NDI History

NDI was started in 1981 by the University of Waterloo graduates designing custom scientific instruments for industrial measurement applications. Realizing the further potential for their technology, NDI set out to design an optical motion measurement system for human movement tracking that would be used by the University of Waterloo’s Department of Kinesiology. In 1984, the WATSMART became the company’s first generation of 3D, real-time optical measurement products.

Introduced in 1990, Optotrak quickly became the market leader in 3D optical tracking systems. Based on specialized sensor technology and proprietary optics design, this system tracked small infrared markers attached to the subject making highly accurate 3D and 6DOF measurements possible in real time.

The Polaris optical tracking system was introduced in 1996 as a small, lightweight, and cost-effective measurement solution for localizing applications. The Polaris was primarily integrated into OEM computer-assisted surgery for the skull, spine, and orthopedic applications. Continuous additions and advancements evolved the Polaris system into the full product suite it is today.

NDI expanded globally, opening offices in Germany in 2001 and China in 2002.

In 2003 NDI increased its technological measurement options by offering the Aurora electromagnetic measurement system that enables 3D measurement in applications where line-of-sight is an issue.

NDI was acquired by Roper Technologies, Inc., a diversified growth company in 2011. The following year, Ascension Technology Corporation was acquired by Roper, making it an affiliate company of NDI. With the addition of the Ascension product portfolio, NDI increased its electromagnetic measurement system product offering with 3D Guidance.