Visionary Render™ for WITNESS™ Launched

Virtalis has partnered with Lanner, the company behind market leading predictive simulation software, WITNESS, to create Visionary Render for WITNESS. This means that true, immersive 3D Virtual Reality (VR) can be fully integrated with process simulation for the first time.

The Visionary Render for WITNESS module allows users to connect and extend their WITNESS simulation workflow directly into a full VR suite, hosted by Virtalis' Visionary Render software, delivering a rich, detailed environment for performing distributed model reviews, facilitating discussion of design concepts, validating operational schedules or testing maintenance procedures. Users will be able to work alone, in small groups, or collaborate with distant colleagues, in a virtual world created from extensive 3D object libraries and CAD/PLM datasets, providing incredible realism and immersion without sacrificing performance.

Lanner CEO David Jones, explained: "Having realised that 3D was the next frontier for Lanner and WITNESS, we searched the market place for the foremost proponent in Europe. Virtalis has been a leading VR specialist for over 20 years and their latest software, Visionary Render, has wonderful synergy with WITNESS. Our R&D team has worked closely with Virtalis over the last 18 months to develop both WITNESS Quick3D and now the comprehensive Visionary Render for WITNESS."

Along with standard libraries of 3D objects, Visionary Render for WITNESS users can import huge and complex CAD models of their factory and the equipment and production lines within, using Virtalis' library of specialist and robust adapters. These can then be enhanced with new textures and shadows, whilst the high performance rendering ensures smooth, fast and life-like navigation within the 3D environment. For the first time, users can experience their models at 1:1 scale and become truly immersed in the simulation, interacting with them to try out “what if” scenarios virtually. Visionary Render for WITNESS can be used on the desktop, as well as functioning in the complete range of Virtalis’ ActiveWorks portfolio of VR display systems.

Visionary Render for WITNESS Highlights

• Interactive and immersive capability enhances communication of ideas
• Unique semi-transparent User Interface enhances 3D world navigation
• Handle and manage huge and complex CAD data sources seamlessly
• Collaborate in a single VR environment from remote working locations
• High performance, rich graphics and highly detailed virtual worlds
• Collision detection enhances model realism

“Whilst a WITNESS user can formulate draft solutions to optimise facility designs or production and logistics processes, the issue of how to visually review and engage others remains”, said David Cockburn-Price, Virtalis MD. “Using VR will help people communicate and share solutions with a range of non-specialist stakeholders. Visionary Render for WITNESS makes technical and complex data easily understood by all.”