Alion Introduces Interactive 3D Assembly Manuals at 2003 SEMA Show; 3D iManual(TM)Replaces Paper Manuals, Runs on Most PCs, Laptops, Tablets

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 4, 2003 -- Alion Science and Technology, a 100% employee-owned research and development company, announced the launch of 3D iManual(TM), an electronic assembly and maintenance manual with an interactive, 3D interface designed to replace obsolete paper manuals. Alion engineers are providing live demonstrations of the new product at the annual SEMA Show -- the premier automotive specialty products trade event -- in Las Vegas, NV, from November 4 to 7.

The 3D iManual's highly realistic simulations create a better user experience than paper manuals, which can improve customer satisfaction and reduce demands for technical support. Users can virtually rotate, assemble, and disassemble a vehicle or subassembly part-by-part. Interactive functions allow users to link to documents, Web sites, and animations. The 3D iManual runs on most standard PCs, laptops, and tablets, allowing real-time access to information for business decision making -- even from beneath the vehicle.

According to John Otjen, Alion Group Senior Vice President, a major advantage of the 3D iManual is its versatility. "Whether your customer is assembling a replica car or maintaining a fighter jet, the 3D iManual lets mechanics of every skill level understand the job clearly, before they pick up their tools. That means better results and fewer help desk calls," Otjen said. He added that the 3D iManual can link to a database in real time, for quicker, more accurate parts ordering.

Alion and partner NGRAIN Corporation are creating a 3D iManual for a Cobra GT-inspired Roadster from custom auto kit manufacturer Factory Five Racing. This solution, marking the first commercially available version of the product, can integrate directly into a Microsoft Office 2003 document. NGRAIN's imaging technology, which is integral to the 3D iManual, was introduced last month as one of the first products certified for Microsoft Office 2003.

David Smith, president of Factory Five Racing, said that the 3D iManual gives his company a competitive advantage. "We want our customers to have a better experience than with any other kit. With the 3D iManual, our customers can enjoy building their cars, and we can keep our support costs under control."

The Alion 3D iManual is a customized solution that can be produced quickly using existing or new CAD and 3D images. For details, visit www.alionscience.com/products or contact Dane Mullenix, Alion Science and Technology at 703.575.2849 or dmullenix@alionscience.com.

About Alion

Alion Science and Technology is a 100% employee-owned research and development company providing technology services to primarily high-level defense and government agency customers. Building on more than 65 years of experience, Alion employee owners are experts in wireless communication, defense operational support, industrial solutions, chemical technology, explosive science, information technology, and transport technology. Based in McLean, Virginia, Alion has more than 1,600 employees at major offices and laboratories in more than 35 cities worldwide. For more information, call 703.918.4480 or visit Alion online at www.alionscience.com.