-of-sight requirements. Paired with FASTRAK, the most widely used and trusted tracking system around the globe, this broadens the scope of capabilities significantly for the FASTRAK motion tracking system.
Up to four Micro Sensors can be used with FASTRAK, Measuring only 1.8 millimeters OD (Outer Diameter), the sensors are small and lightweight and easily attach to fingers, hands, eyeglasses, or other objects with Polhemus Micro Mounts. The Micro Sensors track both position and orientation and do not require line-of-sight, as no cameras are involved. Micro Sensors can be embedded in a custom form factor or even worn under gloves for completely seamless tracking.
With an update rate as fast as 120 Hz, FASTRAK with Micro Sensors delivers real-time data (4 milliseconds latency) with zero drift. The full system requires no user calibration and sets up in a matter of minutes. Micro Sensors come in Standard or Extra Flex options, depending on your application needs.
The FASTRAK system is currently used in a variety of ways, including medical applications, flight simulation, and a wide array of research applications, such as neuroscience, biomechanics, ergonomics and more. For applications where a tiny, embeddable sensor is ideal FASTRAK is a great tracking system option, with its impressive update rate and capability to handle up to four sensors.
“The release of Micro Sensors 1.8 for FASTRAK is something our customers have been asking for, and we listened and delivered. Our FASTRAK motion tracking system has a strong legacy, as it set the standard in the tracking industry. Pairing it with small Micro Sensors that are fully embeddable gives users more options and opens up the application possibilities further,” Skip Rodgers, President, Polhemus.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom electromagnetic tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual reality, and high-tech entertainment.
Contact the Sales Department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Releases Unity® Scripts for Motion Tracking Systems
Posted: April 13, 2016
COLCHESTER, VT--- (April 13, 2016) Polhemus, the global leader in precision motion tracking, has released a Unity® scripts package for use with its motion tracking products. The package will enhance capabilities for current and future users of Polhemus motion tracking systems, creating an additional development tool for customers to explore more possibilities via integration with Unity projects.
The PLStream package gives Unity® developers runtime access to 6DOF data captured by Polhemus tracking systems. The package contains the PLStream.cs C# script, an example scene, and a Windows® executable “UnityExport” with supporting libraries.
UnityExport connects to the following Polhemus tracking systems: LIBERTY™, PATRIOT™, FASTRAK® and G4™, and exports raw tracker data to a UDP socket. The script captures the UDP data and parses it to a common interface found in the PLSteam class. Unity® version 5.2.1 or higher is required.
Polhemus President, Skip Rodgers, commented, “The Unity® scripts package is an important addition for enabling customization for Polhemus tracking system users. It represents our commitment to meeting our customer’s needs, as well as supporting the vast community of Unity® users.”
Visit the Polhemus website for a free download of the Unity® scripts package:
http://polhemus.com/support/third-party-plug-ins/
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom electromagnetic tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual reality, and high-tech entertainment.
Contact the Sales Department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. To visit our web site or read more about the company history, go to: http://polhemus.com/company/history/
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus, the Leader in Precision Motion Tracking, Launches Millimeter-Sized Micro Sensor
Posted: February 04, 2015
COLCHESTER, VT (February 4, 2015)---Polhemus, the industry leader in motion tracking, announces the launch of their latest product, the Micro Sensor 1.8™. The 6DOF (Degree-Of-Freedom) millimeter-sized Micro Sensor utilizes Polhemus proprietary electromagnetic tracking technology, boasting a slender size of 1.8 millimeters OD (Outer Diameter). It creates new opportunities for markets that can benefit from micro-sized, embeddable and lightweight sensors for precision tracking. The Micro Sensor 1.8 offers new solutions in healthcare, biomechanics, head tracking, and research and scientific markets; it offers a realm of possibilities in countless areas, including training and simulation, as well as real-world environments.
The development of the Polhemus Micro Sensor 1.8 stemmed from multiple customer requests and overall market demand for a high-quality, tiny embeddable sensor with precise performance. As with all Polhemus sensors, the Micro Sensor 1.8 tracks both position and orientation, and requires no line-of-sight, so it can be embedded into a catheter, a syringe, a head-worn device, such as an HMD (Head Mounted Display), or a variety of custom form factors.
Polhemus President, Skip Rodgers, spoke with enthusiasm. “We have been focused on working with dominant high-quality users of precision trackers for nearly five decades and we’re proud of the relationships we’ve earned serving our customers. Building robust, electromagnetic sensors on such a small scale is exciting to all of us. Without question, providing sensors that are small enough to fit inside traditional catheter devices, or any other micro-sized device, offers our customers new opportunities to create innovative and dominant products within their areas of specialization.”
Polhemus has powered the world’s most successful commercial simulators for healthcare, military and industrial applications. In healthcare, Polhemus technology was used in the first commercially available ultrasound simulator, and today is the leading provider of motion tracking sensors for TTE, TEE, and FAST ultrasound simulators. For clinical applications, Polhemus has enabled image guided surgery for years. The Micro Sensor 1.8 will greatly broaden the scope and capability in the healthcare market, and will additionally aid in finger and hand tracking, as well as limb tracking within research and biomechanics studies.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft and computer-aided design.
Learn More
• Micro Sensor 1.8™ Product Page
• Polhemus Videos
• About Electromagnetics
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. Visit www.polhemus.com.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
New HMIT Based Tracker Available Now, SCOUT 3: The Best Just Got Better.
Posted: January 22, 2015
COLCHESTER, VT--- (January 22, 2015) Polhemus, the leader in high accuracy helmet mounted tracker systems, announces the SCOUT™ 3 - the most robust and highest performing helmet tracker now being offered.
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Available for order now, the SCOUT 3 builds upon the highly touted accuracy of the SCOUT™ magnetic tracker used in the United States HMIT program and other flight programs. Carrying forward the same attractive form, fit and function of the original SCOUT, the SCOUT 3 maintains the same small physical size and includes advanced EMI immunity, exceptionally large pilot motion box capability, and advanced computational power for the fastest updates and highest accuracies.
Keith Hanf, Director of Engineering at Polhemus, spoke about the latest iteration of SCOUT. “We started designing SCOUT 3 with a focus on meeting new EMI requirements and once we accomplished that, we added our latest upgrades. This allows for a simple and straight-forward banana bar part replacement.” The inclusion of the now built-in advanced feature sets allow for systematic improvements without risking a compromise to the combat success the HMIT system, in particular, has already experienced.”
"We could not put our customers in the overly burdensome position of modifying their Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems with anything other than a simple and straight-forward part swap on the banana bar tracker assembly in order to achieve the SCOUT 3 advantages." said Skip Rodgers, Polhemus President. "An upgrade effort needs to offer the best performance available and do so without shifting risk to the military community. SCOUT 3 builds upon the proven tracking technology currently fielded and combat tested. As a U.S. company, it makes us very proud to offer our best to the United States war fighters who protect our great nation."
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SCOUT 3 was designed to be future-forward with built-in features that can be leveraged as customer needs change. For example, SCOUT 3 can output at speeds of 480Hz (twice that of SCOUT), 240Hz, or at a user defined rate that matches their IG capabilities. These output rates and the built-in predictive filtering allow for latency reduction across the entire HMCS system - all designed to eliminate symbology over/undershoot relative to what the pilot is actually looking at.
Rodgers notes, "Pilots value symbology that does not lag the real-time world they are flying in. Not only does SCOUT 3 provide the tools to optimize the cueing system for real-world conditions (referring to the new prediction and synchronization capabilities), it offers the path forward for higher accuracy requirements as well as countless other computational feature sets. All at low cost both in terms of dollars and customer effort” (referring to lack of change required to aircraft A or B kits, tech orders and drawings).
