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The FreeForm modeling system from SensAble Technologies, Inc., (Woburn, Maryland), includes a force-feedback device and allows users to model with their sense of touch. It is said to combine the ease of use of clay or foam with the advantages of a digital tool. Users "feel" digital objects thanks to a hardware peripheral device called the PHANTOM desktop, which provides force-feedback in addition to serving as a 3D positioning aid. FreeForm modeling is being used for design of toys, footwear and consumer products. Customers include Hasbro, Adidas, Motorola and Honda. A new FreeForm Version 4 scheduled for release this summer will include several new modeling tools and UI and performance enhancements. New functionality includes global deformation tools that allow users to pull and squeeze models, change proportion and make similar high-level modifications without losing fine details. Additionally, "3D curves" can now be created directly in 3D, using touch. These curves can be used to guide or constrain sculpting tools using the PHANTOM force-- feedback device, as well as for more standard uses. Pricing with PHANTOM interface: $25,000. www.sensable.com