4  Virtual Environments (VEs)

Virtual Environments describe environments that are simulated by a computer, and are primarily visual experiences, displayed either on screens or through special stereoscopic goggles, some simulations include additional sensory information, such as sound.

Modern technologies such as VEs, Virtual Prototyping and Virtual Testing have proved to be useful tools in many fields of design and practice.
According to the experiences of VTT with such technologies it is possible
    • arry out analysis in the early stages of the design process
    • enable design of the product, production and work tasks
    • enhance training and practising skills before concretising the system
    • verify properties that would decrease both the time and cost
    • evaluate human factors and manufacturability without fabrication of physical prototypes.