3D Systems (R) Incorporated, founded in 1986 and based in Valencia, California, develops solid imaging systems that allow organizations to optimize product design and manufacturing processes. The firm's hardware and software systems generate conceptual and functional prototypes, tooling patterns, and production parts for direct manufacturing. The company is known for its SLA (R) stereolithography, SLS (R) selective laser sintering, and MJM (R) multi-jet modeling product lines. The InVision (TM) system is a 3D modeler that streamlines concept development, design validation, form and fit analysis, and other operations. It is available in high resolution, desktop, and dental laboratory editions. 3D Lightyear (TM) is a file preparation system that works with Microsoft (R) Windows (R) computer-aided design (CAD) programs. It handles STL and SLC files. Buildstation (TM) is an SLA control program. It provides users with 3D viewing and part selection, BFF file loading and editing, and part copying and deletion features. 3D Systems also provides customers with solid imaging materials, including photopolymers, metals, nylons, engineering plastics, and thermoplastics. The materials are used to produce models, prototypes, and direct manufacturing parts. 3D Systems is known for its Accura (R), DuraForm (R), LaserForm (TM), and CastForm (TM) materials. The company holds over 360 patents on its technologies. 3D Systems maintains 10 service offices worldwide. The company serves customers across 80 countries. Its systems are employed by organizations across the automotive, aerospace, health care, chemicals, engineering, semiconductor, consumer electronics, office equipment, toy, and education sectors. The firm has formed alliances with SolidWorks Corporation and UGS Solutions. 3D Systems is listed on