Design and Configuration of Furniture Using Internet-based Virtual Reality Techniques.
Bernhard Jung, Mathias Nousch · 2000
Abstract. BEAVER is a program for a specialized computer aided design (CAD) task: The design of custom-built closets for slanted walls or ceilings. BEAVER is based on standard web technologies only, such as the Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) and Java, which enable BEAVER to be run in a suitable internet browser. A key idea of BEAVER is that the user designs the closet by direct interaction with a visualized 3D model, e.g. when adding shelves or changing the size of the raw construction. In this way, an abstract model of the desired closet can be created and modified very easily and under permanent visual feedback. The knowledge-based system assists the user during this task and ensures that relevant design rules are obeyed. Upon completion of model with all fittings required for the assembly of the real closet. Thus, the abstract model is enhanced to a complete specification. This specification is used to generate a shopping list of all needed parts, such as boards and fittings. Also, a customized multimedia assembly manual can be generated on the fly, which guides the user when building the real closet. BEAVER not only demonstrates state-of-the-art capabilities of internet-based virtual reality tools but, also, introduces an easy-to-use, widely available method for customized furniture design: CAD for the rest of us, it’s on the web! 1