SCOUT 3 units are available for evaluation now and orders are currently being accepted. For more information, contact the Sales Department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. Visit our web site at: www.polhemus.com.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom electromagnetic tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual reality, and high-tech entertainment. To read more about the company history, go to: www.polhemus.com/company/about-us.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Announces Management Buyout & Ownership Change
Posted: January 16, 2013
COLCHESTER, VT (January 16, 2013)---Polhemus, a privately held, premier motion measurement technology company, announces a change in ownership. Polhemus President, Skip Rodgers, added co-owner to his title, effective December 31, 2012. Skip Rodgers purchased shares formerly owned by co-owner, Ken Jedrzejewski, prompted by Jedrzejewski’s announcement to retire. Jedrzejewski leaves behind 35 years of service to Polhemus, with over ten years as a company owner. Al Rodgers remains as co-owner and maintains his role as CEO.
The shift in ownership brings no change in business focus. As the industry experts in electromagnetic tracking, Polhemus will continue with its current scope of business, focusing on military, research & technology, and health care applications. The company will continue to operate out of its headquarters in Colchester, Vermont.
Skip Rodgers issued a statement after the agreement was finalized. “Polhemus is positioned well for future success; the diversity of our markets gives Polhemus a broad spectrum of opportunities for continued revenue growth. As with the last ten years, continuing as a privately held company gives us a great advantage--to remain adaptable and react quickly to the market. Al and I are proud to be leading such a great company.”
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft and computer-aided design.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. Visit our web site at www.polhemus.com.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Releases G4™ Accessory, PowerTRAK 360™
Posted: October 22, 2012
COLCHESTER, VT (October 22, 2012)---Polhemus, the industry leader in electromagnetic motion tracking, has released the PowerTRAK 360™, a powerful handheld device that’s equipped with a user defined button pack. Now, users can achieve 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking in the palm of their hand. PowerTRAK 360 is an accessory for G4, the latest wireless motion tracking system by Polhemus.
The device is easy-to-use and lightweight, at only 37 grams. It has a simple four-button design, providing four discreet inputs.
The PowerTRAK 360™device creates many possibilities when used with the G4 wireless motion tracking system. The handheld PowerTRAK 360 plugs into the G4 hub, allowing the user to be untethered, with complete freedom of movement. Combined with G4, the device offers tremendous programming flexibility for the user. Although there are a wide array of potential button functions, manipulation of video for power walls and caves in virtual reality environments will be common applications.
The proprietary technology behind the PowerTRAK 360, along with the entire Polhemus product line is based in electromagnetics. The technology tracks seamlessly through walls or people; line-of-sight is not required since the technology does not require the use of any cameras.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom electromagnetic tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual reality, and high-tech entertainment.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
MT2 Interview with Polhemus President, Skip Rodgers
Posted: October 01, 2012
MT2--Military Training Technology Magazine--selected Polhemus as a 2012 top training and simulation company. In accompaniment with this award, MT2 interviewed Polhemus President, Skip Rodgers. This industry interview was featured in the October 2012 issue of MT2 Magazine.
Click here to read the article
Polhemus Releases Wireless Extended Life Marker (ELM) With Longer Battery Life
Posted: August 13, 2012
COLCHESTER, VT (August 13, 2012)---Polhemus is pleased to announce the release of the Extended Life Marker™ (ELM). This new marker boasts a battery life that is multiple times greater than that of the original tracking marker. The Extended Life Marker is self-contained, with the capability of being tracked by receptors that offer up to hundreds of square feet of coverage. The marker’s 6DOF motion tracking technology is unique in that the wireless communication is sent via proprietary magnetic data link.
The ELM boasts a significantly enhanced run-time, addressing customer requests to develop a marker that allows users to get far more tracking on just one battery charge. The Extended Life Marker accommodates a high-capacity, lithium polymer battery that is rechargeable and replaceable by the user.
ELM works seamlessly with the existing PATRIOT WIRELESS™ and LIBERTY™ LATUS™ (Large Area Tracking Untethered System) products, and operates at the same unique magnetic frequency sets as the original tracking marker. These systems are ideal for motion tracking applications such as Sports Motion Analysis, Virtual Reality, Training and Simulation and more. High security military applications are sure to benefit from ELM wireless motion tracking options.
Effective August 13, 2012, new orders for PATRIOT WIRELESS and LIBERTY LATUS will be shipped with the Extended Life Marker.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft and computer-aided design.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Leadership Change Announced at Polhemus - Skip Rodgers Takes the Helm
Posted: January 03, 2012
COLCHESTER, VT (January 3, 2012) --- Polhemus owners, Al Rodgers and Ken Jedrzejewski, announced a leadership change at Polhemus. The high-tech motion tracking company confirmed that Skip Rodgers will take the helm as President of Polhemus — effective January 3, 2012. In addition, Francine Roy will take over as Chief Financial Officer at the company.
Most recently, Skip has focused on leading the company’s military market efforts, serving Polhemus as Vice President of Programs. He has been the primary liaison with the US Military for the last five years, securing several significant contracts. In his new role as President, he plans to continue his involvement in select critical areas within the military market, while continuing to lead the company’s growth in the commercial, medical, and research areas. Francine Roy has been with Polhemus as Finance Manager for many years and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new position.
Al Rodgers, who will stay on as Chief Executive Officer, and Ken Jedrzejewski who will remain as Corporate Vice President issued a joint statement, “We are proud of the work we have done in leading Polhemus to where it is today…We’re confident that we have put a strong leadership team in place and positioned Polhemus to continue to do great things; the best years for Polhemus are still ahead. We have seen the company through many transitions in its 40+ year span. As a privately held company, Polhemus has an edge in the industry, enabling the company to innovate more freely, be more adaptable, meet the demands of customers and respond rapidly to market changes.”
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom electromagnetic tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, computer-aided design, virtual reality, and high-tech entertainment.
Contact the Sales Department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Receives Chinese Approval for G4
Posted: October 06, 2011
COLCHESTER, VT (October 6, 2011)---Polhemus has received official approval that their newest product, G4™ has passed all necessary inspections from the SRRC (State Radio Regulation Center) in accordance with the “Radio Regulations on the People’s Republic of China” and “Provisional Measures on the Management of Import of Mechanical and Electrical Products.” G4 is the latest in AC Electromagnetic Tracking Technology, and is now officially approved for sale in China. It is already available in 33 countries, including the U.S., Canada, select countries in Latin America, and many countries throughout Europe, including Spain, France, and Germany.
The much anticipated G4 has been met with great enthusiasm, with high demand largely due to its combination of features and affordability. The system maintains the consistency and accuracy that Polhemus tracking technology is known for, delivering the power of larger, more expensive systems, but at a significantly smaller size—and price.
Lightweight and portable, the G4 system electronics unit is just the size of a mobile phone, and is ideal for dynamic and changing environments, where easy set-up is critical and freedom of movement is an absolute necessity. Customers anticipating the release of G4 include those from the medical, military and research and technology markets--for applications ranging from physical therapy, biomechanics, sports analysis, training and simulation, virtual reality and beyond.
Polhemus President and CEO, Al Rodgers says, “We’re excited about bringing G4 to the Chinese market; it creates new avenues for advancement throughout the world of motion measurement. The affordability of G4, coupled with superior performance, wireless communication, scalability, and a compact design opens more doors for usability than ever before.”
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft and computer-aided design.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. Visit our web site at www.polhemus.com. For more information on G4 visit: http://polhemus.com/motion-tracking/wireless/g4.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Receives FCC Approval for G4 - The Latest 6-Degree-Of-Freedom Tracker is Now Available!
