The new VR PluraView is a passive virtual reality stereo monitor. As a fully-fledged VR/AR desktop system, it is based on the successful 3D PluraView monitor from Schneider Digital. The proven, flicker-free beam splitter technology enables users to work in VR without fatigue, even over long periods of time. Equipped with a high-tech tracking system, the VR PluraView now allows interaction with 3D stereo models and content across all axes. Zoom, rotate and tilt without a mouse, either via head tracking and/or using tracking balls or 3D pens.

Tracking protocols are: VRPN, DTrack, trackd and native C++ SDK. The calibration-free infrared user interaction tracker supports up to 15 targets simultaneously with a wide field of view of almost 180 degrees.

Virtual reality and 3D stereo in the CAD environment

The VR PluraView offers interaction via gestures using tracking balls and/or tracking sticks. © Schneider Digital

The VR PluraView's integrated infrared tracking system allows the user to "virtually" immerse themselves in the 3D environment. 3D models become "reality", similar to HMD or VR glasses. Using head tracking, tracking balls and/or the tracking pen, the user moves the model intuitively using head and hand movements. This eliminates the need for a CAD mouse or other 3D input devices. Large, retroreflective markers enable reliable recognition by the IR cameras and thus enable fluid movement in virtual space when viewing models in perspective. The advantage of beam splitter technology: in contrast to active 3D systems with "flickering" glasses, the VR PluraView guarantees an absolutely flicker-free stereo image. This enables not only short-term visualizations or presentations, but also long-term work in the VR environment. The display quality with up to 10 bit color depth, 4K resolution per eye and maximum display brightness also enables comfortable VR work even in daylight environments.

Due to its design, the VR PluraView is a good addition to VR glasses. For example, a model or a design can be presented in virtual space using VR glasses, but further CAD processing and optimization takes place on the passive VR monitor. The VR PluraView only requires lightweight polarized filter glasses, making it comfortable to work with.

VR-PluraView CAD compatibility

VR PluraView monitors can be operated with many CAD systems on a plug-and-play basis. Software solutions such as Siemens NX, Catia, HiCAD or Kompas-3D are natively stereoscopic-capable and can be used directly with the monitors. Other CAD systems have stereoscopic file viewers, such as CreoView for PTC Creo data or eDrawings for SolidWorks. AutoCAD and inventory data can be displayed spatially via NavisWorks.

The following CAD software applications are compatible with VR PluraView: Siemens NX CAD, Kompas 3D - ASCON-Group, HiCAD - ISD Software und Systeme GmbH, Catia Software Suite, PTC CreoView with CreoView, SolidWorks with eDrawings, AutoCAD and Inventor with NavisWorks.