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David Bryan interacts with a three-dimensional CAD model via a 3-D immersive interface at the Simulation Based Design Center.

Virtual Reality
One technology that has evolved out of the widespread utilization of microprocessors is virtual reality (VR). Virtual reality is defined as an artificial, computer-generated environment in which the user has the impression of being part of that environment and has the ability to navigate and manipulate objects behaving like real world objects.

Virtual Prototypes
VR technologies have propagated the concept and use of the “virtual prototype,” a computer based simulation of systems with a degree of functional realism.

Virtual Prototyping
Virtual prototyping is the process of using a virtual prototype, in lieu of a physical prototype, for test and evaluation of specific characteristics of a product design.

Synthetic Environments
A virtual prototyping environment is a multi-disciplinary collection of models, simulations and simulators focused on guiding product design from idea to prototype. In the context of industy, a virtual prototyping environment would address engineering design concerns of the developer, process concerns of the manufacturer, logistical concerns of the maintainer, and training and programmatic concerns of the operation.

Simulations are being developed that enable creation of a variety of realistic synthetic environments. Virtual prototypes are tested in these simulated operational environments. Once a concept is approved, design and manufacturing tradeoffs will be conducted on the virtual prototype to enhance producibility and eliminate the need for a physical prototype.

Virtual prototypes are inserted into synthetic environments; these consist of simulations of the components of an actual environment (air, land and/or sea) and are used to assess system capabilities during the new product development process. Once systems are fielded, simulations are used for training, indoctrination and organizational purposes.

Uses for Industry
Several companies have refocused their philosophy of product development to incorporate the notion that a product must demonstrate its value-added market capability before expending significant resources on its development and production. To do so, these industries create electronic environments for product evaluations. Virtual prototypes are the means through which the marketing impact of each product is assessed.

For example, virtual prototypes with properly modeled fluid dynamics can be used in designing aircraft, ships and missiles to replace costly, time-consuming wind tunnel testing. Also, the concept of the "virtual factory" is part of new product development. A simulated factory could be used to identify designs requiring modification to enhance producibility, determine which processes should be automated, assess the feasibility of dual-use technologies, and calculate surge capability.

Virtual prototyping can accelerate production, provide a company a competitive edge, help program managers identify program risks, help engineers visualize the interactive results of designs, and allow operational testers to conduct evaluations that aid in the design of tests performed during each phase of product development.