Posted: February 18, 2011
COLCHESTER, VT (February 18, 2011)---Polhemus has received official approval that their newest product, G4™ has passed all necessary inspections from the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). G4 is the latest in AC Electromagnetic Tracking Technology, and is now approved for sale in the U.S., Canada, select countries in Latin America, and 27 countries throughout Europe, including Spain, France, and Germany.
Polhemus reports that the first G4 product shipment went out the week of February 14, 2011. The much anticipated G4 has been met with great enthusiasm, and its initial development announcement generated a waiting list for the product. High demand was largely due to its combination of features and affordability. The system maintains the consistency and accuracy that Polhemus tracking technology is known for, delivering the power of larger, more expensive systems, but at a significantly smaller size—and price.
Lightweight and portable, G4 is the size of a mobile phone, and is ideal for dynamic and changing environments, where easy set up is critical and freedom of movement is an absolute necessity. Customers anticipating the release of G4 include those from the medical, military and research and technology markets--for applications ranging from physical therapy, biomechanics, sports analysis, training and simulation, virtual reality and beyond.
Polhemus President and CEO, Al Rodgers, is enthusiastic about G4’s impact, saying, “We’re excited about what G4 brings to the market; it creates new avenues for advancement in industry, through the world of motion capture. The affordability of G4, coupled with superior performance, wireless communication, scalability, and a compact design opens more doors for usability than ever before.”
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking systems for over 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft and computer-aided design.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159.
- Visit our web site at www.polhemus.com.
- For more information on G4 visit: http://polhemus.com/motion-tracking/wireless/g4
- Download PDF of this case study here
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Selected - U.S. Military Pilots Will Have Advanced Helmet Tracking Technology
Posted: September 14, 2010
COLCHESTER, VT (Sept 14, 2010) --- Polhemus has been selected to provide the SCOUT™ Helmet Tracking System to Gentex Corporation, manufacturer of the Scorpion™ Helmet Mounted Cueing System (HMCS). The Gentex Scorpion has been selected as the HMCS of choice for multiple U.S. Military Aircraft platforms. Scorpion has already been proven on A-10, F-16, C-130, and other aircraft designated for the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard.
Polhemus teamed with Gentex to offer an unprecedented HMCS system that delivers critical off-boresight, heads-up display capability, relaying timely and accurate information at the pilot’s helmet—at a cost-effective price. The Polhemus SCOUT helmet tracker provides the critical pilot point-of-regard tracking information necessary to provide accurate real-time situational awareness and cueing capability.
Polhemus has been involved in Head and Helmet Tracking for the U.S. military for more than 40 years. “With their many decades of experience, combined with the speed and high level of precision the SCOUT Head Tracker delivers, Polhemus was the logical partner for the development of the Gentex Scorpion Helmet Mounted Cueing System,” according to Frederick W.D. White, Director of Business Development and Programs for Gentex Visionix.
Skip Rodgers, Program Manager for Polhemus, added, “Polhemus is extremely proud to produce best-in-class technology for the U.S. military. The success we are having across multiple aircraft platforms speaks to our long-standing history of engineering innovation and manufacturing production of specialized trackers. The SCOUT helmet tracker is a prime example of our highly accurate and cost-effective technology doing what it does best--providing both helmet vector and position data for accurate visual cueing and situational awareness symbology.”
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6 Degree-Of-Freedom tracking systems for 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, military aircraft, and computer-aided design.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll-free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. For more information, visit: www.polhemus.com.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Unveils G4: Wireless Tracking that Fits in Your Pocket
Posted: July 22, 2010
COLCHESTER, VT---Polhemus is raising the bar in wireless 6 Degree-Of- Freedom motion tracking technology by launching G4—the next generation of AC electromagnetic technology. With superior performance, wireless communication, scalability and a compact design, G4 creates new possibilities in the area of motion capture, to include research and technology, military applications, and the health care field.
G4 touts the power of larger, more expensive systems, yet is significantly smaller in size. Capable of being belt-worn, the sleek electronics unit is the size of most mobile phones. Armed with sensors operating at 120 Hz, G4’s hub calculates each sensor’s position and orientation, and then wirelessly reports the information directly to the PC. The operation is seamless.
Polhemus President and CEO, Al Rodgers, is enthusiastic about G4’s possibilities, saying “Polhemus has always been known for the speed and accuracy that only comes with AC electromagnetic technology. But this level of performance, coupled with wireless communication, portability, and scalable features, makes this product perfect for applications which demand superior performance, yet require versatility. G4 opens new doors for usability.”
G4’s compact design packs many powerful and practical features--offering complete freedom of movement, without cumbersome tether cables. Update rates are maintained; delivering consistent, high-quality data with zero drift characteristics and no line-of-sight occlusions. Incorporating state-of-the-art Digital Signal Processor (DSP) electronics, in concert with AC magnetics, allows data stability, high resolution and amazing speed to be achieved—impressive features for a tracker that fits in the palm of your hand.
One of the most impressive features of G4 is its scalability. As the user’s application needs evolve or expand, they can continue to tap G4’s full capabilities. Users can increase coverage or track additional objects or individuals by adding simple components. This kind of adaptability makes the already reasonably priced G4 an exceptional value for the long-term, and pushes the limits of motion tracking technology.
G4 is easy-to-use and all-inclusive, containing all the necessary processing hardware. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery, boasting 10+ hours of battery life, means less down-time and more efficiency with the application. You don’t have to be an expert in tracking technology to use G4.
According to Rodgers, “G4 reinforces the focus we have on providing our customers with the newest and most advanced tracking solutions. Polhemus continues its 40-year commitment of making tomorrow’s state-of-the-art technology available today.”
The much anticipated G4 makes its debut at Siggraph 2010, in Los Angeles. G4 will cater to varied applications, ranging from: general motion capture, biomechanics, sports performance analysis, training simulators, gait analysis and virtual reality.
About Polhemus
Headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, Polhemus is the premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6DOF tracking systems for 40 years. Polhemus products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design.
Contact the sales department directly at sales@polhemus.com or call 1-800-357-4777 toll free in US/Canada. For countries outside the US, call 1-802-655-3159. For more information, visit: www.polhemus.com
Polhemus Announces “PATRIOT™ DB”: A New, Dual Sensor, 6 Degree-of-Freedom Motion Tracking Product
Posted: February 09, 2010
COLCHESTER, VT, (February 9, 2010) ----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies is proud to announce PATRIOT DB, the new 6DOF motion tracking product that installs quickly and will fit into any standard PC drive bay and allow up to two tracking sensors and one electromagnetic source. This new format permits the user to embed the tracker directly within their PC, allowing for a more simplified workspace while maintaining the high accuracies associated with the standard PATRIOT tracker.
The PATRIOT DB continues to have the same accuracy and other specifications as the regular PATRIOT; speed of 60 Hz per sensor, and ease of use via an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI). PATRIOT DB has a range of five feet, resolution of 0.0015 inches and 0.01 degree, and a static accuracy of 0.06 inches RMS for the X, Y and Z position and 0.4 degrees RMS of orientation. Latency is less than 10 milliseconds for both sensors simultaneously. The combination of all these attributes clearly positions PATRIOT DB as the forerunner in its class of electromagnetic tracking technology, offering significant improvements over competitive systems. PATRIOT DB is by far the most affordable, simplest to use 6DOF tracker on the market today.
The Polhemus PATRIOT, in combination with our industry leading FASTRAK® and LIBERTY™ systems, provides the customer with a full line of products to meet various tracking requirements and budget needs.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 6DOF tracking systems, eye tracking, and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products are in use worldwide in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design. Please contact us at sales@polhemus.com for additional information.
