A Web and Virtual Reality-based Platform for Collaborative Product Review and Customisation

This chapter describes the conceptual framework and development of a web-based platform for supporting collaborative product review, customisation and demonstration within a virtual/augmented reality environment. The industrial needs related to this platform are first outlined and a short overview is given on recent research work. The conceptual framework of the web-based platform is then presented. The design and implementation are discussed, providing insight into the architecture and communication aspects, the building blocks of the platform and its functionality. An indicative “use case” illustrates how this approach and tools have been applied to the collaborative review, demonstration and customisation of products from the textiles industry. Finally, conclusions are drawn with respect to the potential benefits from the use of the web-based platform in addressing the needs of collaborative product development activities.