The Virtual Reality Modeling Language Specification
Version 2.0
August 4, 1996
What is VRML?
VRML is an acronym for "Virtual Reality Modeling Language".
It is a file format for describing interactive 3D objects and worlds
to be experienced on the world wide web (similar to how HTML is used to
view text). The first release of The
VRML 1.0 Specification was created by Silicon Graphics, Inc. and based
on the Open Inventor
file format. The second release of VRML adds significantly more interactive
capabilities. It was designed by the Silicon Graphics' VRML 1.0 team with
contributions from Sony Research and Mitra. VRML 2.0 was reviewed by the
VRML moderated email discussion group (www-vrml@wired.com),
and later adopted and endorsed by a plethora of companies and individuals.
See the San Diego Supercomputer Center's
VRML Repository or Silicon Graphics'
VRML site for more information.
What is Moving Worlds?
Moving Worlds is the name of Silicon Graphics' submission to
the Request-for-Proposals for
VRML 2.0. It was chosen by the VRML community as the working document for
VRML 2.0. It was created by Silicon Graphics, Inc. in collaboration with
Sony and Mitra. Many people in the VRML community were actively involved
with Moving Worlds and contributed numerous ideas, reviews, and
improvements.
What is the VRML Specification?
The VRML Specification is the technical document that precisely describes
the VRML file format. It is primarily intended for implementors writing
VRML browsers and authoring systems. It is also intended for readers interested
in learning the details about VRML. Note however that many people (especially
non-programmers) find the VRML Specification inadequate as a starting point
or primer. There are a variety of excellent introductory books on VRML
in bookstores.
How was Moving Worlds chosen as the VRML 2.0 Specification?
The VRML Architecture Group (VAG)
put out a Request-for-Proposals
(RFP) in January 1996 for VRML 2.0. Six proposals were received and then
debated for about 2 months.
Moving Worlds developed a strong
consensus and was eventually selected by the VRML community in a poll.
The VAG made it official on March 27th.
How can I start using VRML 2.0?
You must install a VRML 2.0 browser. The following VRML 2.0 Draft
browsers or toolkits are available:
DimensionX's Liquid
Reality toolkit
Silicon Graphics' Cosmo Player for Windows95
browser
Sony's CyberPassage
browser
See San
Diego Supercomputer Center's VRML Repository for more details on available
VRML browsers and tools.
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Draft 3 VRML 2.0
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Draft 2 VRML 2.0
The Virtual Reality Modeling Language specification was originally developed
by Silicon Graphics, Inc. in collaboration
with Sony and Mitra.
Many people in the VRML community have been involved in the review and
evolution of the specification (see Credits).
Moving Worlds VRML 2.0 is a tribute to the successful collaboration of
all of the members of the VRML community. Gavin
Bell, Rikk Carey, and Chris
Marrin have headed the effort to produce the final specification.
Please send errors or suggestions to rikk@best.com,
cmarrin@sgi.com, and/or gavin@acm.org.
Related Documents
Related Sites
This URL: http://vrml.sgi.com/moving-worlds/index.html
Contact rikk@best.com, cmarrin@sgi.com,
or gavin@acm.org with questions or comments.