Media Contact: Pam Pelino
pam@polhemus.com
1-802-655-3159 Ext. 236
1-800-357-4777 (US & Canada)
Polhemus Signs OEM Distributor Agreement with Worldviz, LLC
Posted: March 20, 2009
COLCHESTER, VT (March 20, 2009)----Polhemus is proud to announce the signing of an OEM Distributor agreement with Worldviz, LLC., an industry leader in interactive virtual reality solutions headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA (U.S.A.).
Under the terms of this new agreement, Polhemus will distribute the Autodesk MotionBuilder plug-in written by Worldviz for Polhemus’ LIBERTY™ and PATRIOT™ family of motion tracking systems.
According to Al Rodgers, President of Polhemus, “Customers are looking for off-the-shelf solutions for integrating motion tracking hardware with application software. The recent MotionBuilder plug-in developed by Worldviz is in excellent example of an affordable, easy to implement solution for getting the most out of your motion tracking hardware.”
The plug-in, which requires MotionBuilder version 7.5 or later, supports both wired and wireless versions of Polhemus’ LIBERTY and PATRIOT 6DOF motion tracking systems. For more information, contact Polhemus at sales@polhemus.com, or 1-800-357-4777.
About Polhemus
Polhemus is the world's premier motion measurement technology company. They have been helping customers break new ground with best-in-class 6DOF motion tracking systems for over 35 years. Their products are widely used in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design.
About Worldviz
Worldviz is an industry leader in 3D interactive immersive turnkey simulations. Top industry and government clients include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney, Toyota, Nissan and Disney. The company’s custom Virtual Reality solutions include programming, graphics design, real-time motion tracking, hardware, full system integration, onsite installation, expert training and premium support. For more information, please visit: http://www.worldviz.com/
Innovation Award
Posted: September 28, 2008
Polhemus is proud to have received the Innovation Award within the 2008 Top Training and Simulation Companies selected by Military Training Technology Magazine. The list of Top Training and Simulation companies is selected from around the world. These companies are selected because they have made a significant impact on the military training industry across the spectrum of technologies - distance learning, living training, virtual and constructive simulation, modeling and others.
At Polhemus, it is our mission to give customers the power to break new ground through innovative, cost-effective enabling technologies for the real and virtual world. We engineer and manufacture specialized 6 Degree-of-Freedom warrior and weapon tracking input devices necessary for today's Future Force Warrior to train more effectively. Polhemus brings over 40 years of corporate history, patented technology, and success to the military and commercial marketplaces.
Polhemus directly engineers and manufactures within the United States 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) trackers. The War Fighter wears the tracker as an input device to the training scenario. For example; a small and lightweight tracker is worn on the head to track line-of-sight and head position; worn on the body to track warrior position within a scenario and input body posture and movements. The tracker provides the technical system inputs to determine the warrior's heading and if he/she is standing, crawling, crouching, moving left or right, forward or back.
This technology directly impacts both ground and vehicle based fighting forces. Whether tracking a pilot's head in a fighter for accurate weapons cueing; measuring infantry tactical and weapon handling techniques; simulating the use of a 50 cal. on the roof of an armored vehicle; or countless other scenarios, Polhemus provides the accurate sensor for success.
In 2008 Polhemus proudly launched the groundbreaking wireless 6DOF tracking system called SCOUT. Highly affordable, SCOUT directly improves the value of training scenarios by reducing the negative training impact often caused by traditional wired/corded systems. This means many traditional wires being run to head mounted displays, a warrior's hands, virtual reality training weapons, night vision goggles and other gear can now be eliminated allowing more realistic freedom of movement (no more joysticks on weapons to create movement). SCOUT is priced to minimally impact program budget restraints and is now being used by primes as well as smaller military and commercially focused businesses.
SCOUT (patents pending) is the product of dedicated hard work and many technical achievements. This product breakthrough has elevated our proprietary technology to a new height, offering our customers capability not previously available.
Polhemus, a small business, is focused on providing innovative products which meet and exceed the requirements of today's Future Fighting Forces. We manufacture high quality, solution oriented, products that are both affordable in the near-term and cost effective over the life cycle of the program. We firmly believe our technological advancement and the additional capability it provides will help to increase the preparedness of our warriors as they train for critical success missions.
Polhemus Announces SCOUT: World’s Only 6DOF Self Contained Head Tracker
Posted: November 12, 2007
COLCHESTER, VT----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, motion tracking and digitizing technologies is proud to announce SCOUT (Self-Contained Micro Tracker) for helmet mounted tracking or other head tracking applications.
SCOUT is a revolutionary, highly accurate 6DOF motion tracking system. Because of major advances in the miniaturization of electromagnetic technology, the system completely eliminates the need for any electronics unit. This removes the requirement to plan for tracker electronics space, weight, and the need for complicated inter-component wiring within airframes or high fidelity simulators. Magnetic head sensors currently being used weigh about 35 grams, which is equal to the entire weight of the SCOUT head sensor, cabling and electronics. Because the sensor and computational electronics are self-contained, sensitive wiring to breakaway connections for ejection safety is greatly simplified.
In addition to the miniaturization of the head sensor and electronics, Polhemus is introducing a new Canopy Source which has also been miniaturized to less than 10 grams. Al Rodgers, President and CEO stated "Advancements in active AC magnetic technology not only allowed us to produce a self-contained sensor but also a source with a footprint of only 15 mm which is perfect for direct canopy installation. In addition, we have maintained an update rate of 240 Hz with an overall accuracy of 3 milliradians. This is unprecedented in our industry!"
Using the latest technology developed by Polhemus, the Canopy Source greatly simplifies or eliminates the need for calibration. If calibration is required, Polhemus is now able to offer a new installation and calibration procedure that will align and calibrate the entire system in less than one hour. Although the Canopy Source has an extremely small footprint and lightweight characteristics, for those applications where a canopy mounted source is not a consideration, Polhemus offers a slightly larger, more traditional standard source.
SCOUT is the only self contained 6DOF motion tracking system in the world and is backed by 35 years of engineering experience. The combination of all these advancements clearly positions SCOUT as the forerunner in electromagnetic tracking technology offering significant improvements over competitive systems.
SCOUT is a prized addition to the variety of motion tracking products available from Polhemus, enabling us to provide the customer with a full line of solutions to meet various tracking requirements and budget limitations. Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 3D position and orientation tracking, digitizing, eye tracking and handheld 3D scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation and computer-aided design.
Polhemus Announces Rhinoceros® Plug-In For Stylus Based, Hand-Held Digitizing
Posted: March 20, 2007
COLCHESTER, VT, (March 20, 2007)---Polhemus, the industry leader in 6-Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies, is proud to announce a Rhino software plug-in for the PATRIOT™, a 6DOF tracking system, that when used in conjunction with the Polhemus stylus turns the system into a handheld, free-form digitizer.
A typical 3D digitizing system includes the PATRIOT electronics unit, a 2-inch magnetic source and a stylus. The source is placed near the object to be digitized. The sensor that is integrated into the stylus detects the stylus' location with respect to the source. The stylus range is ideally 1-3 feet from the source, but is usable up to 5 feet. The source and stylus may be configured with cabling of up to 20 feet in length for maximum flexibility. The PATRIOT Digitizer has a resolution of 0.0015 in. and 0.1 degree and a static accuracy of 0.1 inch RMS for the X, Y and Z position and 0.75 degrees RMS of orientation, with an affordable price and several accessories from which to choose. For higher accuracies and extended range, the Rhino plug-in is also compatible with the Polhemus LIBERTY™ series of trackers.
Once PATRIOT digitizes an object, Rhino can create, edit, analyze, and translate NURBS curves, surfaces, and solids in Windows®. There are no limits on complexity, degree, or size. The PATRIOT with stylus is an affordable, powerful combination for the digitizing needs of today's CAD users, with no maintenance fees.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time-proven 6DOF systems, eye tracking, and handheld 3D scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design.
