Virtual manufacturing: An overview

Virtual Reality (VR) allows a user to navigate and interact with a three dimensional and dynamic simulation of a real or fictitious world. Virtual Manufacturing (VM) is the name given to an evolving area of research that aims at integrating diverse manufacturing related technologies under a common umbrella, using VR technology. The scope can range from integration of the design sub-functions such as drafting, finite element analysis, and prototyping to integration of all the functions within a manufacturing enterprise. Technologies for VR include the hardware for input-output and computation, the electronics for integrating the hardware systems, and the software. Each technology is made up of numerous subtechnologies. . These technologies are still in their evolving and developmental stage and further advances are required. VM can be used for concurrently simulating all the activities and functions involved throughout the life cycle of a product. Some example applications are presented.