PC-Based Virtual Reality for CAD Model Viewing

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR), as an emerging visualization technology, has introduced an unprecedented communication method for collaborative design. VR refers to an immersive, interactive, multisensory, viewer-centered, 3D computer-generated environment and the combination of technologies required to build such an environment. This article introduces the current status of VR applications in industry and the technologies involved in the low-cost VR systems. The number of companies producing low-cost VR-related hardware and software is continuously increasing. New hardware and software technical terms are confusing or meaningless to people without any prior background in VR. Thus, choosing the right VR tool for a particular application is challenging for potential users. This article introduces different available stereo image rendering techniques, such as anaglyphic, page flipping, and sync doubling, and major low-cost VR hardware and software tools available for CAD model viewing. The purpose of this article is to help CAD users and product designers have a better understanding about VR technology so that they can develop their own VR systems to increase the efficiency of design communication. (Contains 6 figures.)