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Fig. 1.22
The LASCOT application
existing proprietary solutions rely on conventional technologies and are limited to
2D representation. Our challenge was to apply the latest technologies, such as
Java3D, X3D, and SOAP, compatible with average computer graphics hardware
and to demonstrate a solution allowing: data flow from heterogeneous sources;
interoperability across different operating systems and 3D visual representations
Fig.
1.24
to enhance the end-users interaction.
We applied the Model-View-Controller (MVC) paradigm to enhance the
interactivity of our 3D software components for: visualization, monitoring, and
exchange of dynamic information, including spatial and time-dependent data. The
software development included the integration and customization of different
visualization components based on 3D Computer Graphics (Java3D) (Fig.
1.25
)
and Web (X3D, SOAP) technologies and applying the object-oriented approach
based on Xj3D.
Cutting-edge 3D graphics technologies where integrated, including the Java-
based X3D browser; we used Xj3D to visualize data from various external sources
using our graphical middleware. While present software components provide
highly flexible interactions and data-flows, the coupling between these components
is designed to be very loose. Thus, the components can be upgraded (or even
replaced) independently from each other, without loss of functionality. With SOAP
messaging, intercomponents communication is completely independent of soft-
ware platforms and communication transmission layers. In our approach, Java
components coexist with Microsoft. NET front-end, as well as back-end imple-
mentations. This approach allows improving software development of 3D col-
laborative and visualization tools. Future development of an appropriate ontology
could significantly improve the distributed visualization framework in SERKET.
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