This paper explores the use of immersive computing or virtual reality throughout a product design, assembly, and disassembly. Virtual reality or immersive computing creates a sense of presence for participants through devices that stimulate the senses. Immersive computing technology goes a step further by allowing the participant to interact with computer-generated models or environments rather than to passively view a screen. The technology is a collection of hardware and software that lets the participant explore digitally created objects within a three-dimensional space. Immersive computing presents a sharp contrast to existing two-dimensional computer interfaces used with computer-aided design (CAD) software programs. In order to illustrate the use of immersive computing in product design, research projects focus on using the technology to explore uncertainty in making design decisions. Industry is realizing the benefits of increased communication and deeper understanding of complex design issues through the use of immersive computing. Experts believe that when every engineer’s desktop includes immersive computing technology, the results will be better products produced more economically and with increased national competitiveness.
Skip Nav Destination
Article navigation
August 2013
Select Article
Reach Out and Touch Available to Purchase
The Hands-on Control of Virtual Reality gives Designers Increasing Power to make Better Decisions
Judy Vance, an ASME Fellow, is the Joseph C. and Elizabeth A. Anderlik Professor of Engineering and a professor of mechanical engineering at Iowa State University in Ames. She received the ASME Design Automation Award in 2010.
Mechanical Engineering. Aug 2013, 135(08): 30-35 (6 pages)
Published Online: August 1, 2013
Citation
Vance, J. (August 1, 2013). "Reach Out and Touch." ASME. Mechanical Engineering. August 2013; 135(08): 30–35. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2013-AUG-1
Download citation file:
1,362
Views
Get Email Alerts
Cited By
Tim Latimer
Mechanical Engineering (June 2025)
Ilayda Samilgil
Mechanical Engineering (June 2025)
Eva Erickson
Mechanical Engineering (June 2025)
Taking the Spotlight
Mechanical Engineering (June 2025)
Related Articles
Assessment of VR Technology and its Applications to Engineering Problems
J. Comput. Inf. Sci. Eng (March,2001)
Effectiveness of an Immersive Virtual Environment for Collaboration With Gesture Support Using Low-Cost Hardware
J. Mech. Des (April,2018)
JCISE Editorial – August 2022
J. Comput. Inf. Sci. Eng (August,2022)
Special Issue: Highlights of CIE 2021
J. Comput. Inf. Sci. Eng (June,2022)
Related Proceedings Papers
Related Chapters
Managing Energy Resources from within the Corporate Information Technology System
Industrial Energy Systems
Application Computer Technology in the Engineering Supervision
International Conference on Computer Technology and Development, 3rd (ICCTD 2011)
Processing Free Form Objects within a Product Development Process Framework
Advances in Computers and Information in Engineering Research, Volume 1