Bruce Campbell

There is no doubt that Java holds tremendous potential in bringing sophisticated behaviors and networking to VRML 2 worlds. The debate is over how to add the Java and how much control the Java should have over the VRML. There are two approaches to using Java to extend VRML 2 worlds which have been popularized by VRML technologists. A third approach, which will allow programmers to load a VRML 2 file directly into a Java 3D API and manipulate worlds completely in Java, is just on the horizon. This article looks at the potential of the External Authoring Interface (EAI), reviews when best to use the EAI, shows how to use the EAI and provides a complete example of virtual kaleidoscope application which is appropriate for the EAI. To me, VRML has two distinct purposes: To provide a pleasing architecture to 3D cyberspace and to provide educational and entertaining things ... (more)