PPT Vision Sells 3-D SMI Line

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn., Sept. 30 -- PPT Vision Inc., a Minneapolis, Minn., maker of machine vision-based automated inspection systems for manufacturing applications, announced today it has agreed to sell its 3-D SMI (scanning moire interferometry) product line, together with all the related patents, intellectual property, inventory and equipment, to Ismeca Semiconductor Europe SA for $1 million.

Ismeca, a supplier of semiconductor tape and reel systems and a maker of automated assembly lines, is also required to make royalty payments to PPT Vision on its future sales of the products to specified customers for the next five years. The sale is expected to close before Oct. 31.

Scanning moire interferometry, a technique PPT Vision recently patented, involves the use of traditional moire interferometry in a high-speed scanning mode, enabling it to be used with in-line industrial 3-D sensing applications. Joe Christenson, president of PPT Vision, said divesting its 3D-SMI asset will enable the company to focus on its 2-D machine vision business, and said the 3D-SMI line will be more effectively marketed by a larger capital equipment company.

"By owning and developing the 3D-SMI technology directly, Ismeca will be able to achieve improved cost of manufacturing, technical performance and market competitiveness. In addition, they will provide our other 3D-SMI technology customers with a strong partner going forward," he said.

For more information, visit: www.pptvision.com