News | May 18, 2005

Immersion Introduces New MicroScribe MX Portable Measurement Systems for Inspection and Reverse Engineering



Twice the accuracy of previous models at a fraction of the cost of competitive systems

Chicago, International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), Hall D, Booth 3234, September 7, 2004 (BUSINESS WIRE) ¾ Immersion Corporation (Nasdaq: IMMR), a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology, today announced new MicroScribe MX portable measurement systems for reverse engineering, measurement, and inspection. The new family of articulated arms offers flexibility, portability, and metrology-level accuracy at a fraction of the cost of competitive measurement systems.

The new MX series is based on the same proven technology employed worldwide in over 6,000 MicroScribe systems used for digitizing and reverse engineering. Design advancements have led to the MicroScribe MX series achieving twice the accuracy of the G2 model to meet the more exacting requirements of the measurement and inspection markets. The new MX system also seamlessly integrates with the most popular software applications ¾ for metrology, reverse engineering, and 3D design. Several top software manufacturers participated in the system's beta program.

"Our experience with the MicroScribe MX system showed it is well suited for the industrial environment," says Chris Lawrie of Delcam, manufacturer of PowerINSPECT software used for the inspection of prototypes, tooling, and production samples. "It's very robust, fast and simple to use, and works well with PowerINSPECT to provide an interactive method of collecting data and reporting on the quality of manufacturing. I believe the MicroScribe MX system will help many companies save time and money."

"From a technical perspective, supporting the MicroScribe system is a breeze," says Brian Gillespie of Robert McNeel and Associates, developer of Rhinoceros software for 3D modeling and reverse engineering. "Thorough beta testing showed that it lives up to the reputation for reliability and ease of use that the MicroScribe name has earned. I think reverse engineering users will be very pleased with how efficiently it works with Rhino software to simplify and speed even complex projects."

Immersion qualifies the MicroScribe MX systems' high accuracy using its Tri-Test Calibration™ Method. This test methodology aligns to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers' B89.4.22 draft specification for evaluating performance of articulated arm coordinate measurement machines (CMMs).

"With its increased accuracy, the MicroScribe MX system is designed to fill the gap between the MicroScribe G2 product and high-end articulated-arm CMMs," says Tim Tight, general manager of Immersion's Industrial Business Group. "This new-generation product in our highly successful MicroScribe line gives us the opportunity to show new markets, such as inspection and metrology, how a high-value, portable CMM can improve production schedules and complete in-house jobs faster and more cost effectively, which helps avoid outsourcing."

MicroScribe MX systems feature an easy-to-use counter-balanced articulated arm that provides smooth action. They can be ordered with either five or six degrees of freedom and with either a 25- or 33-inch reach. The system comes with a ruby ball stylus. Users can use and calibrate their own measurement tips, or choose from a variety of tips for precise positioning available from Immersion. The MicroScribe MX system is extremely portable, weighing only 8.5 pounds and is easily transported in an optional carrying case.

About Immersion (www.immersion.com) Founded in 1993, Immersion Corporation is a recognized leader in developing, licensing, and marketing digital touch technology and products. Bringing value to markets where man-machine interaction needs to be made more compelling, safer, or productive, Immersion helps its partners broaden market reach by making the use of touch feedback as critical a user experience as sight and sound. Immersion's technology is deployed across personal computing, entertainment, medical training, automotive, and 3D simulation markets. Immersion and its wholly-owned subsidiaries hold more than 230 issued patents worldwide.

Forward Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove incorrect, could cause the results of Immersion Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

All statements, other than the statements of historical fact, are statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements, including any projections of earnings, revenues, or other financial matters; any statements of the plans, strategies, and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning market acceptance of and new markets for the MicroScribe MX system; proposed products or services; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; statements of belief; and any statement or assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Immersion's actual results might differ materially from those stated or implied by such forward-looking statements due to risks and uncertainties associated with Immersion's business which include, but are not limited to, delay in or failure to achieve commercial demand for Immersion's products or a delay in or failure to achieve the acceptance of force feedback as a critical user experience.

For a more detailed discussion of these factors, and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results to vary materially, interested parties should review the risk factors listed in the Company's most current Form 10-K and Forms 10-Q, which are on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the Company's beliefs and predictions as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements as a result of financial, business, or any other developments occurring after the date of this release.

Immersion, MicroScribe, and Tri-Test Calibration are trademarks of Immersion Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.