Take, for example, automobiles. Technology can now let auto companies see virtual prototypes of automotive parts and assemblies before actually building the vehicles. This may help save time that would otherwise be spent putting cars and trucks together, then revising them and taking them apart. One manufacturer using virtual reality is General Motors. The company's VisualEyes is an advanced 3-D visualization system that helps automotive designers and engineers evaluate models of products without building the physical prototypes.
Participants can sit inside a vehicle made only of light.
The only thing real is the seat. General Motors uses VisualEyes to evaluate full-size vehicles exteriors and interiors. The system can also help by letting automotive experts observe a simulated crash test, and make needed revisions in the vehicle's makeup if necessary.