A VRML integration methodology for manufacturing applications

This paper describes several methods for using the Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) as the visualization integration technology for manufacturing simulation systems. One of our goals was to develop an integration methodology based on the use of VRML translators to produce reusable VRML components. The use of readily available off-the-shelf VRML models and systems was a major requirement. In addition to the component libraries we also wanted to add a significant analytic system to demonstrate potential application in a real-world manufacturing simulation system. This resulted in the integration of a near real-time dynamics engine with the VRML world. The production and use of intermediate component worlds demonstrates the potential for component libraries of visual manufacturing elements that can be integrated into larger simulation and visualization environments. CR