SCIENCE

SAN RAFAEL, CA -- StereoGraphics(R) Corporation, a leading supplier of stereoscopic visualization products, contributed equipment enabling a large computer simulation for invited press at Opel's new plant in Ruesselsheim, Germany. Here in the virtual reality studio, journalists `walked through' a non-existing automotive plant, giving them a `live' feeling for the planning phase of the new production facility. Using StereoGraphics' CrystalEyes(R)3 stereoscopic eyewear, the participants were fully immersed in a realistic virtual 3D environment, allowing them to assess the complexity of a completely digitized final assembly and body shell construction. Opel is aiming to set pioneering standards in terms of productivity, quality and flexibility and will invest around DM 1.5 billion in the new facility. Production is scheduled to begin in 2002 with a planned total capacity of about 270,000 cars per year. Opel's production specialists at the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) used three-dimensional, animated building and construction plans and simulation tools to an extent never undertaken before. This was the first time that an extremely complex final assembly area had been completely simulated. Stereoscopic 3D layouts and computer simulations proved to be a highly efficient means of communication, capable of displaying technical situations in a realistic way, that was easy for all concerned to understand. The planning phase could be viewed by all participants in a more authentic way than ever before -- as if they were actually in the as yet un-built plant. Opel's engineers were able to display the potential effects of suggested alternatives and changes as soon as these were expressed -- and assess the possible consequences. The computer was able to take all these into account, recalculate the situation, and integrate these modifications into its display. The use of StereoGraphics' highly sophisticated stereoscopic visualization equipment like CrystalEyes3 can immerse audiences into a realistic, life-like environment, enabling them to `be inside' a complex entity, like the new Opel plant -- leading the viewer from virtual reality to reality. For further information visit www.stereographics.com