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Virtual Reality
Construction and development are two areas where
products are often only designed using CAD
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models.
The complexity of these models ranges from simple me-
chanical components right through to complete indus-
trial plants. A further level of virtual reality is reached
when the working environment is no longer real but only
exists as a computer-based model. Examples of this are
3D projections of work objects in real space or the pro-
jection of a simulated complete working environment,
including work objects, in what is known as a “cave au-
tomatic virtual environment” (CAVE). Virtual workplaces
can be set up for training purposes or to assist with de-
veloping complex plant equipment.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality is where visual sensory input of the
real world is supplemented (augmented) with virtu-
al data. This is usually done using special glasses or a
portable screen. Cameras are used to identify the user’s
location and viewing angle. The objects that the person
looks at are captured on screen and augmented with vir-
tual data which gives users an extended view of real-life
work objects. The potential applications of this technol-
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CAD = Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is the use of special computer software to
create designs and documentation.
New Forms of Prevention
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