Improving Virtual Reality Applications in CAD through Semantics

In this article we propose an architecture for the inclusion and exploitation of semantic aspects in a CAD environment. Our schema focuses on the enhancement and improvement of a commercial (general purpose) CAD system on its Virtual Reality (VR) capabilities. There is a need in combining CAD and semantics in the new generation of computer assisted engineering systems. Usually semantic aspects in traditional CAD applications relay on the user's tacit knowledge, a fact that slows the learning curve while the user is getting trained with a new tool, no matter if he is an expert in others. Moreover, current CAD programs offer a myriad of options to the designer, but their limited integration of the non geometric information (e.g. PDM systems), and in general the semantics of the design process, can still be improved for the current needs of the industry. We argue that the use of semantics could improve the workflow and capabilities of the software and would benefit a new user (non ex...

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2006
• Where: IJVR
• Authors: Carlos Toro, Jorge Posada, Stefan Wundrak, André Stork
• Keywords: CAD Applications, IJVR 2006, Semantic Aspects, Semantics