Advantages and problems of CAVE-visualisation for design purposes

VTT Manufacturing technology has been developing accomplished simulations where virtual reality technology has been used. These simulations have been customised according to the needs of users and available hardware. Growing needs are emerging for high quality visualisation with possibilities for the viewer to immerse in the virtual environment. A pre-feasibility study was performed, which aimed to determine advantages and problems involved with visualisation in CAVE-type virtual room. The research was carried out by testing several models in the Helsinki University of Technology Cave-type virtual room installation. Special interest was focused to the compliance of models, the usability of simulations and the stereoscopic and immersive impressions achieved in the virtual room. The results, even gathered mainly in a one-wall-virtual room, showed the advantages specially visualising large interiors like indoor promenades. The problems pointed out the importance of model construction technique to ensure the compliance.