McNeel North America (www.rhino3d.com) is responsible for sales, marketing, training, and support of all McNeel products including Rhino. Founded in 1980, McNeel is a privately-held, employee-owned company with sales and support offices and affiliates in Seattle, Miami, Buenos Aires, Barcelona, Rome, Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, and Beijing with more than 700 dealers, distributors, OEMs, and training centers around the world.
Rhinoceros is a registered trademark of Robert McNeel & Associates.
Polhemus Announces LATUS™ XRT: Totally Wireless, Large Area Tracking
Posted: November 06, 2006
COLCHESTER, VT (November 30, 2006) ---- Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, motion tracking and digitizing technologies, is announcing the completion of a working prototype of LATUS™ (Large Area Tracking Untethered System) XRT (Extended Range Tracking). This system represents a whole new dimension in wireless tracking technology, one that offers the capability to track hundreds of soldiers over village-sized areas in and around metal containers.
Polhemus President and CEO Al Rodgers said, "Because of Polhemus' advanced IRAD initiatives, LATUS XRT is able to track the position and location of a soldier within and around large metal containers to an accuracy significantly better than 0.5 meters."
An almost limitless number of independent battery powered tracker tags, known as Position Location Tags (PLTs), can be used within the scalable magnetic tracking architecture. Each PLT will weigh about three ounces and is smaller than a deck of playing cards. The PLTs incorporate the electronics necessary to compute position/location, wireless links send the data directly to command and control. The PLTs are serialized to be individually identifiable and designed with no hard limit on the number of devices that can be tracked.
Each magnetic source (a 4 inch cube) is self-contained except for its external, modular power supply. Depending upon the environment, a single source allows for a maximum spherical coverage up to 40 feet in diameter and does not require any cabling other than power. Sources are arranged in arrays to effectively cover any size or shape of the building or village.
State of the art Digital Signal Processor (DSP) electronics in concert with innovative patent pending AC magnetic technology provide improved signal-to-noise ratios increasing range, stability, resolution and speed. The system combines magnetic technology for PL determination and RF data link technology to provide a truly scalable architecture for the coverage in and around all types of structures.
The Polhemus wireless LATUS series, in combination with LIBERTY™, FASTRAK®, and our cost-effective PATRIOT™ and MINUTEMAN™ motion tracking systems, provides a full line of products to meet various tracking requirements and budget constraints.
Polhemus Powers Virtual Reality Application
Posted: October 13, 2006
COLCHESTER, VT, (October 13, 2006)----Polhemus, the industry leader of 6 Degree-Of-Freedom (6DOF) motion tracking, digitizing, eye-tracking and handheld 3D scanners, has provided its most recent release in tracking technology to Carnegie Mellon University's Entertainment Technology Center (ETC) for use in their "Building Virtual Worlds" class this semester at their Pittsburgh campus. Using the latest electromagnetic tracking technology, Polhemus has made another breakthrough in motion tracking technology with its LIBERTY™ system, which inserts virtual 3D objects into live video images creating a non-invasive, interactive environment that immerses the user in "augmented reality." ETC-PITTSBURGH is using two LIBERTY tracking systems to enrich the learning and playing experience for its first-year master's students taking the "Building Virtual Worlds" (BVW) course, a foundational element of the ETC's innovative curriculum, which awards graduates with the world's only master's of entertainment technology degree.
Over the 15-week-long "Building Virtual Worlds" course, four-person student teams have about two weeks to create a virtual world or experience – from inception and design through scripting, graphics, rendering, programming, user testing and production to working prototype. Students are then assigned to new teams, given a different technology platform to use, and asked to tackle a different interactivity goal or feature as they create their next virtual experience in another two weeks.
Worlds generated by ETC students this semester with the Polhemus LIBERTY systems include an airy world where you take wing as an elegant white bird, soaring above a tranquil mountain landscape...and another world where you take the shape of a little green dragon skiing down a mountain pass, trying to elude snow bunnies on your left, big dragons crossing the path in front of you and snowmen hurling snowballs at you on the right.
Created by Computer Science Professor and ETC Co-Founder Randy Pausch, the BVW course was inspired by the rapid prototyping methods used by Walt Disney Imagineering. The goal of the course is to take students with varying talents, backgrounds and perspectives, and put them together to do more than they could do alone, better than they could do it alone, to prototype worlds and experiences that engage users in bold, new ways.
"We don't try to teach artists to program, or engineers to paint," Pausch has said in the past. "We form teams where everyone does what they're already skilled at doing, but they unite to attack a joint project."
This year, the course is taught by former Disney game developer Jesse Schell, assistant professor ofentertainment technology at the ETC and CEO of Schell Games. "Polhemus has been a dream to work with," said Schell. "The two systems showed up quickly, were easy to set up, and have made a huge difference in the quality of student work. Now the students can focus on the quality of the world itself, instead of worrying about the reliability of the tracking system."
The Pittsburgh-based BVW course culminates in a raucous stage show this Dec. 6, where a juried selection of the best student work will be shared in front of a live, 500-person audience at Carnegie Mellon University's McConomy Auditorium. In addition to standing-room only crowds of students, faculty and alumni, past shows have attracted industry execs from companies such as DreamWorks, Electronic Arts and Pixar, who have flown to Pittsburgh from their corporate headquarters to attend the BVW show and talk with the ETC student developers afterward about internships, co-ops and possible hires.
Polhemus Announces MINUTEMAN™: A Low Cost, Drift Free, Dual Sensor 3 Degree-of-Freedom Tracker
Posted: May 15, 2006
COLCHESTER, VT, (March 15, 2006)---- Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-Of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies is proud to announce MINUTEMAN™, the new low cost 3 Degree-of-Freedom (3DOF) tracking product. MINUTEMAN represents a quantum leap in new technology and state of the art Digital Signal Processor (DSP) electronics which results in amajor price reduction for tracking technology. MINUTEMAN is drift free, has the speed of 75 Hz per sensor and offers ease of use via an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI). The electronics unit (E-Pod), which is powered by the USB interface and contains the electromagnetic source, is only slightly larger than a pack of playing cards. Full InertiaCube2 emulation software is also provided for plug-and-play hardware replacement without having to worry about rewriting code. The combination of all these attributes clearly positions MINUTEMAN as a new class of electromagnetic tracking, offering significant improvements over competitive technologies.
MINUTEMAN is the ideal solution for orientation sensing requirements of 3DOF applications where price is a principal concern. It offers fast update rates and high resolution, which makes it perfect for Head Mounted Display-based (HMD) virtual reality, games, and simulation and training applications.
MINUTEMAN permits up to two sensors per system and is available with one of four different operating frequencies which allows up to four systems to operate simultaneously in the same environment. It also incorporates its own on-board microprocessor technology, which means it does not tie up your CPU time to make complicated process calculations. System software includes a Graphical User Interface (GUI), Software Developer's Kit (SDK) and a predictive filter allowing up to 50 milliseconds of prediction. Mounting brackets on sensors are compatible with the spacing of standard Polhemus sensors as well as most competing system footprints.
"With over 35 years of experience, Polhemus holds and maintains the leadership role in the advancement of electromagnetic tracking technology," Polhemus President and CEO Al Rodgers said. "Thanks to MINUTEMAN, Polhemus now offers a low-cost, drift free 3DOF solution."
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 6DOF systems, eye tracking, and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design.
Contact sales@polhemus.com for more information.
