Due to my lack of knowledge the original message with an attachment (400kb) was automatically rejected. To complete what I intended I am resending with a picture instead of the 3D model. The model was intended as a reference model for the specific urls mentioned, however for the broader capability including "3D dials on your PC" there is plenty of information in the links provided for both Mac's and PC"s. However, if you would like the model I would be glad to send it. Even without the model of the base the I think the program constructing the model of the scribe lines will tweak the teckie interest. Thanks, Steve
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< original >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Every day, well almost every day, after I have finished my business email I read a few from the 'dial list'. Its like saving the icing on the cake until last, even though technical everyone seems to put an unique and interesting touch to the subject. When that subject is about the design or description of a dial I imagine that all are like me and would like to see it. Actually, there is a way that we can see these dials and that's what I would like to share. More than just seeing them they can be immersive and interactive, meaning that you can walk around the dial or watch the shadow move, and create the environmental setting along with it. The best though is that they can be viewed on any PC with the standard browser and free plugin. The virtual model is created in the format of the Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML). The models have much creative freedom - from export from the most sophisticated CAD program to just typing using a text editor such as Wordpad. A while back I asked if anyone had a 3D CAD model of a dial, but I didn't get a donation, so I created one, just a simple sundial. Please don't consider it any more than a rudimentary example to intrigue the experts with the possibilities of environments, shapes and textures. The dial is a simple shape in which I humorously incorporated a birdbath into the base (to keep them from coloring the top), the texture applied attempts to imply rusting cast iron, and the hour lines are technically correct as per a script program. To view a VRML (wrl) model you will need the *.wrl file, and the browser plugin. I have attached the wrl file; Sundial_VRML.wrl . For the plugin go to the following link; http://www.vrml.org/x3d.html then, click on 'Resources' and then scroll down and click on Cosmo Software, then download and install Cosmo Player. Like everything else in the graphics world VRML accepts scripts. Here is the link to the program used to create the dial scribe lines; http://chris123.webjump.com/vrml/vrml.html A helpful hint. Cosmo Player will display a console, all sorts of buttons that make the model do things. At the extreme right and bottom of the screen are two buttons, one above the other, click on the top one for a tutorial. The are several VRML plugins and programs that help create models, I have just included one of each. For the how-to of VRML start with; http://www.vrml.org/x3d.html and [EMAIL PROTECTED] I would appreciate any feedback that you have about the programs, sites, etc. Last, but not least, please share your models. At least send them to me and I will save them, and perhaps one day we can have a virtual museum of virtual dials. The links in the above paragraph leads you to virtual worlds with lots of creative possibilities and levels of sophistication as you will see when you surf the VRML archives. Enjoy Steve 37:07:20N ~ 76:28:29W Yorktown VA USA Attachment converted: Macintosh HD:Sundial_VRM.gif (GIFf/JVWR) (0002CC2E)
