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

The objective of the paper is to develop a virtual reality-supported rapid configuration and analysis system of a particular product, Unit BathRoom (U BR). The system is divided into the two modules, product configuration modu le (PCM) and product analysis module (PAM). The PCM, programmed using virtu al reality software, enables the customers to replace, orient, and move the components necessary to configure the wanted products, and to visualize th e results of engineering analysis of the configured product. The PAM analyz es the constructed UBR in terms of product cost, harmony, environmental con straints, delivery schedule, product safety, clearance, and reachability. T he PAM's functionality is detailed using the IDEFO modeling methods, which can be effectively applied to other products. The two modules will be loose ly coupled by way of a database management system. The PCM writes the const ructed product data on the database and then the PAM reads and evaluates th em and rewrites the analysis results on the database. The necessary data re quirements are addressed using the IDEF1X data modeling method. The concept ual 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 real ity technology to product configuration and analysis. The system enables th e customers to quickly configure their preferred products and to visualize the engineering analysis results of design problems before production. Manu facturers can survive competitors using the developed system by both minimi zing time-to-market and maximizing customer satisfactions.