Assembly is one of the most vital processes in manufacturing, and it has been extensively studied. Virtual reality systems are becoming eminent to simulate, analyze, and optimize the assembly process. During the design phase of product development cycle, even before any physical prototype is created, haptic technologies empower the user to feel the force feedback from the digital world, resulting into a more intuitive way to simulate the assembly process. This research explains the development of a haptic virtual reality platform to plan, perform, and assess virtual assemblies. The system permits realtime handling and interaction of virtual components. The practicability of using a desktop haptic virtual environment as a design tool for assessing assembly operations is investigated. The system combines various software packages including OpenHaptics, PhysX, and OpenGL/GLUT libraries to explore the advantages and limitations of combining haptics with physically based modelling. Single-handed force feedback is obtained through Phantom Desktop haptic device. A case study of blower house assembly is performed to assess the ability of system to handle complex part interactions.
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