4.3 VR Visualization Tool
3D CAD models show their potential in VR applications for
diverse purposes, such as ergonomic studies, safety training, and
visualization of physical simulations, project documentation and
real-time operational data.
Environ [Raposo et al. 2009] was developed to facilitate the use of
massive CAD models in VR applications. It is a system composed
of a 3D environment for real-time visualization and plugins to
import models from other applications, allowing users to view and
interact with different types of 3D data, such as refineries, oil
platforms, risers, pipelines and terrains. This tool is integrated into
the complete system, offering resources for real-time 3D visualization
and interaction with CAD models with enough realism and
performance to be used for collaborative virtual prototyping,
design review, change management, training, and visualization of
simulations, among other activities (Figure 2).