The product design process has evolved from the one-man “eureka” concept to an iterative approach with close cooperation between worldwide teams. The engineering and usability challenges have become increasingly complex, forcing multi-disciplinary collaboration on long distances.
To facilitate effective communication between these teams, interactive visualizations have proven to be an excellent tool. As the designs evolve, visualizations and hands-on experience gives insight into the product concept and usability. Materials and volumes are clearly visible in their context, and usage of the product is simulated. A virtual hands-on approach is invaluable for acquiring essential feedback from decisionmakers and end-users in early stages of the design process.
Remote collaboration
Not only consumer testing may be done using 3D models. Also the design process itself may be done virtually. Various departments (design, marketing, management) on different locations world-wide, may view the same virtual model online, and discuss feedback in real-time. This greatly improves communication, and in addition seriously reduces travel costs.
In the virtual environment, the entire production process may be visualized and optimized. More over, manufacturing as well as marketing and sales personel may be trained using virtual product presentations. The 3D tool may explain form and function, and even test employee knowledge with increasing levels of difficulty.
