Geomagic acquires Sensable, a virtual touch technology

Geomagic, a global provider of 3D software, is adding more technology and another dimension - virtual touch - to its technology lineup.

The Morrisville-based firm said Thursday it had acquired Massachusetts-based Sensable. Sensable focused on computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing solutions. Financial terms were not disclosed. Geomagic acquired a number of products and patents.

The firm also invented devices that simulate physical touch in virtual environments with so-called force feedback ("haptic") devices. Similar technology is found in video game controllers. The Sensable products are called Phantom. The Sensable technology enables designers to design and create shapes with what Geomagic calls "virtual clay."

“Geomagic specializes in capturing digital data from the real world and real people. Now we can add the sensation of touch as well," said Ping Fu, chief executive officer of Geomagic, in a statement.

"For Geomagic customers, Sensable solutions are a natural extension for modeling and enhancing the scan data from Geomagic; for Sensable customers, starting with a scanned model rather than blank screen makes it far easier and faster to start a design, requires less time to sculpt the 3D model, and the finished designs can be exchanged into CAD surfaces using the Geomagic family of software. The synergies will be a tremendous value to existing and new customers.”

Geomagic software is used to create digital models for rapid prototyping and other applications.

The Sensable operations will remain in Massachusetts, and all employees with the exception of the former Sensable CEO were extended offers to join Geomagic, the company said.

The deal does not include dental products developed by Sensable.

Post originally appeared on WRAL Tech Wire. Appears here with a slight edit.