Re: bizarre node in sample AllNodes.wrl

Mark Waks ([email protected])
Wed, 3 May 95 11:19:26 EDT


David Lewis asks about this node:
> # Test reading an extender node (twice, for luck)
> Squid {
> fields [SFFloat size, MFVec2f spotCenters]
> size 12.3
> spotCenters [ 0 0, 1 1, 2.1 3.2]
> }

This is clearly an extension. Open Inventor (which VRML sort of
evolved from) allows you to add new sorts of nodes to your graph --
the "fields" field says what kind of data belongs in it, and it's
assumed that you have a C++ module that describes what to do with it.

As far as I know, we do *not* have this capability in VRML currently;
even if we add it, I suspect that the form may be different. So I
don't think this is legal VRML. (Having this sort of capability is
the really strong argument for using a HotJava-oid model for our
browsers, but that's another discussion...)

-- Justin

Random Quote du Jour:

"Let me just open this review by saying that there are few things which
enhance a midnight film experience more than pogo-hopping kung fu
vampires. It's the sort of subtle plot element that a good Hong Kong
martial arts film is known throughout the world for, and ENCOUNTERS OF
THE SPOOKY KIND, PART II, is a fine addition to the hall of fame."
-- from "SIFF Reviews", by Moriarty