Behavior3D: an XML-based framework for 3D graphics behavior

ABSTRACT

Success of 3D applications on the Web inherently depends on object behavior and interaction. Current Web3D formats often fall short in supporting behavior modeling. This paper introduces a flexible concept for declaratively modeling 3D object behaviors. Based on Extensible 3D (X3D) a node concept is suggested with object-oriented features such as inheritance, strong typing, and polymorphism. An XML-based language Behavior3DNode serves the interface definition of new nodes. Their implementation is simplified by automated code generation. A novel grammar generation mechanism collects all existing nodes in a dynamic XML Schema. Thus new behavior nodes can be used along with built-in nodes as first class scene graph elements. A rich set of predefined behaviors is proposed, among them Animation and State Machine node collections. The concepts were successfully implemented with VRML97/X3D and integrated into a 3D component approach.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.1 Multimedia Information Systems
          Subjects: Animations

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
        D.2.11 Software Architectures
            Subjects: Domain-specific architectures

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
      I.3.6 Methodology and Techniques
          Subjects: Languages; Standards
      I.3.7 Three-Dimensional Graphics and Realism
          Subjects: Virtual reality; Animation

General Terms:
Design, Languages, Standardization

Keywords:
Contigra, Extensible 3D (X3D), SMIL, XML-Schema, animation, behavior language, dynamic grammar, object behaviors