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Aechelon Technology Announces Availability of C-NOVA Image Generation Software on SGI Onyx Systems with InfiniteReality4 Graphics, Including Image Based Rendering Support.

SAN CARLOS, Calif., July 23, 2002 — Aechelon Technology, Inc. announced today that it has completed the port and optimization of its C-NOVA TM software-based runtime engine to the recently announced SGI’ Onyx family visualization systems with InfiniteReality4TM graphics. Aechelon Technology visual systems based on Onyx family systems with InfiniteReality4 graphics are available immediately.

C-NOVA visual simulation software transforms commercially available platforms into rock-solid 60Hz frame rate, high-resolution, multi-channel image generators. The benefit to customers and system integrators is that R&D and manufacturing overhead for COTS platforms is spread over many units in diverse applications, and not solely to program-funded developments. Moreover, features and functionality are not locked into program requirements, but are driven by market requirements, thus creating continuous technology insertion at no additional development cost to the program.

“This updated version of C-NOVA is one more step toward increased realism and eye limiting resolution,” said Ignacio (Nacho) Sanz Pastor, principal engineer and founder, Aechelon Technology. “The combination of increased fill-rate and 8 subsample irregular grid antialising provides unprecedented image quality and target recognition for higher resolution display systems. In addition, the increased texture memory available in InfiniteReality4TM enables C-NOVA to render large numbers of Image-Based Rendering objects, including support for ArchVisionTM Inc’s RPCTM Content, thus creating scene realism not seen previously in real-time visual simulation. Image Based Rendering tree and bush quality will add to the realism and training experience for helicopter pilots.”

“Stunning realism is achieved when hardware and software work in concert to render compelling imagery and maintain the physical truthfulness behind the data,” said Susan Tellep, director of product marketing, SGI. “C-NOVA visual simulation software combined with the InfiniteReality4 graphics system’s image-based rendering capabilities deliver photo-realistic populated environments that are visually almost indistinguishable from reality.”

For more information, see the SGI Press Release at http://www.sgi.com/features/2002/july/ir4/ir4.html

Aechelon Technology’s C-NOVA runtime engine, and its C-RADIANTTM plug-in module for geospecific, multi-sensor image generation support, have been field proven in the Harrier AV-8B Radar Night Attack Weapon System Trainer, at AFRL in DMT Testbed and Night Vision Training Systems Labs and at NAWC-AD Manned Flight Simulator. These products, together with the associated geospecific databases, have established a new standard for realistic image generation in training, foreign-area familiarization and mission rehearsal applications.
About SGI

Celebrating its 20th year, SGI, also known as Silicon Graphics, Inc., is the world’s leader in high-performance computing, visualization and the management of complex data. SGI’ products, services and solutions enable its technical and creative customers to gain strategic and competitive advantages in their core businesses. Whether being used to design and build safer cars and airplanes, discover new medications and oil reserves, predict the weather, entertain us with thrilling movie special effects or provide mission-critical support for government and defense, SGI systems and expertise are empowering a world of innovation and discovery. The company, located on the Web at www.sgi.com, is headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., and has offices worldwide.

About ArchVision

ArchVision is the leader in the development of image-based content creation, management and delivery solutions. In addition to its RPC Plug-in technology, ArchVision’s products include a growing library of RPC content ranging from people, trees and shrubs to image-based automobiles. ArchVision currently serves customers located in over 60 countries around the world. RPC is the image-based rendering technology of choice for many of the leading animation, CAD, real-time simulation, and 3D modeling software packages on the market today. Native and Plug-in RPC support now exists in 3ds max, Autodesk Viz, Bentley MicroStation, AccuRender from Robert McNeel & Associates, Revit, Piranesi from Informatix, Adobe Photoshop, and SGI Performer. For more information, call ArchVision at 859-252-3118 or visit us on the web at www.RPCnet.com.

About Aechelon Technology

Aechelon Technology is a leader in real time computer graphics applications for training, simulation and entertainment markets. The company provides COTS-based, high resolution, multi-channel, geo-specific image generators, OTW and correlated sensor databases and integration services. The company’s image generators are field proven, and are delivered with full logistics support and documentation. Aechelon Technology, located on
the Internet at https://aechelon.com, is headquartered in San Carlos, CA, and has facilities in Madrid, Spain.

For further in formation regarding this press release or Aechelon Technology, please contact:

John Quinn, CEO
Aechelon Technology

Aechelon Technology, C-Nova and C-Radiant are trademarks of Aechelon Technology, Inc. All other trademarks mentioned in this press release are the property of their respective owners.