Ivan Sopin

Ivan Sopin, Felix G. Hamza-Lup

Extensible 3D (X3D) modeling language is one of the leading Web3D technologies. Despite the rich functionality, the language does not currently provide tools for rapid development of conventional graphical user interfaces (GUIs). Every X3D author is responsible for building from primitives a purpose specific set of required interface components, often for a single use. We address the challenge of creating consistent, efficient, interactive, and visually appealing GUIs by proposing the X3D User Interface (X3DUI) library. This library includes a wide range of cross-compatible X3D widgets, equipped with configurable appearance and behavior. With this library, we attempt to standardize the GUI construction across various X3D-driven projects, and improve the usability, compatibility, adaptability, readability, and flexibility of many existing applications.

Felix G. Hamza-Lup, Ivan Sopin

Knowledge creation occurs in the process of social interaction. As our service-based society is evolving into a knowledge-based society there is an acute need for more effective collaboration and knowledge-sharing systems to be used by geographically scattered people. We present the use of Web3D components and standards, such as X3D, in combination with the haptic (tactile) paradigm, for the development of new communication channels for e-Learning and simulation.