Polhemus Announces VisionTrak™ Desktop 300: A Desktop Binocular Eye Imaging/Tracking System
Posted: May 02, 2006
COLCHESTER, VT, (May 2, 2006)----Designed by ISCAN Inc., of Burlington, MA, the VisionTrak Desktop 300 is a remote binocular eye tracking system that is used to collect pupil size, eye movement parameters and eye point of regard data from human subjects. This system allows the subject to be seated comfortably without the use of a chin rest while the researcher controls the data collection process at a separate console. Both eyes are viewed using a specialized remote infrared video camera system. Distinctive system features allow for quick and accurate data collection and analysis for a variety of applications and environments including vision research, psycho-visual experiments, drug or alcohol response testing, reading and language studies, advertising research, driving research and handicapped communication. The VisionTrak Desktop 300 represents a quantum leap in new eye tracking proficiency offering significant improvements over alternative technologies.
With nothing attached to the head, the subject can move within an X, Y, Z envelope of approximately a cubic foot offering full freedom of head movement. The integrated pan/tilt system is used to direct the camera and automatically follows the subject's eye. System set-up and subject calibration are simple, straightforward and flexible. The VisionTrak Desktop 300 is fully functional under dark or bright ambient lighting conditions with a wide range of subject acceptance including eyeglasses, sunglasses, contact lenses or drooping eyelids.
The VisionTrak Desktop 300 uses a robust dark pupil tracking methodology that automatically distinguishes the pupils from other dark shadows or eyelashes in the eye images. The system has an effective sub-pixel resolution of 1500H x 2000V for both pupil and corneal reflection position measurements and true, real-time 60Hz or optional 240Hz data update. The system uses real-time, fully operator-configurable scrolling graph displays to view the data. Once collected, data can easily be reviewed, exported or stored directly on the system. The system offers subject video point-of-regard overlay display outputs in which accuracy is better than one-half degree over ±25 degree horizontal and ±20 degree vertical range.
The Raw Eye Movement Data Acquisition Software for Windows® XP allows the operator to control the data acquisition process with instrumentation control, data recording, review, and analysis features. Calibrated or raw eye movement and auxiliary data can be output in real time to other devices. The software includes provisions for file storage in native and ASCII formats along with complete with automatic determination of calibrated data velocities and accelerations.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 6 Degree-Of-Freedom systems, eye tracking, and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design.
Please contact us at sales@polhemus.com for additional information.
Polhemus Announces PATRIOT™ Class B: A Dual Sensor, 6 Degree-of-Freedom Tracking Product
Posted: November 18, 2005
COLCHESTER, VT, (November 18, 2005)----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-Of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, motion tracking and digitizing technologies, is proud to announce that PATRIOT, a 6DOF tracking product, has been verified to meet the requirements of Class B digital device standards. Class A and Class B are classifications that the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and the European Union (CE) apply to electronic equipment with respect to the amount of unintentional radiated fields (RF) energy that the equipment emits.
The PATRIOT is now available in both Class A and Class B emissions standards. The new Class B version of the PATRIOT meets the more stringent emissions requirements specified by the FCC and CE standards. The Class B PATRIOT also has a new look and is easily identified by the white plastic chassis. PATRIOT B can now be used in more rigorous residential and industrial laboratory environments.
PATRIOT tracks objects through the liberal use of advanced DSPs that also provide cleaner signals and higher stability. The Class B two-sensor channel base system is available at an affordable price, making PATRIOT by far the most affordable, simplest to use 6DOF tracker on the market today. PATRIOT comes standard with both a serial I/O RS-232 and a high speed USB interface, at no extra cost.
PATRIOT takes advantage of new technology and state of the art Digital Signal Processor (DSP) electronics. PATRIOT has the speed of 60 Hz per sensor, ease of use via an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI), and improved signal-to-noise ratios which increase stability and resolution while providing consistent high quality data. In addition, the size of the electronics unit is only 6.75 inches L x 6.24 inches W x 1.75 inches H. The combination of all these attributes clearly positions PATRIOT as the forerunner in its class of electromagnetic tracking technology, offering significant improvements over competitive systems.
The PATRIOT comes standard with Windows 2000/XP GUI and a comprehensive, easy to use Software Developers Kit (SDK). The GUI allows four independent user-definable profiles for setting system parameters such as filtering, output formats, coordinate rotations and many more. This is a valuable feature for multiple applications or users. For visualization, an integrated motion box provides navigable points of view and can include text data. Additional features include a data record/playback component, plus the capability to quickly export data via Microsoft® "Named Pipe".
PATRIOT has a range of five feet, resolution of 0.0015 in. and 0.01 degree and a static accuracy of 0.1 in. RMS for the X, Y and Z position and 0.75 degrees RMS of orientation. Latency is less than 10 milliseconds for both sensors simultaneously.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 6DOF systems, eye tracking, and handheld 3D scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer aided design.
Contact sales@polhemus.com for more information.
Total Immersion uses the latest Wireless Tracking Technology from Polhemus for Augmented Reality
Posted: November 08, 2005
Total Immersion is an augmented reality (AR) solutions provider based in France. Committed to become the leader in augmented reality solutions, Total Immersion has invested in people and technology to provide the most powerful AR solution.
Total Immersion has recently chosen LIBERTY™LATUS™ from Polhemus to advance their AR solutions. LIBERTY LATUS, a totally wireless motion tracking system, integrates easily with Total Immersion’s D’FUSION software, which inserts virtual 3D objects into live video images. This solution provides the user with a non- invasive, interactive environment between the user and real time video capture.
Augmented reality is the use of live video imagery which is digitally processed and “augmented” by the addition of interactive 3D graphic objects. This is achieved by overlaying computer generated graphics, sounds and haptics into real world environments.
LIBERTY LATUS is a state of the art, 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion tracking system. The system uses wireless markers to track position and orientation of an object. Each self-contained marker is tracked in space by receptors, each of which provide an 8 foot diameter spherical coverage. The system is capable of accommodating up to 12 markers and up to 16 receptors to create large areas of coverage.
Traditionally, special effects are created offline, frame-by-frame, requiring user interaction and computer graphics system rendering. Now with D’FUSION, the software analyzes the live action images to determine the camera parameters and uses this to drive the generation of the virtual graphic objects to be merged. The user holds a wireless tracking marker to specify where the 3D objects need to appear in real time. The camera follows the movement of the hand and the result is displayed onto the television screen. Because the marker tracks position and orientation of the “virtual” object, which appears to be in the hand of the user, it can be simulated as if it were a real object. The wireless technology is a significant enhancement to Total Immersion’s AR solution, enabling the user to have complete freedom of movement without the concern of wires.
Total Immersion utilizes this advanced technology in various industries and has most recently been chosen by CBS News to enhance its show “48 Hours”. Hosts of the show will use D'FUSION to provide viewers with technical and scientific explanations directly on the set. An automobile manufacturer used this technology in a large corporate presentation where they introduced a prototype of a new car. Since the car only existed in virtual 3D form, this technology was extremely useful in providing a model of the prototype, including color options. Other industries Total Immersion markets its AR solutions include aerospace, theme parks/entertainment, special events, military, and architecture.
Polhemus is the industry leader in 6DOF motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies. Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 3D position and orientation tracking, digitizing, eye tracking and handheld three-dimensional scanning systems. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation and computer-aided design. For more information on Polhemus, please visit www.polhemus.com.
For more information on Total Immersion please visit www.t-immersion.com.
Polhemus Announces LIBERTY™ LATUS™ 6 Degree-of-Freedom Totally Wireless Tracking System
Posted: July 18, 2005
COLCHESTER, VT (July 18, 2005) ---- Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies, is proud to announce the LIBERTY LATUS (Large Area Tracking Untethered System). This system represents a whole new dimension in tracking technology, one that offers a totally wireless, full 6DOF solution. The system has speed, ease-of-use via an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI) and is capable of tracking up to 12 independent markers over large areas at a rate of 94 or 188 updates per second. Each self contained marker is tracked in space by receptors each providing 8 foot diameter spherical coverage. Additional receptors can be arranged to cover an area of any shape. Each LIBERTY LATUS system is capable of connecting up to 16 receptors for coverage of hundreds of square feet. Systems may also be concatenated for even larger area coverage.
