A survey of immersive technologies and applications for industrial product development

Highlights

•The focus of this review paper is immersive technology that combines high-performance   CAD model processing methods,   engaging display   technologies, and human-centered   interaction modalities,   in applications   for smart manufacturing.

•We reviewed and summarized a collection of publications gathered from proceedings and journals in multiple disciplines,   including visual computing,   graphics, virtual reality, human-computer interaction, manufacturing,   computer-aided design, and industrial systems.

•We also looked into particular areas of manufacturing that immersive technology has   been integrated into, including product design, prototyping,   fabrication, training, and   logistics.

Abstract

With the expanded digitalization of manufacturing and product development process,   research into the use of immersive technology   in smart   manufacturing has increased.The use of immersive technology is theorized   to increase the productivity of all steps in the   product development process,   from the start of the concept generation phase to   assembling the final   product. Many aspects of immersive technology are considered,   including   techniques for CAD model conversion and rendering, types of VR/AR displays, interaction modalities, as well as its integration with different areas of product   development. The purpose of this survey paper is to investigate the potential applications of immersive technology and advantages and potential drawbacks that should be considered when integrating the technology into the   workplace.The potential application is broad, and the possibilities are   continuing to expand as the technology used becomes more advanced and   more affordable for commercial business to implement on a large   scale.   The technology is currently being utilized in the concept generation and in the   design or engineering of new products. Additionally, the immersive technology have great potential to increase the productivity of assembly line workers and of the factory layout/ functionality, and could provide a more hands-on   form   of training, which leads to the conclusion that immersive technology is the   step   to the future in terms of smart product development strategies to   implement for   employers.