Whereas, product visualization takes full advantage of the 3D data in the solid modeling environment, but makes it easier to view, analyze, and understand those data. I see solids modeling tools as being in the creation end of the product development process, while product visualization tools make that information easily accessible to people. Contrast that with product visualization. It also lets engineers check assemblies for part interferences. Click the car body off and you will see the front suspension floating in air, hung by its suspension points.
Visualization also differs from simulation.
3D models, renderings, animation, and accurate manufacturing data now flow through the entire product development process of design, engineering, manufacturing, and to marketing, who can sell products before final tool production is done. Lopez sees four basic categories of visualization. Concept visualization is an electronic way of producing sketches and simple 3D forms. Automotive stylists use visualization tools to put their concepts in a digital form on the screen in much the same way they would use markers, paper, airbrushes, and so on. Using a visualization package, the designer can air brush design details, even textures, with fully customizable, virtual brushes.