Introducing protean

Protean© is the next generation of 3D modeling software. It is an affordable yet powerful, robust and easy to use software package for the creation of rich, highly detailed 3D volumetric models. 

Protean mimics, in real-time, the process of modeling objects, empowering modelers to shape and mold virtual clay objects effortlessly. Industrial designers, animators, game designers, and even bioengineers can use their talents for conceptualizing and modeling 3D objects in a very natural and intuitive manner in dramatically less time than traditional tools. 

What's more, Protean's import/export capabilities make it the most economical solution.

What is Protean?

Protean is a new software program developed to address the need for creating true 3D free form objects in a single, easy to use package. It uses a physical clay paradigm and is exceptionally suited for designing organic as well as inorganic models, from toys to knee joints. It is not a mechanical CAD system, yet you can make exceptional 3D prints for rapid viewing your design using Protean's export facilities. There are many companies that provide 3D printing service today. Here is one such site: http://www.shapeways.com (Tactus Technologies is not affiliated to Shapeways).

Who should use Protean?

Industrial Designers

If your job requires you to make multiple physical prototypes of product ideas to show to your clients, Protean is a great choice for you. Using the incredible 3D shaping ability inherent in the software, you can design several versions of the product to share with your clients. You can then choose to manufacture the products using Rapid Prototyping or 3D printing systems. 

Animation and Game developers

If you design characters and objects for games and animations, you may find a powerful ally in Protean. Using the organic shape-making capabilities, you can create breathtaking shapes which can later be exported to traditional software such as 3D Studio Max or Maya. You can side-step the clay modeling since Protean gives you the same power. If you have to make a physical prototype, just use 3D printing.

Ornament and Jewelry Designers

For a creative designer who merges art with aesthetics, there is no better software on the market than Protean. Using tools and handles you can etch, squeeze, and curve out interesting shapes of pendants, earrings or bracelets. Store standard designs for reuse or print and embose 3D textures on the ornaments.  Then using a site such as http://www.shapeways.com you can print and sell your design.

Toy Makers

Dolls, action figures, and cartoon characters are just a few of the things that you can make with Protean. Protean can be the starting point of your design cycle immediately after sketching. With the 3D printing capability, you can touch and feel the shapes you design using Protean. 

Bioengineers

For orthopedic surgeons interested in the reconstruction a knee joint to validate knee replacement design, Protean gives you a platform to import and modify 3D shapes from CT scans. Import models and use the sculpting tool to modify the joint or use it as a tool to deform a joint to arrive at a desired shape. 

what are the export/import capabilities?

Export formats

• .Stl, .Obj
• Option to reduce triangle count within the software

Import formats

• .3ds, .Ase, .Obj
• Only closed or watertight surfaces, and non-self-intersecting meshes can be imported

System requirements

• Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7
• Intel or AMD 1.8 GHZ processor
• 10 MB hard disk space (100 MB recommended)
• 512 MB memory (1GB recommended)
• Video card compatible for OpenGL 2.0
• Three button mouse with mouse driver software
• [Optional] Novint Falcon haptic device with driver installed