Easy, Intuitive User Interface: LIBERTY LATUS comes standard with Windows® 2000/XP GUI and a comprehensive, easy to use Software Developers Kit (SDK). The GUI allows four independent user definable profiles for setting system parameters such as filtering, output formats, coordinate rotations and much more. This is a valuable feature for multiple applications or users. For visualization, an integrated motion box provides navigable points of view and can include text data. Additional features include a data record/playback component, plus the ability to quickly export data via Microsoft® "Named Pipe".
The 2 oz. marker contains all necessary processing hardware including a rechargeable lithium-ion battery enclosed in a plastic shell. No interconnect wiring is required between markers: they operate as totally independent modules. The system is capable of accommodating up to 12 markers. The battery provides power for approximately 2 hours and is easily removed for recharging. The receptor is a high performance magnetic sensing array contained in a plastic shell. The receptor detects the magnetic fields emitted by the marker(s) for up to 8 feet (2.44m) in spherical diameter. Receptor cable length is 60 feet (18.3m). This lightweight, small cube can easily be mounted to almost any surface. The system is capable of accommodating up to 16 receptors for huge areas of total coverage.
Incorporating state of the art Digital Signal Processor (DSP) electronics in concert with A/C magnetics provides the user with improved signal-to-noise ratios which increase range, stability, resolution and speed. The system is essentially unaffected by facility power grids or electric power motors and update rates are always maintained, allowing for consistent, high quality data.
"The new LIBERTY LATUS highlights the commitment we have to our customer base. We appreciate their business and confidence which has helped us maintain the leadership role in driving the advancement of 6DOF tracking technology," Polhemus President and CEO Al Rodgers said. "The latest LIBERTY system is proof of that commitment – LATUS delivers truly wireless full 6DOF drift free tracking over large areas and without significant distortion issues. Distortion mapping is not required with this system. An 800 sq. ft. area can be setup and operational in less than one hour."
The Polhemus LIBERTY series, in combination with our workhorse of the industry, FASTRAK®, and our cost-effective PATRIOT™ system, provides the customer with a full line of products to meet various tracking requirements and budget constraints.
Contact sales@polhemus.com for more information.
United States Olympic Committee Presents Polhemus with Poster of Olympic Heroes
Posted: December 15, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT, (December 15, 2004) ---- On November 12, 2004, in Lake Placid, NY, at the Olympic Training Center, select members of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) gifted Polhemus with a rare poster containing the photographs, biographies and original signatures of the top 20 gold medal winners since 1948. This was given in appreciation for the products Polhemus has provided the USOC which enable them to train US athletes more efficiently.
From left to right, John Farr (Executive Director Sales and Marketing, Polhemus), Derek Kivi (USOC Lake Placid), Al Rodgers (President/CEO, Polhemus), Ken Jedrzejewski (Vice President/CFO, Polhemus), and Sarah Smith (USOC Colorado Springs)
Polhemus motion tracking and eye tracking products have helped the USOC in a variety of ways, from biofeedback in weight lifting, ongoing studies of the behaviors of gymnastic equipment such as a vault board, the effect of acute static stretching on joint position of the upper extremity, shooting skills and many more. For a complete case study on these topics please visit our LIBERTY case studies page here.
Products being utilized by the USOC include the motion tracker system called the LIBERTY, a 1 to 16 sensor system with a speed of 240 Hz per sensor, distortion detection, intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI), scalability and improved signal-to-noise ratios which provide consistent high quality data. The VisionTrak™ eye tracker (technology by ISCAN, Inc.) provides the actual field of view of the subject, places a crosshair exactly where the subject is looking, and records scan paths, pupil dilation and many other factors involving eye movement.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 3D position and orientation tracking, digitizing, eye tracking and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation and computer-aided design.
Please contact sales@polhemus.com for additional information.
Polhemus Announces DeltaView™, Volume and Surface Measurement Software for the FastSCAN™ 3D Scanner
Posted: August 04, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT, (August 4, 2004)----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies, is proud to announce DeltaView™ software. Designed and developed specifically for working with files from FastSCAN™, the Polhemus three dimensional scanner, DeltaView quickly and easily calculates volume or surface measurements of complex three dimensional images for comparative analysis.
The FastSCAN scanner projects a fan of laser light on an object while a camera views the laser and records the cross-sectional profiles. By combining motion tracking in the wand and with the processing unit connected via USB, the user reconstructs the full 3D surface of an object in real-time.
Once FastSCAN files are loaded, DeltaView incorporates a simple intuitive graphical user interface that displays comparative dual windows for ease of use. The underlying engine of this interface is one of the most powerful three dimensional data processing programs available; the system performs landmark and highly accurate surface registration using proprietary techniques (patents pending).
After registration is quickly defined, the user may then perform a number of analytical tasks: calculate and display a displacement map, calculate volume differences, interpolate over defects, calculate volumes of specific regions and make surface measurements.
DeltaView can also be used to calculate a volume of a concave or convex defect on a single scan, such as an ulcer or keloid. This is done by smoothly interpolating across the selected defect to create a reference surface from which to calculate the related volume.
Functionality, ease of use, performance and calculation accuracy make DeltaView the ultimate solution for analysis and recording of data from multifaceted three dimensional surfaces. DeltaView list price is $4,800.
Above is a geographical color map of facial swelling after molar extraction.
Also shown are registration marks.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 3D position and orientation tracking, digitizing, eye tracking and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation and computer-aided design. DeltaView is a trademark of Applied Research Associates of New Zealand. Please contact sales@polhemus.com for additional information.
Polhemus Announces VRCO’s trackd® Compatibility for the LIBERTY™ and PATRIOT™ Series 6DOF Products
Posted: June 15, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT, (June 15, 2004)----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-Of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies, is proud to announce that LIBERTY™ and PATRIOT™ now have full compatibility with VRCO's trackD®, the standard device software for leading virtual reality (VR) applications and developers in the immersive display industry. VRCO's trackD is used by all VRCO products and by all CAVELib® applications, plus many more such as Vega® and Vega Prime® from MultiGen-Paradigm.
A variety of operating systems work with trackD, such as IRIX®, Linux®, HP-UX®, Solaris® and Win32®. Its networking capability allows for different graphic systems to share information gathered from either LIBERTY or PATRIOT regardless of the operating system. The applications receive the tracker data through a generic Application Programmers Interface called the trackD API. This generic interface allows applications to specifically support the LIBERTY or PATRIOT without having to modify source code or write specific hardware drivers.
Current Polhemus tracking products include: LIBERTY, a 1- to 16-sensor system with a speed of 240 Hz per sensor, distortion detection, intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI), scalability and improved signal-to-noise ratios which provide consistent high quality data; PATRIOT, a two-sensor, cost-effective system which has a very small and compact footprint; and FASTRAK®, a four-sensor system which has been the number one selling electromagnetic tracker for over 12 years running and has already been used for a number of years with trackD. Communications for all systems include RS-232 and a high speed USB interface, at no extra cost.
Contact sales@polhemus.com for more information.
Polhemus Announces The Latest Addition in “The LIBERTY™ Series” 6 Degree-of-Freedom Tracking Product
Posted: May 10, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT (May 10, 2004)----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-Of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies, is proud to announce the LIBERTY™ 240/16, a 16 sensor capable motion tracking system which is the latest 6DOF tracking product in the LIBERTY series. As in other LIBERTY products, this new system represents a quantum leap in new technology and state of the art Digital Signal Processor (DSP) electronics. LIBERTY has speed (240 Hz per sensor), ease of use via an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI), scalability and improved signal to noise ratios which increase stability and resolution while providing consistent high quality data. The combination of all these attributes clearly positions LIBERTY as the forerunner in electromagnetic tracking technology offering significant improvements over competitive systems.
