A prototype virtual reality system through IDEF modeling for product configuration and analysis

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to develop a virtual reality-supported rapid configuration and analysis system of a particular product, Unit BathRoom (UBR). The system is divided into the two modules, product configuration module (PCM) and product analysis module (PAM). The PCM, programmed using virtual reality software, enables the customers to replace, orient, and move the components necessary to configure the wanted products, and to visualize the results of engineering analysis of the configured product. The PAM analyzes the constructed UBR in terms of product cost, harmony, environmental constraints, delivery schedule, product safety, clearance, and reachability. The PAM's functionality is detailed using the IDEFO modeling methods, which can be effectively applied to other products. The two modules will be loosely coupled by way of a database management system. The PCM writes the constructed product data on the database and then the PAM reads and evaluates them and rewrites the analysis results on the database. The necessary data requirements are addressed using the IDEF1X data modeling method. The conceptual framework of the system designed through IDEFO and IDEF1X modeling can be easily applied to any product. Significance: The paper addresses the practical application of virtual reality technology to product configuration and analysis. The system enables the customers to quickly configure their preferred products and to visualize the engineering analysis results of design problems before production. Manufacturers can survive competitors using the developed system by both minimizing time-to-market and maximizing customer satisfactions.