Virtual reality in design

Streamlining design and reducing development costs are just two of the many benefits of new virtual reality technology being trialled by Audi for implementation in its future design processes. The virtual-reality ‘holodeck’ will be used for assessing the design of new car models, creating a walkable, virtual environment with a three-dimensional image of a car. 

This will allow development engineers and production experts to gain a realist overall impression of a new model and its proportions at an early stage, significantly reducing the number of complex physical test models necessary and greatly reducing time and costs. 

The term ‘holodeck’ comes from the science-fiction series Star Trek and refers to a special room that simulates virtual worlds. That vision becomes reality in the virtual reality holodeck at Audi. In a room approximately15 metres by 15 metres, car prototypes can be displayed realistically and with the correct proportions. These virtual models can then be intuitively experienced from inside as well as outside with up to six people able to walk around the car at the same time. 

Audi is testing the holodeck on the interface between development and production. Experts from both departments together assess the overall visual impression and the surface of the new cars, and adjust the positions of individual lines and gaps. This assessment is the final stage before the tools required for the car go into production.

In order to work in the holodeck, each user wears VR glasses and uses two hand controllers for interaction. Each user also carries a backpack containing a powerful PC that weighs just three kilograms and which calculates the scene displayed. These mobile PCs are connected via Wi-Fi with a central workstation, which controls the data exchange. In a further stage of development, the holodeck will enable staff members at other Audi locations to participate, which will considerably ease the organisation of work. 

Audi already successfully employs virtual reality in a number of areas, including virtual training for employees in packing logistics and the Audi VR experience for customer advice. The latter allows potential customers to virtually configure their desired car and to experience all optional equipment in a realistic environment.