A four sensor channel board is available on the base product and is easily user upgradeable by adding additional four-sensor channel cards up to a total of 16 sensors. Any user who can install a sound card in a PC can perform the upgrade to a LIBERTY 240/16 system, saving time and expense.
Price per sensor makes the LIBERTY series by far the most affordable, easiest to upgrade, simplest to use, quietest and fastest 6DOF tracker on the market today. And LIBERTY comes standard with both a serial I/O RS-232 and a high speed USB interface, at no extra cost, to keep up with the voluminous rate of tracking data produced.
"The new LIBERTY 240/16 highlights the commitment we have to our customer base. We appreciate their business and confidence which has helped us maintain the leadership role in driving the advancement of 6DOF tracking technology," Polhemus President and CEO Allan Rodgers said. "The latest LIBERTY series is proof of that commitment."
The LIBERTY Series comes standard with Windows 2000/XP GUI and a comprehensive, easy to use Software Developers Kit (SDK). The GUI allows four independent user definable profiles for setting system parameters such as filtering, output formats, coordinate rotations and many more. This is a valuable feature for multiple applications or users. For visualization, an integrated motion box provides navigable points of view and can include text data. Additional features include a data record/playback component, plus the capability to quickly export data via Microsoft® "Named Pipe".
Each LIBERTY sensor is able to independently detect distortion within the environment, alerting the user to make appropriate changes if necessary. Resolution is better than 0.001 inch and 0.01 degrees, absolute accuracy is better than 0.03 inches RMS for the X, Y and Z position and 0.15 degrees RMS for rotation. Latency is less than four milliseconds for all sensors simultaneously. Range is in excess of five feet and can be substantially extended with the use of optional sources.
The Polhemus LIBERTY series, in combination with our workhorse of the industry, FASTRAK®, and our cost-effective PATRIOT™ system, provides the customer with a full line of products to meet various tracking requirements and budget constraints.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 3D position and orientation tracking, digitizing, eye tracking and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products already are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation and computer-aided design. Please contact sales@polhemus.com for additional information.
Polhemus Announces a Standard Two Year Warranty on All 6 Degree-of-Freedom Tracking Products
Posted: April 29, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT (April 29, 2004)----Effective May 1, 2004, Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-Of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies is proud to announce a standard two year warranty for all the 6DOF tracking products which include the LIBERTY™ series, the PATRIOT™ and the workhorse of the industry, FASTRAK®.
Having been in business since 1969 and ISO 9001 certified since December 2000, Polhemus has had the opportunity to fine-tune all aspects of engineering and manufacturing to produce products of the absolute highest quality. Each system is run through a battery of tests in order to meet a rigid standard of requirements before ever leaving the facility. This ensures that each customer receives a product that will not only work right out of the box, but for years to come.
"The new standard two year warranty highlights our commitment to manufacture products of the highest quality possible. Our repair rate is so low it only makes sense to pass these savings on to our customer base," said Allan Rodgers, president and CEO. "We appreciate their business and confidence, which has helped us maintain the leadership role in driving the advancement of 6 DOF tracking technology."
Current Polhemus tracking products include: LIBERTY, a one- to eight-sensor system with a speed of 240 Hz per sensor, distortion detection, intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI), scalability and improved signal to noise ratios which provide consistent high quality data; PATRIOT, a two-sensor, cost-effective system which has a very small and compact footprint; and FASTRAK, a four-sensor system which has been the number one selling electromagnetic tracker for over 12 years running. Communications for all systems include RS-232 and a high speed USB interface, at no extra cost.
Contact sales@polhemus.com for more information.
Linux® and LabVIEW Now Available for Polhemus Tracking Systems
Posted: February 14, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT, (February 12, 2004)----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, motion tracking and digitizing technologies is proud to announce a Linux Universal Serial Bus (USB) solution and the National Instruments LabVIEW drivers for Polhemus LIBERTY and PATRIOT motion tracking systems. Linux is a freely distributed operating system, used for home and office with a variety of application formats. LabVIEW is a graphical programming language with built-in functionality for data acquisition instrument control, measurement analysis, and data presentation.
Polhemus now provides Linux users with the ability to operate Polhemus LIBERTY and PATRIOT systems with full compatibility using a USB connection. Developed by a third party and released as open source, the USB connection utilizes a firmware loader and the Linux USB kernel module that communicates with the Liberty. By utilizing programs that come with the standard Linux distribution and modifying a few files, a user will have full USB communications with the Liberty. The ease-of-use, ability to connect high performance peripherals, and the bandwidth that USB offers in combination with Linux make LIBERTY and PATRIOT the most universal motion tracking systems available.
Polhemus has recognized the high demand for LabVIEW compatibility, and therefore has provided an instrument driver for its LIBERTY and PATRIOT motion tracking systems. Polhemus' instrumentation solution is an extensive set of LabVIEW VIs (Virtual Instruments) which parallel the most-commonly-used functions and all standard LIBERTY and PATRIOT commands and syntax. This will allow users to now control extensive data collection, analysis and presentations through LabVIEW.
The LabVIEW driver will be available for download at www.ni.com and both the LabVIEW and Linux files can be found at www.polhemus.com. These additional attributes make LIBERTY and PATRIOT the most preferred motion tracking systems in the industry.
LIBERTY, our finest tracking system, tracks at an unprecedented speed of 240 Hz per sensor, incorporates distortion sensing, is scalable for multiple sensors, while PATRIOT tracks at 60 Hz per sensor yet measures in at only 6.75 inches L x 6.25 inches W x 1.75 inches H. Both systems have an easy to use, intuitive GUI, and improved signal-to-noise ratios which increase stability and resolution while providing consistent high-quality data.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 6DOF systems, eye tracking, and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products are in wide use in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design. Please sales@polhemus.com for additional information.
Polhemus Announces PATRIOT™ A New, Dual Sensor, 6 Degree-of-Freedom Tracking Product
Posted: January 19, 2004
COLCHESTER, VT, (February 9, 2010) ----Polhemus, the industry leader in 6 Degree-of-Freedom (6DOF) motion capture, tracking and digitizing technologies is proud to announce PATRIOT DB, the new 6DOF motion tracking product that installs quickly and will fit into any standard PC drive bay and allow up to two tracking sensors and one electromagnetic source. This new format permits the user to embed the tracker directly within their PC, allowing for a more simplified workspace while maintaining the high accuracies associated with the standard PATRIOT tracker.
The PATRIOT DB continues to have the same accuracy and other specifications as the regular PATRIOT; speed of 60 Hz per sensor, and ease of use via an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI). PATRIOT DB has a range of five feet, resolution of 0.0015 inches and 0.01 degree, and a static accuracy of 0.06 inches RMS for the X, Y and Z position and 0.4 degrees RMS of orientation. Latency is less than 10 milliseconds for both sensors simultaneously. The combination of all these attributes clearly positions PATRIOT DB as the forerunner in its class of electromagnetic tracking technology, offering significant improvements over competitive systems.
The base product at a price of $2,920 includes two sensor channels and is available starting February 15, 2010. This makes PATRIOT DB by far the most affordable, simplest to use 6DOF tracker on the market today.
The Polhemus PATRIOT, in combination with our industry leading FASTRAK® and LIBERTY™ systems, provides the customer with a full line of products to meet various tracking requirements and budget needs.
Polhemus provides the absolute best in time proven 6DOF tracking systems, eye tracking, and handheld three-dimensional scanners. These products are in use worldwide in such areas as medical applications, university research, military training and simulation, and computer-aided design. Please contact us at sales@polhemus.com for additional information.