Hi Todd,
I am currently working with VRML/Java on a fairly complicated project and I
am stretching the bounds of the technology.
Basically it boils down to a couple of things.
VRML is excellent for DISPLAYING AND NAVIGATING 3D worlds so if your 'big'
world just involves lots of data and a few animations and limited
interactivity.....go for it.
If you need to do any sort of programming to support your world you should
seriously consider the other options.
I say this because I have spent the last 3 months working around the VRML
Java api trying to make VRML do things it wasn't meant to do. You spend more
time cursing the VRML consortium and browser software than working.
:)
It appears to me that the VRML Java API was written by VRML people, not Java
people.
:(
I am a bit of a Java supporter so I instantly lean towards Java3d. Sun has
done an outstanding job with the specification of most of the API's in Java
and J3d appears to be no exception. The implementation may not live up to
all expectations but it is getting there. It is after all, only version 1.
In my estimation, the learning curve for openGL is a bit steeper (and
longer) than Java3d, but I say that because I tried and failed to learn
openGL and got a j3d application with a rotating textured surface running in
about 1 hour.
Your decision though should probably be based on the standard decision
requirements:
- Perfomance
- Portability
- Expertise
- and any irrational biases you may have ;)
As for flaming......
IMHO, people should never be flamed for asking a question, whether it be out
of ignorance, curiosity or a need to know.
Mailing lists are fairly pointless if everyone who is on it already know
everything.
my $0.02
Gj
> -----Original Message-----
> From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Todd A.
> Shafer
> Sent: Wednesday, 3 March 1999 14:05
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: [java3d] Java3D vs. VRML/Java/Javascript
>
>
> I've been doing VRML stuff for quite a while now for "small" projects.
>
> I've now got an opportunity to be involved in a "big" project that will
> involve two key things:
>
> 1) 3D
> 2) The internet
>
> The project is for business use, involves communication and presentation
> of data, both 2D and 3D, as well as live video, and will involve
> development of a server portion to handle multiple users.
>
> Now, as I see it, there are three options for developing this
> application:
>
> 1) Using a combination of VRML and java/javascript and running it in a
> browser.
>
> 2) Using Java3d and Java to create a standalone client/server
> application.
>
> 3) Using "old-fashioned" technologies such as C++ and developing using
> OpenGL.
>
> For sake of argument, let's assume that I have zero knowledge and
> experience in all three options. Which one would be the best choice to
> pursue.
>
> I know, I know, this can lead to a huge flame-fest, but I'm just trying
> to find out where Java3D fits into the scene as a development platform
> for an actual application, as opposed to just a bouncing ball demo.
>
> Thanks a bunch!
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