Real-Time Modeling and Simulation: Virtual Reality Applications for Experiential Design

The research project concerns the representation of design using new visual communication technologies. The paper presents some results of modeling applications and the creation of wooden objects designed by some of the most prominent designers of the 20th century. The objective was to examine the individual components and the entirety of the objects through geometric modeling, topology, and photometry. Models and textures have been created and optimized for implementation within virtual reality environments. The low number of polygon surfaces, the mathematical mapping, the creation of textures for different types of wood, and the simulation of finishing treatments on their surfaces in relation to lighting are procedures that can be supported by virtual reality (VR) devices and software. Furthermore, they facilitate an enhanced realistic perception of the scene visible through VR headsets. The virtual replicas selected for the study have been incorporated into a virtual exhibition space, accompanied by descriptive panels. The visitor can alter the essence of wood or the finishes of a piece of furniture in real time by wearing the VR headset and two controllers, as a virtual 3D configurator. Such experiences can be educational for the purpose of learning the history of design, as well as for the manufacturing field, where they can be employed to project, view, and customize a product for sale or purchase.