In a groundbreaking move for the shipbuilding industry, researchers have been exploring the use of virtual reality (VR) to revolutionize design reviews, particularly for cruise ship interiors. This innovative approach, detailed in a recent study published in the journal “Multimodal Technologies and Interaction” (which translates to English as “Multimodal Technologies and Interaction”), aims to enhance sustainability and improve communication among stakeholders. The research was spearheaded by Seppo Helle from the Department of Computing at the University of Turku in Finland, and it’s part of a broader project focused on sustainable shipbuilding methods.
The study, conducted between 2020 and 2022, involved a pilot project where virtual 3D models of cruise ship interiors were created and presented to customers using VR technology. The goal was to evaluate whether VR could replace or supplement the traditional method of building physical mock-up sections. According to Helle, “The results indicate that VR can be an efficient tool for design reviews. The designs can often be evaluated better in VR than using traditional methods.”
One of the most significant commercial impacts of this research is the potential for material savings. By using virtual mock-ups instead of physical ones, shipbuilding companies could reduce waste and costs associated with traditional methods. This is particularly relevant in the current economic climate, where sustainability and cost-efficiency are top priorities for maritime sectors.
Moreover, the use of VR in design reviews could streamline the communication process among stakeholders. As Helle noted, “Material savings are possible by using virtual mock-ups instead of physical ones.” This could lead to faster decision-making and more efficient project management, ultimately benefiting the entire shipbuilding process.
However, the study also highlighted some challenges. The visual rendering capabilities of the software used in the project did not always provide the level of realism desired for certain reviews. To overcome this limitation, more resources would be needed to prepare the models for VR reviews. This suggests that while VR has immense potential, there is still room for improvement in the technology and its application.
For maritime professionals, this research opens up new opportunities to embrace digital transformation. By integrating VR into their design review processes, shipbuilding companies can enhance their sustainability efforts, improve stakeholder communication, and achieve significant cost savings. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the adoption of such innovative technologies will be crucial for staying competitive and meeting the demands of a rapidly changing market.
In summary, the study by Seppo Helle and his team offers a compelling case for the use of VR in shipbuilding design reviews. While there are challenges to overcome, the potential benefits are substantial, making it an exciting development for the maritime sector.